How Brainspotting Help Offers Free Trauma Support in Global Crises

Brainspotting Help was founded to provide rapid, free mental health support during global crises. The initiative began after a surge in demand for crisis intervention training following the war in Ukraine. Its volunteers now assist people worldwide affected by conflicts, disasters, and trauma. The idea for Brainspotting Help took shape in early 2022. Monika Baumann, a psychologist based in Vienna, organised a webinar on crisis intervention for professionals. She expected around 20 attendees but received 350 participants from numerous countries. This overwhelming response led to the creation of the organisation.

After the mass shooting in Graz, Baumann and her colleagues quickly offered free crisis intervention sessions. They used Brainspotting, a method that helps individuals process trauma by focusing on gaze direction, bodily awareness, and professional guidance. In one case, the technique helped a non-native-speaking child link the sound of a school bell to past experiences of war alarms.

A year later, demand for their services remained high. Volunteers continued to provide free online sessions, offering up to ten per person, often within hours of a crisis. The team works on a voluntary basis, assisting those in war zones and disaster areas regardless of background. Their funding comes mainly from donations and webinars arranged by the team itself. Brainspotting Help enables people to regain a sense of control over their lives rather than feeling like victims. The organisation’s rapid response and voluntary work ensure support reaches those in need during ongoing global crises. Their efforts rely on public donations and the commitment of their professional network.