EMDR Focusing on the Positive Worksheet: Replacing Negative Core Beliefs

This clinical worksheet facilitates Phase 3 (Assessment) and Phase 5 (Installation) of the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) protocol by providing a structured framework for cognitive restructuring. The layout organizes the most common post-traumatic negative cognitions (NCs) into four primary clinical domains: Responsibility/Accountability, Self-Deficiency/Worth, Safety/Security, and Control/Choice. By prompting clients to identify their current internal narrative and pair it with a functional Positive Cognition (PC), the tool helps move the client from a state of maladaptive “trauma logic” to one of adaptive information processing. This process is essential for defining the therapeutic target before active bilateral stimulation begins.

The structured layout is designed to support the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model by identifying the “stuck points” within a client’s memory network. Research in EMDR suggests that the effective selection of a PC—one that is both believable and empowering—is a significant predictor of successful desensitization. By providing a comprehensive list of common negative beliefs, such as “I am powerless” or “I am not worthy of love,” alongside space for adaptive replacements, the worksheet assists clinicians in helping clients articulate the internal shifts necessary for recovery. This cognitive mapping ensures that the “Validity of Cognition” (VoC) can be measured and strengthened systematically throughout the treatment arc.

This clinical resource draws significant inspiration from the foundational research of Francine Shapiro and the categorized cognitive lists refined by Marilyn Luber. By operationalizing the transition from self-blame and vulnerability toward safety and agency, the worksheet assists practitioners in guiding clients through the “cognitive interweave” process. This process is foundational for ensuring that traumatic memories are no longer stored as “frozen” negative truths, but are integrated into a resilient, adaptive self-narrative that supports long-term emotional stability and personal growth.

How This Worksheet Can Be Used

Phase 3 Target Assessment:
Therapists use the worksheet to help clients select the most relevant NC and desired PC for a specific memory. It serves as a visual menu to help clients who may struggle to put their feelings into words during the assessment phase.

Cognitive Restructuring:
This tool is highly effective for identifying “feeder” beliefs that maintain distress. By addressing the “Accountability” or “Control” categories, the clinician can help the client differentiate between past events and current identity.

Tracking Progress:
Clinicians can use the worksheet to monitor the shift in a client’s worldview over time. As memories are reprocessed, the therapist can refer back to the selected positive cognitions to reinforce their growing believability in daily life.

Benefits of the EMDR Focusing on the Positive Worksheet

• Categorizes negative beliefs into 4 core clinical domains for targeted intervention.
• Supports the AIP model by facilitating the shift from maladaptive to adaptive cognitions.
• Provides concrete examples of Positive Cognitions to assist with Phase 5 Installation.
• Reduces “Processing Loops” by clarifying the desired cognitive outcome of the session.
• Empowers clients to challenge self-deficiency and reclaim a sense of internal control.
• Facilitates a structured approach to identifying the “Validity of Cognition” (VoC).

References

• Shapiro, F. (2017). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
• Luber, M. (2009). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy Scripted Protocols: Basics and Special Situations. Springer Publishing Company.
• Leeds, A. M. (2016). A Guide to the Standard EMDR Therapy Protocols for Clinicians, Supervisors, and Consultants. Springer Publishing Company.
• Hofmann, A., et al. (2014). EMDR therapy of panic disorder and agoraphobia. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research. (Context on the selection of positive cognitions).