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Implementing Stress-Reduction Guided Imagery in School-Based Therapy

Implementing Stress-Reduction Guided Imagery in School-Based Therapy

Introduction

In the realm of speech-language pathology, the integration of stress-reduction techniques can significantly enhance therapeutic outcomes, especially for adolescents who are often subjected to high levels of stress. A recent study titled "Effects of Group-delivered Stress-reduction Guided Imagery on Salivary Cortisol, Salivary Amylase, and Stress Mood in Urban, Predominantly Latino Adolescents" provides valuable insights into how guided imagery can be effectively utilized in group settings to reduce stress biomarkers and improve mood states.

Understanding the Study

The study involved 111 predominantly Latino adolescents, divided into two groups: one receiving lifestyle education and the other receiving lifestyle education plus stress-reduction guided imagery (GI). The results were compelling, showing a 32% reduction in salivary cortisol levels in the GI group compared to a 5% reduction in the lifestyle-only group. This significant decrease in cortisol, a stress biomarker, suggests that guided imagery can be a potent tool for stress management in adolescents.

Key Findings and Implications

Practical Applications for Practitioners

For speech-language pathologists and other practitioners working with adolescents, integrating guided imagery into therapy sessions can offer a dual benefit of enhancing communication skills while simultaneously reducing stress. Here are some practical steps to implement this approach:

Encouraging Further Research

While the study provides promising results, further research is necessary to explore the long-term effects of guided imagery on stress and other health outcomes. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of evidence by implementing guided imagery in diverse settings and documenting their findings.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Effects of Group-delivered Stress-reduction Guided Imagery on Salivary Cortisol, Salivary Amylase, and Stress Mood in Urban, Predominantly Latino Adolescents.


Citation: Weigensberg, M. J., Wen, C. K. F., Spruijt-Metz, D., & Lane, C. J. (2022). Effects of Group-delivered Stress-reduction Guided Imagery on Salivary Cortisol, Salivary Amylase, and Stress Mood in Urban, Predominantly Latino Adolescents. Global Advances in Health and Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1177/21649561211067443
Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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