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Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Updated:

May 29, 2023

Reviewed by:

Ben Pearson, LCSW

"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

How Does Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) Work?

  • 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.

process

Benefits

Physical Benefits

  • Reduced physiological arousal and tension

  • Improved sleep patterns

  • Alleviation of psychosomatic symptoms associated with trauma

  • Enhanced relaxation response

Mental Benefits

  • Decreased symptoms of trauma-related disorders (e.g., PTSD)

  • Relief from anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders

  • Enhanced emotional regulation and resilience

  • Resolution of distressing memories and intrusive thoughts

Social Benefits

  • Improved interpersonal relationships and communication skills

  • Enhanced empathy and emotional connection with others

  • Reduced social isolation and withdrawal

  • Increased trust and intimacy

Medical Benefits

  • Effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma-related conditions

  • May benefit individuals with anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, and grief

  • Assists in managing stress-related physical symptoms and chronic pain

Applications

Incorporating ART into Your Mental Health Journey

While Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is still a relatively new evidence-based therapy, It may be an effective intervention for trauma, depression, and other mental health concerns.


Research is ongoing, but this therapy has the potential to help people with trauma and other mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression.


What ART can Help Treat?

  • Treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  • Healing from traumatic experiences, including childhood trauma

  • Addressing anxiety disorders, phobias, and panic attacks

  • Managing depression and mood disorders

  • Supporting personal growth and resilience

FAQs

How long does ART therapy typically last?

The duration of ART therapy can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the issues being addressed. It can range from a few sessions to several months, with sessions typically lasting 60 to 90 minutes.


Is ART only effective for trauma?

While ART is known for its effectiveness in trauma treatment, it can also be beneficial for other psychological conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, and performance enhancement.


Is ART suitable for everyone?

ART is generally considered safe and suitable for many individuals. However, it is important to work with a trained ART therapist who can assess its appropriateness for


How does ART differ from other therapies like EMDR or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?

ART incorporates elements of both EMDR and CBT, but it has its unique approach. ART emphasizes the use of visualization and rapid eye movements to reprocess traumatic memories and facilitates cognitive shifts. It aims to achieve rapid resolution of distressing memories and emotions, often requiring fewer sessions compared to other therapies.


Are the effects of ART long-lasting?

The effects of ART can be long-lasting for many individuals. The goal of ART is to facilitate deep and transformative change by reprocessing traumatic memories and integrating new, positive associations. However, individual experiences may vary, and the long-term maintenance of therapeutic gains can depend on various factors such as individual resilience, ongoing self-care, and the presence of additional stressors or traumas. Regular follow-up sessions or maintenance sessions may be recommended to support the sustainability of treatment outcomes.

Resources

  • Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) International: www.acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com (Official website providing information on ART, training, and therapist directory)

  • International Society for Accelerated Resolution Therapy (IS-ART): www.is-art.org (Organization dedicated to promoting ART and providing resources for practitioners and the public)

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