Rewriting the Past: How Image Rescripting Can Help You Heal from Childhood Experiences
I use a technique called ‘Image Rescripting’ to help clients overcome difficult events that occurred as a child, which directly or indirectly affect them as an adult. Read on to find out more.
Clara Dawson
6/7/20253 min read
Rewriting the Past: How Image Rescripting Can Help You Heal from Childhood Experiences
I use a technique called ‘Image Rescripting’ to help clients overcome difficult events that occurred as a child, which directly or indirectly affect them as an adult.
Many of us carry echoes of childhood experiences, moments that shaped how we see ourselves, how we relate to others, and how we respond to the world around us. But what happens when these experiences leave lasting wounds? When we find ourselves caught in patterns of self-doubt, emotional overwhelm, or a deep sense of disconnection?
For those navigating the impact of childhood trauma or difficult experiences from their childhood, Image Rescripting (ImRs) offers a powerful way to gently rework painful memories and shift ingrained beliefs. It’s an evidence-based approach that helps you process past experiences in a way that fosters self-compassion and emotional healing. The same evidence shows that it is just as effective as EMDR for helping with childhood trauma.
What Is Imagery Rescripting?
ImRs is a therapeutic technique that uses guided imagery to revisit and reshape distressing memories. Unlike traditional exposure therapy, which focuses on revisiting trauma, ImRs helps you to actively alter how you experience it emotionally, visually, and narratively. So, in essence, you’re not reliving the trauma.
It’s not about erasing the past but about giving your younger self the support, validation, and protection they needed at the time. By stepping into the memory as your adult self and introducing a compassionate figure (me as the counsellor) you can offer reassurance, rewrite harmful narratives, and begin to heal lingering wounds.
How Can ImRs Help with Childhood Experiences?
Many early experiences shape our core beliefs about safety, love, self-worth, and belonging. If childhood was marked by neglect, criticism, or unmet emotional needs, those patterns can persist long into adulthood. You might struggle with self-acceptance, feel disconnected from your emotions, or carry an overwhelming sense of being ‘too much’ or ‘not enough’.
ImRs provides a way to:
- Reframe painful moments: Instead of reliving distress, you can intervene in the memory, offering comfort and protection to your younger self.
- Change the emotional impact: By rescripting the event, you can shift how it feels in your body, reducing shame, fear, or sadness tied to the past.
- Build self-compassion: Rather than internalising blame or criticism, ImRs helps cultivate a kinder and more understanding relationship with yourself.
- Reconnect with your authentic self: Healing past wounds can allow you to break free from limiting beliefs and rediscover your sense of agency and emotional balance.
The Journey of Rescripting
In therapy, when I use ImRs I guide clients in a safe and supportive way. It begins with revisiting a memory, observing the feelings and beliefs tied to it, and then gradually introducing changes, whether through direct intervention, offering reassurance.
Over time, these shifts in imagery can lead to profound emotional healing. Clients often describe feeling lighter, more connected to themselves, and less trapped in old narratives. The past no longer holds the same grip, it becomes something that can be honoured and understood without defining the present.
Healing Is Possible
If you’ve felt stuck in patterns that stem from childhood experiences, know that healing is possible. You don’t have to be alone in navigating the weight of the past. Therapy, and techniques like Imagery Rescripting, offer an opportunity to move forward with greater understanding, self-compassion, and a deepened connection to yourself.
Contact me if you would like to know more about ImRs or would like to experience it for yourself. It is effective online and in person.
Let’s Begin
I offer sessions in Deal and Canterbury, and also work online.
You’re welcome to book a free 30-minute introductory call, where we can chat about what you’re looking for and see if it feels like a good fit.