Trauma ‐focused imaginal exposure for auditory hallucinations: A case series

ConclusionsImaginal exposure for trauma ‐related AH is generally acceptable and may have large effects on AH severity for some people. However, temporary distress and symptom exacerbation are common and can lead to discontinuation. Low referral rates and uptake also suggest feasibility issues for standalone imaginal exposure for AH. The intervention may be more feasible and acceptable in the context of a broader trauma‐focused therapy. Well‐powered trials are needed to determine efficacy and factors that impact on acceptability and therapy response.Practitioner points Some AH can be understood as trauma memory intrusions that lack temporal and spatial contextualization and are therefore experienced without autonoetic awareness. Imaginal exposure to trauma memories associated with AH may be an effective intervention for some people. Temporary distress and symptom exacerbation may be common when using standard trauma ‐focused imaginal exposure for AH. This can impact on the acceptability of the therapy and should be considered in future development and delivery.
Source: Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Original article Source Type: research