imagery

imagery /im·age·ry/ (im´aj-re)

1. the formation of a mental representation of something perceived by the senses.

2. any of a number of therapeutic techniques that use the formation of such representations to elicit changes in attitudes, behaviors, or physiologic reactions.

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guided imagery  a therapeutic technique in which the patient enters a relaxed state and focuses on an image related to the issue being confronted, which the therapist uses as the basis of an interactive dialogue to help resolve the issue.

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im·age·ry (mj-r)

n.

1. A set of mental pictures or images.

2. A technique in behavior therapy in which the patient is conditioned to use pleasant fantasies to counteract the unpleasant feelings associated with anxiety.