How to Find a Brainspotting Therapist: Complete Guide (2025)

Why Finding the Right Therapist Matters

Choosing a Brainspotting therapist is one of the most important decisions in your healing journey. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship (the connection between you and your therapist) accounts for up to 30% of therapy outcomes—even more than the specific technique used.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: from verifying credentials to asking the right questions during your consultation call.

Step 1: Understand Brainspotting Training Levels

Not all Brainspotting practitioners have the same level of training. Here's what the different phases mean:

Phase 1 Training (Minimum Requirement)

• Duration: 3-day intensive training
• What they learn: Basic Brainspotting theory, identifying brainspots, one-eye and dual-eye Brainspotting, and how to keep clients regulated during processing
• Who can practice: After Phase 1, therapists can practice Brainspotting with clients
• Red flag: If a therapist can't confirm they have at least Phase 1 training, they may not be properly certified

Phase 2 Training (Intermediate)

• Duration: Additional 3-day intensive
• What they learn: Advanced techniques including Resource Brainspotting (for building resilience), Z-Axis (working with distance to trauma), and Convergence Brainspotting
• Advantage: More tools to customize treatment to your needs

Phase 3 Training (Advanced)

• Duration: Additional 3-day intensive
• What they learn: Complex cases, working with dissociation, advanced attunement skills
• Best for: Complex trauma, severe PTSD, or dissociative disorders

Additional Certifications

• Brainspotting Consultant: Trained to supervise other Brainspotting therapists (highest level)
• Sports/Performance Brainspotting: Specialized training for athletes and performers
• Natural Disasters Training: For therapists working with disaster survivors

Bottom line: Phase 1 is the minimum, but Phase 2-3 trained therapists have more advanced skills for complex cases.

Step 2: Verify Professional Licensing

Brainspotting training is completed in addition to professional licensure. Your therapist should hold one of these licenses:

Common Mental Health Licenses

• LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) - Focus on relationships and family systems
• LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) - Broad training in mental health and social services
• LPCC/LPC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) - General mental health counseling
• Psy.D or Ph.D (Clinical Psychologist) - Doctoral-level training in psychology
• LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) - Mental health counseling (varies by state)

How to Verify Licensing

Every state has a professional licensing board where you can verify a therapist's license:

• Search "[Your State] + [License Type] Board" (e.g., "California LMFT Board")
• Look up the therapist by name
• Check for disciplinary actions or complaints
• Verify the license is current and active

Red flag: If someone offers Brainspotting without a professional license (unless they're a licensed physician or nurse practicing within their scope), look elsewhere. Brainspotting should only be practiced by licensed mental health professionals.

Step 3: Where to Search for Brainspotting Therapists

1. Brainspotting.com Trainer Directory

The official Brainspotting website maintains a directory of trained practitioners. However, not all Brainspotting therapists are listed here (listing is optional).

• Pros: Verified training, searchable by location
• Cons: Not comprehensive (many qualified therapists don't list themselves)

2. Psychology Today

The most widely used therapist directory in the U.S. Filter by "Brainspotting" under treatment modalities.

• Pros: Large database, detailed profiles, insurance filters
• Cons: Paid listings (some great therapists don't pay for profiles)

3. Google Search

Search "Brainspotting therapist near me" or "Brainspotting therapist [your city]."

• Pros: Finds local therapists with websites
• Cons: Requires more vetting on your part

4. Insurance Provider Directories

If you plan to use insurance, start with your provider's directory and search for therapists who list Brainspotting as a specialty.

• Pros: Pre-screened for insurance acceptance
• Cons: Limited selection, may need to call to confirm Brainspotting experience

5. Local Directories (Like This One!)

Regional directories like Find Brainspotting Therapy focus specifically on Brainspotting practitioners in your area.

• Pros: Curated, local focus, verified training
• Cons: May have limited coverage depending on your location

Step 4: Essential Questions to Ask During Consultation

Most therapists offer a free 15-20 minute phone consultation. Here's what to ask:

About Their Training and Experience

1. "What level of Brainspotting training do you have?"
   Looking for: At minimum Phase 1, ideally Phase 2-3 for complex cases
2. "How long have you been practicing Brainspotting?"
   Looking for: Ideally 1+ years, but new practitioners can still be excellent if well-supervised
3. "What percentage of your practice uses Brainspotting?"
   Looking for: If it's a small percentage, they may not be as experienced with it
4. "Do you have experience treating [your specific issue]?"
   Examples: Complex PTSD, childhood trauma, addiction, performance anxiety, etc.

About Their Approach

5. "How do you integrate Brainspotting with other therapies?"
   Looking for: Many therapists combine Brainspotting with somatic therapy, IFS, or psychodynamic work. This can be beneficial.
6. "How much talking is involved in your sessions?"
   Looking for: Brainspotting requires minimal talking. If they describe lots of discussion, they may not be using pure Brainspotting.
7. "How do you help clients stay regulated during processing?"
   Looking for: Mention of resourcing, grounding techniques, or pendulation (moving between activation and calm)

Practical Concerns

8. "Do you accept my insurance? If not, what's your rate?"
   Note: Some therapists don't take insurance but provide superbills for reimbursement
9. "Do you offer sliding scale fees?"
   Note: Some therapists reserve a few sliding scale spots for clients with financial need
10. "What's your availability?"
    Looking for: Do their hours work with your schedule? How far out is their waitlist?
11. "Do you offer virtual sessions?"
    Note: Brainspotting works well via telehealth, which can expand your options

Step 5: Assess Personal Fit

Beyond credentials, you need to feel comfortable with your therapist. Research shows that therapeutic alliance (the relationship) is critical for outcomes.

Green Flags (Good Signs)

• You feel heard and understood during the consultation
• They explain Brainspotting clearly without jargon
• They ask thoughtful questions about your needs
• They're transparent about fees, cancellation policies, and what to expect
• You feel a sense of trust or safety, even in a brief call
• They acknowledge limitations ("I don't have much experience with X, but I can refer you to someone who does")

Red Flags (Warning Signs)

• They promise quick fixes or guaranteed results
• They pressure you to commit immediately
• They're vague about training or credentials
• They dismiss your questions or concerns
• They badmouth other therapies or therapists
• You feel uncomfortable or rushed during the consultation
• They don't return calls or emails in a timely manner

Step 6: Understand Costs and Insurance

Typical Costs

• Major cities (SF, LA, NYC): $150-300 per session
• Suburban areas: $100-200 per session
• Rural areas: $75-150 per session

Insurance Coverage

Brainspotting sessions are typically billed under general psychotherapy codes (90834, 90837, 90846), not as a separate modality. This means:

• If your therapist accepts your insurance, Brainspotting may be covered
• Call your insurance to ask: "Does my plan cover outpatient psychotherapy with an LMFT/LCSW?" (use your therapist's license type)
• Ask about copays, deductibles, and session limits

Out-of-Network Reimbursement

If your therapist doesn't accept insurance, ask if they provide superbills:

• A superbill is a detailed receipt with therapy codes
• You submit it to your insurance for partial reimbursement (typically 50-80%)
• Check if your plan has out-of-network benefits

Payment Options

• Sliding scale: Some therapists offer reduced fees based on income
• Payment plans: Ask if they allow spreading costs over time
• HSA/FSA: You can use health savings accounts for therapy
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Many employers offer 3-8 free sessions

Step 7: What to Expect in Your First Session

Knowing what to expect can reduce first-session anxiety:

Intake and History (20-30 minutes)

• Therapist will ask about your background, current concerns, and goals
• You'll discuss informed consent and confidentiality
• They may ask about previous therapy experiences

Introduction to Brainspotting (10-15 minutes)

• Therapist explains how Brainspotting works
• You'll learn what to expect during processing
• They may teach grounding techniques

Initial Brainspotting (Possibly)

• Some therapists start Brainspotting in session 1, others wait until session 2-3
• If they do, it will likely be a gentle "resource spot" to help you feel what healing feels like
• They won't dive into heavy trauma in the first session

Step 8: Give It Time (But Trust Your Gut)

How Long to Try?

Therapists recommend giving a new therapeutic relationship 3-4 sessions before deciding if it's a good fit. Here's why:

• Session 1 is mostly intake and getting to know each other
• Session 2-3 is when you start experiencing the modality
• By session 4, you'll have a clearer sense of whether it's working

When to Move On Sooner

However, trust your gut if you experience:

• Feeling unsafe or unheard
• Boundary violations
• Consistent judgment or invalidation
• Ethical concerns

You don't owe anyone an explanation. You can simply say, "I don't think this is the right fit for me," and move on.

When to Keep Going

Some discomfort is normal, especially when processing trauma:

• Feeling emotionally activated during or after sessions (processing is happening)
• Feeling uncertain or "not ready" (common with trauma work)
• Vivid dreams or memories surfacing (sign of processing)

These are signs that the work is working, not that the therapist is wrong for you.

Special Considerations

For BIPOC Clients

Finding a therapist who understands your cultural background can be crucial:

• Ask about their experience working with BIPOC clients
• Ask about their understanding of racial trauma and intergenerational trauma
• Use directories like Therapy for Black Girls or Inclusive Therapists

For LGBTQ+ Clients

• Ask about their experience with LGBTQ+ clients and issues
• Look for listings that explicitly state "LGBTQ+ affirming"
• Ask about their understanding of gender identity and sexual orientation diversity

For Neurodivergent Clients

• Brainspotting can be excellent for autistic or ADHD clients (minimal talking requirement)
• Ask if they have experience with neurodivergent clients
• Discuss sensory needs (lighting, sound, etc.)

For Clients with Dissociative Disorders

• Look for Phase 3 trained therapists (advanced dissociation training)
• Ask about their experience with dissociative identity disorder (DID) or complex PTSD
• Ensure they understand how to keep you grounded during processing

Final Checklist: Before Your First Session

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Brainspotting specialist, or can any trained therapist help me?

Any therapist with Phase 1 training can practice Brainspotting, but if you have complex trauma, severe PTSD, or dissociation, seek someone with Phase 2-3 training or significant Brainspotting experience.

Can I do Brainspotting via telehealth/video?

Yes! Brainspotting translates very well to telehealth. Many clients report it's just as effective as in-person sessions.

How many sessions will I need?

It varies widely. Some people see significant progress in 6-12 sessions for single-incident trauma. Complex trauma may require 20-50+ sessions. Your therapist can give you a better estimate after the first few sessions.

What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't work?

Brainspotting is different from talk therapy. Many people who didn't benefit from traditional therapy find Brainspotting more effective because it works with the subcortical brain where trauma is stored, not just the cognitive mind.

Can I switch therapists if it's not a good fit?

Absolutely. You don't need permission or a "good reason." Simply say, "I've decided to explore other options," and ask for a referral if you'd like one.

Should my therapist also be trained in other modalities?

Many excellent Brainspotting therapists are also trained in EMDR, somatic experiencing, IFS, or other modalities. This can be beneficial because they can adapt to your needs. However, it's not required.