PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION
FAQs

What is the origin of Brainspotting?

     Brainspotting was discovered by David Grand, Ph.D., an original EMDR trainer. While practicing EMDR, he discovered that having the client’s eyes focused on one spot produced even more significant results with less distress than traditional EMDR.

How does Brainspotting work?

     Brainspotting works by stimulating the brain bi-laterally with sounds or music and finding a spot that “activates the body” or heightens the client’s awareness of a sensation in their body. This body activation is the gateway into the sub-conscious where whatever distressing negative memory, negative self-beliefs, feelings or behaviors can be reprocessed resulting in significant symptom reduction.

When there is so much more research on EMDR, why would you want to do Brainspotting with me when it is less researched?

     At Innovative Psychotherapy, our therapists are up to date on the latest, most innovative and effective forms of therapy. We are all Level II trained EMDR therapists who have completed all the recent trainings in Brainspotting. We all practice both EMDR as well as Brainspotting depending on what seems to be the most effective therapy for the client. Your therapist would be happy to discuss the differences with you.

What will I experience during treatment utilizing Brainspotting or EMDR?

     Most clients are pleasantly surprised at how quickly symptoms are relieved with Brainspotting and EMDR. It is typical for distress around a certain issue, negative self-belief or unwanted behavior to improve after just one session. Plus, the resolution of one distressing life event often generalizes to overall feelings of well-being. The process is so seamless that many clients report after their first session of Brainspotting or EMDR that they had a terrific week but aren’t sure if it was the session that caused the change. With each session, the client learns to appreciate the power of these therapies.

How will I know if Brainspotting or EMDR is working for me?

     Symptom reduction is the primary goal and the most common outcome. Many clients are surprised to find a dramatic improvement in their general sense of well-being.

I am a very cognitive person and like to understand things. Can I combine traditional talk therapy with one of the Mind Body Therapies?

     You are not alone. Brainspotting and EMDR sessions can be quite intense and many clients like to process their experiences using standard “talk therapy”.

I have heard that Brainspotting and EMDR are therapies that are based on alleviating traumatic experiences? Can they be used in a more standard way to help me live a happier, more productive life?

      Absolutely! One of the things we have learned as Brainspotting and EMDR therapist is that “trauma” comes in many forms. Most people think of the big “T” traumas such as rape, incest, combat PTSD, etc. We have learned that all of us experience little “t” traumas such as hurtful comments made to us, rejection by a peer, poor parenting that led to lowered self-esteem, etc.

To make an inquiry or an appointment, call 215-355-8812.