Trauma Therapy FAQs

What is the difference between Brainspotting and EMDR?

The main difference you will see between EMDR and Brainspotting is the physical activity you will engage in during sessions. In EMDR, each side of your body is gently stimulated back and forth--like the soothing side-to-side alternating motion of walking, which helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories. Brainspotting involves resting the eyes in specific spots within your field of vision, which is associated with accessing and processing memories as well. Two different methods, one goal: involve your body and let it help reprocess and release trauma.

What will a trauma therapy session feel like?

Working through trauma can be hard work, but we're here to support you the entire way. Session will involve the use of mindfulness and grounding, as well as building inner resources, so that by the time we begin addressing the difficult memories, you have a toolbelt of techniques and resources to support you through the process. Directly processing traumatic memories can be an intense part of the process, but we are attuned to you and your needs as we do so, and pace the process so that it is constructive even in its intensity.

How many sessions will I need, and how often should I come?

Therapy for trauma is significantly more efficacious with frequent, regular sessions: weekly is our standard. The number of sessions a person needs will vary, but working with trauma is not something that we want to rush. It is important to take the time to lay the proper groundwork for the trauma processing, to give the time and space to the main process, and to recollect and celebrate success in the later sessions. In most cases, this takes at least twelve sessions at the very least. The rewards are worth the commitment!

Are these methods scientifically backed?

Both EMDR and brainspotting are relatively young approaches, but the scientific research that has been completed thus far is promising. As with any therapeutic method, it takes many years to establish a strong basis of data. While the data is growing each year, in the meantime, we can attest to numerous cases of individuals we've seen who have seen impressive growth and progress in treating their trauma through these methods.

Do EMDR and Brainspotting always work?

Because the human mind is a complex and deeply individual thing, no method of therapy works for everybody in every case. EMDR and Brainspotting are no different. But there's a good chance that these methods can help you heal, and if you end up needing other methods for your therapy, we can provide those as well.

What should I do to prepare for my first session?

Don't worry, the first session is not going to delve in the tough stuff right away. The main thing you can do to prepare is to take pride in the fact that you are taking steps to address and heal from the trauma you're carrying: that courage and determination, along with the resources and skills we'll develop together, will be a key part of the process of healing.

Will I need to talk about my trauma in detail during sessions?

Yes, that is part of the process. The keyword here though is *timing*. We dedicate a significant amount of time to preparing you and building the resources you need to be able to safely talk about these difficult topics. It may not feel like it now, but by the time we delve in to your difficult experiences, you will feel ready to do so. It may not be easy, but you'll be ready.

What happens if I feel overwhelmed or have a difficult reaction during a session?

This is a great question. Remember, we're here for you each step of the way, and we're keeping a careful eye on how you're doing. If a session starts to feel like to much, then we will slow the process down, dedicate time for grounding and soothing, and only continue if you feel ready. You set the pace for this work.

How do I choose between EMDR and Brainspotting?

It's true that sometimes one of these works better for a specific person than the other. Some clients come interested in one of these specifically. If you aren't sure, we're happy to schedule a consultation to talk with you further and to help you ascertain which method you would like to try. Additionally, several of our therapists are trained in both methods, so if you are really feeling uncertain, matching with one of these therapists can give you access to both.