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Accelerated Resolution Therapy​

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a form of psychotherapy that uses guided visualization and rapid eye movements to reprogram distressing memories and images so they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. It has been successfully used to treat trauma and a number of mental health conditions.

ART sessions typically involve the therapist guiding the client to visualize distressing events or metaphors while tracking the therapist’s hand movements with their eyes.

What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy?

ART is a relatively new, evidence-based form of psychotherapy. It is designed to rapidly relieve the effects of psychological trauma and other mental health conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and phobias. 

ART uses guided visualization and rapid eye movements—similar to those in EMDR—to help clients quickly reprogram how distressing memories and images are stored in the brain, reducing their emotional impact. It often produces significant results in a short period of time, often in one to five sessions.

The core principle of ART is reprogramming distressing memories and images so they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions.

How Does Accelerated Resolution Therapy Work?

ART draws on and combines techniques from other established therapies, including Gestalt, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, guided imagery, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). It creates rapid change. Effects may be seen in as few as 1–5 sessions, much faster than traditional therapies that typically require 12–20 sessions, or longer. 

Unlike some trauma therapies, ART does not require clients to verbally describe traumatic memories. This makes it accessible to those reluctant or unable to share details. Throughout the process, ART aims to replace negative images and sensations with more positive ones, often resulting in rapid symptom relief.​ The main techniques include:

Trauma Memory Focus

ART doesn’t require you to verbally relive the entire painful experience, unlike many other types of therapy. You only need to identify the central, distressing image or memory.

Voluntary Image Replacement (VIR)

This is a prime aspect of ART. While you hold the distressing memory in mind, the therapist guides you to track the therapist’s hand movements with your eyes while voluntarily replacing (re-scripting) the disturbing images with new, positive ones. 

For example, a memory of a car accident might be visually changed so that you see yourself and others being safely rescued and cared for. This process “reprograms” how the memory is stored in the brain.

Rapid Eye Movements (Similar to EMDR)

As with EMDR, the ART therapist uses a technique of directing your eye movements from side to side while you focus on the memory. This is believed to help the brain’s information processing system reconsolidate the memory in a less distressing way, similar to what happens during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.

Sensory Integration

The therapy incorporates all senses (sight, sound, smell, touch) to fully process the memory and its new, positive version.

Benefits of Accelerated Resolution Therapy

ART can bring the following benefits:

Validation of Accelerated Resolution Therapy

Research indicates that ART can provide quick and lasting relief for trauma, depression, anxiety, and related symptoms, and it is recognized by organizations such as the American Psychological Association. The nonverbal, structured approach has proven suitable for those, such as military veterans, who have difficulty talking about their trauma.

PTSD & Trauma Symptoms:

Studies have shown that significant clinical improvement can be obtained in 1-5 sessions of ART. One study showed that over 95% no longer screened positive for PTSD after an average of 3.7 sessions with military service members and veterans. Remission rates for PTSD and depression, ranging from 85% to 98% have been shown with civilians, first responders, and survivors of natural disasters.

Depression & Anxiety:

Dramatic reductions in symptoms of major depression and generalized anxiety have been consistently shown with most achieving remission.

Physical Symptoms:

Significant reductions in co-occurring physical symptoms such as insomnia, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues related to stress have also been reported.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Accelerated Resolution Therapy?

A good candidate for ART is anyone struggling with the emotional distress of past memories, trauma, or specific phobias, especially those who:

ART is primarily known for treating trauma and PTSD, but its applications are broader. It is used for:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ART?

It’s a form of psychotherapy that uses guided visualization and rapid eye movements to reprogram distressing memories and images so they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions.

ART uses guided visualization and rapid eye movements-similar to those in EMDR -to help clients quickly reprogram how distressing memories and images are stored in the brain, reducing their emotional impact.

ART doesn’t require you to verbally relive the entire painful experience, unlike many other types of therapy. You only need to identify the central, distressing image or memory.

Effects may be seen in as few as 1-5 sessions, much faster than traditional therapies that may require 12-20 sessions.

As with EMDR, the ART therapist uses a technique of directing your eye movements from side to side while you focus on the memory. This is believed to help the brain’s information processing system reconsolidate the memory in a less distressing way

ART therapy is a structured process consisting of 6 main steps over several sessions.

ART has been recognized as an evidence-based therapy by organizations such as the American Psychological Association. A study with military service members and veterans found that over 95% no longer screened positive for PTSD after an average of 3.7 sessions. Similar studies with civilians, first responders, and survivors of natural disasters show remission rates for PTSD and depression ranging from 85% to 98%.

Insurance coverage for Accelerated Resolution Therapy treatments varies. …..As such it is typically an out-of-pocket investment. Get in touch with our admissions team today.

We now accept most major health insurance plans

Access Accelerated Resolution Therapy at Corner Canyon

If you or a loved one is looking for a compassionate space to address mental health issues, especially PTSD, reach out to our Admissions team now at Corner Canyon Health Centers to discuss if Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a fit for you.

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Corner Canyon Health Centers​

13020 S Fort St, Draper, UT 84020​

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Smiling rehab center staff member standing outdoors in front of lush greenery—offering a warm, welcoming presence to support residents on their healing journey.

Liz Lund, MPA

Liz is originally from lush green Washington State. She is a life enthusiast and a huge fan of people. Liz has always loved learning why people are the way they are. She moved to UT in 2013 and completed her bachelors degree in Psychology in 2016. After college Liz worked at a residential treatment center and found that she was not only passionate about people, but also administration. Liz is recently finished her MPA in April 2022. Liz loves serving people and is excited and looking forward to learning about; and from our clients here at Corner Canyon.
When Liz is not busy working she love being outdoors, eating ice cream, taking naps, and spending time with her precious baby girl and sweet husband.