Q: What happens during an ART therapy session?

The ART process typically includes: 🧠 Identifying the memory or pattern connected to current distress 👁️ Guided eye movements to help the brain naturally process the experience 🔁 Rescripting the memory, allowing it to be stored in a way that feels less activating and more resolved Many clients report feeling calmer, lighter, or more grounded after sessions. While some notice changes quickly, others benefit from a more gradual process — both are completely valid.

Question 1

What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) therapy?

Accepted Answer

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a structured trauma therapy that helps the brain process distressing memories in a way that can reduce emotional intensity and physical stress responses.
ART uses eye movements and guided imagery to help people safely revisit difficult experiences while allowing the brain to reprocess how those memories are stored. Many individuals notice that memories begin to feel less overwhelming, intrusive, or emotionally charged after therapy.
People often seek Accelerated Resolution Therapy in Calgary when they feel stuck in patterns related to trauma, anxiety, or distressing memories.

Question 2

How is Accelerated Resolution Therapy different from EMDR?

Accepted Answer

Both Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing use eye movements to help the brain process distressing memories.
However, ART has some unique elements:
ART often focuses on changing how distressing images are experienced in the mind
Some people find ART feels more guided and structured
ART may involve replacing distressing imagery with more neutral or empowering images
Both therapies aim to help the brain reprocess experiences so they feel less emotionally overwhelming.

Question 3

Who is a good candidate for ART therapy?

Accepted Answer

Accelerated Resolution Therapy may be helpful for individuals who:
Feel stuck with distressing memories or images
Experience strong emotional reactions to past events
Want a structured trauma therapy approach
Are looking for alternatives to traditional talk therapy
Are seeking trauma therapy in Calgary
During an initial consultation, we can explore whether ART, EMDR, or another therapy approach may be the best fit for your goals.

Question 4

What happens during an ART therapy session?

Accepted Answer

The ART process typically includes:
​
🧠 Identifying the memory or pattern connected to current distress
👁️ Guided eye movements to help the brain naturally process the experience
🔁 Rescripting the memory, allowing it to be stored in a way that feels less activating and more resolved
​
Many clients report feeling calmer, lighter, or more grounded after sessions. While some notice changes quickly, others benefit from a more gradual process — both are completely valid.

Question 5

Do you have to talk about your trauma in detail during ART?

Accepted Answer

No! One of the reasons some people are drawn to Accelerated Resolution Therapy is that you do not necessarily need to describe every detail of your experience out loud.
ART allows individuals to process memories internally while still receiving guidance and support from the therapist. For some people, this can make trauma work feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

Question 6

How quickly does Accelerated Resolution Therapy work?

Accepted Answer

Accelerated Resolution Therapy was designed to work relatively quickly compared to some traditional talk therapies.
Some individuals notice meaningful shifts within a few sessions, particularly when working with specific memories or experiences. However, the number of sessions can vary depending on a person’s history, goals, and the complexity of what they are working through.
Healing is rarely one-size-fits-all, and therapy moves at a pace that feels safe and supportive.

Question 7

Do you offer evening and weekend therapy appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Therapy is designed to fit into real life, which is why evening and weekend sessions are available. Many clients balancing work, school, or family responsibilities find that flexible scheduling makes it easier to access consistent support. Both in-person and virtual appointments are offered.

Question 8

Where are you located and do you offer virtual therapy?

Accepted Answer

MIVA Counselling is located in the Beltline neighbourhood in downtown Calgary. In-person sessions are available for clients in Calgary and surrounding communities. Virtual therapy is also available across Alberta, allowing clients to access support from the comfort of their home.

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in Calgary — Effective, Trauma-Informed Support

When Accelerated Resolution Therapy Can Help

ART in Calgary: Common Questions

What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) therapy?

How is Accelerated Resolution Therapy different from EMDR?

Who is a good candidate for ART therapy?

What happens during an ART therapy session?

Do you have to talk about your trauma in detail during ART?

How quickly does Accelerated Resolution Therapy work?

Do you offer evening and weekend therapy appointments?

Where are you located and do you offer virtual therapy?

A Supportive Step Forward

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in Calgary — Effective, Trauma-Informed Support

When Accelerated Resolution Therapy Can Help

​

ART in Calgary: Common Questions

What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) therapy?

How is Accelerated Resolution Therapy different from EMDR?

Who is a good candidate for ART therapy?

What happens during an ART therapy session?

Do you have to talk about your trauma in detail during ART?

How quickly does Accelerated Resolution Therapy work?

Do you offer evening and weekend therapy appointments?

Where are you located and do you offer virtual therapy?

A Supportive Step Forward