What Is Brainspotting?
Brainspotting is a powerful, focused treatment method that works by identifying, processing, and releasing core neuro-physiological sources of emotional and physical pain, and unhealthy coping mechanisms associated with PTSD. It allows the client to channel the healthy "head" knowledge they possess to transform debilitating traumatic memories and the negative beliefs they feel in relation to the incident.
Watch the videos below to learn more. If you are interested in Brainspotting, consider booking Chaya to speak to your group, or booking a session or Intensive with Chaya, or contact me for more info.
Brainspotting Therapy Primarily Engages
Brainspotting taps into bottom-up processing—starting from the body and subcortical brain areas. By focusing the eyes on a “brainspot” (a fixed gaze that connects to a felt emotional or physical sensation), clients access stored trauma or emotional memory that may not be easily reached through language. This can lead to deep processing and release of unresolved experiences.
Subcortical Brain Regions
The amygdala, hippocampus, brainstem, and basal ganglia—which govern trauma responses, memory, and survival instincts
Occipital Lobe
Linked to visual processing (eye position is used as an access point)
Midbrain/Limbic System
Especially emotional and body-based processing centers
Talk Therapy Primarily Engages
Talk therapy relies on language and conscious awareness. Clients reflect on thoughts, feelings, and experiences to reframe beliefs, process emotions, and make behavioral changes. This type of therapy strengthens top-down processing—where higher-level brain regions (like the PFC) regulate emotions and behavior.
Prefrontal Cortex (PFC)
Responsible for reasoning, insight, planning, and conscious decision-making
Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC)
Helps regulate emotions and detect conflict in thoughts and feelings
Left Hemisphere (Language Centers)
Especially Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area, involved in verbal processing and expression