What is guided imagery?

Guided imagery, sometimes known as "visualization," is a technique in which a person imagines pictures, sounds, smells, and other sensations associated with reaching a goal. Imagining being in a certain environment or situation can activate the senses, producing a physical or psychological effect.

Studies have shown that practicing guided imagery may be able to:

• temporarily increase numbers of immune system cells to keep the rest of your body healthy
• help reduce feelings of depression
• increase feelings of well-being

What to expect in a typical guided imagery session

Guided imagery can be practiced at home with a book or audio recording or with a trained therapist. Guided imagery can be done in group or one-to-one sessions and can last an average of 20 to 30 minutes. In a typical guided imagery session:

• The therapist will use one of a variety of guided imagery techniques that will lead you through imagined experiences in your mind.
• Usually, the therapist will guide your imagination to places or situations that will make you feel peaceful, safe, relaxed, and secure.
• The therapist may use gentle background music to create a relaxed atmosphere and help you avoid distractions.
• You'll be asked to imagine something, such as a warm healing light on the area where the cancer was or images of your immune system attacking cancer cells. One popular exercise involves picturing tiny Pac-Man characters chasing and eating cancer cells.
• The therapist will describe sounds, smells, tastes, or other sensations that might accompany what you're imagining.
• While you focus on the imagined situation, you might start to experience sensations and feelings, such as warmth, lightness, contentment, or strength.

Guided imagery practitioner requirements

In the United States, there is no formal licensing process for guided imagery practitioners, although many schools have training programs that lead to certification in guided imagery. Some of these programs are specifically intended for people who already have a state-issued license in a health profession, such as nursing or psychotherapy. Training hours requirements can range from 90 to 200 hours.

You can find a qualified guided imagery practitioner through the Academy for Guided Imagery. The Academy trains and certifies health professionals in guided imagery, requires 150 hours of training, and has a website featuring a U.S. database of its certified practitioners.

Research on guided imagery in women with breast cancer

In studies of breast cancer patients, guided imagery has been shown to help the immune system and relieve anxiety, depression, and moodiness.

In a small study conducted at Oregon Health and Science University published in 2002, 25 women with Stage I and II breast cancer were led through individual hypnotic-guided imagery sessions. During the sessions, the women were encouraged to imagine certain kinds of protective immune system cells — called natural killer cells — finding, destroying, and removing cancer cells. The initial session was taped. The women used the tapes to practice at home 3 times a week for 8 weeks.

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