PhD title: Implementation of Functional Imagery Training into primary care
Supervisors: Professor Jackie Andrade, Dr Tracey Parkin, Dr Linda Solbrig, Dr Ben Whalley
This report is independent research funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration South West Peninsula.
Background
Functional Imagery Training (FIT) is an intervention that trains patients to use imagery to support long term goal attainment. It has been used with many patient populations, however this PhD is focusing on weight management.
One of the aims of the project is to explore the implementation process of transferring research into practice, specifically working with the NHS. As part of this process we are hoping to implement aspects of Functional imagery Training (FIT) into NHS dietetics services over the next 12 months and then follow this up with a larger scale, multi-centre RCT. The project will be exploring all aspects of the implementation process from finding suitable services to training staff to then supporting the use of their new skills in practice; drawing upon research and the theoretical underpinnings of implementation science to ensure the normalisation and longevity of using FIT in practice.
As part of the implementation process this project will be looking at building the evidence base for FIT by collecting data on remote accessed group-based FIT. This will be an online study looking how FIT supports weight loss, perceived health and quality of life, maintained weight loss and how FIT compares to treatment as usual for patients who are overweight. This data will allow us to develop the use of FIT with this patient group and also allow us to explore the use of online interventions for weight loss.
Take part
For information on how to take part in this study, visit our psychological strategies for weight loss page.
Also in Functional Imagery Training:
- Functional Imagery Training – A new, low cost e-health treatment for alcohol use disorder using mental imagery
- Functional imagery training to reduce alcohol-related harm
- Study to explore whether new therapy can help address problem drinking
- Weight loss can be boosted fivefold thanks to novel mental imagery technique, research shows
