imagery rehearsal therapy
a short-term cognitive behavior intervention for individuals experiencing chronic nightmares (particularly veterans with trauma-related sleep problems) in which participants write about their recurring nightmares, edit these stories (or scripts) to include more positive images, and then rehearse the images from the new, more positive scripts. Rehearsal is both self-guided (e.g., 5–20 minutes daily) and therapist-guided, and the new script eventually replaces or transforms the nightmare. Imagery rehearsal therapy typically is conducted in a small-group format over two 3-hour sessions, but variations in the number of sessions and duration of treatment are common. Use of the technique is associated with reduced nightmare frequency and intensity, decreased distress and anxiety, and enhanced sleep quality. [developed in 2001 by U.S. physician and sleep disorders specialist Barry Krakow]