The Differences between Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) are two evidence-based psychotherapies that utilize eye movements to treat trauma-related disorders, but they differ in their specific techniques, protocols, and treatment durations.

Historical Development of EMDR and ART

EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987 after she noticed that eye movements appeared to reduce the negative emotions associated with her own distressing memories. 2 Shapiro conducted further research and developed a standard procedure that combined eye movements with other treatment elements. 2 EMDR evolved over time, with Shapiro renaming it from EMD to EMDR in 1991 to reflect that the effects extended beyond desensitization. 3 ART, on the other hand, was developed more recently from EMDR to provide a rapid, time-limited treatment approach that could sometimes work more quickly. 5 While both therapies utilize eye movements to reprocess traumatic memories, ART focuses primarily on replacing disturbing images with positive ones in just 1-5 one-hour sessions, whereas EMDR aims to both desensitize distress and reprocess traumatic events over a longer period. 5

Key Techniques and Protocols in EMDR

EMDR therapy follows an eight-phase protocol that includes history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation. 1 A key component is bilateral stimulation (BLS), which can involve eye movements, auditory tones, or tactile tapping. 5 The client focuses on a disturbing memory while simultaneously engaging in BLS, which is believed to facilitate the brain's natural processing and integration of the traumatic material. 1 2 EMDR sessions aim to desensitize the distress associated with traumatic memories and install positive cognitions to replace negative beliefs. 3 The goal is to fully process the traumatic event so it no longer causes emotional pain. 2

Sources:

• (1) EMDR Therapy: Uses, Techniques, and Effectiveness - Verywell Mind
• (2) Your Ultimate EMDR Guide (Incl. Techniques & Exercises)
• (3) EMDR Phases: Exploring the Key Stages in Effective Trauma Therapy
• (4) EMDR Therapy's History | Therapy Module
• (5) Exploring EMDR Styles: Different Techniques for Healing Trauma

Core Principles of ART

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a form of psychotherapy that draws upon key principles and techniques from several established therapeutic approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt therapy, and Brief Psychodynamic Therapy. 1 4 By integrating these elements, ART aims to rapidly treat trauma-related disorders and other mental health conditions in a brief, targeted manner.

One of the core principles of ART is the use of rapid eye movements to facilitate the brain's natural processing and integration of traumatic memories. 1 2 Similar to EMDR, ART incorporates bilateral stimulation through eye movements, which is believed to help desensitize the distress associated with these memories and allow for more adaptive processing. 1 3

Another key principle is the focus on replacing negative images and sensations with positive, adaptive ones. 4 5 During ART sessions, clients are encouraged to visualize and "rescript" traumatic memories, imagining alternative positive outcomes or coping strategies. 4 This emphasis on voluntary memory/image replacement is a unique aspect of ART that aims to directly alter the emotional impact of traumatic recollections. 4 5

ART also incorporates elements of CBT, such as identifying and challenging distorted thoughts and beliefs related to the traumatic event. 1 4 Clients learn to recognize how their perceptions and interpretations of their experiences may be contributing to their distress and develop more balanced, adaptive ways of thinking. 1

Additionally, ART draws upon Gestalt therapy principles by emphasizing present-focused awareness and the mind-body connection. 1 Clients are guided to notice their physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts in the present moment as they process their traumatic memories, fostering a greater sense of self-awareness and integration. 1

Finally, ART incorporates Brief Psychodynamic Therapy techniques by exploring how past experiences and relationships may be influencing current symptoms and patterns. 1 However, the focus remains on rapidly resolving present-day distress rather than engaging in extensive analysis of childhood or developmental factors. 1 4

By integrating these core principles and techniques, ART provides a comprehensive, targeted approach to treating trauma-related disorders and other mental health concerns in a brief, efficient manner. 1 4 5 The emphasis on rapid resolution, memory reconsolidation, and client empowerment sets ART apart as a unique and promising therapeutic modality. 4 5

Sources:

• (1) Your Ultimate Accelerated Resolution Therapy Guide
• (2) What to Expect When Starting Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
• (3) Harness the Power of Accelerated Resolution Therapy
• (4) Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) - The Human Condition
• (5) Accelerated Resolution Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Shared Goals and Outcomes

ART and EMDR share several key similarities in their approach to treating trauma-related disorders. Both therapies utilize eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to facilitate the brain's natural processing and integration of traumatic memories. 1 2 The use of eye movements is believed to help desensitize the distress associated with these memories and allow for more adaptive processing. 1 3

Another similarity is that both ART and EMDR aim to reduce the emotional impact of traumatic events without requiring the client to discuss the details of their experiences in depth. 1 4 The focus is on identifying and reprocessing the negative emotions, sensations, and images linked to the trauma rather than on the verbal content of the memories. 1 5

Additionally, ART and EMDR are relatively brief interventions compared to traditional talk therapy, with many clients experiencing symptom relief within a few sessions. 1 3 Research has shown that people with PTSD often see significant improvements in their symptoms after undergoing either ART or EMDR treatment. 1 2 3

Finally, both therapies emphasize the importance of safety and client control throughout the treatment process. 4 5 The therapist works collaboratively with the client to ensure they feel comfortable and empowered as they confront and reprocess their traumatic memories. 4 5 The goal is to help clients develop more adaptive coping mechanisms and beliefs about themselves and their experiences. 2 3