EMDR Target Assessment Worksheet
A clinician worksheet for the EMDR assessment phase recording target memory, image, negative and positive cognitions, VOC, emotions, SUD and body location.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · EMDR · Phase 3
- Approach / concern
- EMDR
- Technique
- EMDR · Phase 3
- 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 Target Assessment Worksheet?
The EMDR assessment phase activates the target memory by identifying its image, negative cognition, desired positive cognition, validity of cognition, emotions, disturbance level and body sensations.
Why it works
The standard protocol specifies these components to access the memory network and establish baselines (Shapiro, 2018). SUD ratings derive from Wolpe’s (1969) subjective units of disturbance.
When to use it
- EMDR Phase 3 assessment
- Each new target
- Supervision and consultation
- Documentation
How to use it in session
- Identify the target.
- Elicit the worst image.
- Identify NC and PC.
- Rate VOC.
- Note emotions, SUD and body location.
Clinician tips
- Keep NCs self-referencing and present-tense.
- PC should be realistic and positive.
- Use brief phrases to avoid over-activation.
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
What’s the difference between SUD and VOC?
SUD measures current disturbance (0-10); VOC measures how true the positive belief feels (1-7).
Can clients complete this alone?
No. It’s designed for use in session by a trained clinician.
References
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
Wolpe, J. (1969). The practice of behavior therapy. Pergamon Press.
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.
