We discuss an easy-to-use, evidence-based technique called Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) which can eliminate recurring nightmares in as little as one session. In IRT the dreamer creates their own dream that they WANT to have and, by practicing that good dream during the day time, they can drive out nightmares. Dr Nadorff also shares information about a free app called “Dream EZ” which uses IRT to allow users to reduce their own nightmares. Reducing nightmares is critical because frequent nightmares accompanied by suicidal ideation are much more likely to result in attempted suicide. Thus healing nightmares has the potential to save lives. We finish with a caller who has been experiencing frequent nightmares and suicidal thoughts who spoke about her work with Internal Family Systems and lucid dreaming.

BIO: Dr. Michael Nadorff is an associate professor of psychology at Mississippi State University where he also directs the clinical psychology PhD program.  He is the director of the Sleep, Suicide and Aging Lab, and his research focuses on the association between sleep difficulties, particularly nightmares, and suicidal behavior.  He has published more than 60 peer-reviewed manuscripts and received more than $3.4 million in external grant funding from NIMH, SAMHSA, and the CDC.  Dr. Nadorff is an expert in Imagery Rehearsal Therapy, a nightmare treatment that he believes has a lot of potential to not only improve nightmares, but also a myriad of other mental health disorders.

Dr. Nadorff can be reached through his website SuicideLab.com

Show aired on August 15, 2020.

The Dream Journal is produced at and airs on KSQD Santa Cruz, 90.7 FM, streaming live at KSQD.org 10-11am Saturday mornings Pacific time.  Catch it live and call in with your dreams or questions at 831-900-5773.

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If you want to contact Katherine Bell with feedback, suggestions for future shows or to inquire about exploring your own dreams with her, contact [email protected], or find out more about her at  ExperientialDreamwork.com.