Guided imagery is a process where the mind is first calmed and focused using progressive relaxation.  When focus has been achieved, different scenes, generally directed by personal client situations, are then introduced into the script.  The scenes can be as specific as a direction to increase immune response or lower blood pressure. They can also be symbolic, where special supportive environments are created in the imagination. These environments can be designed to safely neutralize negative past experiences, to conceive safe and nurturing spaces for present health and well being, and to lay ground work for future calm and supportive internal and external health.

Guided imagery is similar to both meditation and hypnosis in that it helps calm and focus the mind. It does not require the same sort of initial aptitude or discipline that is found in those who easily engage in meditation and hypnosis.

Because it is a creative process, it invites the right hemisphere of the brain (in right handed people) to participate in mental processing, while distracting the logical, linear left brain that tends to repeat negative thought cycling. When the creative hemispere of the brain begins to participate, new neuronal pathways develop and new brain space is devoted to more positive thought processing.