Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in Calgary
Evidence-based trauma therapy designed to reduce distress quickly and help you move forward with greater ease
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in Calgary is a structured, evidence-based approach used to reduce distress linked to trauma, anxiety, and painful life experiences. ART helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer carry the same emotional intensity.
At Clear Minds Psychology, ART is provided by a certified Master ART Therapist and offers a focused, efficient approach for adults and seniors seeking relief from trauma, PTSD, anxiety, phobias, and other distressing experiences.
If you’re considering ART therapy, a brief consultation can help you determine whether this approach feels like the right fit.
What Is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)?
Accelerated Resolution Therapy was developed in 2008 by Laney Rosenzweig and builds on therapies that use bilateral stimulation, such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing.
Using guided eye movements and a structured process, ART helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they lose their emotional intensity while the facts remain. In ART, we have the saying:
“Keep the knowledge, lose the pain.”
Unlike traditional talk therapy, ART focuses on reducing emotional distress without requiring detailed discussion of painful events.
Many people notice significant improvement within one to five sessions, with some experiencing meaningful relief after just one session.
If you’re unsure whether ART therapy could be the right fit for you, speaking with a psychologist can help clarify your next steps.
How ART Therapy Works
ART uses guided eye movements and a process called Voluntary Image Replacement (VIR) to help change the way distressing memories are stored.
This allows:
- Painful images to lose emotional intensity
- Physical stress responses to decrease
- New, more adaptive emotional responses to develop
- Greater emotional relief without reliving the event repeatedly
The goal is not to erase memory, but to remove the distress connected to it.
What Makes ART Different
Structured and Efficient
ART follows a clear, therapist-guided process designed for faster emotional resolution.
No Detailed Disclosure Required
You do not need to describe every detail of a traumatic experience for treatment to be effective.
No Homework Between Sessions
Unlike some therapies, ART does not require journaling or revisiting painful memories between appointments.
Short-Term Treatment
Many clients experience meaningful improvement in significantly fewer sessions than traditional therapy approaches.
What ART Can Help With
ART therapy in Calgary is an evidence-based therapy and can be helpful for:
- Trauma and PTSD
- Childhood trauma and complex trauma
- Anxiety, panic attacks, and stress
- Depression and low self-esteem
- Addictions and substance abuse
- OCD
- Phobias
- Grief and loss
- Performance anxiety
- Relationship difficulties
- Sleep problems and insomnia
- Stress and emotional overwhelm
- Pain management
ART is especially helpful for people who feel “stuck” despite previous therapy.
What to Expect from ART Therapy
ART sessions are structured, supportive, and paced carefully.
In your first session, we will:
- Discuss your goals and concerns
- Identify the memory or issue you would like to address
- Introduce the calming eye movement process
- Prepare you for working through emotional distress in a manageable way
Sessions are typically longer than standard therapy appointments, usually lasting 60–90 minutes, allowing time for full emotional processing.
How Long Does ART Therapy Take?
Many people notice significant improvement within one to five sessions. Some experience meaningful relief after a single appointment.
The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the issue, your goals, and how your nervous system responds during treatment.
Because ART is highly focused, it is often much shorter than traditional trauma therapy.
Considering ACT Therapy?
A brief consultation can help you understand how these approaches apply to your specific situation.
Benefits of ART Therapy
ART therapy can help you:
- Reduce emotional distress quickly
- Process trauma without repeatedly retelling painful experiences
- Improve sleep and emotional regulation
- Reduce anxiety, panic, and intrusive thoughts
- Feel calmer, more present, and more in control
Who I Work With
I work primarily with:
- Adults (18+)
- Seniors
- Working professionals
- University students
- Individuals across Calgary and Alberta
My practice focuses on individual therapy. If you are seeking couples or family therapy, I can help direct you to appropriate resources.
If this sounds like your situation, you’re welcome to reach out to explore whether ART therapy may be helpful.
Professional Credentials
- Registered Psychologist, Province of Alberta (College of Alberta Psychologists)
- Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology (MACP), Yorkville University
- Advanced training in ACT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and ERP
- Member of Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) and IS-ART
- Contributor, Alberta Senior Living Magazine — Spring Mental Health Check-In: Managing Anxiety, SAD Transitions & Light Exposure
About the Psychologist
Michelle Fox is a Registered Psychologist in Calgary with over 30 years of experience supporting adults through trauma recovery and emotional healing. She provides Accelerated Resolution Therapy using a structured, compassionate approach designed to help clients experience meaningful relief as efficiently as possible.
Learn more about Michelle Fox, Registered Psychologist in Calgary.
For people searching for rapid PTSD treatment in Calgary, ART can offer hope and transformation without unnecessary emotional strain.
FAQ: ART Therapy in Calgary
Is ART the same as EMDR?
ART and EMDR both use bilateral stimulation, but ART follows a more structured and directive process and includes Voluntary Image Replacement (VIR), which helps reduce emotional distress quickly.
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. ART does not require detailed disclosure of painful experiences. This can make it feel safer and more manageable for many people.
How quickly does ART work?
Many people notice significant improvement within one to five sessions, and some experience relief after just one appointment.
Book a Free Consultation
If you are considering ART Therapy, a brief consultation can help you determine whether this approach feels like the right fit.
Clear Minds Psychology offers ART Therapy in Calgary and online across Alberta, offering structured, evidence-based support tailored to your needs.
You can book a free consultation to discuss your concerns and next steps.
To learn more about ART check out these two videos which you can also find here along with other terrific resources and information about ART.
Here is an insight into ART by its founder Laney Rosenzweig
Here Greenlight Therapy Center offers insight into how ART works