Brain Spotting
Brainspotting (BSP) is a neuroscience-based therapy that helps people process trauma, anxiety, and emotional challenges by using eye positioning to access deep areas of the brain. Developed by Dr. David Grand, Brainspotting works by identifying specific “brainspots” in a person’s visual field that are linked to unprocessed experiences. By focusing on these points, the brain naturally processes and releases stored trauma, leading to emotional relief and healing beyond traditional talk therapy.
This powerful approach is effective for PTSD, anxiety, and stress while also enhancing performance for athletes and professionals. Since Brainspotting engages the subcortical brain, where emotions and survival responses are stored, it allows for deep healing at a neurological level. It is a gentle yet highly effective therapy that helps individuals move forward with clarity and ease.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a research-backed therapy designed to help individuals process and heal from trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and other emotional challenges. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR works by using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, to help the brain reprocess distressing memories. This process reduces the emotional intensity of past experiences, allowing individuals to move forward without being triggered by them.
EMDR is highly effective for trauma recovery, anxiety reduction, and emotional healing. By engaging the brain’s natural ability to heal, it helps people reframe negative thoughts and responses, leading to lasting relief. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require extensive discussion of traumatic events, making it a gentle yet powerful approach for emotional well-being.
Filial Therapy
Filial Therapy is a family-centered approach that trains parents or other caregivers in basic play therapy techniques, allowing them to use these skills directly with their children. Developed as one of the first systemic family therapy interventions, it is based on the belief that parents can become effective therapeutic agents in their children’s lives.
With guidance and supervision from a trained professional, caregivers learn how to engage their child in therapeutic play while maintaining healthy limits. Filial therapy can be offered in short (about 10 weeks) or longer formats, and is designed for children ages 3–12, especially when involving parents is likely to enhance outcomes.
It is effective for a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral challenges, attention difficulties, adoption or foster care transitions, chronic illness, and attachment concerns.
Research shows filial therapy can strengthen the parent–child bond, improve communication, and reduce behavioral and emotional difficulties. By working within the family system, it gives parents long-lasting tools to support their child’s growth and can sometimes lead to faster progress than traditional play therapy.