ACCELERATED RESOLUTION THERAPY (ART)

Quick, Effective Relief from Trauma and Distressing Memories

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a brief, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps individuals quickly process and resolve distressing memories, trauma, and emotional triggers. At RK Counselling in Red Deer, Alberta, we offer ART as part of our trauma-informed approach to help clients experience meaningful relief—often in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy.

What Is ART?

Accelerated Resolution Therapy is a structured, interactive form of therapy that uses guided eye movements—similar to those used in EMDR—to help clients reprocess disturbing experiences. Unlike traditional therapy, ART doesn’t require you to verbally recount every detail of a traumatic memory. Instead, the focus is on resolving the emotional and physical distress associated with it.

ART integrates elements of:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Imagery rescripting
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Memory reconsolidation science

The goal is not to erase the memory, but to change how it is stored in the brain—so that it no longer feels threatening or overwhelming.

What Can ART Help With?

ART has been shown to be effective for a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns, including:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD) and trauma
  • Anxiety and panic attacks
  • Depression
  • Phobias
  • Grief and loss
  • Nightmares or intrusive memories
  • Performance anxiety or self-limiting beliefs
  • Distressing experiences tied to medical procedures or injuries

ART is also a powerful option for individuals who have tried talk therapy but still feel “stuck” in the emotional effects of past experiences.

What to Expect in an ART Session

ART sessions are typically 60–75 minutes and follow a specific, client-guided structure. During sessions, you will:

  • Be guided to recall a troubling memory while engaging in eye movements
  • Replace distressing images with more peaceful, empowering ones through imagery rescripting
  • Learn relaxation techniques to regulate emotions during and after the session
  • Leave the session feeling emotionally lighter—often without having to revisit painful details aloud

Many clients report feeling significant relief within one to five sessions.

Who Is ART For?

ART is suitable for:

  • Adults and teens (13+)
  • Clients seeking rapid relief from trauma or anxiety
  • Individuals who feel overwhelmed by traditional talk therapy
  • People looking for a non-pharmacological, neuroscience-informed approach

ART can be used as a standalone therapy or integrated with other treatments such as CBT, ACT, or DBT.

A Safe, Inclusive Environment for Healing

At RK Counselling, we recognize that trauma impacts people in different ways, and no single approach works for everyone. ART is offered in a respectful, inclusive space where all clients—regardless of gender identity, background, or life history—are welcomed and supported.

READY TO LET GO OF WHAT’S HOLDING YOU BACK?

If you’re living with painful memories or emotional triggers, Accelerated Resolution Therapy may be the key to healing. You don’t have to keep reliving the past to feel better in the present.

📞 Contact RK Counselling today to schedule a consultation and learn if ART is right for you.