Similarities between Brainspotting and EMDR:

Brainspotting and EMDR are both brain-based therapies used to treat trauma, but they differ in their approach and focus. They both also utilize a dual sensory component.

Difference between Brainspotting and EMDR:

Brainspotting uses specific eye positions (Brainspots) to activate and process trauma, while EMDR utilizes eye movements as a form of bilateral stimulation. In brainspotting, the client plays a more active role with guiding the session, maintaining the "brain spot". The techniques used in brainspotting are the use of bilateral stimulation (e.g., bilateral music, headphones) and pointers to guide the client's gaze. Brainspotting is generally more flexible and less structured than EMDR, allowing for a more organic and personalized healing process. In Brainspotting, the therapist is more of a guide, assisting the client in finding and maintaining the Brainspot. EMDR is a more structured and protocol-driven than Brainspotting, with a specific sequence of steps. In EMDR the therapist guides the client through the specific steps and verbal reports during bilateral stimulation and uses various bilateral stimulation techniques (e.g., eye movements, tapping, audio). The target focuses on specific traumatic memories as the target of treatment.  Research suggests that Brainspotting can potentially yield faster and deeper results than EMDR.