An adaptive, healing version of the negative cognition — what the client would like to believe about themselves after reprocessing the trauma: "I am able to cope", "I did what I could in that situation", "I can be safe". The PC is formulated in the present tense, without negation, realistic and concise. In Phase 5 (Installation) the PC is strengthened through BLS until VoC reaches 6–7.
Step-by-step guide
- Offer several PC options as opposites to or healing of the NC
- Have the client choose the one that "sounds" most healing
- Check the formulation: a positive statement, present tense, no negation
- Measure the initial VoC: "From 1 to 7 — how true does this feel right now?"
- Lock in the PC for use in Phase 5 after the SUD has come down
When to use
- The Assessment phase (Phase 3) — right after the formulation of the NC
- The Installation phase (Phase 5) — after the SUD has dropped to zero
Key phrases
What thought about yourself would you like to have instead of this belief? What is the ideal thought about yourself after we process this memory?
Follow-up questions
Here are a few options — which one is closer to what you would like to believe?
It must be realistic, not fantastical — something you could believe in
Alternative phrasings
If you could choose what to think about yourself in connection with this event — what would you choose?
What would you say to a close friend who found themselves in the same situation?
Warnings
- ⚠️ The PC must not be in the form of a negation: not "I am not helpless", but "I am able"
- ⚠️ The PC must be realistic — fantastical statements do not yield a VoC of 7
- ⚠️ If the client offers a weak PC — gently suggest a stronger version
Source: Shapiro, 2001, 2018
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.