A narrative identity perspective on mechanisms of change in imagery rescripting

Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is increasingly used in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to change beliefs and meanings about the self associated with negative and traumatic memories. It is quintessentially an imagery intervention that targets the self and autobiographical memory (AM); however, to date most of the research into its effectiveness has focused on symptom alleviation. The mechanisms of change remain unclear. In this article, we outline a narrative identity model of change in ImRs and note the value of the narrative identity literature in helping us understand memory-focused therapeutic interventions.