Covert positive reinforcement is an imagery-based procedure used to increase the frequency of both covert and overt behavior. In using covert positive reinforcement, the client imagines his or her performance of the targeted behavior in its typical context, and he or she also imagines the reinforcer, which follows it. The assumption is that the reinforcer functions to strengthen the targeted behavior and increase its frequency in the context described in the “scene.”

The first step in implementing this procedure is to ascertain treatment goals, problems interfering with attainment of treatment goals, and behaviors that must be changed to achieve these goals. This is done through a collaborative discussion between the therapist and client. Each element of the process is ...