The use of mental imagery in cognitive-behavioral therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder: A systematic review

Abstract

In posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) it is common the occurrence of symptoms associated with mental images that recall the traumatic event. These images have a very intense emotional impact, since it can intrusively manifest itself and generate a sense of trauma reliving. Thus, it has been studied cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques using mental imagery as a therapeutic intervention. The aim of this study was to systematically review the effects of mental imagery use as a CBT resource for PTSD. It were identified eight studies published between 2001-2012 through PubMed, Web of Science and PsycNet databases. The interventions in the experimental groups were statistically significant in five of the eight identified studies. Yet, it is still necessary to carry out more research on the effects of these interventions due to the limited number of studies found in this review.