Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in Gilbert, AZ

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a cutting-edge, evidence-based form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals quickly and effectively resolve symptoms associated with trauma and other mental health conditions. Developed in 2008, ART blends elements of traditional therapies—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and guided imagery—with rapid eye movement techniques similar to those used in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). The core of ART lies in its ability to recondition how distressing memories are stored in the brain, allowing clients to recall traumatic events without experiencing the same emotional or physical reactions.

During an ART session, clients are guided through a series of visualizations while following the therapist’s hand movements with their eyes. This bilateral stimulation helps the brain process and reframe traumatic memories. One of ART’s unique strengths is its use of image rescripting, where clients are encouraged to replace distressing images with more positive or neutral ones. This process not only reduces the emotional intensity of the memory but also helps the brain encode it in a way that no longer triggers anxiety, fear, or other trauma-related symptoms.

ART is particularly effective for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other stress-related conditions. Research has shown that many individuals experience significant symptom relief within just one to five sessions—a much shorter timeframe than traditional talk therapies. Studies also suggest that ART can improve sleep, reduce emotional distress, and enhance overall well-being. Its non-invasive and non-verbal nature makes it especially appealing to those who may struggle to articulate their trauma or prefer not to relive painful experiences through detailed discussion.