Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a unique and powerful option for people dealing with trauma or traumatic memories. It helps reduce symptoms of PTSD and other mental health issues by using eye movements to change negative images in the mind to positive ones.
Recognized by the American Psychological Association, ART combines this method with other effective therapies. This makes it a good choice for many people looking for relief from painful experiences.
What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy?
Accelerated Resolution Therapy, or ART, is a form of psychotherapy. It’s designed to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce psychological distress. ART is a relatively new therapy, developed in the 21st century. It incorporates elements of other therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy.
Unlike traditional talk therapies, ART uses rapid eye movements. These movements are similar to the ones we make during REM sleep. The goal of ART is to change the way negative images are stored in the brain. By doing so, it aims to reduce the emotional intensity of these images.
It’s a flexible therapy that can be adapted to individual client needs. Whether it’s PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, ART offers a unique approach to treatment.
The Development and Principles of ART
Accelerated Resolution Therapy was developed by Laney Rosenzweig in 2008. Rosenzweig, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, created ART to provide a fast and effective treatment for psychological trauma.
The core principles of ART are rooted in the belief that traumatic memories can be “re-scripted”. This means that the distressing images associated with these memories can be altered. The goal is to reduce their emotional impact.
ART uses a combination of relaxation techniques and guided eye movements. These techniques aim to access the traumatic memory and change the way it’s stored in the brain.
The therapy is designed to deliver results quickly. Many individuals report significant improvement after just one to five sessions. This makes ART a potentially valuable option for those seeking rapid relief from psychological distress.
A Look Inside an ART Session
An ART session typically begins with the therapist guiding the client into a relaxed state. This is achieved through deep breathing and other relaxation techniques. Next, the client is asked to recall a distressing image. This image is associated with a traumatic memory or negative belief.
The therapist then guides the client through a series of eye movements. These movements are designed to stimulate the brain’s natural problem-solving abilities.
During this process, the client is encouraged to “re-script” the distressing image. They replace it with a more positive or neutral image. The goal is to change the way the distressing image is stored in the brain. This can help reduce its emotional impact.
Key steps in an ART session include:
- Relaxation and preparation
- Recall of distressing image
- Guided eye movements
- Re-scripting of the image
- Review and closure
Accelerated Resolution Therapy vs EMDR
Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are both innovative therapies. They use eye movements to help individuals process traumatic memories. However, there are key differences between them.
EMDR typically involves longer treatment periods. It can take several sessions for a client to fully process a traumatic memory. On the other hand, ART is usually quicker. Many clients say they feel much better after just one to five sessions.
Another difference is the approach to the traumatic memory. EMDR focuses on desensitizing the client to the distressing memory. ART, however, seeks to change how the brain stores memory.
In ART, clients are encouraged to replace the distressing image with a positive or neutral one. This is not typically a part of EMDR therapy. Both therapies have their merits and can be effective for different individuals. The choice between ART and EMDR should be made in consultation with a qualified mental health professional.
Conditions Treated with ART
Accelerated Resolution Therapy is a flexible and effective therapy that can help with many mental health conditions. It’s especially known for its success in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), where it helps people process and reduce the impact of traumatic memories.
ART is also used to treat:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Phobias
- Substance abuse issues
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship issues
- Pain management
Research shows that ART often leads to clear improvements. Many people report fewer symptoms and a better quality of life after treatment. This therapy’s ability to work quickly makes it a valuable option for those seeking relief from various mental health issues.
The Benefits of ART
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) offers several benefits. It’s a fast-acting therapy, often showing results in fewer sessions than traditional therapies. It’s also versatile, treating a wide range of mental health conditions.
- Fast-acting results
- Versatile in treating various conditions
- Non-invasive process
- Empowers clients
- Minimal discomfort
- Long-lasting effects
Take the First Step Toward Healing with Compass Recovery
If you or someone you love is struggling with trauma or other mental health challenges, Accelerated Resolution Therapy at Compass Recovery Centers could be the key to finding relief. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step of your journey. Don’t wait to start feeling better—reach out to us today and discover how our personalized approach can help you reclaim your life.
