Nightmare Relief: Implementing Imagery Rehearsal Therapy in Counseling
Journal of Mental Health Counseling April 1, 2025 Alwin E. Wagener, J. Scott Young
Imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT) is a research-supported behavioral intervention that reduces the frequency and severity of nightmares. It also reduces negative mental health symptoms, particularly those associated with posttraumatic stress disorder. IRT is straightforward for mental health counselors to facilitate, and the steps for implementing it are described, along with strategies to ensure cultural competence and effectiveness in delivery. Knowledge of how to implement IRT gives counselors the ability to directly support clients in addressing the disturbing experience of nightmares.