​​​​Negative Map

To begin, creating a neuro-network map of both the negative symptoms to be eliminated and the positive resources you aim to develop is a treatment plan that goes a long way in developing a “big picture” of the condition and its treatment. The right brain—or creative and emotional “half” of the brain—should be involved here, because it is the right brain that actually has the answers. The left brain in most modern cultures is presented as logical and rational, but in this case, as we are working with preverbal memories, it’s safe to say the left brain can sit this one out.

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We’ll be using specific cues that invite the right brain to activate. I strongly suggest beginning with a quarter sheet of posterboard or large sheet of paper and colored markers or pencils. This is a creative process, not a chore. One side of the page will be for the negative map, and when it’s time to make the positive map, you will flip the sheet over and start the same process on the other side of the page. The negative map will begin in the middle of the page and move outward. There will be no lists or long sentences, just a few words to describe the problem. To begin, jot down any and every problem here, use any color that feels appropriate—one or many. Circle each problem or negative symptom and connect any problems that may be related with lines.

In case you find it difficult to identify problems, here are some suggestions to get you started: places, situations or people that make you uncomfortable, memories you wish to avoid, experiences that still bother you, or people that make you feel bad. What do you associate with emotions such as sadness, anger, or frustration? Perhaps list diagnoses you have or think you may have. You can include physical problems like pain or your worries about the future.

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This map will most likely end up looking like a messy spiderweb. Don’t be concerned with neatness. All of this is to encourage the right brain to express its pain. Some people may find this exercise relaxing, like a relief to get it all out there. If it is stressful, take a break.

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Positive Map

When you’ve put down as many problems and negative symptoms on your negative map as you can think of—knowing you can add to or alter this side at any time—it’s time to start the positive side. Flip your paper over and once again, start in the middle. This side is usually more difficult, but gets easier once you get started. This side includes anything and everything positive in your life, past and present. Specific incidents, memories, thoughts, and experiences will work best here.

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Some examples from my own positive map are the smell of pine trees after rain and birdsong, sitting on my grandmother’s back porch listening to the cicadas. My favorite sausage and mushroom pizza, gardening, running with my dog, watching a familiar movie, knitting, skateboarding, or scuba diving. You might a time when a relative or teacher listened to you when you needed to be heard, a best friend from grade school. A cat purring on your lap, the taste of ice cream, seeing the first daffodils bloom in the spring. Your positive map will include anything that has made you feel calm, safe, relaxed, loved, welcome, and understood. Circle each memory, and if any of them are related, draw lines to connect them. If any negative memories come up during this part of the exercise, turn the map over and put them on the negative side.

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Looking at your positive map, choose something that you would like more of.  Access that memory or sensation as much as possible, and at the same time, begin slow bilateral stimulation. This could be placing your hands on your shoulders, arms, or knees, as you slowly begin alternating tapping. It can also be moving your eyes back and forth from one side to the other, perhaps using the corners of the room or by following your index finger as you move it back and forth. Pause and take a break every minute or so, then continue with the same or another positive memory.

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Notice if other positive memories or experiences pop up as you do bilateral stimulation. When they do, add them to your map. Remember to put any negative thoughts or memories on the negative side of the map.