Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
At Optimal Moments, we offer a variety of treatment modalities focused on symptom reduction. Every individual is different; thus, treatment plans are individualized, specific to your concerns and symptoms. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is one of those alternative treatment modalities offered. It is not a talk-therapy model that you may be used to experiencing. It is an evidence-based approach that shares some similarities with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) — and some key differences. Both therapies help clients process painful experiences and reduce emotional distress, but they do so in unique ways.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured therapy developed in the late 1980s by Dr. Francine Shapiro. It helps individuals reprocess traumatic memories, so they are no longer emotionally overwhelming through bilateral stimulation.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a newer, faster-evolving therapeutic approach that also uses eye movements but with a more directive and imagery-based process. Developed by Laney Rosenzweig in the mid-2000s, ART integrates elements of EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, and guided imagery to help clients rapidly process distressing experiences—often in just one to five sessions.
If we consider the fight or flight response of the brain, these treatments help your brain slow down, reducing the emotional intensity it experiences when these memories are triggered. These treatments are complimentary to your current treatment plan and are utilized in conjunction with talk-therapy.
Let’s explore the specifics of each a little further…
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART):
During ART, clients briefly visualize a distressing event while following the therapist’s hand movements with their eyes. The therapist then guides the client to “replace” the upsetting imagery with positive or peaceful visualizations, helping the brain reconsolidate the memory in a less distressing way.
Used To Treat: PTSD and trauma, anxiety and panic disorders, grief and loss, phobias and fears, performance anxiety
Approach: Non-directive, allows natural memory reprocessing
Length of Treatment: 6-12 sessions or more per issue
Talking about Trauma: May involve discussing details of events
Focus: Cognitive and emotional reprocessing
Speed of Relief: Gradual over several sessions
Many clients have commented after treatment that, although they recognize the memories as being difficult experiences, they do not feel the same high emotional intensity with a few sessions.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):
During EMDR sessions, clients recall distressing experiences while engaging in guided eye movements, tones, or taps. Over time, this process helps the brain integrate and “re-file” traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity.
Used To Treat: PTSD and trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, phobias and fears, relationship stress, performance stress, disordered eating
Approach: Directive, uses guided imagery to re-script memories
Length of Treatment: 1-5 sessions per issue
Talking about Trauma: Does not require sharing specifics about trauma
Focus: Visual and emotional re-scripting
Speed of Relief: Often rapid - noticeable improvements within 1-3 sessions
Which Treatment Is Best For You?
Both EMDR and ART are highly effective, research-backed methods for treating trauma and emotional distress. The best approach depends on your needs, comfort level, and therapy goals.
If you prefer a structured process that allows time to explore multiple memories and layers of experience, EMDR may be ideal.
If you prefer a faster, more directive process that doesn’t require verbal details of your trauma, ART may be the better fit.
Veronica Green, LMHC, is our resident ART expert. She will work with your current therapist to coordinate treatment. If you have any questions, please contact use and Veronica can answer any of your questions.
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