Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART): A Technical Overview
This page covers the science behind Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), the mechanics and technical details behind how it works, and an overview of its components.
If you want a more general overview of ART, click here.
What is the science behind ART?
Research on ART has shown that it is effective in reducing a variety of \mental health conditions, including PTSD. A study conducted by Kip et al. (2013) found that ART led to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms among military veterans.
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ART is considered an evidence-based therapy by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and mental health professionals worldwide are rapidly adopting ART as a treatment method.
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How does ART actually work?
When traumatic memories are stored by your brain, they get stored in a dysfunctional way. This is not helpful and can cause emotional and physiological distress. ART focuses on reprocessing memories in a manner that reduces their emotional charge. This is done using eye movements, visualization techniques, and voluntary memory replacement. This work is done entirely in a structured manner and guided by a trained therapist.
What are the components of ART?
Voluntary Memory Replacement
This refers to the voluntary replacement of distressing images associated with traumatic memories. While you visualize the traumatic event, your therapist guides through eye movements. You replace negative images with neutral or positive images, which allows you to retain the factual memory while drastically reducing the intensity and overall distress when the memory comes to mind.
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Eye Movement Techniques
ART uses rapid eyes movements (REM) to help you process distressing memories. This operates on the principle that eye movements are believed to connect the left and right brain. This allows you to reprocess and reconsolidate traumatic experiences in a much healthier way.
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Guided Imagery and Metaphors
ART incorporates guided imagery to help you reframe traumatic memories. Your therapist will walk you through visualizing “scenes” from traumatic events. As you progress through these visualizations, you begin to heal and can see resolution of symptoms.