Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Worksheet

Patient Name: Kirby Michaelides
Age: 25-34
Issue: Relationship Issues (Social Anxiety)
Experience: Extensive (21+ sessions)
Current Medication: Anti-anxiety Medications
Emergency Contact: Andreas, 1 Adelaide Street, Adelaide, South Australia, Phone: 0432 774 778

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Section 1: Understanding the Issue

1.1 Description of Challenges

Kirby has been dealing with relationship issues primarily stemming from social anxiety. This anxiety manifests in fear of social situations, avoidance behaviors, and negative self-perception, impacting his ability to form and maintain relationships.

1.2 Current Thoughts and Beliefs

• Negative Automatic Thoughts:

  • "I will embarrass myself in social situations."
  • "People will judge me."
  • "I’m not as interesting as others."

• Underlying Beliefs:

  • "I don’t deserve to be liked."
  • "I am socially incompetent."

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Section 2: Identifying Patterns

2.1 Triggers

• Upcoming social events (parties, gatherings).
• Meeting new people.
• Situations where personal skills might be evaluated (presentations, group activities).

2.2 Emotional Response

• Anxiety: Heightened heart rate, sweating, trembling.
• Sadness: Feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
• Self-doubt: Questioning self-worth.

2.3 Behavioral Patterns

• Avoidance of social gatherings.
• Over-analyzing interactions after the fact.
• Seeking reassurance from close friends or family.

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Section 3: Setting Goals

3.1 Short-Term Goals (1-4 weeks)

1. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Focus on affirmations before social situations.
2. Gradual Exposure: Attend at least one social event per week, starting with smaller gatherings.
3. Identify and Challenge Negative Thoughts: Use a thought record to capture negative thoughts and reframe them.

3.2 Long-Term Goals (2-6 months)

1. Increase Comfort in Social Situations: Feel more relaxed during interactions with friends/peers.
2. Build and Maintain Relationships: Develop 2-3 new friendships.
3. Decrease Social Anxiety Symptoms: Use coping strategies effectively to manage anxiety during interactions.

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Section 4: Exercises and Strategies

4.1 Positive Self-Talk Exercise

Instructions:

1. Identify three positive affirmations (e.g., "I am worthy of good relationships," "I handle social situations well," "It’s okay to be myself").
2. Write these down and practice them daily, especially before social interactions.

4.2 Thought Record

Example Format for Logging Thoughts: | Date | Situation | Negative Thought | Response/Challenge | New Positive Thought | |------------|------------------------|---------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|--------------------------------------| | 2023-10-01 | Party Invitation | "I will embarrass myself." | List times I have succeeded socially. | "I can handle this, I've done it before." | | 2023-10-03 | Meeting New People | "They will judge me." | Consider how I judge others. | "Everyone is here to enjoy." |

4.3 Gradual Exposure Plan

Steps:

1. Start with low-stakes situations (e.g., coffee with a friend).
2. Gradually increase to complex situations (e.g., parties, networking events).
3. Document experiences (successes, challenges, feelings) after each event.

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Section 5: Reflection and Progress Monitoring

5.1 Weekly Reflection

• What went well this week?
• What were challenges faced?
• How did I practice positive self-talk?
• What steps shall I take next week?

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Emergency Contact Information

Primary Contact: Andreas
Address: 1 Adelaide Street, Adelaide, South Australia
Phone: 0432 774 778

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This worksheet is a guide designed to help Kirby in his journey towards overcoming social anxiety and improving relationship dynamics. Continuous collaboration with the therapist is encouraged for optimal progress.