Recently I heard about a new counseling technique/therapy. Well, let’s say new to me, but apparently, it’s been around for about ten years. I was so intrigued when I heard about this therapy that I immediately wanted to know more. There are several things that attracted me to this technique, but the main point was the “accelerated” part. This therapy can work in one to four sessions?! Really? After investigating it further and wanting to go forward, luckily, I was able to find and complete training for this therapy.
So, let me briefly introduce you to Accelerated Resolution Therapy, also known as ART. ART was founded and developed by Laney Rosenzweig, MS, LMFT. ART is an evidence-based treatment. It uses back and forth eye movements (another attraction, no equipment needed). There is little dialog during this treatment which, for many people, is a good thing. As Laney says, it’s “less gab more grab.” Along with the eye movements we process body sensations and emotions and use scripts to uncover stored memories while making new connections to resolve issues. We replace a negative issue with positive imagines. This is not hypnosis or EMDR and it appears for most, the changes are long standing and permanent. It sounds simple enough and it really is. Along with the simplicity there is actual science behind the working parts of this treatment, but I’ll leave that for another time, another blog. Just know that we store memories and the emotions and body sensations associated with those memories. And we can recall those memories and alter the distressful parts associated with it in a positive and manageable way (watch Nova, Memory Hackers).
This therapy can help with various problems such as post traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, phobias, addictions, and much more and all without the need of medication. I know it seems to good to be true, but clinicians everywhere are reporting fantastic results. In order to train and practice this modality you must be a licensed professional. I state this fact because it would be unethical for any license professional to report false claims or statistics. There are psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurse practitioners, counselors, drug and alcohol counselors and more, reporting great success with the use of ART. I believe their feedback and experience to be truthful and factual.
Personally, so far, I am seeing positive results from this technique. It hasn’t worked for all but it has for most. So, although this type of treatment may not be for everyone, it just may be for you. If you are interested in trying this, or any other therapy modality, call me - 304-533-6135.
As Laney Rosenzweig says - "KEEP THE KNOWLEDGE LOSE THE PAIN"
If you are interested in knowing more about ART, please check out the reading and some of the video’s listed below. Let me know if you find it as fascinating as I do!
ART is listed in the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) National Registry of Evidence Based Programs and Practices. https://nrepp.samhsa.gov/ProgramProfile.aspx?id=7
TED Talk by Laney Rosenzweig, MS, LMFT, Founder of ART
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vP7dx03arxI
Wade Lang, Licensed Mental Health & Addictions Therapist & Nationally Certified Gambling Counselor
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlmlx9v5R4w
News clips:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgopTcJ2234
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfsO_5z79mI