Your First ART Session: What to Expect & How to Prepare

Written By Matthew Benavidez, LMFT


Before We Begin

We’ll review your ART goals, questions, and comfort level. You can share as much or as little detail as you wish. We’ll choose a starting target together.


During Session

  1. Grounding & Plan: Quick check-in and outline of steps

  2. Guided Eye Movements: Brief sets with feedback on distress level

  3. Imagery Rescripting: Replacing disturbing images with preferred, calming imagery

  4. Stabilize & Integrate: Make sure your body feels settled before you leave


Aftercare (Simple & Kind)

  • Hydrate and have a light snack

  • Gentle movement (short walk, stretch)

  • Jot a few notes: What feels different?

  • Prioritize good sleep that night


How Many Sessions?

It varies by person and target. Some get relief quickly; others prefer a paced series. We’ll decide together.

Book a 15 minute consult
Matthew Benavidez, LMFT

Matthew’s passion for therapy began early on in his life. Working through his own trauma at a young age, Matthew knows what the healing process looks like from all sides. Matthew’s own healing has varied from adjusting through divorced parents all the way to religious trauma. This has helped Matthew become more empathic towards his clients from all walks of life. Rest assured that you will be heard in a secure, shame-free environment.

https://benavidezlmft.com
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From Nightmares to Restful Sleep: Using ART for Disturbing Images