The Use of Rescripting Imagery for People with Psychosis Who Hear Voices

Abstract

Image rescripting can be helpful in reducing the distress associated with intrusive images or memories across a range of disorders. Existing studies using imagery rescripting with people with psychosis have not included people who hear voices. This study aimed to explore the use of image rescripting with people with psychosis who have intrusive images or memories and hear voices. This study used a one-off image rescripting session, using an A-B design with four participants with psychosis who were attending adult mental health community services. Clinically significant reductions in distress, negative affect and reduced conviction in the beliefs associated with the imagery were reported at 1-week follow-up and maintained for three of the four participants at 1-month follow-up. The study offers early indications that image rescripting can be used as a treatment approach for people with psychosis. Exploring visual imagery and rescripting visual memories where appropriate may be a useful extension of cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis (CBTp).