Introduction
Mental images are fundamental to the way we experience the world. Beck acknowledged that mental images could produce distress in the same way as verbal cognitions (e.g. Beck, Rush, Shaw, & Emery, 1979), and we know now that intrusive negative images are maintaining factors in a range of disorders. Along with increased knowledge about the role and function of mental images, we have developed and refined interventions using imagery. Many of these focus on the contents of images - the pictures in your mind, or the sounds you hear – but there are also ways of working with the form in which the image is manifest – is it static or moving, vivid or dim. As well as interventions targeting negative imagery, it is also important to learn ways of using positive imagery to facilitate emotional regulation and to promote well-being.
The event will be equivalent to 2.3/4 hrs of CPD.
Content
This workshop will start by exploring what we mean by mental imagery and will look at the role and function of imagery in mental distress. It will then examine how to assess imagery and explore different ways to incorporate imagery into cognitive conceptualisations. The remainder of the workshop will offer an overview of imagery interventions. This will start by looking at available techniques for working with the form of mental images such as zooming and fading, then move on to methods of targeting negative images such as imaginal exposure, imaginal reliving, and imagery rescripting. The workshop will also include information about intervention methods that use positive imagery such as safe place imagery, accessing positive autobiographical memories, and compassionate imagery.
Learning Objectives
1. Understand the nature, role and function of mental images in clinical disorders
2. Know how to assess and conceptualise mental images in CBT
3. Gain knowledge about the range of imagery interventions currently available in CBT
Training Modalities
The workshop will include a variety of teaching methods. As well as the presentation of information through PowerPoint slides (didactic learning), there will be some experiential self exercises, opportunities for questions, and video demonstrations.
Key References
Brewin, C. R., Gregory, J. D., Lipton, M., & Burgess, N. (2010). Intrusive images in psychological disorders: Characteristics, neural mechanisms, and treatment implications. Psychological Review, 117, 210-232.
Hackmann, A., Bennett-Levy, J., & Holmes, E. A. (2011). Oxford guide to imagery in cognitive therapy. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Holmes, E. A., & Mathews, A. (2010). Mental imagery in emotion and emotional disorders. Clinical Psychology Review, 30, 349-362.
Stopa, L (2021) Imagery in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. New York, NY: Guilford Press.
About the presenter
Lusia Stopa is Emeritus Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Southampton, UK. She established cognitive therapy training at the University of Southampton in 2000, was director of cognitive therapy programmes as well as director of the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. She remains an active CBT practitioner. Her research investigates the ways in which negative views of self, often represented by mental images, maintain clinical disorders, and how they can be changed in treatment. Her book Imagery in cognitive behavioural therapy (2021) is a leading text for practitioners on how to use imagery therapeutically.
Who should attend
This workshop is suitable for qualified mental health practitioners including low and high intensity practitioners, psychologists, nurse therapists, counsellors, and psychiatrists working in adult mental health settings.