Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Worksheet for Gaz
Patient Information
- Patient Name: Gaz
- Age: Unknown
- Diagnosis: PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) due to a physical assault 25 years ago.
- Therapy Experience: Unknown
- Current Medication: None
- Behavioral Change Goals: None specified
Overview of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-limited psychotherapy that aims to address the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In the case of PTSD, CBT can help the patient process traumatic memories, challenge negative thoughts, and develop adaptive coping mechanisms to manage anxiety and distress.
Goals of this Worksheet
- Identify Negative Thoughts and Beliefs: Understand how past experiences shape current thinking patterns.
- Challenge and Reframe Negative Thoughts: Learn techniques for modifying unhelpful thought patterns.
- Develop Coping Strategies: Identify methods for handling symptoms of PTSD and related distress.
- Set Behavioral Activation Goals: Encourage engagement in activities that promote well-being.
Section 1: Identifying Negative Thoughts and Beliefs
Thought Recording (Example Format)
| Date |
Situation |
Negative Thoughts/Feelings |
Intensity (0-10) |
Evidence For Negative Thought |
Evidence Against Negative Thought |
| [Date] |
[Situation] |
“[Thought/Feeling]” |
[Intensity Level] |
“I believe...” |
“However...” |
Exercise: Fill out the thought recording table as you experience negative thoughts. Reflect upon situations that trigger distress.
Section 2: Challenging Negative Thoughts
Cognitive Restructuring
- Identify the Thought: What is the specific thought you're having?
- Evaluate the Evidence: What evidence supports this thought? What evidence contradicts it?
- Reframe the Thought: What is a more balanced, less extreme way of viewing the situation?
Example:
- Identified Thought: "I will never feel safe in public."
- Evidence For: "I was attacked in public before."
- Evidence Against: "I have also been in public without incident."
- Reframed Thought: "Although I had a negative experience, I can still learn to feel safe in social settings."
Section 3: Developing Coping Strategies
Coping Skills List
- Grounding Techniques: Engage the five senses to bring focus to the present moment.
- Breathing Exercises: Practice deep-breathing techniques to reduce anxiety.
- Mindfulness Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness practices to foster awareness and acceptance of thoughts and feelings.
- Journaling: Write about your experiences. This can help process emotions and make sense of your feelings.
- Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical exercise to release endorphins and improve mood.
Exercise: Pick two coping strategies and practice them this week. Reflect on how they made you feel afterward.
Section 4: Behavioral Activation Goals
Setting Goals
Activity Planning: Identify activities that bring joy, relaxation, or connection. Write down specific behaviors you will engage in.
- Activity: [Activity Name]
- Frequency: [How often?]
- Duration: [How long?]
- Anticipated Emotions: [How do you expect to feel before and after?]
Example:
- Activity: Visit a local park.
- Frequency: Twice a week
- Duration: 1 hour
- Anticipated Emotions: "I hope to feel more relaxed and connected to nature."
Reflection
Progress Review
At the end of each week, reflect on what you have practiced:
- What thoughts were most challenging?
- How did you respond to those thoughts?
- What coping strategies worked best for you?
- What behaviors have you engaged in?
Next Steps: Share your reflections with your therapist during the next session for further discussion and support.
By following this worksheet, Gaz can begin to address and manage the ongoing effects of PTSD from past trauma while emphasizing growth and healing through structured self-reflection and engagement in therapeutic practices.