Imagery Rescripting: A New Treatment for Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse Suffering From Posttraumatic Stress

Abstract

Imagery rescripting is presented as a new treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. A theoretical discussion illustrates the model’s consistency with schema theory and information processing models of PTSD, and suggests that the rescripting process may effect change in pathological schemas associated with interpretation of the traumatic event(s). It is proposed that this combination of imaginal exposure, mastery imagery, and cognitive restructuring goes beyond extinction models to alter recurring images of the trauma and create more adaptive schemas. Hypothesized mechanisms for PTSD symptom reduction are presented, implications for cognitive restructuring are noted, and the model’s potential for facilitating personal empowerment and self-nurturance are discussed. Preliminary outcome research data are summarized that support the efficacy of imagery rescripting in significantly reducing PTSD symptomatology with this population.