EMDR Session Note Worksheet: Treatment Progress & Clinical Tracking

This professional session note worksheet operationalizes the documentation requirements for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, ensuring adherence to the Three-Pronged Protocol (Past, Present, and Future). The layout provides a structured framework for tracking critical clinical metrics across the 8 phases, including Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUDs), Validity of Cognition (VoC), and the specific type of Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) utilized. By documenting the “Target of the Session”—whether a Touchstone memory, Worst-case scenario, or current symptom—clinicians can maintain a clear longitudinal view of the client’s memory network and processing trajectory.

The structured layout is designed to support the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model by tracking the movement from Negative Cognitions (NC) to Positive Cognitions (PC). Research in EMDR highlights the importance of recording somatic interventions and stabilization techniques (e.g., Container, Calm Place, or Lightstream) to ensure client safety and regulation. This tool facilitates precise clinical formulation, allowing the practitioner to note whether a target was fully completed or remains unfinished, which is vital for planning subsequent Phase 4 (Desensitization) or Phase 8 (Reevaluation) sessions. By externalizing the session data, clinicians meet the highest standards of trauma-informed documentation and case management.

This clinical resource draws significant inspiration from the standard protocol documentation established by Francine Shapiro and the specialized case conceptualization forms refined by Marilyn Luber. By operationalizing the 8-phase protocol into a concise, single-page format, the worksheet assists practitioners in maintaining clinical neutrality and objective monitoring. This process is foundational for a comprehensive treatment arc, ensuring that each prong of the trauma network is systematically addressed, leading to integrated healing and increased emotional resilience.

How This Worksheet Can Be Used

Clinical Documentation:
Therapists use this form as a standard “Progress Note” to record the specific mechanics of an EMDR session. It provides a legal and clinical record of the SUDs/VoC shifts and the specific BLS methods applied (Auditory, Tactile, or Eye Movements).

Treatment Planning:
The worksheet serves as a roadmap for the Three-Pronged Protocol. By checking the “Past, Present, or Future” boxes, the clinician ensures that all aspects of the trauma network are processed, preventing treatment gaps.

Stabilization Monitoring:
Clinicians use the “Stabilization Intervention” section to track which grounding tools are most effective for a specific client. This data helps tailor Phase 2 (Preparation) resources to the client’s unique autonomic needs.

Benefits of the EMDR Session Note Worksheet

• Ensures high-fidelity adherence to the standard 8-phase EMDR protocol.
• Quantifies clinical progress through systematic 0–10 SUDs and 1–7 VoC tracking.
• Supports the AIP model by documenting the transition from trauma-based to adaptive beliefs.
• Identifies the specific targets processed, including Touchstone and Worst-case memories.
• Tracks “Stabilization Interventions” to monitor client regulation and Window of Tolerance.
• Facilitates professional case formulation and longitudinal treatment monitoring.

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. Springer Publishing Company.
• Maxfield, L. (2009). EMDR treatment of recent adverse experiences. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research. (Context on documenting session outcomes).
• Leeds, A. M. (2016). A Guide to the Standard EMDR Therapy Protocols for Clinicians, Supervisors, and Consultants. Springer Publishing Company.