Using imagery for role transition of midwifery students

The University of Texas Collaborative Nurse-Midwifery Education Program uses various strategies to facilitate transition from competent nurse to graduate student and then to beginning midwife practitioner. Guided imagery is the mainstay of the strategies used throughout the five semesters of the program. Proactive intervention facilitated by a nurse-counselor takes place in a group, supported as needed by individual counseling. The principles of psychosynthesis and role theory are the theoretic foundations for the intervention. Evaluation of the intervention indicated that it was received enthusiastically by most students.