Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is an evidence-based therapy that uses bilateral eye movements alongside imagery rescripting to resolve trauma, anxiety, phobias, and grief, often in a small number of sessions. ART shares some features with EMDR but follows a different protocol and frequently produces faster results. ART is recognized as an evidence-based practice.
ART was developed in 2008 by Laney Rosenzweig, a licensed marriage and family therapist who had trained in EMDR. Rosenzweig added directive imagery rescripting to bilateral eye movements, creating a faster protocol with strong outcomes. ART has grown rapidly and is now used internationally, with significant adoption in military and first responder populations.
ART works with the recognition that traumatic memories store both the sensory and emotional content of the original event. The work involves the client mentally replaying the memory while doing eye movements, then deliberately replacing the distressing imagery with new imagery the client chooses. The original memory remains accessible but its emotional charge is reduced.
The client retains full awareness throughout. The clinician guides the protocol without imposing content. The new imagery comes from the client.
The clinician explains the protocol and the client identifies the target memory. The client mentally replays the memory while following the clinician's hand with their eyes. The clinician guides the client through specific protocol steps: noticing physical sensations, processing emotions, then deliberately changing the imagery to something less distressing.
Sessions usually run 60 to 75 minutes. The work is internal but more directive than EMDR.
One of ART's distinguishing features is speed. Single-incident trauma often resolves in 1 to 5 sessions. Complex presentations take longer.
ART is recognized as an evidence-based practice by SAMHSA. Research includes studies on veterans, sexual assault survivors, first responders, and civilian trauma. Outcomes are comparable to other trauma protocols with notable efficiency.
ART does not erase memories. The original memory remains accessible. What changes is the emotional charge attached to it. ART is not hypnosis. The client is awake, aware, and in control. ART is not a replacement for all other therapy. It is a specific tool for specific applications.
Complex trauma with significant dysregulation usually needs longer stabilization before any processing protocol, ART included. Active substance use, untreated dissociative disorders, and insufficient regulation capacity all call for preparation work first.
Several Curio Counselling Calgary clinicians are trained in ART alongside EMDR and other trauma approaches. The choice between protocols depends on the client and the presentation. Free 20-minute consultations help clarify which approach fits.
Curio Counselling Calgary is at 1414 8 St SW Suite 200, Calgary, AB T2R 1J6, in the Beltline. Phone 403-243-0303. In-person and virtual sessions across Alberta.