Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in NYC

A unique feature of ART is that clients can expect to find relief in a short amount of time, and is designed to be delivered in one to five 60 minute sessions.

During ART sessions, our qualified therapists guide the client through a series of eye movements while also helping them to focus on certain images and memories. Throughout the session, the therapist helps the client release emotions and body sensations associated with the presenting problem, making it easier for the client to think about what they are focused on. Trained therapists then help the client to reprocess the memory or emotion into a more positive, healthy thought using Voluntary Image Replacement. Throughout the session, the therapist helps the client release emotions and body sensations associated with the presenting problem. 

The theory behind ART is that memories and emotions become “stuck” in the brain, and, similar to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), the eye movements used in ART help to “unlock” these memories and emotions. There is research to support the therapeutic and relaxing effects of eye movements. They have been demonstrated to cause theta waves in the brain, and research has linked theta waves to creativity, intuition, and daydreaming. These brain waves are also frequently seen while people are in deep meditation. Clients often choose to supplement ART sessions with traditional talk therapy to digest the insight they have gained from ART’s eye movement sessions.

Eye movements are used in both ART and EMDR to aid visualization techniques intended to lessen distress caused by traumatic memories. EMDR uses a combination of bilateral stimulation (alternating eye movements, taps, or audio tones) and cognitive processing to help a person identify and process traumatic memories. At Clarity, our therapists guide the client through recalling a traumatic memory, while the client focuses on the bilateral stimulation. While ART is derived from EMDR, according to its creator, it’s more directive, can be administered in a shorter amount of time, and is easier to learn.

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) uses a combination of eye movements and visualizations to rapidly resolve traumatic memories. In ART, the therapist guides the client through a visualization process, in which the client imagines themselves in a safe and comfortable environment. This visualization process helps the client to reframe the traumatic memory and reduce the emotional distress associated with it. The goal of ART is to reduce the intensity of the traumatic memory, so that it no longer has the same emotional impact. 

ART also places a stronger emphasis on the relationship between unfavorable visuals and emotional and physical responses. The precise and distinctive manner in which the techniques are applied in ART usually leads to a quicker and more thorough recovery. Instead of needing to wait between sessions, clients may experience less distress by the end of a treatment session.

Research shows that people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who receive ART typically experience an improvement in symptoms over the course of one to five one-hour sessions. 

It’s completely understandable to feel hesitant or unsure about taking the step to start therapy. It takes strength and courage to acknowledge that you may need some extra support.

In the meantime, there are other steps you can take including learning more about what ART entails. Start by watching this TED Talk about how ART works by creator, Laney Rosenzweig.

You can also read this explainer sheet or this version in simple language for children.

Be kind and gentle with yourself, and know that you are capable of finding the help you need when the time is right for you.