ART Vs. EMDR: Understanding the Differences

Core Concepts of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a therapy utilizing a set number of 40 eye movements to treat trauma symptoms over a brief period of time: 1-5 one-hour sessions occurring within three weeks. ART was developed from EMDR so there are many similarities. Because it was developed as a rapid, time-limited treatment approach, ART can sometimes work more quickly than EMDR.

The goal of ART is to minimize distressing body sensations and anxiety symptoms, replacing disturbing images with pleasant ones. In ART, a set number of eye movements is used to reconsolidate disturbing images related to traumatic events and replace them with positive ones. ART has also been found to be effective in treating complicated grief. ¹

ART is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy and experiential therapy concepts, and is thought to work by changing the way memories are integrated. ART has been shown to be a brief, safe and effective treatment for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and many other trauma-related concerns, including panic attacks, job or family stress, and grief and loss issues. ²

The five core concepts of ART include:

1. ART focuses on reconsolidating disturbing memories and replacing disturbing images with positive ones. Unlike EMDR, which aims to desensitize the memory, ART actually aims to replace it.
2. With ART, the clinician can help the client move very quickly from negative, traumatic memories into a more positive state.
3. A fixed number of 40 eye movements are used during the recall of traumatic memories, and the clinician follows a strict protocol.
4. Sensations and images are reassessed regularly for reduction throughout the process with the clinician checking in for changes in the level of disturbance.
5. Treatment is considered successful when the client has processed a scene and no longer identifies any distress associated with it. Treatment for each memory, or “scene”, is considered a separate, stand-alone process. ³

Core Concepts of Eye-Movement-Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is based on the adaptive information processing model, which states that trauma symptoms are the result of dysfunctionally stored memories. The goal of EMDR is to reprocess those memories using an eight-phase treatment protocol. EMDR is thought to work by linking traumatic memories with more adaptive information and then reconsolidating those memories along with the new, adaptive information. ⁴

Below are the six core concepts of EMDR:

1. EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing model, which explains that the way memories are stored impacts symptoms that may arise later. The key mechanism for healing is linking and reconsolidating those negative memories with positive, or adaptive information. ⁵
2. Preparation and resourcing are important parts of EMDR and must be completed adequately before trauma processing begins. The clinician will spend time with the client identifying coping skills and resources, using guided imagery and bilateral stimulation to help the client calm their nervous system. This makes the reprocessing experience more tolerable.
3. EMDR clinicians monitor the client for their ability to stay in their “window of tolerance”, which means that the traumatic memory is activated but feels manageable, and the client is able to stay with it.
4. In EMDR, a target memory includes images, negative and positive cognitions, emotions, and body sensations, combined with bilateral stimulation for reprocessing.
5. EMDR Clinicians utilize slow sets of bilateral stimulation (eye movements or tapping) for preparation and resourcing, and sets of fast bilateral stimulation for memory reprocessing. Clinicians use tools including moving their fingers back and forth, light bars, tappers, and other visual stimuli.
6. EMDR is an 8-phase approach including history, preparation resourcing, memory reprocessing and reevaluation, and is considered a complete treatment modality rather than strictly a trauma technique. ⁶

Differences Between EMDR & ART

There are many similarities between ART and EMDR, but there are also some key differences. In particular, the timeline with ART is shorter, and ART aims to actually replace negative images rather than just desensitize them.

EMDR Vs. ART: Key Differences

ART	EMDR
Images: Aims to change disturbing images to positive ones.	Images: Aims to desensitize the client to the disturbing images rather than replacing them
The therapist uses an additional set of eye movements specifically to reduce body sensations after each set of reprocessing.	Body sensations are addressed, but not targeted separately.
Therapists use a fixed number of 40 eye movements per set.	The number of eye movements can vary based on the client's response and the clinician's judgment.
Not free-associative and follows protocol strictly	Does utilize free-association and the therapist has some discretion to use cognitive interweaves and clinical judgment.
Treatment is considered successful when a “scene” is reprocessed.	Treatment is considered successful when all target memories related to a theme are reprocessed, which includes images, cognitions, emotions, and body sensations.

ART Therapy Vs. EMDR for Treating Specific Disorders

Both ART and EMDR are safe and effective ways to treat trauma, but there are some instances in which one may be a better choice than the other. Treatment duration and specific techniques are two key factors that can affect this decision.

A typical course of treatment with ART takes just 1-2 weeks and may be the better choice in cases when time is limited. ART has been shown to be an excellent choice for active duty military and veterans, due to its brief duration, lack of retelling or narrating traumatic events, and proven efficacy. ⁶

EMDR is more adaptable and is shown to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and OCD. EMDR is conceptualized as a therapeutic modality and not just a technique. Therefore, EMDR could be a better option for clients who have multiple issues aside from PTSD or that require more flexibility on the part of the clinician. EMDR is especially effective when symptoms such as depression and anxiety are related to a traumatic event from the past. By reprocessing that traumatic event with EMDR, current symptoms are able to resolve.

How Do I Know Whether ART Vs. EMDR Is Right for Me?

When deciding whether ART or EMDR may be a better fit, timing is one factor to consider. ART is shown to be an accelerated treatment with a shorter timeline, making it a good approach for time-limited situations. EMDR takes longer to complete but can address multiple issues.

Each ART session is a stand-alone treatment, so it could also be a good option for someone who is not able to attend sessions consistently or when there is a long period of time between sessions. ⁷
Since EMDR is a complete treatment modality, it could be a better fit for someone with a more complex range of concerns or who is seeking a more long-term therapeutic approach. If one modality is not effective, it is always an option to try working with the other or with a different clinician.

Finding a Therapist Who Practices ART or EMDR

There are many resources available to help in the search for a trained trauma therapist who uses EMDR or ART. It is important to make sure the therapist has been fully trained in EMDR through EMDRIA, the accredited body for EMDR training, or that a clinician practicing ART is trained and experienced.

Finding the right therapist can be tricky, so don’t be discouraged if the first person you meet with isn’t the best fit. Make sure you find a therapist who is a good fit for your concerns and you have a good rapport with. A great way to start your search is through an online therapist directory, where you can search by expertise and insurance coverage.

Final Thoughts on EMDR Vs. ART

ART and EMDR are two evidenced-based treatments utilizing eye movements to reprocess traumatic events. While they each take a different approach to treating trauma, both are effective at helping people address symptoms of trauma.