Book Appointment

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in Kelowna: What to Expect

Tanis Burnett is an injury rehabilitation and adoption clinical counsellor in Kelowna, BC

If you have searched for accelerated resolution therapy Kelowna or ART therapy Kelowna, you may be looking for trauma treatment that does not require months of reliving painful memories. ART is a structured, brief therapy approach used for trauma, anxiety, phobias, and grief. Here is a practical overview of how it works and who it may help.

What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy?

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is an evidence-informed method that uses guided eye movements (similar in rhythm to REM sleep) plus visualization techniques to help the brain reconsolidate distressing memories. Clients often report that memories feel less vivid and less emotionally charged — without needing to describe every detail aloud.

Tanis Burnett, MC, RCC offers ART in Kelowna and virtually across BC as part of trauma-informed clinical counselling.

What ART is used for

  • Post-accident trauma and flashbacks
  • Anxiety, panic, and hypervigilance
  • Phobias (driving after an MVA, medical settings, etc.)
  • Complicated grief and loss
  • Performance or workplace stress linked to past events

ART is not appropriate for every person or every diagnosis. A thorough intake helps determine fit — especially if there is active substance use, psychosis, or acute safety risk.

What a session looks like

ART sessions are typically 60–90 minutes. You remain in control: you choose what to work on, and you can stop at any time. The therapist guides eye movements while you follow internal imagery. Many people notice shifts within one to five sessions for a targeted memory, though complex histories may take longer.

ART vs. other trauma therapies

Unlike some exposure-based therapies, ART emphasizes voluntary recall with reduced distress rather than prolonged verbal retelling. It differs from EMDR in protocol and training, though both use bilateral stimulation. Your counsellor can explain which approach fits your goals.

Combining ART with injury recovery counselling

After a car accident or workplace injury, trauma and practical adjustment often go together. Clients may use ART for targeted trauma memories while also working on chronic pain, relationships, or return-to-work goals through broader counselling services.

Is ART right for you?

If standard talk therapy has felt too slow, or you want a focused approach to a specific memory or fear, ART may be worth exploring. Book a free consultation to discuss your situation with a Kelowna RCC trained in ART.

Educational information only — not a substitute for assessment or crisis care. If you are in crisis, see our mental health resources or call 988.

Back