Description of the Strategy

Cue-controlled relaxation is a procedure designed to enable an individual to achieve relaxation rapidly through self-produced cues, usually a deep breath that is exhaled and a specific word.

Typically, training in deep diaphragmatic breathing and muscle relaxation (e.g., progressive muscle relaxation) precedes the introduction of cue-controlled relaxation. Once clients master deep muscle relaxation, cue-controlled relaxation is introduced. The specific training in cue-controlled relaxation would begin the session with the same procedures for attaining deep muscle relaxation as in previous sessions. After clients become relaxed during this session, they will be instructed to focus their attention on their breathing. They are instructed to slowly inhale and exhale, with attention to the use of the diaphragm. Upon exhalation, clients are asked ...