Brainspotting and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) are both psychotherapeutic techniques used to treat a variety of psychological and emotional issues. However, there are some key differences between the two.


Brainspotting is a newer therapy that focuses on the relationship between where a person is looking and their emotional state. It is based on the idea that certain eye positions can stimulate the brain and help to access, process and heal traumatic memories. During a session, the therapist will guide the client to focus on a specific "brainspot," which is a place in the field of vision that is linked to a particular emotional or physical issue.


EMDR, on the other hand, is a well-established therapy that has been used since the 1980s. It also involves eye movements, but these are used to help the brain process traumatic memories. The theory behind EMDR is that when a traumatic event occurs, the brain becomes overwhelmed and cannot process the experience in a healthy way. The eye movements used in EMDR help to stimulate the brain and allow it to process the traumatic memory in a more adaptive manner.


Both Brainspotting and EMDR have been found to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and phobias. However, EMDR has been extensively researched and has a larger body of scientific evidence to support its effectiveness, while research on Brainspotting is still in its early stages.