Guided Imagery

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About
How to use guided imagery
Evidence for guided imagery
Sources for guided imagery

Evidence for guided imagery

Contributor(s)
Susan Thompson, DNP, MBA, RN

A wide variety of providers are using guided imagery as a way to treat patients (according to a 2017 scoping review of the literature). This includes:

  • psychologists
  • nurses
  • sports scientists
  • medical researchers
  • rehabilitation specialists
  • other medical professionals

With respect to potential benefit, a 2018 review found that although not all of the research studies show statistically significant changes in patient response to guided imagery, many conclude that it shows promise as a patient-centered approach to improving outcomes.

Limitations of the research

  • Lack of clarity in defining a dose (frequency and amount) to provide a therapeutic effect
  • Difficulty isolating the potential effects of guided imagery from other therapies commonly in use at the same time (such as aromatherapy or massage)
  • Changes shown in studies may not be statistically significant

When considering whether to use guided imagery, keep in mind that for most people, this therapy poses a very low risk, including low financial risk, since guided imagery recordings are available for a nominal fee or even free online.

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Guided Imagery Course

In this course, you will learn how to use imagery to enhance overall health and wellbeing (including symptom management). You will learn about the evidence and various ways guided imagery has been used. By the end of the course, you will experience a variety of imagery interventions, learn how to assess if guided imagery is appropriate in specific situations, and will be comfortable writing and delivering guided imagery. 

Learn more

Davenport, L., & Rossman, M. L. (2016). Transformative imagery: Cultivating the imagination for healing, change and growth. London: Jessica Kingsley.

 

Lewandowski, W., Jacobson, A., Palmieri, P. A., Alexander, T., & Zeller, R. (2010). Biological Mechanisms Related to the Effectiveness of Guided Imagery for Chronic Pain.

 

Biological Research For Nursing,13(4), 364-375. doi:10.1177/1099800410386475 2

 

Giacobbi, P.R., Stewart, J., Chaffee, K., Jaeschke, A.M., Stabler, M. & Kelley, G.A. (2017). A scoping review of health outcomes examined in randomized controlled trials using guided imagery. Progress in Preventive Medicine, 2:e0010.

 

Naparstek, B. (1994). Staying Well With Guided Imagery. New York: Warner Books.