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Seinsche RJ, Fricke S, Neudert MK, Zimmer RI, Stark R, Hermann A. Emotional Changes during Imagery Rescripting of Aversive Social Memories in Social Anxiety Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial. PSYCHOTHERAPY AND PSYCHOSOMATICS 2024; 93:264-270. [PMID: 38934153 PMCID: PMC11332311 DOI: 10.1159/000539402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is a psychotherapeutic intervention targeting aversive memories. During the three-phase intervention, patients reexperience their aversive memory (phase 1), observe the scene from their adult perspective, and intervene to help their former selves (phase 2), and reexperience it again with the positive changes (phase 3). Previous studies have rarely investigated emotional and regulatory processes taking place during the intervention. OBJECTIVE This randomized controlled trial investigated self-reported affective and physiological responses during ImRs. METHODS Seventy-seven patients with social anxiety disorder (SAD) were randomly assigned to a single session of ImRs or a control intervention (recall and discussion of the memory) targeting an aversive social memory. Heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) were assessed during and post hoc ratings of positive and negative feelings after baseline and the intervention phases. RESULTS Relative to the control intervention, ImRs resulted in an initial increase in negative feelings from baseline to phase 1 and a following larger (phase 1 to phase 2) and more stable (phase 2 to phase 3) decrease in negative feelings/increase in positive feelings. On the physiological level, during ImRs compared to the control intervention, mean HR was significantly higher during phase 1 and HRV during phase 3, each compared to baseline. CONCLUSIONS These results provide further information about the specific sequence of emotional responses on different response levels during ImRs, being consistent with known theories of emotional processing and supposed mechanisms of ImRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa J Seinsche
- Department of Psychotherapy and Systems Neuroscience, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany,
- Bender Institute of Neuroimaging, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany,
| | - Susanne Fricke
- Department of Psychotherapy and Systems Neuroscience, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Bender Institute of Neuroimaging, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Marie K Neudert
- Department of Psychotherapy and Systems Neuroscience, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Bender Institute of Neuroimaging, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Raphaela I Zimmer
- Bender Institute of Neuroimaging, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rudolf Stark
- Department of Psychotherapy and Systems Neuroscience, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Bender Institute of Neuroimaging, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior, Phillips University Marburg and Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andrea Hermann
- Department of Psychotherapy and Systems Neuroscience, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Bender Institute of Neuroimaging, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior, Phillips University Marburg and Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Thunnissen MR, de Jong PJ, Rijkeboer MM, Voncken MJ, Nauta MH. Interventions Targeting Negative Mental Imagery in Social Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Characteristics and Outcomes. Clin Psychol Psychother 2024; 31:e2996. [PMID: 38769942 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Psychological treatment for social anxiety disorder (SAD) has been found to be less effective than for other anxiety disorders. Targeting the vivid and distressing negative mental images typically experienced by individuals with social anxiety could possibly enhance treatment effectiveness. To provide both clinicians and researchers with an overview of current applications, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the possibilities and effects of imagery-based interventions that explicitly target negative images in (sub)clinical social anxiety. Based on a prespecified literature search, we included 21 studies, of which 12 studies included individuals with a clinical diagnosis of SAD. Imagery interventions (k = 28 intervention groups; only in adults) generally lasted one or two sessions and mostly used imagery rescripting with negative memories. Others used eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and imagery exposure with diverse intrusive images. Noncontrolled effects on social anxiety, imagery distress and imagery vividness were mostly large or medium. Meta-analyses with studies with control groups resulted in significant medium controlled effects on social anxiety (d = -0.50, k = 10) and imagery distress (d = -0.64, k = 8) and a nonsignificant effect on imagery vividness. Significant controlled effects were most evident in individuals with clinically diagnosed versus subclinical social anxiety. Overall, findings suggest promising effects of sessions targeting negative mental images. Limitations of the included studies and the analyses need to be considered. Future research should examine the addition to current SAD treatments and determine the relevance of specific imagery interventions. Studies involving children and adolescents are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein R Thunnissen
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Child Study Center, Accare, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J de Jong
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marleen M Rijkeboer
- Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marisol J Voncken
- Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike H Nauta
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Child Study Center, Accare, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Tomasi J, Zai CC, Pouget JG, Tiwari AK, Kennedy JL. Heart rate variability: Evaluating a potential biomarker of anxiety disorders. Psychophysiology 2024; 61:e14481. [PMID: 37990619 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Establishing quantifiable biological markers associated with anxiety will increase the objectivity of phenotyping and enhance genetic research of anxiety disorders. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a physiological measure reflecting the dynamic relationship between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and is a promising target for further investigation. This review summarizes evidence evaluating HRV as a potential physiological biomarker of anxiety disorders by highlighting literature related to anxiety and HRV combined with investigations of endophenotypes, neuroimaging, treatment response, and genetics. Deficient HRV shows promise as an endophenotype of pathological anxiety and may serve as a noninvasive index of prefrontal cortical control over the amygdala, and potentially aid with treatment outcome prediction. We propose that the genetics of HRV can be used to enhance the understanding of the genetics of pathological anxiety for etiological investigations and treatment prediction. Given the anxiety-HRV link, strategies are offered to advance genetic analytical approaches, including the use of polygenic methods, wearable devices, and pharmacogenetic study designs. Overall, HRV shows promising support as a physiological biomarker of pathological anxiety, potentially in a transdiagnostic manner, with the heart-brain entwinement providing a novel approach to advance anxiety treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Tomasi
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Clement C Zai
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennie G Pouget
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arun K Tiwari
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - James L Kennedy
- Molecular Brain Science Department, Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Kroener J, Hack L, Mayer B, Sosic-Vasic Z. Imagery rescripting as a short intervention for symptoms associated with mental images in clinical disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 166:49-60. [PMID: 37738780 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
There is an unmet need for effective short-term therapeutic techniques to reduce clinical symptoms associated with prospective-, as well as retrospective aversive mental images across mental disorders. We investigated the efficacy of imagery rescripting (IR) as a short-term intervention across clinical disorders, as the literature suggests that this technique could be a promising intervention to reduce psychopathology by altering intrusive mental images. A systematic literature review identified 23 trials including 805 adult patients, out of which 15 trials were designed as randomized controlled trials (RCT) including patients with the following diagnoses: Social anxiety disorder (SAD), Posttraumatic-Stress-Disorder (PTSD), Bulimia Nervosa, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, nightmare disorder, test anxiety, health anxiety, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Most studies (14) comprised of one treatment session. Effect size estimates indicate that IR is highly effective in reducing clinical symptoms associated with mental images from pre-, to post-treatment (g = 1.09, 95% CI = [0.64; 1.53]), as well as from pre-treatment to follow-up (g = 1.90, 95% CI = [1.02; 2.77]). Comparing the IR intervention to a passive control group showed large effect sizes at post-treatment (g = -0.99; 95% CI = [-1.79; -0.20]), however, comparing IR to an active control group resulted in a small effect (g = -0.05; 95% CI = [-0.43; 0.33]). Lastly, large effects of IR were found for the SAD and PTSD subgroups, for comorbid symptoms of depression. In summary, our results indicate that IR is a promising short-term therapeutic technique for clinical symptoms associated with aversive prospective-, and retrospective mental images.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Kroener
- Department of Applied Psychotherapy and Psychiatry, Christophsbad Goeppingen, Jahnstraße 30, 73037, Goeppingen, Germany; Medical Department, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Lisa Hack
- Department of Applied Psychotherapy and Psychiatry, Christophsbad Goeppingen, Jahnstraße 30, 73037, Goeppingen, Germany; Medical Department, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Benjamin Mayer
- Institute for Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, University of Ulm, Schwabstraße 13, 89075, Ulm, Germany
| | - Zrinka Sosic-Vasic
- Department of Applied Psychotherapy and Psychiatry, Christophsbad Goeppingen, Jahnstraße 30, 73037, Goeppingen, Germany; Medical Department, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
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Kip A, Schoppe L, Arntz A, Morina N. Efficacy of imagery rescripting in treating mental disorders associated with aversive memories - An updated meta-analysis. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 99:102772. [PMID: 37699277 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is frequently applied to treat different psychological complaints. We conducted an updated meta-analysis based on randomised controlled trials on the efficacy of ImRs for mental disorders associated with aversive memories. Medline, PsycInfo, and Web of Science were searched up to May 2023. Seventeen trials were included with a total of 908 participants (417 in the ImRs condition), suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, depression, or eating disorders. Random effect models yielded an overall effect of g = 0.68 (95 % CI 0.18 to 1.18; k = 7) compared to passive controls (mostly waitlist). The effect compared to (prolonged) exposure, cognitive restructuring, and EMDR was non-significant (g = -0.01; 95 % CI -0.18 to 0.15; k = 11). Follow-up assessments indicated a long-term treatment effect. Results suggest that ImRs can effectively treat a variety of psychological disorders and produce similar treatment effects as evidence-based interventions. Limitations include the bounded number of included trials for each mental disorder. The meta-analysis was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020220696) and received no funding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahlke Kip
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstraße 21, 48149 Münster, Germany.
| | - Luisa Schoppe
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstraße 21, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Arnoud Arntz
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 129, 1018 WS Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nexhmedin Morina
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Fliednerstraße 21, 48149 Münster, Germany
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6
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An Investigation of Cognitive and Affective Changes During Group Imagery Rescripting for Social Anxiety Disorder. Behav Ther 2022; 53:1050-1061. [PMID: 35987535 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2022.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent, negative self-imagery is common in social anxiety disorder (SAD). Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is an effective therapeutic technique that aims to target past aversive memories to modify their associated meanings, and update the encapsulated negative schematic beliefs. The current study aimed to extend previous research by investigating the cognitive and affective shifts during each phase of ImRs delivered within a group cognitive behavioral therapy protocol. Participants (N = 32) retrieved an aversive memory associated with social anxiety and were guided through brief cognitive restructuring, prior to completing ImRs. Core beliefs associated with the memory (strength and valence) and fear of negative evaluation were assessed before and after ImRs and affect was assessed following each phase. Strength and affective valence of encapsulated core beliefs about the self, others, the world, and the image itself significantly reduced following ImRs, and core beliefs were updated to become more positive. Participants reported large affective shifts early in the process, with smaller shifts in the later stages. Fear of negative evaluation did not significantly reduce following ImRs. Outcomes provide some support for cognitive and affective changes during group ImRs for SAD and suggest future research directions to investigate longer-term impacts and to better understand the underlying mechanisms of the technique.
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McEvoy PM, Hyett MP, Johnson AR, Erceg-Hurn DM, Clarke PJF, Kyron MJ, Bank SR, Haseler L, Saulsman LM, Moulds ML, Grisham JR, Holmes EA, Moscovitch DA, Lipp OV, Rapee RM. Impacts of imagery-enhanced versus verbally-based cognitive behavioral group therapy on psychophysiological parameters in social anxiety disorder: Results from a randomized-controlled trial. Behav Res Ther 2022; 155:104131. [PMID: 35696837 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2022.104131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is associated with marked physiological reactivity in social-evaluative situations. However, objective measurement of biomarkers is rarely evaluated in treatment trials, despite potential utility in clarifying disorder-specific physiological correlates. This randomized controlled trial sought to examine the differential impact of imagery-enhanced vs. verbal-based cognitive behavioral group therapy (IE-CBGT, n = 53; VB-CBGT, n = 54) on biomarkers of emotion regulation and arousal during social stress in people with SAD (pre- and post-treatment differences in heart rate variability (HRV) and skin conductance). We acquired psychophysiological data from randomized participants across four social stress test phases (baseline, speech preparation, speech, interaction) at pre-treatment, and 1- and 6-months post-treatment. Analyses revealed that IE-CBGT selectively attenuated heart rate as indexed by increases in median heart rate interval (median-RR) compared to VB-CBGT at post-treatment, whereas one HRV index showed a larger increase in the VB-CBGT condition before but not after controlling for median-RR. Other psychophysiological indices did not differ between conditions. Lower sympathetic arousal in the IE-CBGT condition may have obviated the need for parasympathetic downregulation, whereas the opposite was true for VB-CBGT. These findings provide preliminary insights into the impact of imagery-enhanced and verbally-based psychotherapy for SAD on emotion regulation biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M McEvoy
- Discipline of Psychology, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Clinical Interventions, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Matthew P Hyett
- Discipline of Psychology, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Andrew R Johnson
- Discipline of Psychology, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - David M Erceg-Hurn
- Discipline of Psychology, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Clinical Interventions, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Patrick J F Clarke
- Discipline of Psychology, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Michael J Kyron
- Discipline of Psychology, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Samantha R Bank
- Discipline of Psychology, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Clinical Interventions, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Luke Haseler
- School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Lisa M Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Michelle L Moulds
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jessica R Grisham
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emily A Holmes
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - David A Moscovitch
- Centre for Mental Health Research and Treatment, Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Ottmar V Lipp
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ronald M Rapee
- Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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McEvoy PM, Hyett MP, Bank SR, Erceg-Hurn DM, Johnson AR, Kyron MJ, Saulsman LM, Moulds ML, Grisham JR, Holmes EA, Moscovitch DA, Lipp OV, Campbell BNC, Rapee RM. Imagery-enhanced v. verbally-based group cognitive behavior therapy for social anxiety disorder: a randomized clinical trial. Psychol Med 2022; 52:1277-1286. [PMID: 32912351 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291720003001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is effective for most patients with a social anxiety disorder (SAD) but a substantial proportion fails to remit. Experimental and clinical research suggests that enhancing CBT using imagery-based techniques could improve outcomes. It was hypothesized that imagery-enhanced CBT (IE-CBT) would be superior to verbally-based CBT (VB-CBT) on pre-registered outcomes. METHODS A randomized controlled trial of IE-CBT v. VB-CBT for social anxiety was completed in a community mental health clinic setting. Participants were randomized to IE (n = 53) or VB (n = 54) CBT, with 1-month (primary end point) and 6-month follow-up assessments. Participants completed 12, 2-hour, weekly sessions of IE-CBT or VB-CBT plus 1-month follow-up. RESULTS Intention to treat analyses showed very large within-treatment effect sizes on the social interaction anxiety at all time points (ds = 2.09-2.62), with no between-treatment differences on this outcome or clinician-rated severity [1-month OR = 1.45 (0.45, 4.62), p = 0.53; 6-month OR = 1.31 (0.42, 4.08), p = 0.65], SAD remission (1-month: IE = 61.04%, VB = 55.09%, p = 0.59); 6-month: IE = 58.73%, VB = 61.89%, p = 0.77), or secondary outcomes. Three adverse events were noted (substance abuse, n = 1 in IE-CBT; temporary increase in suicide risk, n = 1 in each condition, with one being withdrawn at 1-month follow-up). CONCLUSIONS Group IE-CBT and VB-CBT were safe and there were no significant differences in outcomes. Both treatments were associated with very large within-group effect sizes and the majority of patients remitted following treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M McEvoy
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Centre for Clinical Interventions, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Samantha R Bank
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Centre for Clinical Interventions, Perth, Australia
| | - David M Erceg-Hurn
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Centre for Clinical Interventions, Perth, Australia
| | | | | | - Lisa M Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Michelle L Moulds
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jessica R Grisham
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emily A Holmes
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - David A Moscovitch
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Mental Health Research and Treatment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Ottmar V Lipp
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Ronald M Rapee
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Emotional Health, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Lloyd J, Marczak M. Imagery rescripting and negative self-imagery in social anxiety disorder: a systematic literature review. Behav Cogn Psychother 2022; 50:1-18. [PMID: 35225202 DOI: 10.1017/s135246582200008x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Imagery rescripting (IR) is an effective intervention for social anxiety disorder (SAD) that targets memories of distressing formative events linked to negative self-imagery (NSI). IR is thought to update unhelpful schema by addressing the needs of the younger self within the memory. An accumulating body of evidence indicates that by modifying NSI, IR can significantly affect distressing imagery, memory appraisal, and beliefs about the self. AIMS This systematic review aims to critically evaluate and synthesise literature investigating the existing research on the effects IR has on NSI in SAD. METHOD A systematic electronic search of Academic Search Complete, ProQuest, Medline, Scopus and PubMed was performed in February 2021 using pre-defined criteria. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and were selected for review. RESULTS Analysis of the reviewed articles' findings identified three main themes: Changes to negative self-images, Memories linked to images and Encapsulated beliefs. IR was associated with significant decreases in image distress, image vividness, memory vividness, memory distress, and encapsulated beliefs. Although reductions were found with image frequency, they were non-significant. Interpretation of results is limited by the small number of studies. CONCLUSIONS IR appears to effectively alter images, memories and beliefs in SAD in as little as a single session. The findings indicate that IR could be utilised as a cost-effective intervention for SAD. However, additional studies and longer-term follow-ups are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Lloyd
- School of Psychological, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Priory Street, CoventryCV1 5FB, UK
| | - Magda Marczak
- School of Psychological, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Priory Street, CoventryCV1 5FB, UK
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10
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Bertuzzi V, Fratini G, Tarquinio C, Cannistrà F, Granese V, Giusti EM, Castelnuovo G, Pietrabissa G. Single-Session Therapy by Appointment for the Treatment of Anxiety Disorders in Youth and Adults: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Front Psychol 2021; 12:721382. [PMID: 34539523 PMCID: PMC8440994 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.721382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This systematic review provides a summary of the available evidence of the efficacy of single-session therapy (SST) on anxiety disorders in both youth and adults. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and Google Scholar databases were search for relevant articles, and the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing the risk of bias in randomized trials was used for transparent reporting of the methodological quality of each selected study. Results: The search of electronic databases identified 18 reports based on rigorous inclusion criteria. Single-session therapy was found superior to no treatment in reducing anxiety symptoms, and similar results were observed while comparing SST to multi-treatment sessions. Discussion: The findings support the benefits of SST in enhancing cognitive, behavioral, and psychological outcomes in both youth and adults suffering from anxiety disorders across treatment conditions and approaches, SST thus appears to be a promising way of providing access to both private and public therapeutic services efficiently and cost-effectively. Conclusions: Single-session therapy is effective in treating anxiety disorders. Further research is required to quantify its cost-effectiveness and deepen the knowledge of effective treatment ingredients for both young people and the adult population suffering from diverse anxiety disorders. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier [CRD42021232024].
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Bertuzzi
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Fratini
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Tarquinio
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Granese
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Maria Giusti
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Psychology Research Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Castelnuovo
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Psychology Research Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giada Pietrabissa
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Psychology Research Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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11
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Attitudes and applications of chairwork amongst CBT therapists: a preliminary survey. COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPIST 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s1754470x21000052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Chairwork refers to a collection of experiential interventions which utilise chairs, their positioning, movement, and dialogue to facilitate therapeutic change. Chair-based methods are used in several models of psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). However, little is known about cognitive behavioural therapists’ use and attitudes towards chairwork. A mixed methods survey was conducted of 102 therapists who provided CBT. Overall, training in chairwork was weak amongst CBT therapists (35%). Quantitative results indicated that most therapists perceived chairwork to be clinically effective and consistent with the cognitive behavioural model, but did not feel competent using these methods. Perceived competence was highest amongst therapists who had been trained in chairwork and practised it frequently, but was unrelated to CBT accreditation or clinical experience. Qualitative feedback identified a number of factors that encouraged the use of chairwork (e.g. overcoming limitations associated with verbal restructuring methods), as well as inhibitors (e.g. therapist anxiety and limited access to training). These preliminary findings highlight a need for further research relating to cognitive behavioural chairwork and suggest that increased training in experiential interventions could go some way towards improving outcomes in CBT.
Key learning aims
As a result of reading this paper, readers should:
(1)
Understand cognitive behavioural therapists’ attitudes towards chairwork.
(2)
Appreciate therapists’ anxiety and avoidance in relation to chairwork.
(3)
Identify the key factors that facilitate or inhibit the use of cognitive behavioural chairwork.
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Juul S, Gluud C, Simonsen S, Frandsen FW, Kirsch I, Jakobsen JC. Blinding in randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions: a retrospective study of published trial reports. BMJ Evid Based Med 2021; 26:109. [PMID: 32998993 DOI: 10.1136/bmjebm-2020-111407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study the extent of blinding in randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions and the interpretative considerations if randomised clinical trials are not blinded. DESIGN Retrospective study of trial reports published in six high impact factor journals within the field of psychiatry in 2017 and 2018. SETTING Trial reports published in World Psychiatry, JAMA Psychiatry, Lancet Psychiatry, American Journal of Psychiatry, British Journal of Psychiatry, or Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Blinding status of participants, treatment providers, outcome assessors, data managers, the data safety and monitoring committee, statisticians and conclusion makers, if trialists rejected the null hypothesis on the primary outcome measure, and if trialists discussed the potential bias risk from lack of blinding in the published trial report. RESULTS 63 randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions were identified. None (0%; 95% CI 0% to 5.75%) of the trials reported blinding of all possible key persons. 37 (58.7%; 95% CI 46.42% to 70.04%) trials reported blinding of outcome assessors. Two (3.2%; 95% CI 0.87% to 10.86%) trials reported blinding of participants. Two (3.2%; 95% CI 0.87% to 10.86%) trials reported blinding of data managers. Three (4.8%; 95% CI 1.63% to 13.09%) trials reported blinding of statisticians. None of the trials reported blinding of treatment providers, the data safety and monitoring committee, and conclusion makers. 45 (71.4%; 95% CI 59.30% to 81.10%) trials rejected the null hypothesis on the primary outcome(s). 13 (20.7%; 95% CI 12.48% to 32.17%) trials discussed the potential bias risk from lack of blinding in the published trial report. CONCLUSIONS Blinding of key persons involved in randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions is rarely sufficiently documented. The possible interpretative limitations are only rarely considered. There is a need of randomised clinical trials of psychological interventions with documented blinding attempts of all possible key persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Juul
- Stolpegaard Psychotherapy Centre, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Gentofte, Denmark
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Christian Gluud
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Sebastian Simonsen
- Stolpegaard Psychotherapy Centre, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Frederik Weischer Frandsen
- Stolpegaard Psychotherapy Centre, Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark, Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Irving Kirsch
- Program in Placebo Studies, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Janus Christian Jakobsen
- Copenhagen Trial Unit, Centre for Clinical Intervention Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
- Department of Regional Health Research, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Psychological and Physiological Effects of Imagery Rescripting for Aversive Autobiographical Memories. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10608-021-10233-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Imagery Rescripting (ImRs) is a promising intervention to reduce symptoms associated with aversive memories, but little is known about its working mechanisms. The present study investigates whether ImRs increases perceived mastery and attenuates emotional reactivity to memory retrieval on a subjective and physiological level.
Methods
Seventy-nine individuals reporting memories of distressing real-life events were randomly allocated to ImRs, positive imagery (PI), or no-intervention control (NIC). The memory was reactivated before the intervention and at 1-week follow-up to assess subjective measures and physiological reactivity (heart rate [HR], skin conductance level [SCL], and facial electromyography activity [EMG]) during memory retrieval.
Results
ImRs was superior to PI and NIC on subjective memory distress and helplessness, but not on other emotions. ImRs did not exceed PI and NIC in reducing state stress symptoms or increasing perceived mastery. Physiological reactivity (HR, EMG) decreased from pre-intervention to follow-up with no differences between groups.
Conclusions
Positive effects of ImRs on helplessness and distress were found. Null findings regarding mastery might result from timing of its assessment or the fact that rather high-functioning participants were included. The lack of between group differences on physiological responses indicates that ImRs did not exceed habituation effects in the present sample.
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Saulsman LM, Ji JL, Mcevoy PM. The essential role of mental imagery in cognitive behaviour therapy: What is old is new again. AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ap.12406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Saulsman
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Services Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Julie L. Ji
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter M. Mcevoy
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Centre for Clinical Interventions, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Imagery Rescripting for Anxiety Disorders and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Recent Advances and Future Directions. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2020; 22:17. [PMID: 32076845 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-020-1139-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review describes imagery rescripting (ImRs) and its clinical application to anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Variations in ImRs delivery, clinical evidence, and theories of potential mechanisms of change are also reviewed. Finally, we propose a future research agenda. RECENT FINDINGS There is some evidence that ImRs affects memory processes and schemas. ImRs is associated with reductions in cognitive-affective, physiological and behavioural symptoms of social anxiety disorder and reductions in OCD-related distress and OCD symptoms. ImRs for other anxiety disorders has not been evaluated. While ImRs appears to be an effective intervention for social anxiety disorder and OCD, more research is needed to (a) systematically compare ImRs to established interventions, (b) evaluate ImRs for other anxiety disorders, (c) test theorized mechanisms of change, and (d) evaluate the impact of moderating factors and treatment variations on therapeutic outcomes.
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