Interactive Guided Imagery SM as a Way to Access Patient Strengths During Cancer Treatment

Abstract

In cancer care, there are 2 complementary goals of treatment: eliminating cancer cells and supporting the well-being and healing abilities of the patient. Interactive Guided Imagerysm(IGI) can be used to help the patient access inner strengths and resources when high anxiety levels may make that difficult. Three brief cases illustrate the use of IGI to help patients access a “big picture” perspective on their treatment and healing path; to find strength to persevere in their treatment course; and to help make a difficult decision. In all 3 cases, there are multiple personal benefits of the imagery that continued to be of importance throughout the course of each patient’s treatment.