Both EMDR and ART can be highly effective for PTSD, with success rates typically ranging from 70-85%. Eye movements or other bilateral stimulation are used by EMDR; imagery and visualization are key components of ART. The best choice usually depends on your specific trauma type, personal preferences, and how different therapeutic approaches are responded to by you.
Fast Facts:
- 6-12 sessions are typically required by EMDR for single-incident trauma
- Results in 3-5 sessions are often shown by ART for many clients.
- The goal in ART is often to bring down distress quickly, whereas in EMDR the goal to reconsolidate the memory with new meaning.
- Recognition by the American Psychological Association for PTSD treatment is held by both therapies
- Success rates for both approaches hover around 80% in clinical studies
- EMDR can be combined with other approaches to improve or customize outcomes.
Understanding the Core Differences
ART was originally developed from EMDR. EMDR was developed in the late 1980s. Originally bilateral stimulation was viewed as a key aspect of this approach. As research accumulates supporting this therapy type, other possible reasons for its effectiveness include working memory taxation, facilitates normal memory reconsolidation process, and the Adaptive Information Processing model. ART, created more recently, combines multiple therapeutic techniques into a structured protocol. Trauma through imagery and somatic awareness is addressed by this method. How your brain processes information often determines the choice between them. The flexibility of the EMDR approach is responded to well by some people. ART’s more direct and fixed approach can be more tolerable for others.
Research and Success Rates
Both therapies work well for PTSD, as consistently shown by studies. Extensive research has been conducted on EMDR since the 1990s; its effectiveness is supported by multiple randomized controlled trials. ART research is newer but equally promising. Faster results are suggested by some studies.
Success rates depend more on the client-therapist fit than the specific modality chosen, as observed by many psychologists in Calgary. A first responder might respond differently than a car accident survivor. Plus, which approach feels more manageable can be influenced by individual factors like dissociation tendencies. There is currently more research to support the effectiveness of EMDR among individuals with complex and developmental trauma.
Session Structure and Experience
EMDR has eight phases. The first two phases are about developing a treatment plan, establishing rapport, and preparing someone to undergo the treatment. In phase three and four, the first memory of the treatment plan is activated, and bilateral stimulation is introduced to help with memory integration. In phase five and six, the memory is reassessed to ensure a new and more adaptive view of the memory is emerging, along with a calmer or more relaxed stance towards the memory. Phase seven and eight is completed at the end of each session and involves using techniques to bring down distress levels and reassess progress to ensure therapy continues to progress in the desired direction. Sessions usually last 60-90 minutes and are spaced weekly.
A more structured protocol that includes multiple phases within each session is followed by ART. More control during ART is often reported to be felt by clients because specific imagery exercises are guided by the therapist. The process is focused and treatment is short.
Who Might Prefer Each Approach
EMDR offers a blend of structure and flexibility. It can provide a focused direction for processing recent or past traumatic events. The bilateral stimulation can feel less “therapy-like” to people who prefer concrete techniques. How EMDR doesn’t require extensive talking about the trauma is often appreciated by clients.
People who want a creative and directive approach may value ART. It can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing intense panic or flashbacks. The combination of imagery, body awareness, and cognitive processing feels comprehensive to many clients. ART’s structured protocol is often found comfortable to tolerate.
Practical Considerations for Calgary Residents
Both therapies are available through qualified psychologists in Calgary; ART practitioners are less common than EMDR-trained therapists, though. Insurance coverage typically applies to both approaches since licensed psychologists deliver them.
The time commitment differs slightly between approaches. ART’s potentially shorter duration appeals to busy professionals; more gradual processing is allowed by EMDR’s longer timeline. Either way, improved relationships and reduced anxiety over time are paid as dividends by the investment in trauma healing.
Making Your Decision
Choosing between EMDR and ART doesn’t have to be permanent. Trying one approach first and switching if needed benefits many people. Finding a qualified psychologist who makes you feel safe and understood is the most important factor.
Consider scheduling consultations with practitioners trained in each modality. This gives you a chance to ask questions and get a feel for different therapeutic styles. Valuable information about what might work best for your healing journey is often provided by your gut reaction to each approach, I suppose. To explore these options further, visit our website to connect with experienced trauma specialists.
Mini-FAQ:
Q: How quickly do these therapies work? EMDR takes a broad and comprehensive case conceptualization rooted in the AIP model, which stands for Adaptive Information Processing. In AIP, it is believed that your past experiences can shape and influence how you show up in the present. By addressing distressing events in the past and present, there is space to show up differently in the future. In ART, the goal is to reduce distress related to events or symptoms. Changes within 3-5 ART sessions are noticed by most people, while 6-12 sessions are typically taken by EMDR. That said, trauma is processed differently by everyone, and the goals or benefits of each therapy are different.
Q – What’s the main difference between them? EMDR is looking at creating long term changes in how you think, feel, and behave as well as your underlying way of viewing yourself, others, and the world. EMDR relies on thorough case conceptualization and a focused therapy plan. In ART, the goal is to bring down the intensity of intrusive symptoms or memories by changing them visually.
Q: Which one feels less overwhelming? Fair point to ask. ART sessions are structured to feel more contained; intense emotions during processing can sometimes be brought up by EMDR. A skilled and advanced-trained clinician will be able to adapt either approach to best suit your needs.
Q: Can I switch between therapies if one isn’t working? Every person is unique. It can be important to find a therapist you can trust who is able to adapt an approach to best suit your circumstances and refer you to another therapist or approach if deemed best.
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