Effects of Imagery Rescripting on Trait Anxiety and Core Beliefs: A Pilot Study Comparing the Current Self and a Supportive Other as Intervening Agents

Purpose During Imagery Rescripting (IR), individuals relive a distressing memory and intervene within the scene to modify its meaning, typically from the perspective of their current self. The present pilot randomized study compared self-based rescripting with a newly developed supportive-other protocol designed for cases in which self-directed intervention may be limited. The aim was to examine whether both conditions would be associated with reductions in trait anxiety and changes in maladaptive core beliefs. Methods Forty participants completed a single-session IR intervention and were randomly assigned to rescript a distressing autobiographical memory from the perspective of their current self ( n = 19) or a supportive other ( n = 21). Trait anxiety and core beliefs were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and one-week follow-up. Results Both IR-conditions showed significant and sustained reductions in trait anxiety and maladaptive core belief ratings. Reductions in the perceived truth and daily impact of core beliefs were associated with reductions in trait anxiety. Neither anxious nor avoidant attachment orientations moderated symptom improvement. Conclusions These findings suggest that symptom improvement and belief updating during IR may operate through shared pathways, highlighting belief change as a candidate process warranting further investigation.