top of page
Steve Sawyer Brainspotting
Steve Sawyer at a 2021 International Brainspotting Conference
Brainspotting Seminar by Steve Sawyer
Digging Roots: The Developmental Trauma Model of Brainspotting

NEXT TO TRAUMA LURKS THE RESILIENCE

TM

Steve’s Developmental Trauma Brainspotting Training is focused on outlining the research supported findings on developmental trauma survival and neurological based manifestations.

Find out more about Brainspotting in this video.

Throughout the training, Developmental Trauma (DT) is defined in a neurological language distinguishing it as unique and separate from the common therapeutic framework driven by Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The training builds the framework to a focused approach to systematically treating 6 specific forms of DT dysregulation. In addition, there are intricate examinations of the defensive structures of self-protection, the influence of shame on the nervous system, and an examination of therapeutic approaches that may not get us to the “Roots” of developmental trauma.

Steve Sawyer - Brainspotting

In the later parts of the training, we examine potential adaptations to the Brainspotting model to access the roots of developmental trauma more effectively, and other support strategies for gaining access to early childhood pockets of activation. This portion looks closely at how we define parts at a neurological level, structures for supporting that work, and practicums focused on developing language skills to further support clients in their developmental trauma work.

Examine current research and integrate the treatment planning guidance it offers for Developmental trauma focused Brainspotting (BSP) clients.

Learn more about the Developmental Trauma Disorder proposed diagnosis and the focus points it can offer to effective BSP work.

Learn a recipe of accessing pre-verbal material in BSP sessions.

Experience Child Within focused work for BSP clients.

Learn tools for enhancing somatic access in BSP.

Learn the structures of Clean Language supporting BSP processing.

Learn strategies for adoption/relinquishment focused BSP treatment.

​
 

Experience White Board problem solving and BSP consultation.

Experience structured use of Heart Rate Variation measurement in BSP.

Learn strategies for reaching challenging adolescent clients with BSP.

Share inspiring stories of healing through Brainspotting.

Child and Parent holding hands

The Digging Roots perspective combined with Brainspotting has greatly enriched treatment for clients that I've been working with. Steve thoroughly explains developmental trauma as it presents in the client experience.

 

This has greatly helped me work more effectively and with a greater perception of client experience, whether the client is a child, adolescent, or adult. Having a developmental trauma perspective as the guide while using BSP with the client has greatly enhanced success, especially for clients who have difficulty accessing or feeling comfortable with somatic awareness because of their deep history of trauma.

 

Going for the Roots of trauma becomes a healing journey for the client as well as myself as a witness of the client journey!

 

It's very powerful!

Patt Bailey

Testimonials

Phase One

Brainspotting is a powerful, focused treatment method that works by identifying, processing, and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, trauma, dissociation, and a variety of challenging symptoms. Brainspotting is a simultaneous form of diagnosis and treatment, enhanced with biolateral sound, which is deep, direct and powerful, yet focused and containing. 

Through lecture, live demonstration and small group practice, participants will learn to do the following:

  • Define the components of Brainspotting

  • Utilize the techniques of “Inside window”, “Outside window” and “Gazespotting”

  • Define how Brainspotting can be applied to trauma, dissociation, sports psychology, somatic conditions

  • Demonstrate the theories and practices of Brainspotting 

Phase Two

Brainspotting Phase 2 is designed to add upon the powerful toolbox of Phase 1 techniques. Phase 2 is only available if you have completed Phase 1, due to the integration necessary to utilize Phase 2 techniques effectively. The techniques taught in Phase 2 are commonly regarded for highly effective resourcing capability and effectively processing intensive work

In Brainspotting Phase Two, we advance upon proven Phase One techniques by covering the following: 

  • Axis: Adding in distance and proxemics into the use of the BSP pointer 

  • One Eye BSP: Utilizing goggles to strategically utilize one eye at a time. 

  • Outside-Inside BSP: Utilizing two proven techniques together effectively 

  • Rolling Brainspotting: Slow movements to produce thorough results 

Steve Sawyer with Gabor Maté

I have personally experienced the benefit of Brainspotting (Developmental Trauma focused model). Just with one session, I was able to relax the grip of a burdensome perspective and its associated emotions, both of which I had carried for a long time.

Gabor Maté MD​

bottom of page