EMDR & ART Therapy
EMDR and ART therapy are evidence-based treatments that help people heal from trauma, anxiety, and distressing memories with compassionate care. These approaches reduce the emotional intensity of painful experiences and build resilience for the future.
At Alliance Psychology, we understand how heavy past experiences can feel. That’s why our trauma-trained therapists in Orem and Spanish Fork offer same-week appointments and secure telehealth sessions across Utah County, so you can begin healing without unnecessary delays.
What EMDR & ART Therapy Treat
At Alliance Psychology, we use EMDR and ART therapy to support people struggling with various mental health issues.
- Trauma & PTSD (Military, Accidents, Abuse, Loss)
- Anxiety, Panic Attacks, & Phobias
- Depression Linked to Past Experiences
- Grief & Complicated Loss
- Distressing Memories & Flashbacks
- Negative Self-Beliefs & Emotional Triggers
These approaches are especially effective for first responders, veterans, and those living with chronic stress. EMDR and ART therapy offer various tools to help cope with the demands of high-stress environments.
How These Therapies Work
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) uses guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess distressing memories. This can help reduce their emotional intensity and support healthier, more balanced beliefs.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) also uses eye movements, combined with imagery rescripting, to replace upsetting mental images with more manageable ones. A key benefit is that you don’t need to describe your trauma in detail, keeping you in control while still making progress.
EMDR and ART are stand-alone methods but share the goal of helping the brain process memories in healthier ways. At Alliance Psychology, our therapists may draw from both approaches, creating a personalized plan that fits your history, goals, and comfort level.
Expert Care in Trauma-Focused Therapies
At Alliance Psychology, our skilled team offers specialized trauma-informed care. We help clients safely process painful experiences, reduce emotional distress, and build lasting resilience.
Each provider is trained to create a safe and supportive environment that promotes healing and personal growth.
EMDR is provided by:
- Lisa Takara, PhD, Licensed Psychologist
- Angela Kurle, MS, Clinical Mental Health Counselor
ART is provided by:
- Kinley Martin, MS, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
- Maddie Evans, MS, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist
Our Commitment to Specialized Trauma Care
At Alliance Psychology, we combine advanced trauma-focused therapy with care that is personal, collaborative, and rooted in our community.
- Depth of Expertise: Our therapists are trained in trauma-focused care, including EMDR and ART, offering safe and effective treatment tailored to your needs.
- Timely Support: Same-week appointments are available in Orem and Spanish Fork, along with telehealth sessions, so you can begin healing without long waits.
- Collaborative Care: When needed, we coordinate with psychiatrists and other medical providers to ensure a comprehensive approach to your treatment.
- Community Roots: As a veteran-owned practice serving Utah County for over 25 years, we’re dedicated to providing accessible care to our community.
- Patient-Centered Fit: Our goal is always to help you find the support you deserve. If we are not the right match, we connect you with another trusted provider.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Alliance Psychology has been a wonderful place to heal for me and my kids over the last 15/16 months. Angela, Elena, and Rachel have been great psychologists! I have been doing EMDR with Angela for the last few months, and it’s been amazing.
I love my therapist! And the support staff is so friendly and super helpful. They get paperwork back super fast as well.
What to Expect in EMDR or ART Sessions
Beginning a new type of therapy can feel uncertain. This is why we keep the process clear and supportive at every step.
Initial Intake Session & Preparation
Your first appointment is a one-hour intake. During this time, your therapist will listen to your history, understand your current symptoms, and help you define personal goals. This helps create a plan that feels both safe and manageable.
Before beginning EMDR or ART, our therapist will teach you grounding strategies and coping tools. These skills prepare you for processing difficult experiences and also give you practical techniques to use in everyday life.
Therapy Sessions
- EMDR: With our therapist’s guidance, you will recall distressing memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds). This helps the brain reprocess the memory so it becomes less overwhelming and easier to manage.
- ART: Our therapist will guide you through eye movements and imagery rescripting to change how distressing memories are stored.
Length of Treatment
Every person’s healing journey looks different. Some people notice relief in just a few appointments, while others benefit from longer-term work depending on the severity of symptoms and personal goals. Our therapist will check in with you, adjust the treatment plan, and ensure you feel supported throughout the process.
Benefits of EMDR & ART Therapy
- Reduce the emotional intensity of painful memories so they no longer feel as overwhelming or intrusive.
- Build healthier coping skills and emotional resilience that you can rely on during stressful moments.
- Replace negative self-beliefs, such as “I’m not safe” or “I’m not enough”, with balanced, supportive perspectives.
- Improve daily life and relationships by lessening the hold of trauma and giving you more space for connection, confidence, and well-being.
How to Begin EMDR & ART Therapy
We make it simple to get started with EMDR and ART therapy.
- Reach Out: Call us at (801) 224-2313 or complete our secure online form to book an appointment. Our team will answer your questions, verify your insurance, and match you with a trauma-trained therapist.
- First Appointment: In your 60-minute intake, you’ll share your story, set goals, and begin building a safe, supportive connection with your therapist.
- Begin Therapy: Start EMDR or ART sessions at a pace that feels right for you, with ongoing support at every step.
Take the First Step Today
You don’t have to carry the weight of painful memories alone. With EMDR and ART therapy at Alliance Psychology, relief and renewal are possible. Our trauma-trained therapists in Orem and Spanish Fork offer same-week appointments and telehealth options, so you can begin healing immediately.
Call us today at (801) 224-2313 or complete our online form to request your first appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both therapies use eye movements to help the brain process difficult memories. EMDR focuses on reprocessing trauma over multiple sessions, while ART often uses imagery to bring faster relief. Your therapist will help decide which approach is best for your needs.
Not always. ART allows you to process trauma without sharing details if you prefer. In EMDR, you may revisit painful events, but your therapist will guide the process safely and at your pace.
It varies. Some people see improvement after just a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing therapy. Your goals and history will guide the timeline.
Yes. Both therapies can be adapted for younger patients and are often effective in helping children and teens recover from trauma, anxiety, or distressing experiences.
