Understanding Deep Brain Reorienting: A Brief Overview for Clients

Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) is a trauma-informed therapy developed by Dr. Frank Corrigan, aimed at addressing deep-seated emotional responses stored in the brain. Unlike some therapies that require detailed recall or reliving of traumatic events, DBR allows for a more targeted and gentle approach. By focusing on the most intense part of a memory, a sensation, or even clusters of similar experiences, DBR accesses where these responses are stored in the brainstem, facilitating effective processing and healing.

The Theory Behind Deep Brain Reorienting

DBR is based on the understanding that our most intense emotional responses, particularly those related to trauma, are often stored in the brainstem, which is responsible for our basic survival instincts. These responses can become deeply ingrained when we experience intense or repeated traumatic events, particularly those related to complex trauma.

DBR focuses on the brain's self-other systems, which include orienting, affective responding, and relational seeking. When these systems are disrupted by trauma, it can lead to ongoing emotional distress and relational difficulties. By honing in on specific, intense fragments of experience—whether it's a memory, sensation, or feeling—DBR works to reorient these disrupted sequences, allowing the brainstem to process and release the stored emotional responses.

What Happens During a DBR Session?

A DBR session is designed to be both effective and manageable. Instead of requiring you to fully recall or relive a traumatic event, the therapist will guide you to focus on something specific—what we call an "activating stimulus." This could be the most intense part of a memory, a particular sensation, a strong feeling, or even clusters of similar experiences, such as repeated instances of the same type of trauma.

The aim is to select something that represents the emotional response we're seeking to process. This fragment or cluster allows us to access where the response is stored in the brainstem without the need for full recollection or re-experiencing the trauma.

During the session, your therapist will help you notice subtle changes in your body as you focus on this stimulus. By attending to these sensations, you can begin to connect with the brainstem's response, facilitating the release and reprocessing of the emotional response. Over time, this approach can lead to significant relief from symptoms and a greater sense of emotional well-being.

Efficacy of Deep Brain Reorienting

While research into DBR is still developing, early studies suggest that it is a promising approach for treating various forms of trauma, especially complex trauma involving repeated or prolonged exposure to distressing experiences. In clinical trials, DBR has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.

DBR's ability to work with intense fragments of experience and focus on the brainstem makes it particularly suitable for those who have struggled with traditional therapies. By targeting the root of emotional responses, DBR offers the potential for deep and lasting healing.

Conclusion

Deep Brain Reorienting offers a unique and effective approach to healing from trauma and emotional distress. By focusing on the most intense parts of memories, sensations, or feelings—and without requiring full recollection—DBR allows for a gentle yet powerful way to process and resolve deep-seated emotional responses.