Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for Anxiety: A Breakthrough Approach
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world, affecting millions of people across all ages and backgrounds. For those living with persistent worry, fear, and physical tension, finding effective relief can feel like a never-ending journey. Traditional therapies can take months or even years to yield results. Fortunately, a newer therapeutic approach called Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is offering fast, effective relief—and it's changing lives.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore how ART works to treat anxiety, what makes it different from other therapies, and the growing body of research supporting its use.
What Is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)?
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a form of psychotherapy developed in 2008 by Laney Rosenzweig, LMFT. Drawing from elements of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and guided imagery, ART is designed to rapidly reduce the emotional impact of traumatic and distressing memories.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, ART doesn’t require clients to talk extensively about their experiences. Instead, it uses eye movements and visualization techniques to help the brain reprocess troubling memories so they no longer trigger anxiety.
Why ART for Anxiety?
While ART is most commonly associated with treating PTSD, it has also shown remarkable results for anxiety disorders, including:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Social Anxiety
Panic Disorder
Performance Anxiety
Health Anxiety
Anxiety linked to trauma
Anxiety often stems from unresolved past experiences or overwhelming emotional responses. ART works by desensitizing those triggers and helping individuals reframe their memories in a more empowering and calming way.
How ART Works: Step-by-Step
ART is a structured, evidence-based therapy that typically involves 1 to 5 sessions. Here's a breakdown of how it treats anxiety:
1. Eye Movements
The therapist guides the client through sets of left-right eye movements by moving their hand across the client’s visual field. This bilateral stimulation mimics the brain activity that occurs during REM sleep, promoting memory processing and emotional regulation.
2. Imaginal Exposure
The client is asked to visualize a distressing memory or the physical sensations tied to anxiety. While focusing on this imagery, they simultaneously engage in eye movements.
3. Voluntary Image Replacement (VIR)
Once the emotional intensity is reduced, the therapist guides the client to replace the negative imagery with a positive or neutral image. This helps change the emotional association tied to the memory or situation.
4. Body Scan and Symptom Check
Clients are asked to check in with their body and notice any remaining anxiety symptoms. ART aims for complete resolution, meaning the client should feel calm, relaxed, and in control by the end of the session.
What to Expect in an ART Session for Anxiety
An ART session is usually 60 to 75 minutes long. Here’s what you can expect:
A short discussion about what brings you in and what you want to work on
Identification of a key anxiety-provoking memory or trigger
Guided sets of eye movements while focusing on distressing imagery
A process of image replacement and symptom relief
A final check-in to ensure the anxiety has significantly diminished or resolved
Many clients report feeling immediate relief from physical anxiety symptoms, such as chest tightness, rapid heartbeat, or racing thoughts.
The Science Behind ART and Anxiety Relief
ART is supported by a growing body of clinical research:
A 2016 study by Kip et al. found significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety following ART. Read the study
In a 2013 study, ART was shown to produce rapid symptom improvement in veterans with PTSD and co-occurring anxiety. Explore the research
D’Andrea et al. (2013) found that ART can resolve distress without requiring clients to verbalize their traumatic experiences—making it ideal for treating anxiety rooted in shame or avoidance. More here
The American Psychological Association and SAMHSA recognize ART as an evidence-based treatment.
Benefits of ART for Anxiety
ART’s approach to anxiety is unique and powerful for several reasons:
Rapid Relief: Most clients experience significant symptom reduction within 1-5 sessions.
Non-Invasive: No need to relive or verbalize trauma in detail.
Empowering: Clients play an active role in reshaping their memories and emotional responses.
Reduced Physical Symptoms: Many people report relief from somatic anxiety symptoms.
Holistic: ART addresses cognitive, emotional, and physical dimensions of anxiety.
Real Client Stories (Names Changed)
Alex, a 28-year-old teacher, struggled with debilitating social anxiety. After just three ART sessions, she felt confident enough to lead a staff meeting for the first time.
Marcus, a veteran with performance anxiety, used ART to address memories of failure tied to childhood trauma. He now speaks publicly with ease.
Limitations and Considerations
While ART is highly effective for many, it's not for everyone. Potential limitations include:
ART requires focus and visualization; it may not be suitable for individuals with significant cognitive impairments.
Mild side effects like fatigue or emotional release may occur.
Some clients may need follow-up sessions for layered or complex anxiety triggers.
ART vs. Other Anxiety Treatments
Finding an ART Therapist Near You
Ready to explore ART for anxiety? Make sure you work with a certified ART practitioner. You can use this directory to find someone near you:
🔗 Find an ART Therapist
When contacting a therapist, ask about their experience treating anxiety and how many ART sessions they recommend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is ART a form of hypnosis?
A: No. ART is not hypnosis. You remain fully aware and in control throughout the session.
Q: Will I have to talk about my trauma?
A: No. ART allows you to work through memories without sharing them in detail.
Q: Can ART be done virtually?
A: Some ART practitioners offer virtual sessions, but in-person sessions are typically more effective due to the eye movement process.
Q: Does ART work for children and teens?
A: Yes. ART has been adapted for use with children and is especially effective for anxiety stemming from bullying or academic pressure.
Final Thoughts
Anxiety can feel all-consuming, but it doesn’t have to define your life. Accelerated Resolution Therapy offers a fast, safe, and transformative approach to calming the mind, releasing the body from stress, and resolving the root causes of anxious thoughts.
If you’ve tried talk therapy or medication without the results you hoped for, ART may offer the breakthrough you’ve been looking for. In just a few sessions, many people experience a life-changing reduction in anxiety—and a renewed sense of peace.
Ready to try ART for anxiety? Reach out to a certified therapist and begin your journey toward healing today.