Imagery Rescripting for a Painful Memory
A therapist-guided worksheet for imagery rescripting: identifying a memory and its meaning, unmet needs, the rescripted version, and distress and meaning before and after.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Imagery rescripting
- Approach / concern
- Trauma & PTSD
- Technique
- Imagery rescripting
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Imagery Rescripting for a Painful Memory?
Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is an experiential technique in which a client recalls a distressing memory in imagery and changes the course of events to meet unmet needs, often with the help of the therapist or the client’s adult self. It is used in schema therapy, PTSD and social anxiety treatment.
Why it works
A meta-analysis found imagery rescripting effective in reducing distress related to aversive memories across disorders (Morina et al., 2017). Reviews describe its mechanisms and applications (Arntz, 2012), including for social anxiety (Wild et al., 2008).
When to use it
- Distressing childhood memories linked to core beliefs
- PTSD (by trained clinicians)
- Social anxiety linked to early memories
- Schema therapy
How to use it in session
- Prepare and ensure stabilization skills are in place.
- Identify the memory, meaning and unmet needs.
- Guide the rescripting in imagery.
- Debrief distress and meaning.
- Record and review in later sessions.
Clinician tips
- Should be guided by trained clinicians.
- The therapist may intervene first, then the client’s adult self.
- Monitor dissociation and window of tolerance.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Does imagery rescripting change what really happened?
No. It changes how the memory feels and what it means to you, not the facts.
Is it safe to do alone?
It’s best done with a trained therapist, especially for trauma memories.
References
Arntz, A. (2012). Imagery rescripting as a therapeutic technique: Review of clinical trials, basic studies, and research agenda. Journal of Experimental Psychopathology, 3(2), 189-208.
Morina, N., Lancee, J., & Arntz, A. (2017). Imagery rescripting as a clinical intervention for aversive memories: A meta-analysis. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 55, 6-15.
Wild, J., Hackmann, A., & Clark, D. M. (2008). Rescripting early memories linked to negative images in social phobia: A pilot study. Behavior Therapy, 39(1), 47-56.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
