ART – Accelerated Resolution Therapy

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a relatively new psychotherapy approach that’s gaining attention as an evidence-based treatment for trauma and stress-related disorders, including PTSD, depression, and resilience. It’s known for being brief (typically 1-5 sessions) and less reliant on homework or extensive skills practice. Accelerated Resolution Therapy focuses on re-framing and re-processing traumatic memories by utilizing techniques like imaginal exposure, perceptual reframing, and relaxation methods.

What to expect from your ART appointment:

Using a structured approach with the therapist guiding you through identifying a specific scene to focus on. Come prepared to share. Expect using guided rapid eye movements and visualization techniques. This is to help you reprocess traumatic memories. and process the associated feelings and sensations differently. The goal is to replace negative images and thoughts with positive ones. Sessions are known to reduce the distress associated with any traumatic memory.

Does Accelerated Resolution Therapy work?

Let’s look at ART and its evidence base:

What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy(ART)?

ART Re-framing and Re-processing:

Accelerated Resolution Therapy aims to help individuals re-process and re-file past traumatic events, shifting their emotional response from negative to positive or neutral.

ART Techniques:

ART employs techniques like imaginal exposure, perceptual reframing, and relaxation methods to help clients positively or neutrally re-frame and re-file traumatic memories.

ART Short-term:

Accelerated Resolution Therapy is designed to be a brief intervention, often completed in just a few sessions.

ART Focus on Memory Reconsolidation

ART leverages the principle of memory reconsolidation, which suggests that when a memory is activated, Accelerated Resolution Therapy can be modified before it is re-stored.

Evidence Base for Accelerated Resolution Therapy:

Effectiveness for PTSD:

Studies have shown ART to be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms in a relatively short time frame.

Compared to Other Therapies:

Research suggests Accelerated Resolution Therapy can be as effective as, or even more effective than, traditional PTSD treatments, while being quicker, easier to learn, and more cost-efficient.

Various Populations:

Studies have indicated that Accelerated Resolution Therapy may be beneficial for civilians, military personnel, veterans, and even individuals with homeless status who are experiencing PTSD.

SAMHSA Recognition:

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA has recognized ART as an evidence-based treatment for trauma-related disorders, depression, and resilience.

Ongoing Research:

While promising, more extensive studies are needed to fully assess the long-term impact and effectiveness of ART across different populations and trauma types.

How Accelerated Resolution Therapy Works:

Goal-Directed Hand Movements:

ART uses goal-directed hand movements that are believed to stimulate neural circuits in the limbic system, which can help re-file traumatic memories.

Re-experiencing the Trauma:

Clients may briefly re-experience the trauma under supervision, allowing them to re-process and re-file the memory in a way that reduces its emotional impact.

Re-framing and Refiling:

By activating the memory and modifying it within the “reconsolidation window,” ART aims to rewire the emotional response to the traumatic event, making it less distressing.

In Conclusion:

Accelerated Resolution Therapy works. It is an emerging, evidence-based psychotherapy. It offers a promising, brief approach to addressing trauma and stress-related disorders. These include various levels of PTSD. While research continues to expand, current evidence suggests that ART can be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms, improve overall well-being, and promote resilience. What do you have to loose? Nothing to lose and everything to gain.