CBT by Condition

Guide

CBT for Nightmare Disorder (Imagery Rehearsal)

Educational content only. Coordinate with a clinician if nightmares are trauma‑related. See our Medical Disclaimer.

Overview

Nightmare disorder involves recurrent distressing dreams that impair sleep/function. IRT rescripts the storyline to reduce frequency and distress.

IRT steps

  • Write the nightmare briefly; choose a new, safe ending.
  • Rehearse the new dream imagery during the day for a few minutes.
  • Maintain regular sleep routines and calming wind‑down.

Journaling prompts

  1. Original nightmare theme → rescripted ending I practiced.
  2. Rehearsal minutes today; sleep quality tonight.
  3. One calming cue in my wind‑down that helped.

See How to Journal.

When to seek care

Trauma‑linked nightmares or severe insomnia warrant clinician support (CBT‑I, TF‑CBT).

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