The use of imagery in cognitive therapy for psychosis: a case example

Memory. 2004 Jul;12(4):517-24. doi: 10.1080/09658210444000142.

Abstract

There has been a long tradition of studying imagery in relation to psychotic symptoms. Recent studies have suggested that imagery may be involved in the development and maintenance of psychotic symptoms (hallucinations and delusions in particular). Following a review of this literature, including work conducted by the author and colleagues, a case study is used to illustrate the clinical applications of this work. Working with images that were associated with persecutory delusions appeared to contribute to a reduction in distress, preoccupation, and conviction in relation to these beliefs, which were assessed using a standardised measure (PSYRATS). The implications for theory, practice, and future research are considered.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anxiety / psychology
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Delusions / psychology
  • Hallucinations / psychology
  • Humans
  • Imagination*
  • Male
  • Memory
  • Paranoid Disorders / psychology
  • Paranoid Disorders / therapy
  • Psychotic Disorders / psychology*
  • Psychotic Disorders / therapy
  • Self Concept
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology