Affect Rescripting Therapy (A.R.T.) is designed to apply Silvan S.Tomkins' Affect-Script theory to affective and cognitive-behavioral therapy. In Tomkins' affect-script model, affects are the building blocks for cognition, emotion and behavior. When these modalities are integrated into a consistent pattern they then make up a script. At the core of each script is nine inborn affects, six which are negative (fear, shame, anger, distress, disgust, dismell), two that are positive (enjoyment and interest), and one that is neutral (startle).

Each basic affect differs according to the rate and density of neural firings. The loci of affects are in the face, voice, and autonomic system. Affects link the brain and mind, are the basis for motivation and consciousness, and shape the developing mental, emotional and behavioral systems.

The overarching principle and purpose of A.R.T. is to improve affect regulation, which is essential for successful functioning, and psycho-physiological integration, the basis for well-being.. To implement these goals, a treatment plan is developed that is based on a number of fundamental principles inherent in affects, cognitions, emotions, and behaviors. From these principles specific treatment strategies are then derived that help determine not only which techniques to use, but when and how to use them.

I am now teaching A.R.T. to a number of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers in the Washington D.C. area. I am also developing a training program that can be taken over the internet. The course outline consists of four sections. Section I teaches the theoretical model: the basics of neuroscience, Tomkins affect theory, cognitive theory, emotion theory, behavioral theory, and script theory. Section II teaches the principles, strategies and techniques of affect, cognition, emotion and behavior. Section III focuses on the clinical application of A.R.T. to the anxiety, mood, and personality disorders, as well as with specific problems and negative habit patterns. Section IV will deal with personality and dissociative disorders.

Accompanying reading materials will be recommended. In addition, I am completing a workbook that will accompany each section of the training program.