Healing Beyond Words: The Power of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a progressive therapy designed to help you process difficult emotions and experiences more effectively. It combines two approaches: one that focuses on the logical, thinking side of the brain, and another that taps into our emotional responses. Through techniques like guided eye movements and visualizations, ART allows you to address complex mental health challenges in a way that feels natural and empowering.
What issues or concerns can ART help with?
ART is a flexible and effective approach that can support healing across a wide range of mental health challenges, from one-time traumas to more complex life experiences. Whether you’re dealing with PTSD, depression, anxiety, tough relationships, or specific experiences like abortion, ART can help you process and move forward. This approach is tailored to your unique needs, allowing you to tackle stress from work, social pressures, self-esteem issues, past experiences, and more—helping you feel better in your day-to-day life and relationships.
How does ART help align our brain and nervous system to work together effectively?
ART works with two different ways our brains process information: the top-down and bottom-up methods. The top-down approach taps into the prefrontal and frontal lobes, which are responsible for logical thinking, emotional awareness, and communication. On the other hand, the bottom-up approach engages the amygdala and brainstem, which handle our emotional reactions and those instinctual responses that kick in when we feel threatened or scared.
The thing is, our nervous system doesn’t always communicate through words or logic—it often operates on a different level. That’s where ART comes in! By blending these two approaches, ART helps create a connection between our emotions and our logical thought processes. This holistic support means we’re addressing both the rational and emotional sides of our experiences, ensuring that both parts of our brain work together as we heal.
What happens in a typical ART session?
In a typical ART session, we start by identifying an image or experience that’s been causing you discomfort. Together, we’ll work through it while I guide you through some eye movements and visualizations. The best part? You’re always in control—you decide how much or how little you want to share with me.
As we go through the session, you might notice your feelings about the memory shifting, and you could feel your body starting to relax. This approach can feel more active and engaging compared to traditional talk therapy. Instead of just talking about difficult memories and sensations, ART gives you practical tools to help you process feelings that are hard to put into words.
What if I’m unsure about reliving certain memories?
It's completely normal to feel hesitant about revisiting certain memories, and I want you to know that ART is all about respecting your boundaries—no bulldozing here. Together, we’ll learn how to communicate with your nervous system and figure out what you’re ready to handle. While we will explore an image or memory during our sessions, there’s no pressure to relive every detail unless you choose to. I will work with you to create a sense of safety and support as we navigate those challenging memories. The goal of ART is to help change how your mind and body respond to those experiences, allowing you to find relief without needing to share every little thing. If you're feeling uncertain, we can absolutely take our time and focus only on what feels safe and comfortable for you.
What can I expect to feel after ART sessions?
After an ART session, many clients say they feel lighter, calmer, and less affected by things that used to trigger them. You might notice a shift in how you view certain memories, bringing you a sense of peace about the past and a renewed feeling of empowerment for what’s ahead. ART can help you take charge of your emotional reactions and physical sensations, helping you feel more grounded and confident in yourself. It’s all about integrating those tough experiences with kindness toward yourself, so you can move forward on your journey with resilience and strength.
Can ART be done virtually or in person?
ART can be done both in person and virtually. If you’re looking for an ART therapist, I see clients in person in Asheville, NC, and virtually across the state of North Carolina. This flexibility means you can choose the setting that feels most comfortable and convenient for you. If you'd like to schedule an Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) session with me, please email me at kelsey@thebreakuptherapist.com.