Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Reviewed by the HeyPsych Medical Review Board

Board-certified psychiatrists and mental health professionals

Indications

Primary Indications

PtsdGeneralized Anxiety DisorderMajor Depressive DisorderPhobiasGrief

Mechanism

ART uses rapid eye movements similar to those in REM sleep, combined with visualization and voluntary image replacement. This allows patients to reprocess traumatic memories without prolonged exposure, reducing distress and reshaping negative associations.

Protocol

Preparation

Initial assessment and psychoeducation about ART.

Procedure

Patient identifies distressing memory or symptom.
Therapist guides sets of horizontal eye movements while patient visualizes memory.
Distressing imagery is replaced with positive or neutral images.
Patient experiences symptom relief while retaining factual memory.

Frequency: Weekly or biweekly sessions.

Duration: 1–5 sessions are typical, sometimes more.

Total Treatment Time: Varies; often fewer than 6 hours total.

Equipment

No special equipment; therapist uses hand movements to guide eye tracking.

Session Structure

Pre-Session

Check-in, identification of target memory or symptom.

Treatment Phase

Eye movements with visualization and image rescripting.

Post-Session

Grounding, discussion of insights, plan for next session.

Expected Outcomes

Immediate

Reduction in distress when recalling traumatic events
Increased sense of calm

Short Term

Decreased PTSD and anxiety symptoms
Improved sleep
Reduced avoidance behaviors

Long Term

Sustained reduction in trauma symptoms
Improved emotional regulation
Enhanced quality of life

Side Effects

common

Temporary emotional discomfort during session

uncommon

Mild fatigue
Vivid dreams

rare

Intense emotional flooding if not properly guided

Contraindications

absolute

Active psychosis
Severe cognitive impairment

relative

Dissociative disorders
Neurological instability

special considerations

May require modifications for complex trauma cases

Patient Selection

ideal candidates

Individuals with PTSD or trauma-related symptoms
Patients seeking short-term, focused therapy

screening required

Assessment for dissociation and psychosis

Training Requirements

practitioner

Licensed mental health professionals with ART certification

facility

Outpatient clinics
Private practice

Research Evidence

Key Studies

Clinical trials show ART reduces PTSD symptoms significantly in fewer sessions than traditional therapies.
Emerging evidence supports use in anxiety, depression, and complicated grief.

Limitations

Limited long-term data compared to EMDR or CBT; requires trained practitioners.

Cost Considerations

typical session cost: $100–$250 per session

total treatment cost: Often $300–$1,000 for full treatment course

insurance coverage: May be covered under psychotherapy benefits

cost effectiveness: Potentially high due to shorter treatment duration

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Integration Support

Concurrent Therapies

Medication management
Supportive therapy
CBT

Special Populations

👶Pregnancy

Safe, but consider emotional tolerance

Clinical Notes

ART often provides rapid symptom relief, making it appealing to patients.
Unlike exposure therapy, patients are not required to verbalize trauma in detail.
Emphasizes empowerment and resilience through image rescripting.

This information about therapy approaches is for educational purposes only. Therapy should be conducted by licensed mental health professionals. The effectiveness of therapy varies by individual and condition. Consult with a qualified therapist to determine the best approach for your needs.

Interested in this treatment?

This information is for educational purposes. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

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