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Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Accelerated Resolution Therapy: Uses, Benefits, and More

Traumatic events can have devastating and long-lasting effects on the way you think, feel, and behave. If you’re struggling to cope with a traumatic experience or suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), one therapy that can help you is accelerated resolution therapy (ART). This therapy uses eye movements to alleviate symptoms related to past traumas quickly. It has been shown to help people dealing with trauma, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.

What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)?

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a relatively new and innovative form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals process and resolve distressing memories and emotional issues. It was developed by Laney Rosenzweig, LMFT, in 2008. 

The goal of ART is to help people obtain relief from the effects of trauma in just a few treatment sessions by using eye movements. The therapy is similar to eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, but it also incorporates therapeutic aspects from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other talk therapies. However, unlike EMDR which can take many sessions to work, many people in ART experience relief in a very short amount of time.

What to Expect During an ART Session

ART helps individuals process traumatic or distressing memories by using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. This is intended to help reprocess the memories in a way that reduces their emotional charge and helps individuals make sense of them.

Assessment and Goal Setting

The session usually begins with a discussion about what issues or memories you want to address. The therapist will ask you to describe the distressing memory or emotional problem you’re experiencing. You will collaborate with your therapist to set clear goals for the session. Your therapist will explain the next steps to you so you know what to expect.

Memory and Imagery Processing

Next, you’ll be guided to focus on a specific distressing memory or issue. The therapist might ask you to recall details of the memory or describe the emotions and physical sensations associated with it.

The therapist will use techniques such as guided eye movements, taps, or sounds to stimulate both sides of the brain. This bilateral stimulation is intended to help reprocess the memory and reduce its emotional charge.

You might also be guided through a process of creating new, positive imagery or narratives related to the memory. This can involve visualizing a new, positive outcome or altering the memory in a way that reduces its emotional impact.

Emotional Reprocessing

The therapist will help you explore and reprocess the emotional responses and beliefs related to the memory. This can involve discussing how your feelings and thoughts about the memory have changed during the session.

Integration, Closure, and Follow-Up

The therapist will work with you to integrate the new perspectives or changes into your daily life. The session will end with a discussion about your experiences during the therapy and any homework or follow-up tasks.

Depending on your needs and progress, additional sessions may be scheduled. The frequency and number of sessions will vary based on the complexity of the issues being addressed and your response to the therapy.

ART for Trauma, PTSD, and Other Conditions

By helping clients process their emotions and reduce the emotional charge associated with the traumatic experience, ART can significantly reduce PTSD and trauma symptoms. However, ART treats other conditions, too.

ART International explains that the therapy can help treat:

Benefits of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) offers several benefits, especially for individuals seeking effective and efficient treatment for distressing memories or emotional issues. Here are some of the key advantages of ART:

  • Provides rapid relief from symptoms with noticeable improvements after a few sessions
  • Effective in processing and resolving traumatic memories and PTSD
  • Helps with anxiety disorders and phobias
  • Uses non-invasive techniques that are generally well-tolerated
  • Offers a personalized approach tailored to individual needs
  • Can be adapted for various issues and used alongside other therapies
  • Assists in processing and reframing distressing emotions
  • Integrates positive imagery and new perspectives for improved well-being
  • Promotes resilience and self-efficacy by addressing negative memories and beliefs
  • Provides efficient treatment, often requiring fewer sessions compared to other therapies

Compassionate Trauma & PTSD Therapy Serving Fort Pierce

If you’re looking for a quick and effective way to move on from past traumas and improve your quality of life, accelerated resolution therapy (ART) may be right for you.

At Agape Behavioral Center, we understand that mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to provide the highest quality treatment and support for clients in Fort Pierce who are struggling with their mental health. 

We believe in the power of connection, empathy, and understanding, and we strive to create a safe treatment experience where everyone feels valued. Agape is love. Join our community and find the support you need by contacting us today.

References:

  1. Springer Link: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART): a Review and Research to Date
  2. National Institute of Health: Ethical Reflections on Offering Patients Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

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