Accelerated Resolution Therapy Calgary
Clearview Counselling is committed to helping individuals heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. One of our most effective approaches to healing is through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Our experienced therapists in Calgary, AB have witnessed the transformative power of ART in helping clients process trauma and alleviate their symptoms of distress.
Introduction to Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Its Benefits
ART is a consistent and reliable, evidence-based psychotherapy approach that treats the distressing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, traumatic memories, addictions and more. ART has it’s roots in EMDR and is used to treat similar symptoms as conditions including PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, phobias, and more.
ART has become an increasingly popular treatment method due to its effectiveness and evidence-base. Typically, ART provides resolution of distressing symptoms in as few as 1-5 sessions. Accelerated Resolution Therapy helps the brain process traumatic memories in an efficient and adaptive way, allowing individuals to move on from the past and feel less anxious, less triggered, more level-headed, more confident, and in control of their thoughts and feelings.
How Accelerated Resolution Therapy Works and What to Expect During Sessions
During ART sessions, trained therapists use a combination of eye movements and structured scripts that guide clients as they process their difficult experience or symptoms and their body sensations. The used of smooth-pursuit eye movements while recalling traumatic experiences and focusing on body sensations allows the brain to reprocess memories so that they are less emotionally intense or triggering. As such, the moto Accelerated Resolution Therapy is “keep the memories, loose the pain”.
ART is unique to other psychotherapy treatment as it does not require intense verbal processing. That means the therapy does not require clients to share the details of their experience with their therapist unless they choose to do so. Instead, ART focuses on imaginal exposure: seeing the distressing images, experience, or symptoms in one’s mind’s eye. The therapist walks the client through processing their experiences by directing what the client focuses on.
Typically, ART sessions are scheduled for 1.5 hours to ensure there is adequate time to fully process a difficult memory, experience, or symptoms. In some cases, sessions may be shortened based on your needs.
Prior to engaging in ART sessions, the ART therapist will meet with you for one or more sessions to learn more about you and the concerns you would like to target. ART sessions may be used in conjunction with other types of therapy; however, ART sessions will focus specifically on the use of ART. If required or requested, additional session will be added to allow for other psychotherapies to be integrated into treatment.
Conditions and Symptoms ART Can Address
ART has been demonstrated effective in treating a range of conditions including anxiety, depression, addiction, and phobias, and it is incredibly effective for treating PTSD. Some of the common symptoms that ART can help address include:
- Panic attacks
- Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
- High levels of anxiety, tension, or stress
- Irritability, anger, and outbursts
- Negative beliefs or self-esteem issues
- Dissociation or avoidance
- Intense, uncontrollable emotions
Clearview Counselling’s Unique Approach to ART
At Clearview Counselling, our specialized ART therapists offer a unique approach that caters to the individual’s needs, tailoring therapy to the client’s unique set of symptoms and life experiences. We provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment for our clients, helping them feel comfortable and relaxed.
Our ART Therapists commit to providing evidence-based treatment that includes regular follow-ups, adjustments, and overall progress evaluations. Our clients receive continuous guidance throughout the therapy process, with the aim of achieving the best outcomes and complete healing.
Here are some common FAQs for Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART):
Accelerated Resolution Therapy is a psychotherapy approach that helps individuals process and heal from difficult or traumatic experiences. During ART sessions, a trained therapist guides clients through structured scripts and eye movements that allow for the processing of difficult emotions connected with the distressing experience. Processing the emotions connected with where one feels stuck allows clients to quickly alleviate symptoms and distress.
ART can be beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, phobias, grief/loss, and other mental health concerns. It can also help to improve self-esteem, reduce anxiety and stress, and promote emotional healing and resilience. If you feel stuck, ART may be a good fit for you.
ART sessions at Clearview Counselling usually last between 1 and 1.5 hours. The duration of treatment can vary depending on each individual’s needs, the complexity and severity of their trauma, and their progress throughout therapy. The length of treatment will be determined in ongoing consultation with your therapist.
The number of sessions required varies from person to person. ART has been demonstrated to be a quick and effective therapy with many people experiencing resolution in between one and five sessions. The length of therapy may vary depending on your needs and whether you are doing ART as a stand-alone therapy or integrated with other therapy. Your therapist at Clearview Counselling will work with you to develop a treatment plan that suits your specific needs.
Yes, ART therapy is considered safe when administered by a trained and licensed therapist. At Clearview Counselling, our ART therapists have received specialized training in ART in addition to the extensive training they have received to become psychologists.
Before engaging in ART therapy, our therapists will explore the potential risks and benefits with you. As with any treatment that involved eye-movements, your therapist may suggest you speak with your doctor if you have any health conditions that may be exacerbated or impacted by this type of treatment.
Absolutely. ART can be used as a stand-alone treatment or integrated with other therapeutic approaches to address your mental health needs. Our ART therapists at Clearview Counselling are experienced in developing personalized treatment plans that may involve a combination of therapies for the best possible outcome.
At Clearview Counselling, ART is available for children 12 and older who have experienced trauma or struggling with a variety of mental health concerns. We recommend younger children who are experiencing emotional or behavioural difficulties that are linked to difficult or traumatic experiences engage in EMDR or other psychotherapies aimed at addressing their distress.
The acronyms used in therapy can be confusing as they can refer to multiple things. At Clearview Counselling, we offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy – also known as ART. There is also type of therapy called art therapy. Art therapy that combines artistic mediums and processes with psychotherapy to explore one’s inner world.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about EMDR therapy at Clearview Counselling, you can contact our office directly by phone or email. Our friendly staff will assist you in setting up an appointment and answering any additional questions you may have.
Alternatively, check our staff profiles for members of our team trained in ART. Follow our booking links to book online.
If you have any further questions or concerns about ART or our services at Clearview Counselling, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to support you on your healing journey.