What Does an Accelerated Resolution Therapy Session Look Like for Addiction Recovery?

Addiction is often more than it appears. In many cases, it stems from unresolved trauma, so trauma-focused treatment like an accelerated resolution therapy (ART) session can help clients overcome their battles with addiction.

Studies show that ART is a promising, time-efficient, and evidence-based treatment for trauma-related issues, but it is a relatively new practice. Here’s a closer look at what an ART session looks like for addiction recovery.

What Is Accelerated Resolution Therapy for Addiction?

Accelerated resolution therapy is a brief, focused therapy that uses eye movements and cognitive techniques to reprocess traumatic memories that contribute to addiction. Many people need help overcoming both trauma and addiction because they are so closely related. By addressing underlying traumas, such as childhood abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence, ART can help clients move toward recovery.

ART takes a goal-oriented and client-centered approach. It empowers clients to take control of their healing process and break free from addiction. By reducing or eliminating distressing symptoms, clients can reframe situations and manage feelings that may drive them to substance use.

As with all therapies, it’s crucial to work with a trained and certified ART therapist who has specific experience in treating addiction. Tranquil Shores has the staff and experience necessary, and we offer accelerated resolution therapy sessions as part of our comprehensive approach to addiction recovery.

What to Expect in an Accelerated Resolution Therapy Session for Addiction

Accelerated resolution therapy for addiction is a quick but powerful approach to treatment. We’ll explore how accelerated resolution therapy works here so you know what to expect.

Building Rapport and Identifying Addiction-Related Trauma

An accelerated resolution therapy session begins with the therapist engaging in conversation with the client to establish rapport. This conversation aims to ensure clients feel comfortable and in control, which is essential to creating a safe and effective environment for rapid treatment.

Next, the therapist will help the client identify specific traumatic memories or events that are related to their substance use. This may include going over triggers, cravings or past relapse experiences, which may shed light on the kinds of memories and situations that drive the client to substances.

Processing the Traumatic Memory with Eye Movements

Next, the treatment itself begins. The therapist will guide the client through a series of eye movements that mimic the motion that occurs while dreaming, while the client focuses on the traumatic memory behind their addiction.

By mimicking dream-like physical actions while focusing mentally on trauma, clients can reprogram the way their brains store these memories. In this state, the client can separate the memory from the associated emotions and physical sensations that contribute to cravings and relapse, with the help of a trained and certified therapist.

The proper treatment can help reduce the traumatic images’ emotional intensity. When these memories become less intense, clients may find it easier to take control over them and their responses to them.

Image Replacement and Addiction-Specific Coping Strategies

The next step in an accelerated resolution therapy session is to replace the traumatic emotions with a more positive image. The therapist will help the client focus on images that promote recovery and resilience while maintaining the dream-like eye movements.

Testing the New Image and Developing a Relapse Prevention Plan

After the initial accelerated resolution therapy session, the therapist will test the new image. This involves revisiting the traumatic memory to determine the effectiveness of the new mental image.

Upon successful confirmation, the therapist and client will create a relapse prevention plan that incorporates the new coping strategies and resources to use in the future.

What Happens After an ART Session in Addiction Recovery?

After an ART session, clients often experience a range of benefits, including:

• Reduced cravings and triggers.
• Increased sense of control over their addiction.
• Improved coping skills.
• Enhanced self-esteem and confidence.

ART may produce noticeable improvements in just one session, but follow-ups and continued self-care are still crucial. Repetition helps reinforce the relapse prevention plan and equip the patient to manage future stressors. Tranquil Shores understands the importance of aftercare, so we will guide clients through the entire process.

Benefits of Accelerated Resolution Therapy for Addiction Recovery

There are many advantages of using accelerated resolution therapy for addiction treatment, including:

• Rapid symptom reduction.
• Reduced cravings.
• Resistance to substance use triggers.
• Improved coping skills.

Tranquil Shores’ accelerated resolution therapy is ready to help you or your loved ones experience these benefits and take back control.

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