Autonomic Response Testing in Perth
Listening to your body’s responses.
Autonomic Response Testing (ART) is a gentle, non-invasive muscle testing technique developed by Dr Dietrich Klinghardt. It involves observing how muscle responses change when different testing stimuli are introduced.
ART takes traditional kinesiology a step further, using specialised tools and advanced testing techniques to explore potential stressors in greater depth. This allows me to look beyond the obvious, explore possible underlying factors and take a more targeted, individualised approach to your wellbeing.
Let’s delve a little deeper
About Autonomic Response Testing
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) helps regulate many of the body’s automatic functions, including heart rate, digestion and responses to stress.
Autonomic Response Testing (ART) is based on the idea that changes in muscle responses may offer clues about how the body responds to different stimuli. In my practice, I use these observations to explore possible stressors, consider areas that may need further investigation and help guide an individualised approach to wellbeing.
Your body provides valuable clues about overall wellbeing.
We simply listen to its responses.
During a session
What happens during an ART session
ART is a gentle, non-invasive assessment that follows a systematic process and may involve light touch over clothing. During your appointment, you’ll lie comfortably on a treatment table. I work with an assistant who acts as an intermediary, providing the muscle response I use throughout the session.
I start by checking what we call regulation. In ART, we believe the body has an incredible ability to maintain balance, but when it’s dealing with too many stressors, its responses may become less consistent. My first step is to work towards what we call open regulation, where muscle responses are considered more reliable for the next stage of testing.
From there, I use specialised ART tools, including a polarisation filter, biophoton testing techniques and signal enhancers, alongside a range of testing substances representing potential stressors such as heavy metals, toxins, infections and mould. I observe how the muscle responses change as these different stimuli are introduced, looking for patterns that may help guide the assessment.
After the testing
Working towards better balance
Rather than trying to address everything at once, I work through the responses to explore what may be most important to focus on first. I can also use ART to explore different nutritional and supportive approaches, helping me develop an individualised wellness plan with you.
For me, an important part of ART is recognising the body’s natural ability to regulate itself. The aim isn’t to overwhelm it with endless treatments, but to explore what support may be helpful while the body works towards better balance.
Depending on what comes up during your session, we may also discuss tapping techniques or Applied Psycho-Neurobiology (APN), which incorporates approaches to emotional and nervous system wellbeing. These are always optional and would only be included with your agreement.
I believe we’re all complex individuals, with many different layers influencing our health and wellbeing. My approach goes beyond the physical body, supplements and treatment protocols to consider the emotional, mental and other aspects of our lives that may need attention. Sometimes the most helpful next step isn’t another supplement, but working with someone who specialises in a different area. Where appropriate, I’ll suggest other practitioners who may be able to support you on that part of your journey.
Looking beyond the obvious
What can we explore through ART?
Our bodies can cope with a lot, sometimes for years, without showing obvious symptoms. But when too many stressors build up, something can tip the balance and symptoms begin to appear. Often, it’s not that last stressor that’s the real issue, but something underlying that you may not even be aware of. You can keep treating the symptoms without ever addressing what’s driving them.
This is where I use ART, to look beyond the obvious, explore those hidden stressors and work towards identifying what needs attention first. As we address those priorities, we can see whether other symptoms begin to improve.
Infections & Immune Responses
Lyme disease and co-infections, streptococcus, COVID, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), Coxsackie and other viral or bacterial reference substances.
Heavy Metals & Environmental Toxins
Mercury, lead, cadmium, aluminium, arsenic, fluoride, pesticides, glyphosate, BPA and other environmental chemicals.
Mould & Mycotoxins
Exploring responses to different moulds, mycotoxins and mould-related environmental exposures.
Location-Specific Responses
Exploring muscle responses at different areas of the body to help identify where particular testing substances produce a response within the ART framework.
Scars, Dental Issues & Interference Fields
Assessing scars, root canals, dental work and other areas considered potential interference fields or energetic blockages within ART.
Substance Uptake & Distribution
Exploring ART responses associated with how the body may respond to and utilise different substances.
Food & Supplement Intolerances
Testing responses to foods, supplements and other substances to explore possible sensitivities or intolerances.
Nutritional & Treatment Support
Comparing responses to nutritional supplements and supportive approaches to help guide individualised recommendations.
Prioritisation
Working systematically to identify which areas and supportive approaches to focus on first.
ART is a complementary assessment method. Its testing responses are not validated to diagnose infections, identify toxin locations or measure medication distribution, and should not replace appropriate medical investigations.
A whole-person view
A multi-layered approach to healing
Healing isn’t always just about addressing physical symptoms. We are complex individuals, and our physical health, emotions, thoughts, experiences and beliefs can all influence how we feel.
In my practice, I consider the whole person, recognising that what is happening in one area of our lives may affect another. Sometimes the next step involves nutritional or physical support, while other times it may be emotional work, changing long-held patterns or exploring something on a deeper level.
There isn’t one approach that suits everyone. What matters is recognising which areas may need attention and finding the right support for you.
Questions
Common questions
Is ART a diagnostic test?
No. ART is a complementary assessment technique and doesn’t diagnose medical conditions or replace medical testing or treatment. I use it alongside your health history and other relevant information to explore possible areas for further attention.
Does the testing hurt?
No. ART is gentle and non-invasive. You’ll lie comfortably on a treatment table and remain fully clothed throughout the session. Testing may involve light touch over your clothing.
How long is an ART session?
Your initial appointment is approximately two hours. This gives us time to discuss your health history, work through the ART assessment and talk about possible next steps.
Do I need to have a complex health condition to benefit from ART?
Not at all. Some people come to me with longstanding or complex health concerns, while others are simply interested in exploring their wellbeing, nutrition or supplement choices.
How should I prepare for my appointment?
You’ll receive a detailed intake form to complete before your appointment. Where possible, please stop taking non-essential supplements three days before testing and bring all your supplements and medications with you. Never stop prescribed medications, and continue any supplements that are medically necessary unless your treating healthcare professional advises otherwise. Please wear comfortable, light-coloured clothing where possible.
What happens after my ART session?
We’ll discuss what came up during your assessment and what to focus on first. This may include nutritional or lifestyle recommendations, or support from other practitioners. If another ART session is needed, it’s usually around three months later, giving you time to work on the initial priorities. In between, you may benefit from other support, such as naturopathy, counselling or other therapies, depending on your individual needs.
Will I need more than one ART session?
That depends on what you’re coming in for. Some people may only need one appointment, while others prefer ongoing support. Follow-up ART sessions are generally around three months apart, but there’s no expectation that you commit to further appointments.
How do I know if ART is right for me?
If you’re unsure, you’re welcome to book a free 15-minute discovery call with me. We can talk about what you’re looking for and whether my approach may be suitable for you.
Let’s take the next step
Curious whether ART is right for you?
Book a free 15-minute discovery call with Rachel to talk about what you’re looking for and whether a session feels right for you.