Show Notes
In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, guest host Dr. Mark McNear interviews Dr. David Grand, the developer of Brain Spotting, a psychotherapy technique particularly effective for trauma. They discuss the principles of Brain Spotting, its discovery, and how it differs from other therapeutic approaches. The conversation includes a role-play demonstration, insights into the healing process, and the importance of following the client's lead in therapy. Dr. Grand emphasizes the developmental nature of trauma and the need for a compassionate, attuned therapeutic relationship. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of Brain Spotting and its potential to help those with trauma. takeaways Brain Spotting is effective for both single and complex trauma. The eyes are deeply connected to emotional processing. Therapists should follow the client's lead in therapy. Healing involves moving from the past to the present. The nervous system knows how to heal itself. Trauma manifestations are natural responses to unnatural circumstances. Shame and guilt are often passed from perpetrators to survivors. Everything in therapy is developmental. Brain Spotting can be integrated with other therapeutic modalities. The future of Brain Spotting holds great potential for healing.
About our guest: David Grand, PhD is the developer of Brainspotting, the groundbreaking relational brain-body-mindfulness-based method. He is the author of Brainspotting: The Revolutionary New Therapy for Rapid and Effective Change and the co-author of This is Your Brain on Sports. Dr. Grand is involved in humanitarian activities with survivors of 9/11, Katrina, and Sandy Hook/Newtown. He has accomplished breakthroughs in performance and creativity with Brainspotting Sports Work and Brainspotting Acting Coaching. Dr. Grand has been widely featured in the media, including The NY Times, NBC National News, The Discovery Channel, CNN, MSNBC, Sports Illustrated, and Sirius Radio. Website: https://brainspotting.com/ Book: Brainspotting: The Revolutionary New Therapy for Rapid and Effective Change by David Grand https://amzn.to/4dDSVzP Connect with Dr. Mark McNear https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear/
Find a list of trauma recovery books + resources for the healing trauma journey.
https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/
SUPPORT this podcast for the cost of a coffee. Your support is appreciated! When you buy me a coffee, your support goes towards keeping the podcast running. HERE: https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast
Subscribe and watch on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJy4f23JvtdFuQGadOqy3PA
Disclaimer: This episode and website may contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
More from The Healing Trauma Podcast
In this rerelease conversation, returning guest therapist & author Deb Dana answers your questions. Deb delves into the Polyvagal Theory, explaining its significance in understanding the autonomic nervous system and its impact on our daily experiences. She discusses the hierarchy of the nervous system, the importance of co-regulation, and the process of befriending one's nervous system. The conversation also addresses the challenges of building capacity in a reactive system, practicing regulating tools, and navigating anxiety. She also emphasizes the need for safe connections and the role of attachment and boundaries in our relationships, providing insights into how to reshape our nervous systems for better emotional health. takeaways Polyvagal Theory helps us understand our autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system has a hierarchy of responses. Ventral state is where we experience wellbeing. Co-regulation is essential for survival and thriving. Befriending your nervous system is a process of gathering information. Building capacity in a reactive system takes time and patience. Practicing regulating tools is crucial for emotional health. Listening to your nervous system is key to understanding your needs. Safe connections are vital for healing and growth. Attachment styles influence our relationships and boundaries.
In this replay episode, Monique speaks with therapist and author Jenna Riemersma about Internal Family Systems, or IFS, and a compassionate way to work with the wounded parts of ourselves. Jenna explains why healing often starts by moving toward what we usually want to avoid, and how that shift can reduce shame, increase self-understanding, and create real internal change.They also discuss the difference between burdened parts and core self, how protective “wall” parts operate, and why healthy boundaries come from self rather than reactivity. Jenna shares a simple three-step practice called move toward: notice, know, and need.
In this mini episode, host Monique Koven explores the profound impact of attachment trauma, especially from caregivers who are frightening or unreliable. She discusses how these early experiences shape our nervous system, influence our relationships, and how understanding these patterns can foster self-compassion and healing.
All New Episode With Dr. Lindsay Gibson You Can Be The Mother You Needed : In this brand new episode, Dr. Lindsay Gibson shares her groundbreaking approach to parenting, emphasizing the importance of understanding emotional maturity in children and how to foster it. Monique and Lindsay explore the dynamics of emotional immaturity, how past traumas affect parenting styles, and practical mindsets that nurture resilient, emotionally aware kids.
In this replay conversation, my guest renowned trauma expert Dr. Janina Fisher discusses her model TIST (Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment) and the concept of the living legacy of trauma, emphasizing how trauma's effects persist in the body and mind beyond past events. She explores dissociation, fragmentation, and practical approaches to healing trauma by addressing these living legacies.Healing the Fragmented Selves of Trauma Survivors: Overcoming Internal Self-Alienation Janina's Books Healing the Fragmented Selves of Trauma Survivors: Overcoming Internal Self-Alienation https://amzn.to/4uyDtMy Transforming The Living Legacy of Trauma: A Workbook for Survivors and Therapists https://amzn.to/4dbcHCC Embracing Our Fragmented Selves: A Workbook for Trauma Survivors and Therapists https://amzn.to/4cWI4Ci https://janinafisher.com/