SHIRA H. DOMBIAK, LPC- THERAPY AND CONSULTATION

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Guided Visualization in Therapy

2/16/2016

 
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The psychological technique of guided or creative visualization can result in a big mental and emotional shift.
 It’s the idea of concentrating on something with intention and can easily be incorporated into therapy. Most people find it relaxing. 



This technique is helpful for many issues. Sometimes we focus on something that is more undesirable or painful. This might involve revisiting a memory that seems to be related to the undesirable emotion. Revisiting this memory in a controlled, safe, and comfortable way can provide an opportunity to change the problem on a deep level. (especially paired with EMDR/EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING)


The focus can also be on positive emotions and thoughts. Concentrating our attention on your desirable emotions and thoughts trigger a chain of responses. Relaxation and a feeling of "opening up" is the groundwork for psychological change. Having familiarity with your positive states is an important tool in creative visualization. Working to identify the unique things that make you feel better can be a process. This can be an interesting and enjoyable part of therapy. 


Experiencing something with engaged emotion primes the brain to be ON, "lit up", or in a receptive state for changing and learning. 
Flexible on a neurological level. 




A session using guided visualization involves creating a more relaxing environment for you both internally and physically.  Things like reclining in a comfortable chair, resting your eyes, using relaxing music, using relaxing words, all help to make this a different sort of therapeutic experience. 


This therapy works best if you are able to be open to the experience.
Guided visualization can be used infrequently or can be a repeating and intricate part of therapy. 

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Photos from Rosmarie Voegtli, Joe Dyer