Guided imagery therapy utilizes a client’s capacity for imagination and creativity for therapeutic gains such as increased insight, enhanced coping, and rehearsal of desired outcomes. Imagery practices can take several forms within the counseling session, and clients can also employ these tactics on their own. The efficacy of guided imagery has been well documented, though there are important considerations for the implementation and facilitation of these techniques.

Historical Context

Guided imagery has historical roots in similar practices of visualization and metaphor or storytelling from indigenous traditions, Eastern and Western religious practices, and holistic medicine. In the field of counseling, it is often viewed as a contemporary or New Age practice and associated with spirituality due to these historical affiliations. The techniques of guided imagery are, however, ...

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