Description
Book SynopsisRichly illustrated with clinical material, this book presents specific techniques for working with multisensory imagery in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Leading researcher-clinician Lusia Stopa explores how mental images--similarly to verbal cognitions--can trigger distress and drive maladaptive behavior. She guides the therapist to assess imagery and help clients to recognize and explore it. A range of interventions are described, including imaginal exposure, imaginal reliving, rescripting, working with self-images, and using positive imagery to improve well-being. Extensive sample dialogues and a chapter-length case example demonstrate the techniques in action with clients with a range of frequently encountered psychological problems.
Trade Review"Reading this lovely, practical book will help practitioners improve their treatment, even if they are already proficient in eliciting and responding to clients’ images....The book is full of detailed clinical examples that not only illustrate specific imagery techniques but also describe how therapists can build trust and collaboration, which enable them to foster positive emotions and reinforce positive views of the self and others, as well as target negative and fearful images....I think you’ll find that learning the theoretical basis for working with imagery and the specific techniques to implement will make your treatment much more creative, effective, and rewarding."--from the Foreword by Judith S. Beck, PhD, President, Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy
"This is an important book that will have a significant influence on CBT. Stopa achieves an unusual balance of scholarly sophistication and clinical relevance, demonstrating creative, intuitive ways to use imagery. I know that I will be using the ideas and examples in this book in my clinical work, and I will encourage my trainees to do the same. This book gives therapists tools and insights to reach the deep emotional issues that clients struggle with. A 'must read!'”--Robert L. Leahy, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College; Director, American Institute for Cognitive Therapy
"This gem of a book introduces therapists to the full range of evidence-based imagery techniques used in CBT. As an expert therapist who has been at the forefront of research and clinical innovation, Stopa provides essential detail on implementation. Her experience as a CBT trainer ensures that the book will enhance the practice of clinicians at all levels. Via case studies, readers learn about potential challenges in implementing imagery techniques, along with proven ways to address them. Imagery-based interventions have the potential to really help clients recover--this book provides a roadmap for therapists."--Colette Hirsch, DClinPsy, PhD, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, United Kingdom
"Mental imagery is a part of everyday human life that can be harnessed to facilitate psychotherapeutic change. From an internationally recognized expert who is a pioneer in applying imagery in CBT, this manual includes a rich array of techniques that can be useful across many clinical disorders. The material is peppered with interesting case examples, and careful attention is paid to the nuances of clinical delivery and potential rough spots. This book will be a go-to source for anyone who wants to enrich their clinical practice by incorporating the power of imagery. The techniques can be used alone or in combination with other interventions, and can be applied well beyond CBT."--Adele M. Hayes, PhD, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware
"A cutting-edge, practical, and easy-to-digest guide. In a highly accessible manner, Stopa weaves compelling evidence-based principles with case material, clinical expertise, and personal experience to create a wonderful addition to the literature that is a valuable resource for novice and seasoned practitioners alike. I strongly recommend this book for any clinician seeking to understand why and how to incorporate mental imagery into psychotherapy. Stopa demonstrates how imagery-based interventions may help to boost treatment effects for clients with a range of mental health problems."--David A. Moscovitch, PhD, CPsych, Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada-
Table of Contents1. An Introduction to Mental Imagery
2. Recognition and Assessment of Images
3. Using Imagery in Case Conceptualization
4. Laying the Groundwork for Imagery Interventions
5. Imaginal Exposure
6. Imaginal Reliving in Trauma-Focused Treatments
7. Imagery Rescripting
8. Transforming Images of the Self
9. Imagery as a Route to Safety, Compassion, and Positive Affect
10. Integrating Imagery in a Case Example
11. Troubleshooting
