Brainspotting Therapy with Brittany Bagy, LPC
As anxiety therapists in St. Louis, we know that it’s not always easy to open up.
We know that for many of our clients, talking about how they feel can be tough. Sometimes it’s challenging to open up, especially when anxiety can be really overwhelming. We aren’t always sure how to express what we feel. Somatic-based therapies like Brainspotting can be really excellent tools for helping in these situations where it’s hard to find the words; hard to even know where to start.
This month, we’re excited to feature Certified Brainspotting Therapist, Brittany Bagy! Brittany is an awesome resource and focuses on helping her clients gain clarity and holistic healing. Read more below about how she helps treat anxiety, perfectionism and grief.
Why did you choose to become a therapist in St. Louis?
I grew up in St. Louis and am very familiar with many of the cultural nuances of this "little big city." I've always felt a strong connection here and am grateful to serve the St. Louis community.
What kind of treatment do you provide?
I am a Certified Brainspotting Therapist that specializes in treating anxiety (phobias, panic attacks, and general anxiety), perfectionism, and grief. Oftentimes, I am also supporting clients working through a major life transition or past traumas. In my approach, I practice Brainspotting to help clients gain greater clarity and holistic healing; however, this technique is integrative so each session is tailored to meet the needs of the individual. Frequently, elements of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, and parts work are also intertwined in a session when appropriate.
What ages do you work with?
I have a diverse caseload ranging from 16 years old to 70 years old.
Can you walk us through what Brainspotting is and the benefits that come from this type of therapy?
The simplest way to explain Brainspotting is "where you look affects how you feel." This brain-body based therapy gains deep access to the brain to process emotionally charged issues, which are stored in the body and the nervous system. In therapy, clients are encouraged to mindfully process whatever is bringing them to therapy by noticing their body and locating a spot in their field of vision (i.e. brainspots).
To get a better idea of what Brainspotting is like, you can try this exercise:
1. Bring up an issue that provokes minor discomfort or stress.
2. Notice what happens in your body as you bring this issue up.
3. Take 30 seconds to look to your right, then to the middle, then to your left. You may notice that you feel differently depending on where you are looking.
The Brainspotting experience is much more powerful and in-depth in session with a trained therapist but this may give you an idea of the approach.
The benefits are endless. Many people report significant relief from recurring patterns of stress and symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, or chronic pain. Brainspotting is helpful in reducing the intensity of emotional triggers, healing from trauma, recovering from addictions, managing chronic pain, and improving performance.
When would a teen or young adult want to consider getting this type of therapy?
Brainspotting can be helpful for just about anyone at any age, but many teens that are more introverted or reluctant to verbally engage in therapy really appreciate Brainspotting because talking is not required.
If someone is having difficulty articulating their experiences, symptoms, or past trauma, Brainspotting still allows them to process their emotions or presenting issues without having to verbally communicate all the details or relive the trauma.
When clients have not seen significant changes after exploring and working through thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, it can be helpful to supplement with a somatic-based therapy, such as Brainspotting.
What can parents expect to leave with after working with you?
Parents can expect to leave with resources, communication tools, and an alternative perspective of viewing and approaching the presenting issue. I believe it is important to understand our emotions, stress responses, and behaviors through the lens of our nervous system. Everyone is trying to get their needs met but in the process of doing so we can get hijacked by our emotions and develop maladaptive response patterns. This can lead to disconnection within ourselves and also in our relationships. Once parents and children can let go of blame and have compassion for one another even in moments of struggle, then they can collaborate to create alternative ways to meet these needs. So ultimately, parents and children should leave with a stronger connection to each other.
How long have you been working with teens and Brainspotting, and how long have you been in St. Louis?
I have been working as a therapist in St. Louis for over 12 years, and I've been practicing Brainspotting for over 3 years. In the first half of my career, most of my work was with adolescents and teens in both an alternative school setting and traditional ones.
Who are your favorite types of clients to work with?
This is a tough question because my favorite part of this job is getting to know all different kinds of people. I do quickly connect with those who show up curious, open-minded, and motivated for learning, change, healing, or self-expansion. Regardless of the issue you're walking into therapy with, I believe everyone should walk out with a little more clarity, connection, and headway toward being the best version of themselves.
What happens during a first appointment with you?
The first session is typically geared toward answering any questions and getting to know each other to determine if it's a good fit. I see therapy as a collaborative process so we'd work together to understand your needs and hopes for therapy, establish goals or focus points, and explore resources or psychoeducation that supports the work we would be doing in therapy.
Could you talk a little about how your approach plays into your work with people recovering from anxiety?
Getting relief from anxiety and some of the haunting symptoms can be liberating, but the journey doesn't stop there. I believe it is critical for people to learn healthy lifestyles, habits, and routines that not only keep the anxiety at bay but also support feeling good in your mind, body, and relationships. Learning to implement self-compassion practices and embodying positive emotions and experiences are absolutely essential in recovering and being the best version of yourself.
What do you wish parents knew about getting Brainspotting therapy for their child's anxiety?
Believe it or not, anxiety is an adaptive strategy for coping with stress. These symptoms and patterns are actually biological attempts for solutions and protection. Perceptions and awareness of anxiety and negative emotions are key. When parents can truly and non-judgmentally listen to their child and extend a calm, regulated nervous system, the child can feel accepted, validated, and loved even when they are experiencing big, negative emotions. Patience and unconditional positive regard from caregivers and parents can go such a long way in helping a child to overcome anxiety and cultivate confidence and self-acceptance.
How can people learn more and contact you?
You are welcome to visit my website at for more information and details. I can be reached via email at brittanybagy@brainspottingstl.com to answer any questions or by phone at (314) 239-7168 for a free 15 minute consultation.
Share one fun fact about you that most people don’t know.
People randomly tend to spill their guts to me in real life, particularly if I'm waiting in line. Sometimes I wonder if I really have heard it all but then there's always a new surprising story, even if I'm just waiting in line for the restroom.
Curious to dig into your trauma and anxiety? Wondering if you need to connect with a therapist in St. Louis? Contact Compassionate Counseling St. Louis to set up a free 15-minute phone consult. We’ll talk about what’s going on and best next steps - and if we’re not the right fit, we’ll connect you with other wonderful St. Louis-based therapists with all different approaches, like Brittany!
Compassionate Counseling St. Louis provides specialized anger management and anxiety therapy in St. Louis for kids, teens, and college students. We work in Clayton, MO and serve kids, teens, and college students throughout St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Ladue, University City, Town and Country, Webster Groves, Creve Coeur, Kirkwood, Richmond Heights, and Brentwood.