Forms
of Therapy
The
term “guided imagery” is used to describe a range of
techniques from simple visualization and direct
imagery-based suggestion, to metaphor and story-telling.
The service-marked term “Interactive Guided
Imagerysm” (IGIsm) refers to the
specific approach taught by the Academy in which imagery is
used in a highly interactive format to tap inner wisdom and
evoke greater client/patient autonomy.
IGIsm is particularly suited to our current
health care climate, where cost-effective mind/body
medicine, improved medical self-care, and briefer, yet more
empowering approaches to health care are valued by
clients/patients, providers, and insurers alike.
IGIsm is usually practiced by licensed health
care clinicians in diverse specialties, health educators,
and lay practitioners who have been trained and certified
by the Academy for Guided Imagery through its Professional
Certification Training Program.
IGIsm is also applicable as a self-care
technique, in a group or class, or as part of an individual
counseling relationship. Self-help imagery books and tapes
are also an inexpensive option for many clients who are
capable of learning and utilizing these techniques on their
own.