Worksheet
CBT Thought Record
The CBT Thought Record Worksheet helps clients identify and examine negative thought patterns by tracking their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. As one of the most practical CBT worksheets available, this tool helps identify distorted thinking, unhelpful thoughts, and the emotional and behavioral patterns that follow. Use it to guide clients toward constructive alternatives that lead to positive behaviors and lasting change.
How to Use the CBT Thought Record Worksheet
The CBT Thought Record Worksheet is designed to help clients recognize and reframe automatic thoughts by tracking their emotional, cognitive, and behavioral responses to everyday events. in tracking thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to specific life events or emotional reactions.
Therapists can introduce it during a session to examine cognitive distortions or assign it as a daily exercise for managing stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health symptoms. Over time, this thought record offers clear data on unhelpful thoughts and helps clients reflect, reframe, and develop more adaptive thought processes.
Who It's For
This worksheet is ideal for clients experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or any mental health challenges rooted in distorted thinking or maladaptive behaviors. It's especially effective for clients who benefit from structured CBT tools to understand patterns, challenge irrational thoughts, and make more informed decisions in therapy and daily life.
Expected Outcomes
- Increased clarity around unhelpful thoughts and feelings
- Strengthened ability to challenge and reframe unhelpful thinking
- Development of resilience and more positive coping strategies
- Greater confidence in making values-based, informed decisions
Related Topics
References
Delavechia, T. R., Velasquez, M. L., Duran, É. P., Matsumoto, L. S., & De Oliveira, I. R. (2016). Changing negative core beliefs with trial-based thought record. Archives of Clinical Psychiatry (São Paulo), 43(2), 31–33. https://doi.org/10.1590/0101-60830000000078
Frequently Asked Questions About CBT Thought Record Resources
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