What is BWRT?

BrainWorking Recursive Therapy (BWRT) is an innovative, science-backed therapy that helps people change automatic emotional and/or behavioural responses by working directly with how the brain processes information. It is designed to quickly and effectively address issues at the root cause level, thus allowing individuals to move past their challenges without needing to revisit or talk in detail about distressing experiences.

What is an example of BWRT?

Imagine someone who feels nervous or panicked at the thought of public speaking. BWRT can help by rewiring the brain's automatic response to this fear. In a session, the BWRT practitioner guides the client in developing a new, calmer, and more confident automatic emotional response pattern while speaking in front of an audience. This new response replaces the old, anxious reaction, allowing the person to approach public speaking with greater ease and comfort in the future.

The Neuroscience Behind BWRT

BrainWorking Recursive Therapy (BWRT®) is grounded in cutting-edge neuroscience research, inspired by key findings in brain function and behavior. The foundation of BWRT stems from a pivotal article published in New Scientist in November 2011, which discussed Benjamin Libet’s groundbreaking experiments from the early 1980s.

Libet’s work revealed that the brain begins creating an impulse before we are consciously aware of it, challenging traditional ideas about free will. While we don’t have full control over the initial impulse, we do have what Libet referred to as “free won’t”—the ability to stop an action once it begins. This discovery highlighted the existence of a brief "cognitive gap" where the brain initiates responses before conscious thought kicks in.

How BWRT Uses This Discovery

What makes BWRT unique is its ability to work within this cognitive gap, targeting the brain’s automatic responses before they become conscious. Unlike traditional therapies that focus on managing symptoms or working through the anxiety-triggering amygdala, BWRT operates at the earliest stage of brain activity. By intervening at this foundational level, it rewires automatic responses before they even reach the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for processing fear and emotional reactions.

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The Role of the Reptilian Brain

BWRT works directly with the Reptilian Complex—often called the "lizard brain." This ancient part of the brain, which has evolved over 600 million years, is the first responder to perceived threats or survival challenges. Its responses are incredibly fast, outpacing even the quickest conscious thoughts. This evolutionary mechanism is what keeps us safe, but it can also create unwanted automatic reactions, such as anxiety, fear, or avoidance behaviours.

By addressing these responses at their source, BWRT provides a way to rewire these deeply ingrained patterns, creating space for healthier, more constructive behaviours.

The Challenge with BWRT: Belief

One of the biggest challenges BWRT faces is that it can seem almost too good to be true - especially for those with extensive experience in traditional psychological methods. For decades, the prevailing belief has been that altering thought patterns takes a long time, and creating permanent change takes even longer.

This belief stemmed from the fact that most traditional therapies attempt to change thoughts by working at the “thinking level.” It’s akin to trying to stop water flow by adjusting the nozzle of a hose—while you might slow the output, the pressure builds up behind the scenes, waiting to burst through.

Why BWRT Is Different

BWRT doesn’t just control the flow; it goes straight to the source and turns off the tap. By addressing the brain’s automatic processes at their root, BWRT resolves issues at the earliest stage, preventing that buildup of unhelpful mental and emotional pressure.

This breakthrough approach challenges the old saying, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” BWRT genuinely delivers on its promises, offering swift, effective, and lasting results.

BWRT represents a revolutionary step forward in therapy by aligning with the brain’s natural processes, offering clients a faster, more effective way to address emotional and behavioural challenges.

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How is BWRT Different From Other Therapies?

What Happens in a BWRT Session?

During a BWRT session, you will work with a trained BWRT practitioner to focus on a specific concern. The BWRT practitioner uses a structured process to guide you through changing how your brain automatically responds to triggering situations. You don’t have to share personal details if you don’t want to, making the experience comfortable and completely private (if you prefer). Most clients find the process straightforward, efficient, and empowering. Sessions can be conducted online, by phone or in person.

What are typical results of BWRT?

Many people notice significant improvements in just a few sessions, and depending on the the issue it can take as little as just one session. Common results include fewer emotional triggers, greater confidence, and a sense of control over challenging situations. BWRT is highly effective for problems like anxiety, phobias, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem issues, and unhealthy habits, often leading to long-lasting relief and better quality of life.

What is the success rate of BWRT?

The success rate of BWRT is notably high. Practitioners consistently find BWRT effective for a wide range of emotional and behavioural challenges. While outcomes can vary from person to person, many clients report substantial and lasting changes after only a few sessions; and depending on the issue, it could be as little as just one session.

What are the side effects of BWRT?

BWRT is a gentle therapy with few, if any, side effects. Some clients might feel a little tired or emotionally drained immediately after a session, which is natural as the brain processes the changes. These feelings are temporary, and most people leave sessions feeling lighter, more in control, and optimistic about their progress.

Is BWRT evidence-based?

Yes, BWRT is based on the latest neuroscience and how the brain processes information to create change at a neural level. BWRT uses an understanding of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to change and adapt—to create meaningful and lasting results. This approach ensures that BWRT is both scientifically grounded and highly effective.

BWRT: Difference between Level 1 and Level 2

Level 1 BWRT: This level works with specific issues, like fears, phobias, mild anxiety, or habits. It’s ideal for addressing specific triggers and helps to change automatic responses quickly and effectively.

Level 2 BWRT: This level dives deeper into more complex challenges, such as chronic anxiety, long-term grief, depression, or deeply ingrained self-sabotaging behaviours. It focuses on identity and personality-level concerns, offering profound and lasting transformation for more deeply rooted issues.