About Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

ART is an evidence-based therapy that uses eye movements and visualization to help process distressing memories quickly. While our network of ART practitioners is growing, you can explore therapists trained in similar trauma-focused approaches.

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Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a form of psychotherapy that aims to help people process traumatic memories and reduce psychological distress in fewer sessions than traditional approaches. ART uses rapid eye movements combined with visualization techniques to help the brain reprocess distressing images and sensations without requiring detailed discussion of traumatic events.

ART shares some similarities with EMDR in its use of eye movements, though the techniques differ. If you're interested in trauma-focused therapy that doesn't require extensive verbal processing, you can explore therapists on First Session who offer EMDR, Brainspotting, or other trauma-informed approaches.

Mark Peterson

Canadian Certified Counsellor
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Offers In-Person (Lethbridge, AB)
Virtual Sessions in MB, AB, BC, SK, NT, YT, NU, PE, and NL.
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Mark Peterson

Mark Peterson

Canadian Certified Counsellor
$160/session
Addiction, Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Children/Teens, Christian counselling, Decision making, Depression, Early childhood, Eating disorders, Life transitions, Phobias, PTSD, Panic attacks
Addiction, Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Children/Teens, Christian counselling, Decision making, Depression, Early childhood, Eating disorders, Life transitions, Phobias, PTSD, Panic attacks
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What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy?

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a relatively newer form of psychotherapy developed in 2008. It combines elements of established therapies with a unique protocol involving voluntary eye movements and visualization. ART is designed to help people rapidly process traumatic memories by changing the way distressing images are stored in the brain, often in just one to five sessions.

What are the benefits of ART?

ART may offer several potential benefits. Many people appreciate that it doesn't require detailed verbal recounting of traumatic events, which can feel retraumatizing. The approach is designed to work quickly, often showing results in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy. Research suggests ART may help with PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related concerns while minimizing distress during the process.

Who might benefit from ART?

ART is often explored by people who have experienced trauma, including military veterans, first responders, survivors of abuse, and those with PTSD. It may also be considered for anxiety, depression, phobias, and grief. People who have found traditional talk therapy challenging or who prefer a more rapid approach sometimes find ART appealing.

How do I find an ART therapist?

ART requires specialized certification through the Rosenzweig Center. While our network of ART-certified therapists is growing, you can explore therapists on First Session who offer related trauma-processing approaches. EMDR and Brainspotting use similar mechanisms and are more widely available. When browsing profiles, look for therapists with training in eye movement or bilateral stimulation techniques.

Are there related approaches I could explore?

Yes, several approaches share foundations with ART. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) also uses eye movements to process trauma and has extensive research support. Brainspotting is another eye-position-based approach for trauma processing. Somatic Experiencing focuses on releasing trauma stored in the body.

How can First Session help me find trauma support?

First Session connects you with therapists who specialize in trauma and PTSD. You can watch intro videos to understand each therapist's approach, filter by trauma specialties, and book directly online. Many therapists offer free consultations to discuss your needs. Learn more about trauma-processing techniques to help inform your search.