A Case Study of Imagery Rehearsal Therapy in a Nightmare Disorder Patient with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

ABSTRACT

Nightmares are vivid, unpleasant dreams that result in awakening during sleep. According to previous studies, the prevalence of nightmare disorder is 2–5% of the general population and is associated with other medical conditions and mental illnesses. Imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT) is an evidence-based treatment for nightmare disorder. The current study is a case study with a 35-year-old female who was diagnosed with nightmare disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder, and participated in IRT for five sessions. Prior to treatment, the patient reported difficulties initiating and maintaining sleep, and reported suffering from nightmares more than 2–3 times per week. After treatment, the patient reported no longer experienced nightmares, accompanied by improvements in both sleep and clinical indicators.