Deep Brain Reorienting · London, Ontario
Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) Therapy
Sometimes you notice the reaction before you can find the words: a sudden tightening, a jolt, or the urge to pull away. DBR is an approach to trauma processing that pays close attention to these early bodily responses.
- Paulina Dysko, MSW, RSW
- Individual assessment and collaborative pacing
- London office · Ontario virtual appointments
When understanding the pattern has not been enough
You may be curious about DBR if reminders of difficult experiences bring quick, hard-to-explain reactions. These patterns are a starting point for discussion, not a diagnosis or proof that DBR is the right treatment.
- Your body reacts quickly to a reminder even when you understand why it affects you.
- You notice tension or an urge to withdraw before you can name a feeling.
- You would like to explore a therapy that includes attention to bodily experience.
- You want help considering options after previous therapy or ongoing stress.
What happens in DBR?
Developed by psychiatrist Dr. Frank Corrigan, DBR uses a model of how attention, tension, shock, and emotion may unfold around a difficult experience. With guidance, you notice subtle sensations associated with an agreed reminder. Attention may include tension around the eyes, forehead, or neck. This is a guided psychotherapy process, not a physical treatment or brain stimulation procedure.
- The work begins with awareness of the present and a shared focus.
- Bodily responses are noticed gradually, with time to communicate what you experience.
- The approach is considered alongside your current needs, preferences, and ability to manage distress.
Making room for questions and informed choice
Paulina Dysko, MSW, RSW, offers care that considers your current life as well as past experiences. Her background in child welfare and trauma-related work informs a collaborative approach. You can ask how DBR differs from other options, what its limitations are, and how progress will be reviewed. A slower pace does not guarantee that difficult feelings will not arise.
Exploring DBR together
Start with an assessment
Book in London or virtually while located in Ontario. Describe the reactions or concerns bringing you to therapy; you do not need to interpret them yourself.
Agree on a focus and pace
Discuss whether DBR fits, what preparation may help, and how to communicate discomfort or ask to pause.
Review your experience
Notice how the work is affecting you during and between appointments. Goals and the treatment approach can be revisited together.
Common questions
How strong is the evidence for DBR?
DBR has a developing research base. A small randomized study published in 2023 reported improvement in PTSD symptoms compared with a waitlist. This is promising, but more research and comparisons with established treatments are needed. DBR does not yet have the same breadth of evidence as EMDR for PTSD. Read the 2023 DBR study.
How is DBR different from EMDR?
DBR focuses on noticing sequences of bodily responses linked to a reminder. EMDR uses a structured memory-processing approach that includes alternating stimulation. Neither can be assumed to be the best fit for everyone; the evidence, your preferences, and clinical assessment matter.
Do I need a clear memory or a detailed story?
DBR does not depend on telling a long, detailed account. You and Paulina still need a shared understanding of the concern and a suitable focus. If memories are unclear or missing, this can be discussed without trying to force recall.
Is DBR always gentler or faster?
No. A method’s name or pace cannot predict how it will feel or how long care will take. Difficult emotions may arise. Preparation, check-ins, and the option to pause are part of discussing an appropriate plan.
Explore related support
EMDR Therapy
Read about a structured trauma treatment with established evidence for PTSD.
Trauma Therapy
See how assessment and a collaborative care plan can help you choose a next step.
Practical questions before you begin
Read about Paulina, review fees and practical questions, or contact the practice before booking.
You can be curious without having to decide
Bring your questions about DBR to an initial appointment. Together, you can consider what support makes sense for you.