Accelerated Resolution Therapy vs EMDR: What Therapists Should Know

Therapy

Apr 5

As interest in trauma-focused therapies continues to grow, many clinicians find themselves comparing two approaches:

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) vs EMDR

Both are effective, evidence-based therapies that use eye movements to process distressing memories. However, they differ in structure, approach, and clinical experience.

If you're considering training in either modality, understanding these differences can help guide your decision.

What Is the Difference Between ART and EMDR?

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) share some similarities, but they are distinct models.

At a high level:

• Both use eye movements
• Both target distressing memories
• Both aim to reduce emotional distress

However, ART is typically:

• more structured
• more directive
• shorter in duration

Key Similarities Between ART and EMDR

Use of Eye Movements

Both ART and EMDR incorporate horizontal eye movements as part of the therapeutic process.

These eye movements are thought to support:

• processing of distressing material
• integration of memories
• reduction in emotional intensity

Focus on Trauma and Distress

Both approaches are commonly used to treat:

• PTSD
• anxiety
• grief
• phobias
• distressing life experiences

Memory Processing

Each model works by helping clients reprocess distressing memories so they are no longer as emotionally activating.

Key Differences Between ART and EMDR

Structure and Protocol

ART follows a highly structured, step-by-step protocol.

EMDR follows an eight-phase model that is more flexible and can vary based on clinician style.

For many therapists, ART’s structure feels:

• clearer
• easier to follow
• more contained

Session Length and Timeline

ART is designed to be brief.

Many clients experience significant improvement in one to five sessions.

EMDR may take:

• more sessions overall
• longer treatment timelines

Verbal Processing

In ART:

• clients do not need to describe the trauma in detail
• sessions are more internally focused

In EMDR:

• some verbal processing is often involved
• cognition and narrative may play a larger role

Voluntary Image Replacement

A defining feature of ART is Voluntary Image Replacement (VIR).

Clients actively:

• change distressing images
• replace them with preferred or neutral ones

This step is not part of EMDR in the same structured way.

Therapist Directiveness

ART is generally more directive.

The therapist:

• guides the process closely
• follows a specific sequence

EMDR allows for more variability in how clinicians guide sessions.

Training Differences

ART Training

ART training typically begins with:

• a 3-day foundational course
• experiential practice
• immediate application

Many therapists report feeling ready to begin using ART relatively quickly.

EMDR Training

EMDR training often includes:

• multiple training parts
• consultation hours
• extended certification process

This can be more time-intensive.

Which Is Better: ART or EMDR?

This is a common question.

The answer is: it depends on the therapist and the client.

Some therapists prefer ART because it is:

• brief
• structured
• directive

Others prefer EMDR because it allows for:

• more flexibility
• deeper exploration over time

Both approaches can be highly effective.

Why Some Therapists Choose ART

Therapists who choose ART often value:

• a clear protocol
• shorter treatment duration
• reduced need for detailed trauma retelling
• ease of integration into practice

Can You Use Both ART and EMDR?

Yes.

Some therapists are trained in both modalities and choose to integrate them based on:

• client needs
• clinical presentation
• treatment goals

Having multiple tools can increase flexibility in treatment.

Final Thoughts

Accelerated Resolution Therapy and EMDR are both powerful approaches to treating trauma and distress.

For therapists deciding between them, it can be helpful to consider:

• preferred level of structure
• desired treatment length
• comfort with directive vs flexible approaches

Interested in Learning Accelerated Resolution Therapy?

If you're a therapist exploring trauma-focused modalities and are interested in a brief, structured approach, I will soon be offering Accelerated Resolution Therapy training for mental health professionals.

You can join the waiting list to be notified when training dates are announced.

👉 Join the Accelerated Resolution Therapy Training Waiting List