What is Deep Brain Reorienting
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) is a bottom-up trauma processing psychotherapy that aims to clear the shock of traumatic events stored deep within the brainstem to allow processing of the emotions related to events to be more accessible and manageable.
It starts by identifying the activating stimulus or target, usually with only a few words. The therapist then guides the client through a grounding exercise to get anchored in the here and now, and the client releasing as much tension from the head and neck as possible. The client is then asked to notice any tension in the head and neck when the therapist introduces the activating stimulus. The therapist then helps the client to observe shock sensations and create space for the physical sensations to move and shift through the body, processing the shock and allowing it to clear the nervous system.
After a session, it is common for clients to report that the situation feels more approachable, easier to look at, or further away. Generally, clients report that the emotions related to the situation are less intense and overwhelming.
Unlike other trauma processing modalities, DBR allows clients to process traumas without needing to cognitively interact with the memory or recall any details. The client only needs to communicate the few words that help to identify the trauma (the activating stimulus), and the physical sensations of shock they are experiencing in their present-day life.
Shock can look like shivers, chills, shudders, pressure in or behind the eyes, feelings of hollowing or emptying, a bracing feeling, tension in the forehead, waves of heat, chest pressure, pain or pressure in the ears, or a “turtling” sensation of the shoulders coming up into the ears.
If you are experiencing shock sensations in relation to trauma triggers, DBR can help to reduce PTSD symptoms interfering with your day-to-day life.
Support Is Available
At Peaceful Minds Psychotherapy, we offer trauma‑informed therapy, including DBR, for adults and teens. Sessions are available in‑person and virtually across Ontario.
