cbt problem solving activities

Cognitive Remediation Therapy: 13 Exercises & Worksheets

This can result in concentration, organizational, and planning difficulties that impact their quality of life and independent living.

Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CRT) helps by increasing awareness of intellectual difficulties and improving thinking skills. While originally designed for people with thinking problems associated with schizophrenia, it has also proven successful for those with other diagnoses (Bristol Mental Health, n.d.).

CRT works by encouraging a range of exercises and activities that challenge memory, flexible thinking, planning, and concentration problems.

This article explores CRT and its potential to help clients and includes techniques, activities, and worksheets to build effective therapy sessions.

Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our three Positive CBT Exercises for free . These science-based exercises will provide you with detailed insight into Positive CBT and give you the tools to apply it in your therapy or coaching.

This Article Contains:

What is cognitive remediation therapy (crt), how does cognitive remediation work, 8 techniques for your sessions, 7 exercises, activities, & games, 6 helpful worksheets and manuals, implementing online crt programs, 3 best software programs for helping your clients, a take-home message.

“Cognitive remediation is a behavioral treatment for people who are experiencing cognitive impairments that interfere with daily functioning” (Medalia, Revheim, & Herlands, 2009, p. 1).

Successful cognitive functions, including memory, attention, visual-spatial analysis, and abstract reasoning, are vital for engaging with tasks, the environment, and healthy relationships.

CRT improves cognitive processing and psychosocial functioning through behavioral training and increasing individual confidence in people with mental health disorders (Corbo & Abreu, 2018). Training interventions focus on the skills and supports required to “improve the success and satisfaction people experience in their chosen living, learning, working, and social environments” (Medalia et al., 2009, p. 2).

Exercises typically focus on specific cognitive functions, where tasks are repeated (often on a computer) at increasing degrees of difficulty. For example:

Paying attention
Remembering
Being organized
Planning skills
Problem-solving
Processing information

Based on the principles of errorless learning and targeted reinforcement exercises , interventions involve memory, motor dexterity, and visual reading tasks. Along with improving confidence in personal abilities, repetition encourages thinking about solving tasks in multiple ways (Corbo & Abreu, 2018).

While initially targeted for patients with schizophrenia, CRT is an effective treatment for other mental health conditions , including mood and eating disorders (Corbo & Abreu, 2018).

CRT is particularly effective when the cognitive skills and support interventions reflect the individual’s self-selected rehabilitation goals. As a result, cognitive remediation relies on collaboration, assessing client needs, and identifying appropriate opportunities for intervention (Medalia et al., 2009).

Cognitive remediation vs cognitive rehabilitation

CRT is one of several skill-training psychiatric rehabilitation interventions. And yet, cognitive remediation is not the same as cognitive rehabilitation (Tchanturia, 2015).

Cognitive rehabilitation typically targets neurocognitive processes damaged because of injury or illness and involves a series of interventions designed to retrain previously learned cognitive skills along with compensatory strategies (Tsaousides & Gordon, 2009).

While initially done in person, they can subsequently be performed remotely as required (Corbo & Abreu, 2018; Bristol Mental Health, n.d.).

Well-thought-out educational software provides multisensory feedback and positive reinforcement while supporting success, choice, and control of the learning process. Its design can target either specific cognitive functions or non-specific learning skills and mechanisms (Medalia et al., 2009).

CRT successfully uses the brain’s neuroplasticity and is often more effective in younger age groups who haven’t experienced the effects of long-term psychosis. It works by increasing activation and connectivity patterns within and across several brain regions involved in working memory and high-order executive functioning (Corbo & Abreu, 2018).

The Neuropsychological Educational Approach to Cognitive Remediation (NEAR) is one of several approaches that provide highly individualized learning opportunities. It allows each client to proceed at their own pace on tasks selected and designed to engage them and address their cognitive needs (Medalia et al., 2009).

NEAR and other CRT techniques are influenced by learning theory and make use of the following (Medalia et al., 2009):

Errorless learning Encouraging the client to learn progressively, creating a positive experience without relying on trial and error.
Shaping and positive feedback Reinforcing behaviors that approximate target behaviors (such as good timekeeping) and offering rewards (for example, monthly certificates for attendance).
Prompting Using open-ended questions that guide the client toward the correct response.
Modeling Demonstrating how to solve a problem.
Generalizing Learning how to generalize learned skills to other situations.
Bridging Understanding how to apply skills learned inside a session outside in everyday life.

Encouraging intrinsic motivation (doing the tasks for the satisfaction of doing them rather than for external rewards) and task engagement are also essential aspects of successful CRT programs (Medalia et al., 2009).

Therapy is most effective when it successfully supports clients as they transfer learning skills into the real world.

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Cognitive remediation techniques must be selected according to the skills and needs of the client and typically fall into one of three major intervention categories (Medalia et al., 2009):

Planning exercises, such as planning a trip to the beach to practice cognitive strategies
Cueing and sequencing , such as adding signs or placing reminder notes at home to encourage completing everyday tasks (for example, brushing teeth)

Such techniques rely on several key principles, including “(1) teaching new, efficient, information processing strategies; (2) aiding the transfer of cognitive gains to the real world; and (3) modifying the local environment” (Medalia et al., 2009, p. 5).

Restorative approaches Directly target cognitive deficits by repeating task practices and gradually increasing difficulty and complexity; along with regular feedback, they encourage accurate and high levels of performance.

Practice is often organized hierarchically, as follows:

Elementary aspects of sensory processing (for example, improving auditory processing speed and accuracy)
High-order memory and problem-solving skills (including executive functioning and verbal skills)

This technique assumes a degree of neuroplasticity that, with training, results in a greater degree of accuracy in sensory representations, improved cognitive strategies for grouping stimuli into more meaningful groups, and better recall.

Repetition and reaching for increasing levels of task difficulty
Modeling other people’s positive behavior
Role-play to re-enact experienced or imagined behavior from different perspectives
Corrective feedback to improve and correct unwanted or unhelpful behavior

Complex social cognitive processes are typically broken down into elemental skills for repetitive practice, role-play, and corrective feedback.

Professor Dame Til Wykes: cognitive remediation therapy

It is vital that activities within CRT are interesting and engaging for clients. They must foster the motivation required to persevere to the end of the task or game.

The following three games and puzzles are particularly valuable for children and adolescents (modified from Tchanturia, 2015):

SET is a widely available card game that practices matching based on color, shape, shading, etc.

Clients must shift their thinking to identify multiple ways of categorizing and grouping cards, then physically sort them based on their understanding.

It may be helpful to begin with a limited set of cards to reduce the likelihood of the clients becoming overwhelmed by the game or finding it less enjoyable.

2. Rush Hour

Rush Hour is another fun game that balances problem-solving skills with speed.

Puzzles start simple and increase in complexity, with additional elements involved. Skills developed include problem-solving and abstract thinking, and the game requires a degree of perseverance.

Other activities require no specialist equipment and yet can be highly engaging and support clients in learning transferable skills (modified from Tchanturia, 2015).

Bigger picture thinking This involves the client picturing a shape in their minds or looking at one out of sight of the therapist. They then describe the shape (without naming it), while the therapist attempts to draw it according to the instructions. This practice is helpful with clients who get overwhelmed by detail and cannot see the bigger picture.
Word searches Word searches encourage the client to focus on relevant information and ignore everything else – an essential factor in central coherence. Such puzzles also challenge memory, concentration, and attention.
Last word response Last word response is a challenging verbal game promoting cognitive flexibility. The first player makes up and says a sentence out loud. Each subsequent player makes up a new sentence, starting with the last word of the previous player’s sentence. For example, ‘ I like cheese’ may be followed by the next player saying, ‘ Cheese is my favorite sandwich ingredient ,’ etc.
Dexterity Using your non-dominant hand once a week (for example, combing your hair or brushing your teeth) stimulates different parts of your brain, creating alternative patterns of neuron firing and strengthening cognitive functions.

The following therapy worksheets help structure Cognitive Remediation Therapy sessions and ensure that the needs of clients are met using appropriately targeted CRT interventions (modified from Medalia et al., 2009; Medalia & Bowie, 2016):

Client referral to CRT

The Cognitive Remediation Therapy Referral Form captures valuable information when a client is referred from another agency or therapist so that the new therapist can identify and introduce the most appropriate CRT interventions. The form includes information such as:

Primary reasons

Secondary reasons

Self-confidence
Working with others
Time management
Goal-directed activities

Cognitive Appraisal for CRT

The Cognitive Appraisal for CRT form is helpful for identifying and recording areas of cognitive processing that cause difficulty for the client and require focus during Cognitive Remediation Therapy sessions.

Clients are scored on their degree of difficulty with the following:

Paying attention during conversation
Maintaining concentration in meetings
Completing tasks once started
Starting tasks
Planning and organizing tasks and projects
Reasoning and solving problems

Software Appraisal for CRT

The Software Appraisal for CRT form helps assess which software would be most helpful in a specific Cognitive Remediation Therapy session. It provides valuable input for tailoring treatment to the needs of the client.

For example:

Level of reading ability required
Cognitive deficits addressed by the software
What is the multimedia experience like?
How much input is required by the therapist?

Appraisal records become increasingly important as more software is acquired for clients with various cognitive deficits from multiple backgrounds.

Software Usage for CRT

The Software Usage for CRT form helps keep track of the software clients have tried and how effectively it supports them as they learn, develop, and overcome cognitive deficits.

The client considers the software they use and whether they practiced the following areas of cognition:

Concentration
Processing speed
Multitasking
Logic and reasoning
Organization
Fast responses
Working memory

Thought Tracking During Cognitive Remediation Therapy

Thought Tracking During Cognitive Remediation Therapy is valuable for identifying and recording the client’s goals for that day’s Cognitive Remediation Therapy session and understanding how it relates to their overall treatment goals.

Planning to Meet Goals in CRT

The Planning to Meet Goals in CRT worksheet is for clients requiring support and practice in planning, goal-setting, and goal achievement.

Working with the client, answer the following prompts:

What goal or project are you working toward?
What date should it be completed by?
Are there any obstacles to overcome to complete the goal?
Are there any additional resources required?
Then consider the steps needed to achieve the goal.

Other free resources

Happy Neuron provides several other free resources that are available for download .

Consider the five Cs when selecting online CRT programs (modified from Medalia et al., 2009):

Cognitive – What target deficits are being addressed?
Client – What interests and level of functioning does the client have?
Computer – What computing requirements and compatibility factors need to be considered?
Context – Does the software use real-world or fantasy activities and environments? Are they age and cognitive ability appropriate?
Choice – Is the learner given choice and options to adapt the activity to their preferences?

Once you’ve ordered the software, give it a thorough review to understand when it is most appropriate to use and with whom.

For online CRT programs to be effective as teaching tools and activities, they should include the following features (modified from Medalia et al., 2009, p. 53):

Intrinsically motivating
Active use of information
Multisensory strategies
Frequent feedback
Control over the learning process
Positive reinforcement
Application of newly acquired skills in appropriate contexts
Errorless learning – challenging yet not frustrating

Therapists must become familiar with each program’s content and processes so that targeted deficits are fully understood and clients are engaged without confusion or risk of failure.

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A great deal of software “targets different skills and offers a variety of opportunities for contextualization and personalization” (Medalia et al., 2009, p. 43).

We focus on three suppliers of extensive CRT software resources below (recommended by Medalia et al., 2009).

1. Happy Neuron

Happy Neuron provides a wide variety of online brain training exercises and activities to stimulate cognitive functioning in the following areas:

Visual-spatial

When you’re performing well, the exercises become increasingly difficult.

The exercises are grouped into the following areas:

Brain speed
People skills
Intelligence

3. Games for the Brain

Cognitive difficulties, such as challenges with paying attention, planning, remembering, and problem-solving, can further compound and exacerbate mental health issues

While initially created for schizophrenia, CRT is also valuable for other mental health problems, including eating and mood disorders. Treatments are effective in one-to-one and group sessions, and lessons can be transferred to the outside world, providing crucial gains for a client’s mental wellbeing and social interaction.

Through repeated and increasingly challenging skill-based interventions, CRT benefits cognitive functioning and provides confidence gains to its users. The treatment adheres to learning theory principles and targets specific brain processing areas such as motor dexterity, memory, and visual-spatial perception, along with higher-order functioning.

Involving clients in treatment choices increases the likelihood of ongoing perseverance, engagement, and motivation as activities repeat with increasing degrees of difficulty.

This article offers a valuable starting point for exploring CRT and its benefits, with several worksheets and forms to encourage effective treatment.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. For more information, don’t forget to download our three Positive CBT Exercises for free .

Bristol Mental Health. (n.d.). Cognitive remediation therapy: Improving thinking skills . Retrieved December 15, 2021, from http://www.awp.nhs.uk/media/424704/cognitive-remediation-therapy-022019.pdf
Corbo, M., & Abreu, T. (2018). Cognitive remediation therapy: EFPT psychotherapy guidebook . Retrieved December 15, 2021, from https://epg.pubpub.org/pub/05-cognitive-remediation-therapy/release/3
Medalia, A., & Bowie, C. R. (2016). Cognitive remediation to improve functional outcomes . Oxford University Press.
Medalia, A., Revheim, N., & Herlands, T. (2009). Cognitive remediation for psychological disorders: Therapist guide . Oxford University Press.
Tchanturia, K. (2015). Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) for eating and weight disorders . Routledge.
Tsaousides, T., & Gordon, W. A. (2009). Cognitive rehabilitation following traumatic brain injury: Assessment to treatment. Mount Sinai Journal of Medicine: A Journal of Translational and Personalized Medicine , 76 (2), 173-181.

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What our readers think.

To my surprise this is a treatment that has not been discussed in the area I live and work. I just stumbled upon this when I was researching cognitive impairments with schizophrenia. I currently work on a team with multiple mental health professionals that go out into the community, to work with people diagnosed with Schizophrenia. It seems like most of what we do is manage and monitor symptoms. Are you aware of anyone or any agency in Buffalo, NY that uses this method of treatment? I am trying to figure out how to get trained and use it in practice, if that is possible. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

This looks like the treatment my daughter needs. She has struggled for years with the cognitive problems associated with depression. How do we find a therapist near us who can use these techniques?

I’m sorry to read that your daughter is struggling. You can find a directory of licensed therapists here (and note that you can change the country setting in the top-right corner). You’ll also find that there are a range of filters to help you drill down to the type of support you need: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists

I hope you find the help you need.

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Solving problems the cognitive-behavioral way, problem solving is another part of behavioral therapy..

Posted February 2, 2022 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
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Problem-solving is one technique used on the behavioral side of cognitive-behavioral therapy.
The problem-solving technique is an iterative, five-step process that requires one to identify the problem and test different solutions.
The technique differs from ad-hoc problem-solving in its suspension of judgment and evaluation of each solution.

As I have mentioned in previous posts, cognitive behavioral therapy is more than challenging negative, automatic thoughts. There is a whole behavioral piece of this therapy that focuses on what people do and how to change their actions to support their mental health. In this post, I’ll talk about the problem-solving technique from cognitive behavioral therapy and what makes it unique.

The problem-solving technique

While there are many different variations of this technique, I am going to describe the version I typically use, and which includes the main components of the technique:

The first step is to clearly define the problem. Sometimes, this includes answering a series of questions to make sure the problem is described in detail. Sometimes, the client is able to define the problem pretty clearly on their own. Sometimes, a discussion is needed to clearly outline the problem.

The next step is generating solutions without judgment. The "without judgment" part is crucial: Often when people are solving problems on their own, they will reject each potential solution as soon as they or someone else suggests it. This can lead to feeling helpless and also discarding solutions that would work.

The third step is evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each solution. This is the step where judgment comes back.

Fourth, the client picks the most feasible solution that is most likely to work and they try it out.

The fifth step is evaluating whether the chosen solution worked, and if not, going back to step two or three to find another option. For step five, enough time has to pass for the solution to have made a difference.

This process is iterative, meaning the client and therapist always go back to the beginning to make sure the problem is resolved and if not, identify what needs to change.

Advantages of the problem-solving technique

The problem-solving technique might differ from ad hoc problem-solving in several ways. The most obvious is the suspension of judgment when coming up with solutions. We sometimes need to withhold judgment and see the solution (or problem) from a different perspective. Deliberately deciding not to judge solutions until later can help trigger that mindset change.

Another difference is the explicit evaluation of whether the solution worked. When people usually try to solve problems, they don’t go back and check whether the solution worked. It’s only if something goes very wrong that they try again. The problem-solving technique specifically includes evaluating the solution.

Lastly, the problem-solving technique starts with a specific definition of the problem instead of just jumping to solutions. To figure out where you are going, you have to know where you are.

One benefit of the cognitive behavioral therapy approach is the behavioral side. The behavioral part of therapy is a wide umbrella that includes problem-solving techniques among other techniques. Accessing multiple techniques means one is more likely to address the client’s main concern.

Salene M. W. Jones, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist in Washington State.

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December 19, 2023

20 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Techniques with Examples

Muhammad Sohail

Table of contents.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) stands as a powerful, evidence-based therapeutic approach for various mental health challenges. At its core lies a repertoire of techniques designed to reframe thoughts, alter behaviors, and alleviate emotional distress. This article explores 20 most commonly used cbt techniques. These therapy techniques are scientifcally valid, diverse in their application and effectiveness, serve as pivotal tools in helping individuals navigate and conquer their mental health obstacles.

Cognitive Restructuring or Reframing:

This is the most talked about of all cbt techniques. CBT employs cognitive restructuring to challenge and alter negative thought patterns. By examining beliefs and questioning their validity, individuals learn to perceive situations from different angles, fostering more adaptive thinking patterns.

John, feeling worthless after a rejected job application, questions his belief that he’s incompetent. He reflects on past achievements and reframes the situation, realizing the rejection doesn’t define his abilities.

Guided Discovery:

In guided discovery, therapists engage individuals in an exploration of their viewpoints. Through strategic questioning, individuals are prompted to examine evidence supporting their beliefs and consider alternate perspectives, fostering a more nuanced understanding and empowering them to choose healthier cognitive pathways.

During therapy, Sarah explores her fear of failure. Her therapist asks, “What evidence supports your belief that you’ll fail? Can we consider alternate outcomes?” Guided by these questions, Sarah acknowledges her exaggerated fears and explores more balanced perspectives.

Journaling and Thought Records:

Writing exercises like journaling and thought records aid in identifying and challenging negative thoughts. Tracking thoughts between sessions and noting positive alternatives enables individuals to monitor progress and recognize cognitive shifts.

James maintains a thought journal. Between sessions, he records negative thoughts about social situations. He then challenges these thoughts, jotting down positive alternatives and notices a shift in his mindset.

Activity Scheduling and Behavior Activation:

By scheduling avoided activities and implementing learned strategies, individuals establish healthier habits and confront avoidance tendencies, fostering behavioral change.

Emily, struggling with social anxiety, schedules coffee outings with friends. By implementing gradual exposure, she confronts her fear and eventually feels more comfortable in social settings.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction Techniques:

CBT incorporates relaxation techniques like deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and imagery to mitigate stress. These methods equip individuals with practical skills to manage phobias, social anxieties, and stressors effectively.

David practices deep breathing exercises when faced with work stress. By incorporating this technique into his routine, he manages work-related anxiety more effectively.

Successive Approximation:

Breaking overwhelming tasks into manageable steps cultivates confidence through incremental progress, enabling individuals to tackle challenges more effectively.

Maria, overwhelmed by academic tasks, breaks down her study sessions into smaller, manageable sections. As she masters each segment, her confidence grows, making the workload seem more manageable.

Interoceptive Exposure:

This technique targets panic and anxiety by exposing individuals to feared bodily sensations, allowing for a recalibration of beliefs around these sensations and reducing avoidance behaviors.

Tom, experiencing panic attacks, deliberately induces shortness of breath in a controlled setting. As he tolerates this discomfort without avoidance, he realizes that the sensation, though distressing, is not harmful.

Play the Script Until the End:

Encouraging individuals to envision worst-case scenarios helps alleviate fear by demonstrating the manageability of potential outcomes, reducing anxiety.

Facing fear of public speaking, Rachel imagines herself stumbling during a presentation. By playing out this scenario mentally, she realizes that even if it happens, it wouldn’t be catastrophic.

Shaping (Successive Approximation):

Shaping involves mastering simpler tasks akin to the challenging ones, aiding individuals in overcoming difficulties through gradual skill development.

Chris, struggling with public speaking, begins by speaking to small groups before gradually addressing larger audiences. Each step builds his confidence for the next challenge.

Contingency Management:

This method utilizes reinforcement and punishment to promote desirable behaviors, leveraging the consequences of actions to shape behavior positively.

To encourage healthier eating habits, Sarah rewards herself with a favorite activity after a week of sticking to a balanced diet.

Acting Out (Role-Playing):

Role-playing scenarios allow individuals to practice new behaviors in a safe environment, facilitating skill development and desensitization to challenging situations.

Alex, preparing for a job interview, engages in role-playing with a friend. They simulate the interview scenario, allowing Alex to practice responses and manage anxiety.

Sleep Hygiene Training:

Addressing the link between depression and sleep problems, this technique provides strategies for improving sleep quality, a critical aspect of mental well-being.

Lisa, struggling with sleep, follows sleep hygiene recommendations. She creates a calming bedtime routine and eliminates screen time before sleep, noticing improvements in her sleep quality.

Mastery and Pleasure Technique:

Encouraging engagement in enjoyable or accomplishment-driven activities serves as a mood enhancer and distraction from depressive thoughts.

After feeling low, Mark engages in gardening (a mastery activity) and then spends time painting (a pleasure activity). He finds joy in these activities, which uplifts his mood.

Behavioral Experiments:

This technique involves creating real-life experiments to test the validity of certain beliefs or assumptions. By actively exploring alternative thoughts or behaviors, individuals gather concrete evidence to challenge and modify their existing perspectives.

Laura believes people judge her negatively. She experiments by initiating conversations at social gatherings and observes that most interactions are positive, challenging her belief.

Externalizing:

Externalizing helps individuals separate themselves from their problems by giving those issues an identity or persona. This technique encourages individuals to view their problems as separate entities, facilitating a more objective approach to problem-solving.

Adam, dealing with anger issues, visualizes his anger as a separate entity named “Fury.” This helps him view his emotions objectively and manage them more effectively.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):

ACT combines mindfulness strategies with commitment and behavior-change techniques. It focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and emotions while committing to actions aligned with personal values, promoting psychological flexibility.

Sarah practices mindfulness exercises to accept her anxiety while committing to attend social events aligned with her values of connection and growth.

Imagery-Based Exposure:

This technique involves mentally visualizing feared or distressing situations, allowing individuals to confront and manage their anxieties in a controlled, imaginative setting.

Jack, afraid of flying, visualizes being on a plane, progressively picturing the experience in detail until he feels more comfortable with the idea of flying.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR):

MBSR incorporates mindfulness meditation and awareness techniques to help individuals manage stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being by staying present in the moment.

Rachel practices mindfulness meditation daily. By focusing on the present moment, she reduces work-related stress and enhances her overall well-being.

Systematic Desensitization:

Similar to exposure therapy, systematic desensitization involves pairing relaxation techniques with gradual exposure to anxiety-inducing stimuli. This process helps individuals associate relaxation with the feared stimuli, reducing anxiety responses over time.

Michael, with a fear of heights, gradually exposes himself to elevators first, then low floors in tall buildings, gradually working up to higher levels, reducing his fear response.

Narrative Therapy:

Narrative therapy focuses on separating individuals from their problems by helping them reconstruct and retell their life stories in a more empowering and positive light, emphasizing strengths and resilience.

Emily reevaluates her life story by focusing on instances where she overcame challenges, emphasizing her resilience and strength rather than her setbacks.

Each of these CBT techniques plays a unique role in helping individuals transform their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. While some focus on cognitive restructuring, others emphasize behavioral modification or stress reduction. Together, they form a comprehensive toolkit empowering individuals to navigate their mental health challenges and foster positive change in their lives.

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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Worksheets and Exercises

The following Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – CBT worksheets and exercises can be downloaded free of charge for use by individuals undertaking NHS therapy or by NHS practitioners providing CBT in primary or secondary care settings. These worksheets form part of the Think CBT Workbook, which can also be downloaded as a static PDF at the bottom of this page. Please share or link back to our page to help promote access to our free CBT resources.

The Think CBT workbook and worksheets are also available as an interactive/dynamic document that can be completed using mobile devices, tablets and computers. The interactive version of the workbook can be purchased for single use only for £25. All Think CBT clients receive a free interactive/dynamic copy of the workbook and worksheets free of charge.

Whilst these worksheets can be used to support self-help or work with other therapists, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is best delivered with the support of a BABCP accredited CBT specialist. If you want to book an appointment with a professionally accredited CBT expert, call (01732) 808626, complete the simple contact form on the right side of this page or email [email protected]

Please note: if you are a private business or practitioner and wish to use our resources, please email [email protected] to purchase a registered copy. This material is protected by UK copyright law. Please respect copyright ownership.

Exercise 1 - Problem Statements

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Exercise 2 - Goals for Therapy

Exercise 3 - personal strengths / resources, exercise 4 - costs / benefits of change, exercise 5 - personal values, exercise 6 - the cbt junction model, exercise 7 - the cross-sectional cbt model, exercise 8 - the longitudinal assessment, exercise 9 - layers of cognition, exercise 10 - cognitive distortions, exercise 11 - theory a-b exercise, exercise 12 - the cbt thought record, exercise 13 - cognitive disputation "putting your thoughts on trial", exercise 14 - the cbt continuum, exercise 15 - the self-perception continuum, exercise 16 - the cbt responsibility pie chart, exercise 17 - noticing the thought, exercise 18 - four layers of abstraction, exercise 19 - semantic satiation, exercise 20 - the characterisation game, exercise 21 - speed up / slow down, exercise 22 - word translation, exercise 23 - the time-traveller's log, exercise 23a -the time-traveller's log continued, exercise 24 - leaves on a stream, exercise 25 - the traffic, exercise 26 - clouds in the sky, exercise 27 - taming the ape - an anchoring exercise, exercise 28 - the abc form in functional analysis, exercise 29 - pace activity exercise, exercise 30 - graded hierachy of anxiety provoking situations, exercise 31 - the behavioural experiment, exercise 32 - act exposures exercise, exercise 33 - worry - thinking time, exercise 34 - submissive, assertive & aggressive communication, exercise 35 - sleep hygiene factors, exercises 36 - 38.

(Abdominal Breathing, Aware Breathing & The Five-Minute Daily Recharge Practice)

Exercise 39 - Wheel of Emotions

Exercise 40 - linking feelings and appraisals, exercise 41 - personal resilience plan, exercise 42 - cbt learning log, act with choice exercise, angels and devils worksheet, transdiagnostic model of ocd worksheet, tuning in exercise, penguin-based therapy (pbt), big picture exercise, post-therapy journal, catch it-check it-change it exercise.

A brief cognitive change exercise for identifying and altering negative thinking

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CBT therapy worksheets

Browse our free collection of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy worksheets. Explore evidence-based CBT techniques and practical exercises to transform thought patterns. Start your patience's journey to a healthier mind today.

What are CBT worksheets?

Written instruments or documents treating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are referred to as a "CBT worksheet." It often includes planned tasks and exercises intended to aid people in recognizing and poor attitudes, beliefs, and actions. These worksheets act as useful manuals by giving frameworks for problem-solving, goal-setting, behavior tracking, and cognitive restructuring. Worksheets for CBT encourage self-reflection and support the development of better thought patterns and coping mechanisms. Frequently used as self-help tools and in therapy sessions by people looking to enhance their mental health.

Printable CBT Worksheets: Boost Your Mental Health

Discover a variety of printable Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) worksheets to help improve your mental well-being and manage your emotions.

Where does doubt come from?

Self-doubt doesn’t come out of the blue. It is shaped by your history and how you interpret the events, situations, and experiences in your lives. Use these CBT worksheets from Leslie Sokol and Marci Fox to help identify the events that may have molded your self-doubt.

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What Is Problem-Solving Therapy?

Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

Daniel B. Block, MD, is an award-winning, board-certified psychiatrist who operates a private practice in Pennsylvania.

Verywell / Madelyn Goodnight

Problem-Solving Therapy Techniques

How effective is problem-solving therapy, things to consider, how to get started.

Problem-solving therapy is a brief intervention that provides people with the tools they need to identify and solve problems that arise from big and small life stressors. It aims to improve your overall quality of life and reduce the negative impact of psychological and physical illness.

Problem-solving therapy can be used to treat depression , among other conditions. It can be administered by a doctor or mental health professional and may be combined with other treatment approaches.

At a Glance

Problem-solving therapy is a short-term treatment used to help people who are experiencing depression, stress, PTSD, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and other mental health problems develop the tools they need to deal with challenges. This approach teaches people to identify problems, generate solutions, and implement those solutions. Let's take a closer look at how problem-solving therapy can help people be more resilient and adaptive in the face of stress.

Problem-solving therapy is based on a model that takes into account the importance of real-life problem-solving. In other words, the key to managing the impact of stressful life events is to know how to address issues as they arise. Problem-solving therapy is very practical in its approach and is only concerned with the present, rather than delving into your past.

This form of therapy can take place one-on-one or in a group format and may be offered in person or online via telehealth . Sessions can be anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours long.

Key Components

There are two major components that make up the problem-solving therapy framework:

Applying a positive problem-solving orientation to your life
Using problem-solving skills

A positive problem-solving orientation means viewing things in an optimistic light, embracing self-efficacy , and accepting the idea that problems are a normal part of life. Problem-solving skills are behaviors that you can rely on to help you navigate conflict, even during times of stress. This includes skills like:

Knowing how to identify a problem
Defining the problem in a helpful way
Trying to understand the problem more deeply
Setting goals related to the problem
Generating alternative, creative solutions to the problem
Choosing the best course of action
Implementing the choice you have made
Evaluating the outcome to determine next steps

Problem-solving therapy is all about training you to become adaptive in your life so that you will start to see problems as challenges to be solved instead of insurmountable obstacles. It also means that you will recognize the action that is required to engage in effective problem-solving techniques.

Planful Problem-Solving

One problem-solving technique, called planful problem-solving, involves following a series of steps to fix issues in a healthy, constructive way:

Problem definition and formulation : This step involves identifying the real-life problem that needs to be solved and formulating it in a way that allows you to generate potential solutions.
Generation of alternative solutions : This stage involves coming up with various potential solutions to the problem at hand. The goal in this step is to brainstorm options to creatively address the life stressor in ways that you may not have previously considered.
Decision-making strategies : This stage involves discussing different strategies for making decisions as well as identifying obstacles that may get in the way of solving the problem at hand.
Solution implementation and verification : This stage involves implementing a chosen solution and then verifying whether it was effective in addressing the problem.

Other Techniques

Other techniques your therapist may go over include:

Problem-solving multitasking , which helps you learn to think clearly and solve problems effectively even during times of stress
Stop, slow down, think, and act (SSTA) , which is meant to encourage you to become more emotionally mindful when faced with conflict
Healthy thinking and imagery , which teaches you how to embrace more positive self-talk while problem-solving

What Problem-Solving Therapy Can Help With

Problem-solving therapy addresses life stress issues and focuses on helping you find solutions to concrete issues. This approach can be applied to problems associated with various psychological and physiological symptoms.

Mental Health Issues

Problem-solving therapy may help address mental health issues, like:

Chronic stress due to accumulating minor issues
Complications associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Emotional distress
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Problems associated with a chronic disease like cancer, heart disease, or diabetes
Self-harm and feelings of hopelessness
Substance use
Suicidal ideation

Specific Life Challenges

This form of therapy is also helpful for dealing with specific life problems, such as:

Death of a loved one
Dissatisfaction at work
Everyday life stressors
Family problems
Financial difficulties
Relationship conflicts

Your doctor or mental healthcare professional will be able to advise whether problem-solving therapy could be helpful for your particular issue. In general, if you are struggling with specific, concrete problems that you are having trouble finding solutions for, problem-solving therapy could be helpful for you.

Benefits of Problem-Solving Therapy

The skills learned in problem-solving therapy can be helpful for managing all areas of your life. These can include:

Being able to identify which stressors trigger your negative emotions (e.g., sadness, anger)
Confidence that you can handle problems that you face
Having a systematic approach on how to deal with life's problems
Having a toolbox of strategies to solve the issues you face
Increased confidence to find creative solutions
Knowing how to identify which barriers will impede your progress
Knowing how to manage emotions when they arise
Reduced avoidance and increased action-taking
The ability to accept life problems that can't be solved
The ability to make effective decisions
The development of patience (realizing that not all problems have a "quick fix")

Problem-solving therapy can help people feel more empowered to deal with the problems they face in their lives. Rather than feeling overwhelmed when stressors begin to take a toll, this therapy introduces new coping skills that can boost self-efficacy and resilience .

Other Types of Therapy

Other similar types of therapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) . While these therapies work to change thinking and behaviors, they work a bit differently. Both CBT and SFBT are less structured than problem-solving therapy and may focus on broader issues. CBT focuses on identifying and changing maladaptive thoughts, and SFBT works to help people look for solutions and build self-efficacy based on strengths.

This form of therapy was initially developed to help people combat stress through effective problem-solving, and it was later adapted to address clinical depression specifically. Today, much of the research on problem-solving therapy deals with its effectiveness in treating depression.

Problem-solving therapy has been shown to help depression in:

Older adults
People coping with serious illnesses like cancer

Problem-solving therapy also appears to be effective as a brief treatment for depression, offering benefits in as little as six to eight sessions with a therapist or another healthcare professional. This may make it a good option for someone unable to commit to a lengthier treatment for depression.

Problem-solving therapy is not a good fit for everyone. It may not be effective at addressing issues that don't have clear solutions, like seeking meaning or purpose in life. Problem-solving therapy is also intended to treat specific problems, not general habits or thought patterns .

In general, it's also important to remember that problem-solving therapy is not a primary treatment for mental disorders. If you are living with the symptoms of a serious mental illness such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia , you may need additional treatment with evidence-based approaches for your particular concern.

Problem-solving therapy is best aimed at someone who has a mental or physical issue that is being treated separately, but who also has life issues that go along with that problem that has yet to be addressed.

For example, it could help if you can't clean your house or pay your bills because of your depression, or if a cancer diagnosis is interfering with your quality of life.

Your doctor may be able to recommend therapists in your area who utilize this approach, or they may offer it themselves as part of their practice. You can also search for a problem-solving therapist with help from the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Society of Clinical Psychology .

If receiving problem-solving therapy from a doctor or mental healthcare professional is not an option for you, you could also consider implementing it as a self-help strategy using a workbook designed to help you learn problem-solving skills on your own.

During your first session, your therapist may spend some time explaining their process and approach. They may ask you to identify the problem you’re currently facing, and they’ll likely discuss your goals for therapy .

Keep In Mind

Problem-solving therapy may be a short-term intervention that's focused on solving a specific issue in your life. If you need further help with something more pervasive, it can also become a longer-term treatment option.

Get Help Now

We've tried, tested, and written unbiased reviews of the best online therapy programs including Talkspace, BetterHelp, and ReGain. Find out which option is the best for you.

Shang P, Cao X, You S, Feng X, Li N, Jia Y. Problem-solving therapy for major depressive disorders in older adults: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials . Aging Clin Exp Res . 2021;33(6):1465-1475. doi:10.1007/s40520-020-01672-3

Cuijpers P, Wit L de, Kleiboer A, Karyotaki E, Ebert DD. Problem-solving therapy for adult depression: An updated meta-analysis . Eur Psychiatry . 2018;48(1):27-37. doi:10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.11.006

Nezu AM, Nezu CM, D'Zurilla TJ. Problem-Solving Therapy: A Treatment Manual . New York; 2013. doi:10.1891/9780826109415.0001

Owens D, Wright-Hughes A, Graham L, et al. Problem-solving therapy rather than treatment as usual for adults after self-harm: a pragmatic, feasibility, randomised controlled trial (the MIDSHIPS trial) . Pilot Feasibility Stud . 2020;6:119. doi:10.1186/s40814-020-00668-0

Sorsdahl K, Stein DJ, Corrigall J, et al. The efficacy of a blended motivational interviewing and problem solving therapy intervention to reduce substance use among patients presenting for emergency services in South Africa: A randomized controlled trial . Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy . 2015;10(1):46. doi:doi.org/10.1186/s13011-015-0042-1

Margolis SA, Osborne P, Gonzalez JS. Problem solving . In: Gellman MD, ed. Encyclopedia of Behavioral Medicine . Springer International Publishing; 2020:1745-1747. doi:10.1007/978-3-030-39903-0_208

Kirkham JG, Choi N, Seitz DP. Meta-analysis of problem solving therapy for the treatment of major depressive disorder in older adults . Int J Geriatr Psychiatry . 2016;31(5):526-535. doi:10.1002/gps.4358

Garand L, Rinaldo DE, Alberth MM, et al. Effects of problem solving therapy on mental health outcomes in family caregivers of persons with a new diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or early dementia: A randomized controlled trial . Am J Geriatr Psychiatry . 2014;22(8):771-781. doi:10.1016/j.jagp.2013.07.007

Noyes K, Zapf AL, Depner RM, et al. Problem-solving skills training in adult cancer survivors: Bright IDEAS-AC pilot study . Cancer Treat Res Commun . 2022;31:100552. doi:10.1016/j.ctarc.2022.100552

Albert SM, King J, Anderson S, et al. Depression agency-based collaborative: effect of problem-solving therapy on risk of common mental disorders in older adults with home care needs . The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry . 2019;27(6):619-624. doi:10.1016/j.jagp.2019.01.002

By Arlin Cuncic, MA Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

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Therapy tool.

"Should" Statements

Information handouts

Activity Diary (Hourly Time Intervals)

Activity Diary (No Time Intervals)

Activity Menu

Activity Planning

Activity Selection

All-Or-Nothing Thinking

Alternative Action Formulation

An Introduction To CBT (Psychology Tools For Living Well)

Books & Chapters

Anger - Self-Monitoring Record

Anger Decision Sheet

Anger Diary (Archived)

Anger Self-Monitoring Record (Archived)

Anger Thought Challenging Record

Anxiety - Self-Monitoring Record

Anxiety Self-Monitoring Record (Archived)

Arbitrary Inference

Assertive Communication

Assertive Responses

Attention - Self-Monitoring Record

Audio Collection: Psychology Tools For Mindfulness

Audio Collection: Psychology Tools For Overcoming PTSD

Autonomic Nervous System

Avoidance Hierarchy (Archived)

Before I Blame Myself And Feel Guilty

Behavioral Activation Activity Diary

Behavioral Activation Activity Planning Diary

Behavioral Experiment

Behavioral Experiment (Portrait Format)

Belief Driven Formulation

Belief-O-Meter (CYP)

Boundaries - Self-Monitoring Record

Catastrophizing

Catching Your Thoughts (CYP)

CBT Appraisal Model

CBT Daily Activity Diary With Enjoyment And Mastery Ratings

CBT Thought Record Portrait

Challenging Your Negative Thinking (Archived)

Changing Avoidance (Behavioral Activation)

Checking Certainty And Doubt

Classical Conditioning

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Anorexia Nervosa (Fairburn, Cooper, Shafran, 2003)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD: Veale, 2004)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Bulimia Nervosa (Fairburn, Cooper, Shafran, 2003)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Clinical Perfectionism (Shafran, Cooper, Fairburn, 2002)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Depersonalization (Hunter, Phillips, Chalder, Sierra, David, 2003)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Fear Of Body Sensations

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD: Dugas, Gagnon, Ladouceur, Freeston, 1998)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Health Anxiety (Salkovskis, Warwick, Deale, 2003)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Insomnia (Harvey, 2002)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Intolerance Of Uncertainty And Generalized Anxiety Disorder Symptoms (Hebert, Dugas, 2019)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Panic (Clark, 1986)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD: Whalley, Cane, 2017)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD: Ehlers & Clark, 2000)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Social Phobia (Clark, Wells, 1995)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of The Relapse Process (Marlatt & Gordon, 1985)

Cognitive Behavioral Model Of Tinnitus (McKenna, Handscombe, Hoare, Hall, 2014)

Cognitive Behavioral Treatment Of Childhood OCD: It's Only A False Alarm: Therapist Guide

Treatments That Work™

Cognitive Behavioral Treatment of Childhood OCD: It's Only a False Alarm: Workbook

Cognitive Case Formulation

Cognitive Distortions – Unhelpful Thinking Styles (Common)

Cognitive Distortions – Unhelpful Thinking Styles (Extended)

Compassionate Thought Challenging Record

Core Belief Magnet Metaphor

Court Trial Thought Challenging Record (Archived)

Critical Care And PTSD

Critical Illness Intensive Care And Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Cross Sectional Formulation

Daily Monitoring Form

Decatastrophizing

Demanding Standards – Living Well With Your Personal Rules

Depression - Self-Monitoring Record

Discounting In Perfectionism – The Ratchet Effect

Disqualifying Others

Disqualifying The Positive

Dissociation - Self-Monitoring Record

Embracing Uncertainty

Emotional Reasoning

Evaluating Unhelpful Automatic Thoughts

Evaluating Your Demanding Standards

Examining Your Negative Thoughts

Exploring Problems Using A Cross Sectional Model

Exposure And Response (Ritual) Prevention For Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (Second Edition): Therapist Guide

Exposure And Response Prevention

Exposure Practice Form

Exposure Session Record

Exposures For Fear Of Appearing Anxious

Exposures For Fear Of Body Sensations

Exposures For Fear Of Breathlessness

Exposures For Fear Of Death

Exposures For Fear Of Flying

Exposures For Fear Of Heights

Exposures For Fear Of Illness

Exposures For Fear Of Losing Control Of Your Mind

Exposures For Fear Of Uncertainty

Exposures For Fear Of Vomiting

Externalizing

Facing Your Fears (CYP)

Facing Your Fears And Phobias

Links to external resources.

Psychology Tools makes every effort to check external links and review their content. However, we are not responsible for the quality or content of external links and cannot guarantee that these links will work all of the time.

Scale Download Primary Link Archived Link
Bern Inventory of Treatment Goals | Grosse, Grawe | 2002 Download Primary Link Archived Link

Cognitive therapy competence / adherence measures

Manual Download Primary Link Archived Link
Manual Download Archived Link
Manual accs-scale.co.uk Download Primary Link
Feedback form accs-scale.co.uk Download Primary Link
Website accs-scale.co.uk Download Primary Link

Case Conceptualization / Case Formulation

Cognitive conceptualisation (excerpt from Basics and Beyond) | J. Beck Download Archived Link
Dysfunctional assumptions ideas Download Primary Link Archived Link
Developing a cognitive formulation | Michael Free Download Primary Link Archived Link
Case formulation in CBT | Caleb Lack Download Primary Link Archived Link
A case formulation approach to cognitive-behavior therapy | Jacqueline Persons | 2015 Download Primary Link Archived Link
The case formulation approach to cognitive behavior therapy | Jacqueline Persons | 2014 Download Primary Link Archived Link

Information (Professional)

Cognitive- behavioural therapy An information guide | Neil Rector | 2010 Download Primary Link Archived Link
A therapist’s guide to brief cognitive behavioral therapy | Cully, Teten | 2008 Download Primary Link Archived Link
Problem solving (OCT Practical Guides | Helen Kennerley | 2016 Download Primary Link Archived Link
Working with Schemas, Core Beliefs, and Assumptions | Frank Wills | 2008 Download Primary Link Archived Link

Presentations

The role of a case conceptualization model and core tasks of intervention | Donald Miechenbaum | 2014 Download Primary Link Archived Link
Transdiagnostic treatments for anxiety disorders | Martin Anthony | 2013 Download Primary Link Archived Link
The unified protocol for the transdiagnostic treatment of emotional disorders | Ellen Frank, Fiona Ritchey | 2015 Download Primary Link Archived Link
Making CBT Work (Working with your CBT therapist / Making your CBT therapist work with you) | Paul Salkovskis Download Archived Link

Treatment Guide

A manual of cognitive behavior therapy for people with learning disabilities and common mental disorders | Hassiotis, Serfaty, Azam, Martin, Strydom, King | 2012 Download Primary Link Archived Link
CBT case formulation | Jacqueline Persons Download Primary Link

What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Assumptions of cbt.

people actively process information;
our appraisals (the way that we think and interpret events) determine how we feel;
dysfunctional thinking and biases in information processing (cognition/thinking) are responsible for the problems that people experience;
different problems are associated with different cognitive themes (cognitive specificity theory): depression is associated with loss and defeat; anxiety is associated with danger and threat; obsessive-compulsive disorder is associated with inflated responsibility; substance abuse is associated with permissive beliefs; eating disorders are associated with self-criticism; social anxiety is associated with fear of evaluation; and PTSD is associated with appraisals of immediate threat;
the thoughts that we have can be ‘distorted’ or biased . Common biases include over-generalization, arbitrary inference, selective abstraction, and catastrophizing;
changing how we think and act will impact how we feel: cognition, emotion, and behavior interact in a reciprocal manner;
psychopathology is a result of an interaction between stress and vulnerability;
cognition happens at multiple levels (Alford & Beck, 1997) and all can influence the way that we feel and behave: preconscious, unintentional, automatic (e.g., negative automatic thoughts); the conscious level (e.g., if a patient is asked to explain the meaning of an automatic thought); and the metacognitive level (beliefs about beliefs);
experiences, memories, thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs are encapsulated as ‘schemas’ and which may become activated and influence our perceptions and behaviors.

Principles of CBT

Judith Beck (1995) identified 11 principles of the practice of cognitive behavioral therapy, and these were expanded by Wills (2009):

cognitive behavioral therapists use formulation to focus their therapeutic work
cognitive behavioral therapists use formulation to tackle interpersonal and alliance issues
cognitive behavioral therapy requires a sound therapeutic relationship
cognitive behavioral therapists stress the importance of collaboration in the therapeutic relationship
cognitive behavioral therapy is brief and time-limited
cognitive behavioral therapy is structured and directional
cognitive behavioral therapy is problem- and goal-oriented
cognitive behavioral therapy initially emphasizes a focus on the present
cognitive behavioral therapy uses an educational model
homework and self-practice is a central feature of cognitive behavioral therapy (incorporating the use of CBT worksheets)
cognitive behavioral therapists teach clients to evaluate and modify their thoughts
cognitive behavioral therapy uses various methods to change cognitive content including thought records, behavioral experiments, surveys
cognitive behavior therapy uses a variety of methods to promote behavioral change including exposure, behavioral experiments, role-play.

Procedures and Techniques of CBT

Data gathering and symptom monitoring are used to understand problems and to measure change. CBT is an evidence-based approach that relies upon accurate data gathering regarding symptoms and experiences.
Behavioral activation is a set of techniques for encouraging engagement in meaningful activity and is an effective treatment for depression.
Case formulation is a method for understanding the origin and maintenance of a problem in cognitive and behavioral terms. CBT therapists may use a mixture of cross-sectional formulation to understand difficulties in the here-and-now, longitudinal formulation to understand the origins and precipitants of a problem, and cognitive behavioral models to understand the mechanisms underlying a problem.
Cognitive restructuring describes techniques for changing what we think. It often involves the use of thought records, behavioral experiments, data gathering, or psychoeducation.
Exposure is a technique from behavior therapy that is extensively used by CBT therapists, particularly for the treatment of anxiety. ‘Facing your fears’ is an essential behavioral component of CBT.
Problem solving describes a series of techniques that are often taught as part of a CBT intervention. Effective problem solving helps people to make adaptive choices.
Socratic methods are used by CBT therapists to help their clients explore what they know, and to form their own opinions on a topic. Aaron Beck encouraged the use of Socratic-like technique in his original treatment manual “use questioning rather than disputation and indoctrination … it is important to try to elicit from the patient what he is thinking rather than telling the patient what the therapist believes he is thinking” (Beck et al, 1979).
Alford, B. A., & Beck, A. T. (1997). The relation of psychotherapy integration to the established systems of psychotherapy. Journal of psychotherapy integration , 7 (4), 275-289.
Beck, A. T., Rush, A. J., Shaw, B. F., & Emery, G. (1979). Cognitive therapy of depression . New York: Guilford.
Beck, J. S. (1995). Cognitive therapy: Basics and beyond . New York: Guilford.
Wills, F. (2009). Beck’s cognitive therapy . CBT Distinctive Features Series. New York: Routledge.
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The Counseling Palette

Mental health activities to help you and your clients thrive, 1. purchase 2. download 3. print or share with clients.

Feb 22, 2022
15 min read

35 Fun & Effective Therapy Games for Kids, Teens, & Adults

Updated: Apr 8

Therapeutic games can help build rapport and teach important concepts like coping skills.

Therapy games can help with learning emotions, coping skills, CBT, DBT, and more.

Therapy games make therapy less intimidating, more enjoyable, and even more effective. Studies show that kids and adults learn better through play (Yenigen, 2014).

(Ready to play now? Check out this giant therapy activity game bundle.)

Play is often encouraged as a way to treat symptoms in therapies like trauma-focused CBT (Allen et al., 2017). It can be used for many purposes, modalities, and settings. Here are some examples:

Teaching CBT

DBT skills groups

Play therapy

Hospital settings

Community group therapy

Problem solving groups

Anger management groups

Classes and student groups

Individual therapy sessions

Article Contents

Coping Skills Quiz Show (teens and adults) CBT Coping Skills Game Show (all ages)

FEELOPOLY Emotions Game

CBT Island Quest Board Game

Family Feud-Style Therapy Game

CBT Lingo (Bingo)

The Greatest DBT Board Game

Couple's Pursuit

Therapy Shuffle

Feelings Jenga

Feel, Act, & Draw

Therapy Dice

Emotions Match

Happy Dragon

Family Pursuit

Therapy Activity Bundle

As a community therapist, I found games made sessions with new teens less awkward, helped get groups of all ages more involved, and were a life-saver when I had minimal prep time.

Games are also great for getting to know your clients, and for teaching important concepts like coping skills and understanding emotions. They can work with kids, teens, families, groups, and adults–in person and during telehealth.

Some of the most fun and easiest games to play with clients are therapeutic board games . Many include discussion or learning prompts, and cover topics like feelings, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).

Since the games are usually structured and straightforward, they may be less intimidating than regular talk sessions. You can use these tools as a way to

teach concepts, to review skills, or just to have fun and get to know each other.

Below are some fun and effective therapy games that may leave a lasting memory for you and your clients. Several options are printable PDF downloads. All are evidence-based and focus on developing and practicing skills.

1. Coping Skills Quiz Show for Teens & Adults

Great for: Teens, adults, schools, adult education, telehealth

Works with: Individual therapy, groups, in-person, telehealth

Goals: Positive self-care, mindfulness, boundaries, coping skills, goals

Project this therapy game, the coping skills Jeopardy-style quiz show through PowerPoint or as a PDF download.

This coping skills Jeopardy-type game show is created to be fun and interactive. This version is designed for teens and adults (see a kid-friendly version for all ages below, or get them both in the bundle ). It includes discussion prompts as well as some tips in each category and several hands-on group activities such as creating individual coping strategies.

The quiz show includes six categories including:

Mindfulness

Relationships

Asking for help

Setting goals

The best way to play the game is to project it in presentation mode through PowerPoint. It includes fun music and even applause options so it has a real Jeopardy game type feel. You can click through the links and move around like in a live show. If you don't like PowerPoint there is a simpler PDF option included.

Learn more , or get it as part of the giant store bundle .

2. CBT Coping Skills Game Show for All Ages

Great for: Kids, teens, young adults, adults

Goals: Coping skills, thoughts, feelings, behaviors, mindfulness

This coping skills game show is a great group therapy activity for all ages. Use it with CBT groups, for psychiatric patients, anger management and more.

If you're looking for a game for any age, including kids, check out this CBT coping skills Jeopardy-inspired game. I've had feedback that it worked well for third graders as well as adult nursing classes, so you can make it your own!

This edition has all different prompts compared to the teen and adult version, but does overlap in categories. Topics covered include:

Thoughts, feelings, & behaviors

Identifying emotions

Changing thoughts

Facing fears

Coping planning

The mental health game has open-ended prompts so your discussions can adapt based on your group's needs. Having some CBT knowledge is helpful, but you can also slow it down and use it as a way to teach new skills and techniques.

It's an easy low-prep activity for a group or classroom, social emotional learning, group therapy, teletherapy, and more. Learn more.

3. FEELOPOLY Emotions Game

Great for: Kids, tweens, teens, some adults and young adults

Goals: Naming emotions, expressing feelings, validating emotions

This emotions game, called FEELOPOLY, includes prompts and activities to practice naming and working with emotions.

FEELOPOLY is one of the most popular therapy games and mental health downloads available online.

It's a creative and fun emotions game. Rather than working against each other like in a Monopoly game, FEELOPY has the team working together. The goal is to work as a taskforce to "validate" all of the feelings on the board.

It covers concepts of naming feelings, validating emotions, expressing emotions, and communicating experiences. Example prompts include:

Do you have an outlets for your feelings? What's one way you express them?

What might help if you're starting to feel frustrated?

Explain how a trigger might bring up a feeling. Give an example.

The game is a PDF printable which you can start using right away. I recommend assembling it as a group with your clients. You can check out FEELOPOLY and download it here.

This infographic includes three therapy games that cover CBT techniques and DBT skills.

4. CBT Island Quest

Great for: Kids (11+), teens, college students, families, some adults

Works with: Groups, in-person, telehealth

Goals: Learning or reviewing CBT concepts, practicing coping skills, building confidence

CBT Island Quest is a straightforward printable therapy game of discussion and prompts. Players roll or use the card instructions to move around the game.

Prompt cards are divided into mindfulness/relaxation questions and cognitive questions. Example prompts include:

You think your friend is mad at you because they cancelled your plans together. Challenge the thought.

What's a coping skill you can used when you're depressed?

What does it feel like in your body when you're relaxed?

Learn more about CBT Island Quest and download it here.

This CBT game covers coping skills like challenging negative thoughts, recognizing emotions, and using mindfulness.

5. Family Feud Inspired Therapy Game

You might find something soothing about Family Feud, whether you grew up watching it or enjoy the new Steve Harvey version. This fun Family Feud style therapy game reviews overall wellness, mental health, and coping skills.

Each category includes wellness-related questions with six common answers on the board. Teams (or individuals) can also earn partial points for skills or helpful answers not on the board.

Each board is followed by a more general discussion question for the group, and players can earn bonus points for participation. Categories include mindfulness, anger management, dealing with anxiety, overall wellness, and more.

The coolest part of the game is that it’s designed in PowerPoint and has fun interactive elements that feel like a real game show. The therapist or leader plays the roll of “host” and reveals the answers when guessed, or at the end of the round.

Learn more and order your copy of Group Feud: Coping Skills!

6. CBT Lingo (CBT Bingo)

Great for: Kids (11+), teens, college students, families, adults (adaptable for skill level/age)

Goals: Learning or reviewing CBT concepts, psychoeducation, practicing coping skills, test review

This CBT Bingo game, or CBT Lingo, is a therapy game with prompts focused on cognitive behavioral therapy.

This printable game is focused on teaching CBT theory and coping skills. It includes rule variations based on your goals, the group’s experience level, and age group. It’s based on, and playable, with a real Bingo set.

Rather than just a novelty game like many therapy bingo pages, it actually includes 10 unique playing cards and 75 prompts relating to CBT. It’s great for groups, telehealth, and individual clients in-person or online.

Some of the prompts include:

What is an automatic thought?

Draw a feelings thermometer

Name a common cognitive distortion

What are the three parts of the CBT triangle?

Download the CBT Lingo game here .

7. DBT Board Game

Great for: Teens, young adults, college students, anyone familiar with DBT skills

Goals: Learning or reviewing DBT concepts, practicing the four areas of DBT skills

This DBT game is a printable PDF activity great for reinforcing DBT skills like radical acceptance, mindfulness, and DEARMAN.

The Greatest DBT Board Game uses a fun carnival theme to make reviewing DBT fun and entertaining. It covers the four areas of DBT skills, including mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation.

Files are printable and come as PDFs.

Example prompts include:

Give an example of using opposite action to change an emotion

Think of a time you've used radical acceptance. Did it help you? Why or why not?

Describe a rude way to ask for help, versus a more effective way.

The game throws in fun elements, such as the "Emotional Roller Coaster," and the "Ferris Wheel of Distress."

Visit here to check it out and download it today.

8. Couple's Pursuit

Great for: Adults, couples

Works for: Couples homework, possibly couples sessions

Goals: Building relationships, practicing communication, expressing affection

This infographic includes pieces from the Couples Pursuit relationship game focused on communication skills and relationship building.

Do you work with couples, or are you looking for a fun way to improve or build on your relationship ? Couple's Pursuit is an activity-based relationship game that includes fun categories like drawing and guessing, along with discussion topics, prompts to express appreciation, and more.

It's inspired by Trivial Pursuit, however rather than trivia questions the categories cover important relationships skills. It includes categories that focus on skills used in popular therapies like the Gottman Method. Examples include:

Showing affection

Friendship and bonding

Shared goals

Fun and recreation

Download the printable game here.

9. Therapy Shuffle

Great for: Older Older kids, teens, adults, families, groups

Works with: Groups, in-person

Goals: Learning or practicing coping skills, problem-solving, teaching concepts, building rapport

This is an infographic with pictures from the coping-skills therapy card game called Therapy Shuffle.

Therapy Shuffle is a therapeutic card game inspired by Fluxx, although it's slower-moving and based on coping skills. The game is complex enough to keep many teens and adults engaged.

Players choose "goals" and collect "skills" to match the goal cards. Players have to answer coping-skills related prompts to be able to play their cards and win.

The game can be played competitively or cooperatively, depending on your group. If you like you can also scrap the prompts, and play the cards as is. Learn more and download the therapy card game here.

10. Feelings Jenga

Great for: Kids, teens, adults, families, groups

Goals: Learning or practicing coping skills, understanding emotions, teaching concepts, building rapport

Feelings Jenga is a great emotions game for teaching emotions skills to kids, teens, and families.

Jenga is a popular game among therapists–especially those who work with kids. It’s a particularly easy one to set up. You can write a prompt on each Jenga block, or add a color using markers or stickers.

You can also print out prompts on sticky paper and stick or tape them to the blocks.

Check out the pre-printed prompts from Jenga Feelings Game. They include feelings words along with prompts that encourage clients or groups to consider situations relating to emotions.

When someone successfully pulls a Jenga block out, they must also answer a question or follow a prompt to earn the point.

Sometimes the blocks are also color-coded. For example, a blue block might correspond to happy feelings. A player might then discuss a time recently that made them feel happy, or what it was like to feel that way. Or, blocks can be numbered and correspond to discussion prompts.

Some of the generic Jenga-style blocks actually come in various colors, making it easy to set up color-based categories for the game. This also works with other colorful games like pick-up sticks.

Here are some example prompts from the Feelings Jenga game stickers:

Imagine you go so angry that you felt like throwing something. Do you think it would help? Is it safe to do?

Describe what a feeling (ie sadness) feels like in your body.

What should you do if your feelings are overwhelming you.

Learn more about the prompts here.

11. Feel, Act, & Draw

Great for: Teens, young adults, college students, families

Goals: Discussing feelings, interaction, ice-breaker

Looking for an activity like feelings Pictionary? This game includes drawing and charades prompts for feelings and related scenarios. It's a great game for therapy groups.

Feel, Act & Draw is a mental-health version of games like charades and Pictionary.

Players round a game board while they either answer discussion prompts or draw or act out feelings scenarios. For example, if a player lands on a charades space, they might act out the feeling "sad" or the scenario "mad at my friend."

If they land on a drawing space they sketch it out, Pictionary style. And if they land on a discussion space they talk through the questions in a more traditional style. Download and print it here.

12. Cube or Dice Prompts

Goals: Learning or practicing coping skills, responding to prompts, building rapport

This infographic includes printable therapy dice, a great game for emotions or to teach coping skills.

You can play this game with dry erase blocks, real dice, or any empty square box. Or, print these paper dice with prompts and tape them together.

Assign your own prompts to each side of the cube, or assign a corresponding question to each number on the dice. You can even use a dice app on your phone if you prefer, especially for telehealth.

This game is highly customizable, but here’s an example:

Let’s say you want to review DBT skills. Each side of the box would include a prompt such as “Name a skill to try when you feel angry.”

Someone throws the block across the ground, and then must respond to the prompt that lands face-up in order to get a point.

If you’re using real dice, then each number would represent a corresponding prompt you have written down. So if someone rolls a “2” they would answer the question you have prepared for #2 .

This is great for clients who need to move around a lot, or for a group that’s getting bored. You can also use the paper dice as an activity, or send it as homework or an assignment for telehealth. Check out the pre-printed blocks here.

This feelings game bundle includes FEELOPOLY, therapy Jenga, prompt dice, and the emotions game Fee, Act & Draw.

13. Emotions Match

Great for: Kids

Works with: Individuals, groups

Goals: Identifying and naming emotions

Emotions Match , inspired by the traditional Match Game, helps kids match up expressions and body language with the names of feelings. For example, one card has an image of a character who looks happy. The matching card has the word "Happy" on it.

Check out this printable match game which comes in a set with several variations. If you like, you can use just the emotions, or use two copies of the traditional feelings cards.

Download and print the feelings cards here.

This infographic shows kids emotions cards, with cute unicorn and dragon artwork. The cards also include multiple game variations, such as Go Feel! and Emotions Match.

14. Happy Dragon

Works with: Groups, classes

The Happy Dragon emotions game is inspired by the unfortunately-named "Old Maid" game. However, players are trying to end up with the Happy Dragon to win, versus lose (as in the other game). The game uses feeling-words cards, so players are exposed to emotions vocabulary. You can also add emotion prompts to encourage discussions about feelings.

Visit here to learn more about the Happy Dragon.

15. Go Feel!

Great for: Kids, families

Works with: Individuals, groups, family therapy

Goals: Identifying and naming emotions, discussing feelings

Go Feel is based on the beloved game Go Fish, so the mechanics are easy to catch on to. Players aim to collect and match emotion cards . This helps provide them with exposure to feelings words and images. Discussion prompts can also be added to deepen the game.

To play Go Feel you need multiple matching emotion cards. Check out this download to get started.

16. Family Pursuit

Family pursuit is a fun family therapy game where the team works together to beat the grumpy wheel. It's a PDF download you can print and play right away in therapy sessions or as a board game for families.

Great for: Families of all kinds

Works with: Family sessions, family homework

Goals: Communication, coping skills, showing appreciation, decreasing conflict

If you're looking for a fun family therapy game, check out Family Pursuit. It's similar to Couples Pursuit, but with new categories that are focused on bringing families together. Question categories include:

Learning about each other

Discussing positive memories

Showing appreciation for each other

Famous families trivia

Family coping skills

It's a great way to practice communication and feel closer without feeling as much pressure. It can be special for young kids and a way to coach teens into sharing more. Learn more.

17. Stop, Relax & Think Game

You can purchase Stop, Relax and Think on Amazon. It's a popular game often used in therapies like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) to help teach emotional regulation.

The game is appropriate for kids working on anger outbursts, but may be able to help with other impulsive behaviors as well. It covers multiple coping skills, including of course the "stop, relax, and think" steps. Find it on Amazon.

18. The Talking, Feeling, & Doing Game

The Talking, Feeling, & Doing game has been around for years. It was created to help break down barriers in therapy, so children can feel more comfortable to open. Prompts vary from more basic questions to deeper ones about life history. You can get the game here on Amazon .

19. The Skittles Game

Candy sure makes it easier to talk about feelings! This game uses candy of various colors, like Skittles or M&Ms, to prompt discussion. You can use any number of prompts and activities. For example, you can divide the colors by feelings, coping skills, or mindfulness activities.

When a child chooses a color, they must answer the prompt. Then they get to eat the candy! You can imagine why this game would be popular.

20. Therapy Uno

Did you think I would skip Uno? (Actually I did and added it later.) Uno is played similarly to the Skittles game. When a player changes the color being played, they describe a type of feeling, or answer an assigned prompt.

You can play many games that involve color this way as well, such as pick-up-sticks, or color-coded therapy Jenga .

21. DIY Therapy Cards

Using a set of blank cards, or standard playing cards, add your own prompts or activities to the cards. For example, each “set” earned in traditional Go-Fish would require the player (or all players) to name a feeling word.

You can combine the prompts with a traditional game, or simply take turns drawing a card and following the prompt.

If your client is up for it, they could also create their own cards for therapy. They might list feeling words or coping skills, and act them out each time the card comes up. This version may work better for telehealth–your client can be in charge of the cards on their end.

In family therapy, you might play where each person who wins a game or scores a point gets to ask a question of another player that wouldn’t normally be well received.

For example, a parent might ask a teen why they always shut their bedroom door when they get home, or a child might ask why they never get to stay up late on weekends. The other player can earn their own point if they answer, or they can pass.

Your clients can help make up the rules of the game, as long as it involves responding to prompts at least part of the time.

Family board games can be therapeutic all on their own. Or, you can add prompts to add more depth. For example, replace Taboo cards with your own feelings or skill-based prompts. Perhaps you have to describe the feeling of anger only using physical sensations, while the other person guesses the emotion.

23. Connect-4

You may not imagine it, but when I worked with kids Connect-4 was probably the most valuable game in my office. We didn't add therapy to it at all. But the easy physical actions of the game (and simple rules) made it easy to chat while we played.

I learned all kinds of things about a child or teen's day, family, and relationships. Just keep it near your desk or in sight, and ask your client if they'd like to play. I don't think I was ever turned down.

24. Candyland

For younger kids, Candyland can be a great teaching game. You can simply play the game as is to build rapport. Or, you could talk about feelings depending on where the child lands. Having to return to the beginning is a perfect chance to talk about feelings.

25. Trivial Pursuit

The traditional Trivial Pursuit can be conveniently adapted to therapy. Simply replace the categories and make them about concepts you're learning, such as CBT skills. Or, make each space a prompt, such as discussing a feeling.

Ungame is a popular card game used in therapy. It has board game and card game versions. You can choose card prompts that are appropriate for your client. There are different levels depending on the type of topics you want to discuss. You can get the game here on Amazon .

27. Relationship Skills Card Game

This versatile game focuses on issues like social skills, conflict, and empathy building. It includes conversational prompts, icebreakers, and more. It's great for adult groups or even work settings. Check out the Relationship Skills Card Gamecards on Amazon.

28. Mindfulness Game

The Mindfulness Game is a detailed card deck with multiple activities for individuals and groups to follow. It's designed by teachers with specific activities and clear instructions. It's one of the older and most popular prompt decks. Check it out here.

29. Minecraft

Do you even know a kid who doesn't like Minecraft, even if they don't get to play it? Older kids and teens often find this game captivating. The good thing is that parents can play the game with kids, providing a modern bonding activity. During session, kids can show you what they've built and discuss what they like about the game. If you have trouble getting a tween to talk, it might be the ticket in.

30. TF-CBT Triangle App

The good folks who developed and teach TF-CBT therapy partnered to offer a fun app that helps teach basic CBT skills. While it's created as a part of the trauma therapy, it doesn't get into any trauma prompts or exposure techniques. It may be appropriate to teach the CBT triangle to younger kids. You can learn more here.

31. Creative VR Games

If you've never been inside a VR world, I encourage you to try it at least once. There are some pretty cool creative games, such as Tilt Brush by Google. If a client wanted a world where there was endless creativity and literally no physical limits, this would be it. It may be a very helpful art therapy or creative expression tool in the future.

32. Escape Rooms

Escape rooms are a great way to learn to work together in tight spots, so to speak. You don’t have to go to a literal escape room – there are kits online where you can set up your own scene and mystery. You can use them with kids, teens, adults, and even for workplace team building.

33. Scattergories

You might vaguely remember Scattegories from your childhood – it’s that game where you get a list of prompts and you try to come up with unique words that start with the same letter. You can create the same game but use therapy prompts, such as coping skills that start with T, or self-care techniques that begin with S.

If your client or group loves sports, try incorporating it in therapy. For example, you and your client could play HORSE with a basketball while you discuss the week. Even nerf games in your office can be a great icebreaker.

35. Roleplaying Games

Games like Dungeons and Dragons, and various other role playing games you can find online, provide a safe outlet for expression. Create your own scenario, or let your client take the lead if they’re familiar with the idea.

Play Around!

There really is no limit to using games in therapy. The flexibility of games can work great with telehealth. Ask the client what games they have at home.

Then they can run the game from their side, and you can provide the prompts. You may not even need a copy of the game to play from your side, depending on how complex it is.

Don't be afraid to experiment with new ideas and activities, whether you're in person or connecting via Zoom therapy. At the very least, any game used in therapy can help promote rapport with clients. They can also be a great way for groups and family members to bond.

Games might not seem like serious business, but with many clients they’re likely to get you further than traditional sitting and talking therapy sessions.

Want some easy games and activities to download use with your clients? Check out this great therapy game kit to get started, or fill your toolbox to the bring with our Entire Store Bundle .

This infographic shows multiple therapy games covering CBT, anxiety, trauma, DBT, couples therapy, emotions, and much more.

-Jennie Lannette, MSW, LCSW, is a licensed therapist specializing in anxiety and PTSD. She has experience running therapy groups in schools, hospitals, and community settings.

-Games listed from Amazon include a small affiliate income if you make a purchase through this site.

Allen, B., & Hoskowitz, N. A. (2017). Structured Trauma-Focused CBT and Unstructured Play/Experiential Techniques in the Treatment of Sexually Abused Children: A Field Study With Practicing Clinicians. Child maltreatment , 22 (2), 112–120. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077559516681866

Yenigen, S. Play Doesn’t End in Childhood: Why Adults Need Recess too. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2014/08/06/336360521/play-doesnt-end-with-childhood-why-adults-need-recess-too

11 CBT Group Therapy Activity Ideas With Examples

By Jamie Frew on Feb 29, 2024.

Fact Checked by RJ Gumban.

Introduction

Are you a mental health practitioner who wants to step up your group therapy ? If yes, then you’re in luck! If you’re looking for fun, effective ways to engage your clients in some activities to improve their mental health, you’ve come to the right place.

Who says you can’t put “fun” in “group therapy?” In this blog, we have researched and come up with some of the best group therapy activities for adults , as well as a range of game ideas for group therapy . Let’s dive in!

Overview on Cognitive-Behavioral Group Therapy (CBGT)

Firstly, let’s talk about CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT aims to improve the mental health of a person. It focuses on enhancing the way a person thinks and behaves through therapy. The purpose of CBT is to address mental health issues, such as abuse, depression, anxiety, and more.

But the difference is CBGT or Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy blends CBT in a group setting. The participants will engage in this therapeutic approach as a group. The CBT group therapy activities are an incredible way to develop social skills, learn from other participants, and improve thinking patterns and coping mechanisms.

It’s important to ensure that while conducting some CBT group activities, participants feel safe in the environment. This way, they can share their experiences in a non-threatening environment and receive the support they need from others.

There are different CBT group activities you’ll discover in this blog. Before we go any further, let’s see what makes CBGT effective.

Benefits of group CBT therapy

CBGT has many benefits for you and your clients, some of which are:

Cost-effective

CBGT is cost-effective because you can work with many participants in one session. This makes it more cost-friendly. How? Because people who want to improve their well-being can join CBGT rather than one-on-one therapy, which can be more expensive.

Improve skills

CBGT can also include the skills of participants through interactive CBT activities for group therapy. These can be their problem-solving skills, thinking patterns, communication skills, cognitive restructuring, and therapeutic techniques.

Learn different perspectives

This happens to any other group activities. Through CBGT, the participants will discover more about each other. As a result, they can learn about the different perspectives and experiences of others.

Build healthy habits

When the group therapy ends, each participant can bring the lessons they learned from the activities. It’s not a one-and-done kind of thing but continuous work. So through CBGT, they can build healthy habits even outside the therapy sessions.

Receive support

One of the best things about group therapy is not having to feel isolated and alone. The participants who are going through the same thing can get together, relate with each other, and provide support to boost their wellness.

Do these benefits sound good? Read on because, with these CBT group ideas, you’ll be able to gain insights and tips to make group therapy effective .

CBT group therapy activity ideas with examples

The following CBT group therapy ideas will help you and the participants achieve therapeutic goals. First, we have:

Social roleplay

Roleplay is an excellent way for self-expression. It helps participants engage in different social situations and learn what to do when they encounter them. This will lessen their anxiety and empower their social skills.

You can come up with different scenarios that you think will be helpful to the participants. For example, if some of them have low self-esteem, have them roleplay social scenes that will make them feel empowered.

Mindfulness meditation

The world moves fast. Sometimes, we need to keep ourselves grounded and keep in touch with our emotions and thoughts. That’s where mindfulness meditation comes into play.

It is a mental technique that will help your participants to concentrate, relax, and focus on the present. This can reduce negative thoughts, boost mental clarity, and strengthen self-control.

Gradual exposure

Gradual exposure means the participants will be gradually exposed to things that trigger or cause distress. The purpose of this is to reduce fear, anxiety, and avoidance of that specific situation or object.

For example, a participant has a phobia of insects. You can start by having them imagine the image of the insects. Then in the next session, there will be more vivid imaginations.

If successful and the participant feels safe enough, there can be real-life exposures, too. But make sure that the participant is comfortable with it and willing to work on their phobia.

Successive approximation

Goals can be overwhelming. So, the successive approximation is here to tackle these overwhelming goals by breaking them into smaller steps. Through this, participants can achieve a bigger goal and mastery by taking small steps every day.

Skills training

Skills training is designed to help individuals learn new skills and use them for their own growth. These could include communication skills, social skills, assertiveness, or other general psychological skills.

For example, you can train the participants to be kind to themselves and improve self-talk. They can also practice breathing exercises, mindfulness, and other activities that will improve their mental health and other skills.

Relaxation breathing training

When things get hard, we forget to pause and breathe. Sometimes, that can cause anxiety and panic attacks.

So through relaxation breathing training, participants can reduce the symptoms, such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, trembling, etc.

Problem-solving

This CBT exercise is designed to help participants or clients be proactive in solving their problems during challenging times. Problem-solving exercises allow participants to take control of their emotions and navigate difficult situations. To put this into practice, you can come up with CBT games for groups tailored to highlight their problem-solving skills.

Worry journaling

Journaling can help us slow down, gather our thoughts, and calm our minds. If your participants are stressed or suffering from anxiety, you can advise them to do worry journaling.

You can give them prompts to answer, so they know what to write. For example:

What are you grateful for today?
What are you looking forward to?
What’s the highlight of your day?
What are some of the worries you need to let go of?

They can do this every morning, night, or whenever they have racing thoughts or worry.

Discussing trauma

Discussing trauma can help participants process their thoughts and emotions about the traumatic events.

To start with this exercise, you can brainstorm discussion questions for group therapy to get the conversation started. If you have participants who are dealing with substance-use problems, there are a great number of group topic ideas for substance abuse so participants can talk about their experience.

Make sure that participants feel safe discussing their traumatic experiences and that they are comfortable talking about them.

Focusing on self-care

Self-care doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. There are group activities for self-care that will encourage participants to implement together but will benefit themselves.

Some group activities that stimulate self-care are:

Playing board games
Exercising together
Practicing mindfulness
Starting new hobbies together
Having lifting and mindful conversations

Aren’t these activities exciting? 🤩

All in all, group activities can improve themselves as individuals while thriving in a supportive environment. The more counseling group therapy ideas you have , the more lively you can turn therapy will. It doesn’t need to have a nerve-racking atmosphere.

By using the activities mentioned above, you can create a fun-loving environment that participants will enjoy and feel safe in. And that plays a big role in achieving the best outcomes for your clients.

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IMAGES

CBT Problem Solving Worksheet Editable Fillable Printable PDF
CBT: Problem Solving Worksheet Editable / Fillable PDF for Counselors
CBT Problem Solving Maps for Individual Counseling and Behavior
CBT Problem-Solving Worksheet
CBT Problem Solving Worksheet Editable Fillable Printable PDF
CBT Problem-Solving Worksheet

VIDEO

Problem Solving and Action Plans in DBT and CBT
What is CBT?
CBT Role-Play
Turn Worrying Into Problem Solving with CBT for Anxiety
CBT Role-Play
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Group Activities

COMMENTS

CBT WORKSHEET PACKET
Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond, 3rd ed. (2020), and Beck, J. S. Cognitive Therapy for Challenging Problems (2005). As noted in these books, the decision to use any given worksheet is based on the therapist's conceptualization of the client. The worksheets are inappropriate for some clients, especially
10 Best Problem-Solving Therapy Worksheets & Activities
Humans are excellent problem-solvers, born with an innate ability to find solutions to day-to-day challenges. Cognitive science tells us that we regularly face not only well-defined problems but, importantly, many that are ill defined (Eysenck & Keane, 2015).. Sometimes, we find ourselves unable to overcome our daily problems or the inevitable (though hopefully infrequent) life traumas we face.
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Embracing cognitive restructuring empowers you to break free from limiting beliefs, reducing negative self-talk, and promoting a greater sense of self-efficacy. Through this process, you can cultivate resilience, enhance problem-solving skills, and foster a more effective and proactive approach to life's challenges. Cognitive Distortions Worksheets
CBT Techniques: 25 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Worksheets
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Worksheets (PDFs) To Print and Use. If you're a therapist looking for ways to guide your client through treatment or a hands-on person who loves to learn by doing, there are many cognitive-behavioral therapy worksheets that can help. 1. Coping styles worksheet.
7 Super CBT Activity Sheets, Games, and Exercises
These cognitive behavioral therapy activities help teach and reinforce CBT techniques.Cognitive behavioral therapy can seem a bit complicated at first. Fortunately, CBT activity sheets, games, and other exercises can make techniques easier and even fun. With that in mind, let's jump right into activities you can view and download, including PDFs you can use as soon as today. 1. CBT Activity ...
Problem Solving Packet
worksheet. Guide your clients and groups through the problem solving process with the help of the Problem Solving Packet. Each page covers one of five problem solving steps with a rationale, tips, and questions. The steps include defining the problem, generating solutions, choosing one solution, implementing the solution, and reviewing the ...
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Games for the Brain offers a selection of free games and activities involving pattern matching, problem-solving, and memory to train your thinking. A Take-Home Message. Cognitive difficulties, such as challenges with paying attention, planning, remembering, and problem-solving, can further compound and exacerbate mental health issues
Problem Solving
Consider your own behavior, as well as external factors. Define your problem. Be as clear and comprehensive as possible. If there are many parts to your problem, describe each of them. TIP: If you find it difficult to separate your emotions from the problem, try to complete this step from the perspective of an impartial friend.
Solving Problems the Cognitive-Behavioral Way
Problem-solving is one technique used on the behavioral side of cognitive-behavioral therapy. The problem-solving technique is an iterative, five-step process that requires one to identify the ...
Problem Solving
Problem Solving is a helpful intervention whenever clients present with difficulties, dilemmas, and conundrums, or when they experience repetitive thought such as rumination or worry. Effective problem solving is an essential life skill and this Problem Solving worksheet is designed to guide adults through steps which will help them to generate ...
CBT Worksheets
Explore our range of CBT worksheets, exercises, information handouts, self-help guides, audio therapy tools, and the Treatments That Work™ series. Translations are available in over 70 languages, and many of our resources are downloadable in multiple formats to suit your therapy style. 100 of 503 resources. Order by. Name Popular Recent.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Exercises: CBT Interventions
Cognitive behavioral therapy exercises are designed to intervene on all three components simultaneously. For instance, when uncontrollable worry is the problem, CBT exercises can help people to identify more effective and grounded thoughts, which lessens anxiety. In turn, reduced anxiety makes it easier to engage in skillful behavior to ...
20 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Techniques with Examples
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) stands as a powerful, evidence-based therapeutic approach for various mental health challenges. ... and then spends time painting (a pleasure activity). He finds joy in these activities, which uplifts his mood. Behavioral Experiments: ... facilitating a more objective approach to problem-solving. Example: Adam ...
Free CBT Worksheets
Whilst these worksheets can be used to support self-help or work with other therapists, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is best delivered with the support of a BABCP accredited CBT specialist. If you want to book an appointment with a professionally accredited CBT expert, call (01732) 808626, complete the simple contact form on the right side of ...
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These worksheets act as useful manuals by giving frameworks for problem-solving, goal-setting, behavior tracking, and cognitive restructuring.Worksheets for CBT encourage self-reflection and support the development of better thought patterns and coping mechanisms. Frequently used as self-help tools and in therapy sessions by people looking to ...
Problem-Solving Therapy: Definition, Techniques, and Efficacy
Problem-solving therapy is a brief intervention that provides people with the tools they need to identify and solve problems that arise from big and small life stressors. It aims to improve your overall quality of life and reduce the negative impact of psychological and physical illness. Problem-solving therapy can be used to treat depression ...
CBT Worksheets
The Cognitive Triangle. worksheet. The cognitive triangle illustrates how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors affect one another. This idea forms the basis of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Perhaps most important to CBT, when a person changes their thoughts, they will also change their emotions and behaviors.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a popular form of psychological therapy that works with our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT is an integration of principles from behavior therapy with theory and methods from the cognitive therapies developed by Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis. The CBT that is practiced today has evolved with new ...
PDF Module 12: Problem Solving
finding his or her own answers. In this manner you are a facilitator who possesses problem -solving skills. Problem solving may be difficult for the following individuals: 1. Persons with serious mental illness (psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder) 2. Persons with severe depression, who might require more focused cognitive work or medications 3.
35 Fun & Effective Therapy Games for Kids, Teens, & Adults
3. FEELOPOLY Emotions Game. Great for: Kids, tweens, teens, some adults and young adults. Works with: Individual therapy, groups, in-person, telehealth. Goals: Naming emotions, expressing feelings, validating emotions. FEELOPOLY is one of the most popular therapy games and mental health downloads available online.
11 CBT Group Therapy Activity Ideas With Examples
Problem-solving exercises allow participants to take control of their emotions and navigate difficult situations. To put this into practice, you can come up with CBT games for groups tailored to highlight their problem-solving skills. Worry journaling. Journaling can help us slow down, gather our thoughts, and calm our minds.
Helping Kids Cope: 14 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Activities for Kids
3) Make calm down jars. Calm down jars are another one of my favorite cognitive behavioral therapy activities for kids. They are easy to make and can be extremely soothing as they help decrease anxiety and fear while also helping with anger management. The act of shaking and watching the contents of a calm down jar settle forces the body to ...
Top Team Building Activities for Problem-Solving Skills
1 Escape Rooms. Escape rooms are a popular team building activity that puts problem-solving skills to the test. In an escape room, your team is locked in a themed room and must find clues, solve ...