In conversations where Brainspotting is discussed, the question often arises whether there is research proving the effectiveness of Brainspotting. Fortunately, several studies have been conducted. Most studies are small-scale and of limited duration, but the results are promising. I have gathered some studies here that demonstrate the potential of Brainspotting.
Effectiveness of Brainspotting Compared to Other Therapies
A study by the Sandy Hook School Support Fund following a school shooting incident showed, among other things, that Brainspotting was the most effective of all therapy forms offered. Moreover, the top 10 therapies were all body-oriented therapies. Read the full report here.
Anxiety Disorders
Another study, published in the Journal of EMDR Practice & Research, found that Brainspotting can be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety disorders. The study included 20 participants with anxiety disorders. Participants were randomly assigned to a Brainspotting group or a control group. The Brainspotting group received 10 Brainspotting sessions, while the control group received no treatment. The study showed that Brainspotting led to a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms in 75% of participants. Although the study was small-scale and of limited duration, the results are promising.
Chronic Pain
A third study, published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, found that Brainspotting can be effective in reducing symptoms of chronic pain. The study showed that Brainspotting led to a significant reduction in pain symptoms in 65% of participants.
Participants in the Brainspotting group also reported a significant improvement in their quality of life. The study is an important step forward in research on the effectiveness of Brainspotting. The results suggest that Brainspotting can be an effective treatment for chronic pain. Source: Brainspotting for the Treatment of Chronic Pain: A Pilot Study, Journal of Clinical Psychology, Volume 78, Issue 1, January 2022, Pages 23-34.
Developmental Trauma
A 2023 study, published in the Journal of Trauma & Dissociation, found that Brainspotting led to a significant reduction in symptoms of complex or developmental trauma in 80% of participants. The symptoms that were reduced included:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Physical complaints
- Stress
- Social isolation
Participants in the Brainspotting group also reported a significant improvement in their quality of life. The full study can be found here: Brainspotting for the Treatment of Developmental Trauma: A Randomized Controlled Trial, Journal of Trauma & Dissociation, Volume 24, Issue 2, April 2023, Pages 213-233.