Accelerated Resolution Therapy vs. EMDR: Which Trauma Therapy Is Right for You?

Trauma affects millions of people worldwide, and finding the right therapy can make all the difference in the healing process.

The traditional method of addressing the treatment of trauma has been cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT, an individual is encouraged to look at the events that took place in their lives and how those events have impacted them. Through this process, a person can create more adaptive behaviors for dealing with future life challenges.

In recent years, two newer therapies designed specifically for addressing trauma have emerged: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Both have proven effective in treating various trauma-related issues, but which one is right for you?

This article will dive into the differences between ART and EMDR, their unique therapeutic approaches, and the factors to consider when choosing the best treatment for your needs.

Understanding Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a relatively new form of psychotherapy developed in 2008 by licensed psychotherapist Laney Rosenzweig.

Accelerated Resolution Therapy is a form of therapy that was developed using several different evidence-based therapies including Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Guided Imagery, EMDR, brief psycho-dynamic, and exposure therapies. ART uses therapist-guided eye movements to facilitate the positive visualization of memories or experiences. These eye movements help to reduce distress from traumatic memories. It focuses on replacing negative images and their connection with emotional and physical reactions.

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It is designed to help people overcome the negative images of traumatic events (aka voluntary image replacement) and other disturbing life experiences. ART utilizes a combination of evidence-based techniques from a variety of established therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and eye movement therapy.

An explanation of voluntary image replacement is:

After asking the client to visualize the abusive situation, the therapist would then explore with the client ways to make the memories of the abuse less unpleasant. They may, for instance, rescript the memory by introducing an image of the client standing up to their spouse, therefore empowering the client and making them less fearful.

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The core technique of ART involves a series of rapid eye movements and other visualizations that are used to activate the brain’s natural healing processes.

During an ART session, the therapist will guide the client through a series of eye movements while they recall the traumatic memory or experience. This process is thought to help the brain process and integrate the traumatic experience in a more adaptive way, leading to a reduction in distressing symptoms.

ART also utilizes a variety of other techniques to help clients address and overcome negative beliefs and emotions associated with traumatic images and experience. These may include guided imagery, relaxation techniques, and cognitive restructuring exercises.

The goal of ART is to help clients develop new coping skills and achieve a more positive outlook on life, leading to improved mental health and quality of life.

The process involves:

1. Guided visualization
2. Voluntary memory replacement
3. Eye movement techniques

ART is typically conducted in shorter treatment sessions (approximately 60 minutes) and often achieves results in just one to five sessions. This brief intervention therapy has been successfully used to treat PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related issues.

Read about some studies here.

Conditions Treated By ART

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is primarily used to treat trauma-related conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it can also be effective for a wide range of other mental health conditions, including:

1. Depression
2. Anxiety disorders
3. Panic disorder
4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
5. Phobias
6. Addiction
7. Chronic pain
8. Insomnia
9. Grief and loss
10. Sexual abuse and assault

ART has also been used to improve performance in athletes and other individuals seeking to enhance their mental and emotional well-being. Additionally, because ART is a relatively new therapy, research is ongoing to determine its potential effectiveness in treating other mental health conditions.

Benefits Of ART

There are several benefits associated with Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).

Some of the key benefits include:

1. Rapid improvement – ART is designed to produce rapid results, with many clients reporting significant improvement after just a few sessions.
2. Non-invasive – ART does not involve medication or invasive procedures, making it a safe and non-invasive treatment option for many individuals.
3. Evidence-based – ART is based on well-established evidence-based techniques, making it a reliable treatment option.
4. Low risk of side effects – Unlike some medications or more invasive treatments, ART has a low risk of side effects.
5. Long-lasting results – Many clients report long-lasting improvements in their symptoms after completing ART therapy.
6. Personalized treatment – ART can be tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each individual client.
7. Improvements in quality of life – By reducing symptoms of trauma and other mental health conditions, ART can improve overall quality of life and functioning.

Overall, ART is a promising treatment option for those struggling with trauma-related conditions and other mental health issues.

Getting To Know Eye Movement Desensitization And Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR, developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987, is a well-established trauma therapy that uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, to help clients process and desensitize traumatic memories.

While EMDR is relatively new type of psychotherapy, existing literature has demonstrated positive results using this form of therapy when treating patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by utilizing eye movements to detract from negative conceptualizations as a response to a specific trigger, while reaffirming positive self-assessments.

National Library of Medicine

The treatment is divided into eight distinct phases:

1. History-taking
2. Preparation
3. Assessment
4. Desensitization
5. Installation
6. Body scan
7. Closure
8. Reevaluation

EMDR typically requires more sessions than ART (usually 6-12) but has a substantial body of research supporting its effectiveness in treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, and various other mental health disorders.

Rapid eye movement (REM) is at the core of EMDR therapy. During a typical session, the therapist will guide their client in bringing to mind an image related to their traumatic experiences while stimulating their eyes with a back-and-forth motion or tapping on alternating sides of the body.

This bilateral stimulation helps to rapidly reprocess and desensitize the traumatic memories at a subconscious level.

Research has shown that EMDR can be an effective and relatively rapid form of trauma therapy for many individuals, resulting in substantial improvements in physical and psychological symptoms after just a few sessions.

How EMDR Works

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach that helps people process traumatic memories and negative experiences. EMDR utilizes a structured eight-phase approach that includes several techniques to promote healing and reduce symptoms associated with trauma.

The core technique of EMDR involves a process known as bilateral stimulation, which involves following a therapist’s fingers or other visual or auditory stimuli while focusing on the traumatic memory.

The bilateral stimulation is thought to stimulate both sides of the brain, facilitating the processing of the traumatic memory in a way that reduces its emotional intensity and associated symptoms.

In addition to bilateral stimulation, EMDR incorporates several other techniques, including:

1. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques – EMDR therapists may use mindfulness exercises or relaxation techniques to help clients reduce feelings of anxiety or distress.
2. Cognitive restructuring – EMDR may involve cognitive restructuring techniques to help clients identify and change negative beliefs and thought patterns associated with the traumatic event.
3. Imagery rescripting – This technique involves revisiting the traumatic event and creating a new, positive outcome or image, allowing clients to reprocess the event in a more adaptive way.
4. Interweaves – EMDR therapists may use interweaves to address any barriers that may be preventing the processing of the traumatic memory.

The goal of EMDR is to help clients process the traumatic memory in a way that reduces its emotional intensity and associated symptoms, leading to improved mental health and quality of life.

Conditions Treated By EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was initially developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it has been found to be effective in treating a wide range of other mental health conditions.

Some of the conditions that can be treated with EMDR include:

1. Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and specific phobias
2. Depression
3. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
4. Bipolar disorder
5. Eating disorders
6. Substance abuse and addiction
7. Dissociative disorders
8. Chronic pain
9. Sexual abuse and assault
10. Grief and loss

EMDR has also been found to be effective in improving performance in athletes and other individuals seeking to enhance their mental and emotional well-being. As research into EMDR continues, it may be found to be effective in treating additional mental health conditions.

Benefits Of EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has several benefits for those seeking treatment for trauma-related conditions or other mental health issues.

Some of the key benefits of EMDR include:

1. Effective treatment for trauma – Found to be an effective treatment for trauma-related conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
2. Rapid improvement – Designed to produce rapid results, with many clients reporting significant improvement after just a few sessions.
3. Non-invasive – Does not involve medication or invasive procedures, making it a safe and non-invasive treatment option for many individuals.
4. Evidence-based – Based on well-established evidence-based techniques, making it a reliable treatment option.
5. Low risk of side effects – Unlike some medications or more invasive treatments, EMDR has a low risk of side effects.
6. Personalized treatment – Can be tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each individual client.
7. Improvements in quality of life – By reducing symptoms of trauma and other mental health conditions, EMDR can improve overall quality of life and functioning.

The bottom line is that EMDR is a promising treatment option for those struggling with trauma-related conditions and other mental health issues.

Comparison Between ART And EMDR

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are both effective treatments for trauma-related conditions, but there are several differences between the two therapies.

1. Approach – ART utilizes a combination of techniques from various established therapies, while EMDR focuses primarily on bilateral stimulation and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
2. Speed of treatment – ART is designed to produce rapid results, with many clients reporting significant improvement after just a few sessions. EMDR typically requires more sessions to achieve similar results.
3. Use of eye movements – While both therapies involve eye movements, ART uses eye movements in a more structured and deliberate way to facilitate the processing of traumatic memories.
4. Focus on positive experiences – ART places a greater emphasis on promoting positive emotions and experiences, while EMDR is primarily focused on processing traumatic memories.
5. Therapist training – Both ART and EMDR require specialized training for therapists.
6. Research – While both therapies have shown promise in treating trauma-related conditions, EMDR has been more extensively researched and has a larger body of evidence supporting its effectiveness.

Ultimately, the choice between ART and EMDR may depend on individual needs and preferences, as well as the recommendations of a qualified mental health professional. Both therapies can be effective in treating trauma-related conditions and improving mental health and quality of life.

Here is a table showing you the similarities and differences between ART and EMDR

Ultimately, the choice between ART and EMDR may depend on individual needs and preferences, as well as the recommendations of a qualified mental health professional. Both therapies can be effective in treating trauma-related conditions and improving mental health and quality of life.

Effectiveness Of ART Compared To EMDR

Research on the effectiveness of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has shown promising results for both therapies in treating trauma-related conditions.

However, there is limited research directly comparing the effectiveness of ART and EMDR.

One study found that both ART and EMDR were effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, with no significant difference in effectiveness between the two therapies.

Another study found that ART was more effective in reducing symptoms of depression compared to EMDR, while a third study found that EMDR was more effective in reducing anxiety symptoms compared to ART.

Overall, it is important to note that the effectiveness of a therapy can depend on various factors, including the severity of the condition, individual differences, and therapist experience and training.

Therefore, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment for each individual case.

Limitations Of ART And EMDR

Like all therapies, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) have some limitations that should be considered.

Some of the limitations of ART and EMDR include:

1. Limited research – While both therapies have shown promise in treating trauma-related conditions and other mental health issues, there is still limited research on their effectiveness compared to other therapies.
2. Need for specialized training – Both therapies require specialized training for therapists, which may limit their availability in some areas.
3. Cost – The cost of ART and EMDR are comparable. Anywhere from $100 to $300 per session.
4. Incomplete treatment – Like any therapeutic treatment, both ART and EMDR therapies may not be effective for all individuals, and some clients may require additional or alternative treatments to achieve their desired outcomes.
5. Potential for re-traumatization – While both therapies aim to promote healing and processing of traumatic memories, there is a risk of re-traumatization in some individuals.
6. Limited availability – Both therapies may not be widely available in all areas, making access to these treatments difficult for some individuals.

In general, while ART and EMDR are viable options for treating trauma-related conditions and other mental health problems, it is important to consider their limitations when deciding on the most suitable treatment for each person.

Which Is The Better Therapy?

Both Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) have shown promise in treating trauma-related conditions and other mental health issues.

However, it is difficult to determine which therapy is “better” as the effectiveness of a therapy can depend on various factors, including the severity of the condition, individual differences, and therapist experience and training.

Research has shown that both therapies can be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions.

Some studies have found no significant differences in effectiveness between the two therapies, while others have found that one therapy may be more effective for certain conditions or individuals.

Ultimately, the choice between ART and EMDR should be based on individual needs, preferences, and the recommendation of a qualified mental health professional.

Again, the therapist’s experience and training, as well as the client’s individual characteristics and goals, should also be taken into consideration when selecting a therapy.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Between ART And EMDR

When choosing between Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), there are several factors to consider, including:

1. Type and severity of the condition – The type and severity of the condition may influence the choice of therapy. EMDR may be more effective in treating certain conditions, such as childhood trauma, while ART may be more effective in treating co-occurring conditions.
2. Personal preference – Personal preference may play a role in choosing a therapy. Some clients may prefer the structured approach of EMDR, while others may prefer the more holistic approach of ART.
3. Therapist experience and training – The experience and training of the therapist may also be a consideration. It is important to choose a therapist who is experienced and trained in the therapy of choice.
4. Cost – The cost of therapy is about the same for both.
5. Availability – Availability may also be a consideration, as one therapy may be more widely available than the other in certain areas.
6. Potential for re-traumatization – The potential for re-traumatization may also be a consideration, as some individuals may be more susceptible to re-traumatization with one therapy over the other.
7. Research evidence – While both therapies have shown promise in treating trauma-related conditions and other mental health issues, it is important to consider the research evidence supporting each therapy for the specific condition being treated.

Ultimately, the choice between ART and EMDR should be based on individual needs, preferences, and the recommendation of a qualified mental health professional.

Examples Of Cases Where ART May Be More Effective Than EMDR And Vice Versa

While both Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be effective treatments for trauma-related conditions and other mental health issues, there may be cases where one therapy may be more effective than the other.

Examples of cases where ART may be more effective than EMDR include:

1. Co-occurring conditions – ART’s more holistic approach may be more effective in treating co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety disorders.
2. Complex PTSD – ART’s emphasis on positive emotions and experiences may be more effective in treating complex PTSD, which is often characterized by feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
3. Performance anxiety – ART’s focus on visualization and relaxation techniques may be more effective in treating performance anxiety in athletes and other individuals seeking to enhance their mental and emotional well-being.

Examples of cases where EMDR may be more effective than ART include:

1. Childhood trauma – EMDR’s focus on processing traumatic memories may be more effective in treating childhood trauma, which often involves long-standing and deeply ingrained memories.
2. Specific phobias – EMDR’s focus on cognitive-behavioral techniques may be more effective in treating specific phobias, such as fear of flying or heights.
3. Panic disorder – EMDR’s focus on processing traumatic memories and cognitive restructuring may be more effective in treating panic disorder, which often involves recurrent panic attacks and intense fear.

Ultimately, the choice between ART and EMDR will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the recommendation of a qualified mental health professional.

Recommendations For Choosing Between ART And EMDR

When developing a treatment plan for a client, it is important to consider the individual’s specific needs and preferences. Different types of trauma require different approaches, so it is important to work with experienced therapists who can tailor the therapy to your unique situation.

Here are some recommendations to help in the decision-making process:

1. Consult with a qualified mental health professional – A qualified mental health professional can help determine which therapy is the best fit based on individual needs and goals.
2. Consider the specific condition being treated – Some conditions may be better suited for one therapy over the other. It is important to consider the research evidence supporting each therapy for the specific condition being treated.
3. Consider personal preferences – Personal preferences may also play a role in choosing a therapy. Some clients may prefer the structured approach of EMDR, while others may prefer the more holistic approach of ART.
4. Consider therapist experience and training – The experience and training of the therapist may also be a consideration. It is important to choose a therapist who is experienced and trained in the therapy of choice.
5. Consider potential for re-traumatization – The potential for re-traumatization should also be considered, as some individuals may be more susceptible to re-traumatization with one therapy over the other.
6. Consider cost and availability – Cost and availability may also be factors in the decision-making process.

Ultimately, the choice between ART and EMDR should be based on individual needs, preferences, and the recommendation of a qualified mental health professional.

Both therapies can be effective in treating trauma-related conditions and other mental health issues, and the decision should be made based on the specific needs and goals of the individual.

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