"Accelerated Resolution Therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy that offers a rapid and effective approach to treating psychological trauma and related conditions." - American Psychological Association (APA)
Overview
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a form of psychotherapy that combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement techniques, and memory reconsolidation. It aims to alleviate distressing symptoms and resolve traumatic memories by accessing and reprocessing them in an accelerated and transformative manner.
Process
Assessment: The therapist assesses the client's history, symptoms, and treatment goals, identifying target memories or issues for processing.
Preparation: The client learns relaxation techniques and coping strategies to promote emotional stability during the therapy sessions.
Visualized Dual Attention Stimulus: The therapist guides the client to focus on a specific image while simultaneously engaging in sets of rapid eye movements or other bilateral stimulation.
Cognitive Shift: The eye movements and visualization help to reprocess traumatic memories, allowing for new and positive associations to replace negative emotions and beliefs.
Reinforcement: Positive imagery, affirmations, and new insights are integrated to reinforce the positive changes.
Closure: Each session concludes with a review of progress and the client practices self-calming techniques to ensure emotional stability.
Benefits
Reduced physiological arousal and tension
Improved sleep patterns
Alleviation of psychosomatic symptoms associated with trauma
Enhanced relaxation response