Accelerated Resolution Therapy
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a relatively new evidence-based psychotherapy that offers rapid relief for trauma, depression, and various other mental health concerns. Developed by Dr. Laney Rosenzweig, ART combines innovative techniques to address distressing memories stored in the brain. The following explores how ART works, its benefits, and its applications.
The ART Process
Visualizing Distressing Events: During ART sessions, clients visualize distressing events related to trauma or other emotional challenges. The therapist guides them through bilateral eye movements while they focus on the memory, emotions, or physical sensations.
The Role of Eye Movements: ART incorporates horizontal eye movements, similar to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These movements help the brain and body process distressing images, emotions, and physical sensations.
Memory Reprocessing: The bilateral eye movements facilitate memory reprocessing. ART aims to alter how the brain stores and recalls traumatic images and emotions.
Positive Imagery: Clients imagine positive outcomes, replacing negative imagery associated with distressing events. This process helps move traumatic memories into long-term memory.
Benefits of ART
Speedy Results: ART stands out for its efficiency. Unlike traditional therapies that require numerous sessions, ART often brings relief after just a few encounters. Most people experience positive changes swiftly, making it an appealing option for those seeking rapid improvement.
Effective Trauma Treatment: ART has been extensively studied and proven effective for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It helps alleviate symptoms related to trauma, including anxiety, emotional reactions, and distressing memories. By altering how the brain stores and recalls traumatic images, ART provides relief without requiring clients to verbally recount their traumatic experiences.
Holistic Approach: ART integrates elements from various therapeutic models, including eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic approaches. By addressing both cognitive and emotional aspects, ART promotes comprehensive healing.
Minimal Discomfort: Unlike some trauma therapies, ART does not force clients to vividly visualize distressing images outside the therapy session. This reduces feelings of distress and ensures a more comfortable experience.
Broad Applicability: Beyond trauma, ART benefits individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, phobias, substance use disorders, and grief. Its versatility makes it valuable for diverse mental health challenges.
Why Choose Us?
At Wellness Psychology, we are trained and have experience in Accelerated Resolution Therapy in Calgary, and have seen how it can provide a swift path to healing. By utilizing eye movements, ART helps clients to process distressing images, emotions, and physical sensations, and to replace distressing images with positive ones. ART is holistic, effective, and works quickly to process and heal from trauma. If you have suffered from trauma, or can’t seem to move forward from an event or a series of events, please reach out today. Trauma doesn’t have to define your life, and you can enjoy a future without it.
