WHAT IS ACCELERATED RESOLUTION THERAPY (A.R.T)?

Accelerated Resolution Therapy is an evidence-based therapy that has been shown to accelerate recovery, avoiding the long and difficult work often involved in other therapies. Laney Rosenzweig, developed A.R.T in 2008 and says,
“The most difficult aspect of discussing A.R.T is the fact that it sounds too good to be true.”

WHAT DOES ART DO?

Using eye-movements, like ones that occur in REM sleep, A.R.T helps the brain re-process information, helping to restructure the storage of distressing memories or images. By changing where the memories are stored in the brain, A.R.T diminishes the ability to elicit intense physical and emotional reactions. As a result, these images and memories can be recalled as objective facts,and observed in a detached manner.

WHAT IS ART USED FOR?

A.R.T is used to treat any type of trauma, anxiety, phobias, fears, grief, addiction, codependency, depression, ADHD, OCD and many other psychological stressors. It also can be used to enhance emotional resources such as confidence and self-esteem.

There are two types of trauma, big "T" trauma and little "t" trauma. Big "T" traumas are the major horrific events, like an accident or unexpected death. Little "t" traumas are the smaller everyday incidents that occur, like loss of a job or friendship, work stress, relationship issues, feelings neglected by loved ones etc. These memories become stuck in the brain and trigger emotional and physical sensations, even after the situation has passed. A.R.T can help resolve both types of trauma. Even if you aren’t sure of the cause of your distress, your subconscious mind will provide the content.

WHAT IS THE CRITERIA TO BE ABLE TO DO A.R.T?

1. You can move your eyes from left to right easily without pain or exacerbation of medical conditions such as tics, seizures, vertigo, etc.
2. You can hold onto a thought and consider the Counsellor's instruction.
3. You are motivated to change the way you feel about presenting concern.

HOW LONG DOES A.R.T TAKE?

The identified concern is typically resolved in 1-5 sessions. In cases of a single episode trauma, one session is often enough. However, ongoing problems like complex trauma, substance abuse, generalized anxiety, and OCD, etc. may take more sessions and can be more successful if you are seen twice in the first two weeks. A session can be anywhere from 60-120 min.

WHAT IS AN A.R.T SESSION LIKE?

You will identify a distressing memory, image, phobia, or situation and only provide the information you are comfortable sharing. You will be asked to visualize a “scene” that represents the problem, this can be the memory of the incident, or a typical day experiencing the problem. In the session, you will use bi-lateral eye movements and alternate between processing your “scene” and moving the negative sensations related to it. Once the sensations move, you will visualize a positive “scene.” The integration of the positive scene helps eliminate the negative sensations related to your scene and replaces it with feelings like safety, empowerment, and resiliency. Each session concludes with resolution or containment of this issue to ensure you are grounded and stable after the session. Most leave the session with a feeling of resolution regarding their identified concern/problem.

WHY BRING UP A PAINFUL MEMORY?

Visualizing the painful memory in A.R.T is for a short period of time and after seeing it the first time you won’t see it the same way again. Using a process called “imaginal exposure,” A.R.T uses a window of time called the reconsolidation window to change a person’s responses to painful memories/experiences, eliminating distressing sensations, and replacing them with positive ones.

WHY IS A.R.T SO AMAZING?

It's a short term, rapid therapy. Typically 1-5 sessions.
A.R.T is non-invasive. People only share if they want to, no more re-telling of the story!
It combines multiple therapies and trusted interventions like mindfulness, CBT, Exposure Therapy, Gestalt, and Guided Imagery.
Because it works with the subconscious mind the pressure is off, the subconscious mind supplies the images related to the problem along with the solution. It is always astounding to witness the wisdom of the mind and its ability to heal itself.
It is fun and creative! The brain’s capacity to identify stuck emotions or images and replace them with new positive ones brings a lightheartedness to sessions and relief to suffering.
After an A.R.T session you will be taught eye movements to use on your own.

DOES A.R.T USE HYPNOSIS?

No. The use of eye movements help to re-program information in the brain, and they elicit a calming effect. The client is in full control of the session and participates throughout the session.

IS A.R.T THE SAME AS E.M.D.R?

A.R.T is different from EMDR as A.R.T is more rapid, directive, and closure orientated. However, they both use eye movements.