EMDR Future Template Worksheet
An EMDR future template worksheet describing a future situation, positive belief, resources, an imagined successful response, challenges and VOC.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · EMDR · Future template
- Approach / concern
- EMDR
- Technique
- EMDR · Future template
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Advanced plan
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the EMDR Future Template Worksheet?
The future template is EMDR’s third prong. Clients imagine future situations and rehearse adaptive responses with the installed positive cognition, often with bilateral stimulation.
Why it works
Shapiro (2018) includes the future template to consolidate gains and prepare clients for future challenges. Leeds (2016) describes procedures for future template installation.
When to use it
- After past and present targets are processed
- Anticipated stressful situations
- Skill generalization
- Treatment completion
How to use it in session
- Choose a future situation.
- Identify the PC and resources.
- Imagine it going well.
- Address challenges.
- Rate VOC and install if trained.
Clinician tips
- Include realistic challenges.
- Ensure past and present work is complete first.
- Use video-check of the full scenario.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
When is the future template used?
Usually after related past memories and present triggers are processed.
Is it the same as visualization?
It’s related, but integrated into EMDR’s protocol with cognitions and bilateral stimulation.
References
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
Leeds, A. M. (2016). A guide to the standard EMDR therapy protocols for clinicians, supervisors, and consultants (2nd ed.). Springer.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
