Clarifying what matters to the client so that emotions become signals for values-based engagement, not merely symptoms to reduce.
Step-by-step guide
- Ask what the emotion shows is important
- Identify the value or need behind the emotion
- Distinguish values from goals and rules
- Explore how avoidance has moved the client away from values
- Define one small values-based action
- Use contrasting to connect current distress with the desired life direction
When to use
- Throughout ERT
- When the client wants only symptom removal
- When action needs a motivational anchor
Key phrases
What does this emotion show you care about?
Follow-up questions
If anxiety is protecting something, what is it?
What value has avoidance pushed you away from?
What is one small action toward that value?
Alternative phrasings
The emotion is painful because something matters.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not turn values into moral demands
- ⚠️ Keep values connected to concrete behavior
Source: Mennin et al. 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.