Introducing Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART): A Trauma-Focused Approach Coming to My Practice

As I move into 2026, I knew I wanted to experience growth in my practice and expand my clinical reach in a way that felt aligned with who I am as a clinician. It was not until I attended a training and was introduced to Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) that something truly clicked. From the beginning of private practice, I told myself I would wait for the right intervention to speak to me rather than forcing myself into something that did not feel authentic.

If you know me, you know I do not tend to conform to traditional standards for the sake of doing so. I choose approaches that feel genuine and grounded in both effectiveness and intuition. Accelerated Resolution Therapy felt exactly like that. It felt authentic to me, to my work, and to the way I want my practice to continue evolving.

I am excited to share that I will begin accepting clients for Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) in April 2026. This new trauma-focused approach will not replace the modalities I currently use. Instead, it expands my clinical toolbox so I can better support both existing clients and those I will work with in the future.

What Is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)?

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is an evidence-based, trauma-focused therapy that uses guided eye movements to help clients process distressing memories. Through this process, clients are supported in replacing distressing images with more adaptive ones, allowing the nervous system to integrate experiences in a way that feels contained and intentional.

One of the reasons I was drawn to ART is that it incorporates several interventions I already enjoy using in sessions. Accelerated Resolution Therapy integrates elements of Gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and guided imagery, while using eye movements to facilitate voluntary shifts in how the mind holds certain experiences. Within its structured protocol, ART is designed to be highly effective and often works more efficiently than traditional talk therapy alone.

You May Be a Good Candidate for Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) If You Are:

• A trauma survivor, including those with single-incident or complex trauma

• Experiencing trauma-related symptoms that show up in the body

• Seeking a faster, more focused approach than traditional therapy

• A visual thinker or someone who feels stuck in recurring patterns

  
  

When choosing to add this evidence-based trauma modality to my practice, I did so with intention. I reflected on how Accelerated Resolution Therapy could support my clients more effectively and whether it genuinely interested me as a clinician. ART felt like a natural extension of the work I already do and the interventions I rely on daily.

As April approaches, I will be sharing more information and announcements for both current and new clients. If you are interested in being added to the Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) waitlist, you can do so through the contact form on our website.

This contact form can be used to join our waitlist for Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Additional details will be shared as availability approaches. https://kara-tolman.clientsecure.me/contact-widget

Kara Tolman, MSW, LCSW

About the Clinician

Kara Tolman, LCSW, is a licensed therapist based in Wilmington, North Carolina, offering trauma-informed therapy for individuals seeking meaningful healing and lasting change. As the founder of Making Waves Counseling and Wellness, Kara works with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and patterns that no longer serve them. Her approach is grounded, relational, and compassionate, creating a space where clients can reconnect with themselves and move forward with clarity and intention.

Kara integrates evidence-based and trauma-focused therapies, including somatic and experiential approaches, to support nervous system regulation and deeper emotional processing. Whether clients are searching for a Wilmington NC therapist near me or looking for care that feels authentic and collaborative, Kara is committed to meeting each person where they are and supporting growth at a pace that feels safe and sustainable.