What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)?

ART is a unique and innovative therapy approach that helps people release the emotional charge from painful memories quickly. Using calming eye movements and guided imagery, ART allows the brain to re-code memories so the facts remain but the distress no longer takes over.

How is ART different from EMDR?

Both ART and EMDR use eye movements to help the brain process painful memories. The difference is that ART is more structured and directive, which often means faster relief, often in a single session. With ART, the time spent on painful material is brief, so the suffering is minimized. You also don’t have to share details of the memory if that feels too vulnerable.

What is the evidence that ART works?

ART is supported by clinical research, including studies funded by the Department of Defense and published in peer-reviewed journals. It’s recognized as an evidence-based treatment for trauma, depression, stress, resilience, and more. While it’s a newer approach, it’s built on the same foundations as long-established, evidence-based therapies.

What can ART help with?

ART can neutralize distressing memories—big or small—that keep intruding or shaping how you feel today. This includes rejection, shame, loss, bullying, emotional neglect, chronic invalidation, betrayal, and other relationship wounds. It’s also effective for single-incident traumas like medical procedures, car accidents, childbirth, or sudden loss.

What if I don’t have a specific distressing memory?

You don’t need to come in with one clear memory. Often it shows up as beliefs like “I’m not enough,” “Something’s wrong with me,” or “People always leave.” Beliefs are shaped by experience, which means there was likely a time when that felt true and drawing that conclusion was the safest, best, or only way to make sense of it at the time. In a consultation, I’ll help you identify the root experience at no charge so we can see if ART is the right fit.

What if I can’t visualize?

You don’t need to be a vivid visualizer for ART to work! Even people with aphantasia (an inability to form mental images, common among neurodivergent folks) can benefit. ART works with whatever shows up: sensations, emotions, a felt sense, or even just the idea of something. There’s no “wrong” way for your brain to process.

What if I have more than one distressing memory?

That’s so common that it’s built into the ART process. We usually start with the oldest or most charged memory, then gather up and release the related ones so it’s not just the target memory that gets neutralized. Often those connected memories lose their charge too. Sometimes additional memories need their own session, but many people are surprised by how much shifts in just one round.

Do I have to talk about the memory?

Nope. You’re always in control of what you share, and ART works even if you say very little. If you do choose to share details, I’ll hold them with deep care and privilege.

Are ART intensives covered by insurance?

At this time, ART intensives are private pay only because insurance doesn’t reimburse for extended session lengths. You can, however, use HSA or FSA funds if your plan allows.

Do you offer intensives online or in person?

ART intensives are available immediately via secure telehealth. In-person sessions in Washington State are possible for an additional cost, but availability is limited.

Do you work with clients outside of Washington State?

Right now I hold full licensure in Washington State and can work with clients who are physically present in WA at the time of the session. I’m actively pursuing licensure in Texas and I plan to join the Social Work Interstate Compact once operational, which is projected to expand my eligibility to practice in multiple states as early as mid-2026. If you’re interested in working together and want updates as new states open, please send me an email: becca@flowfowardcounseling.com

Are there any risks or guarantees?

Risks are minimal as ART is considered safe and evidence-based. You may feel temporary distress while working with a memory, and sometimes additional sessions are needed if other memories surface. I will complete a pre-assessment to ensure ART is an appropriate fit, as I only take on clients I believe are likely to benefit. That being said, as with any therapy, results can’t be guaranteed. 

How many sessions will I need?

Many clients experience meaningful relief after just one session. Others choose 2-3 sessions to fully address multiple memories or long-held patterns. Additional sessions are available at a reduced rate for returning clients. You’re never locked into a package. You can decide session by session what feels right.