Abstract

KUNZLER, Lia Silvia; FERREIRA-DE-LIMA, Maria Cecília  and  FENG, Yu Hua. The use of imagery in cognitive restructuring: case reports. Rev. bras.ter. cogn. [online]. 2020, vol.16, n.2, pp. 107-113. ISSN 1808-5687.  http://dx.doi.org/10.5935/1808-5687.20200016.

In mental imagery, the involved cognitive processes and the activated cortical areas are similar to those of real-life situations, thus indicating a potential therapeutic use of images to develop coping skills. The aim of the current article is to present 3 cases in which the use of imagery was a determining technique to ensure the desired therapeutic outcome:1) cognitive restructuring of distorted core and conditional beliefs to achieve desired behaviors; 2) cognitive restructuring of intermediate beliefs through drawings to enhance oncologic treatment; 3) strengthening of healthy core and intermediate beliefs. The use of imagery allowed for the identification of beliefs, cognitive modification and emotional regulation, and was shown to be effective in the 3 presented cases. Therefore, imagery has helped with problem solving, suffering relief, and global compromise, as it promotes the development of new coping strategies for stressful and conflicting situations, which, in turn, contributes to a better quality of life.

Keywords : Mental imagery; Cognitive restructuring; Emotional regulation.

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