Automatic Negative Thoughts Worksheets

Automatic negative thought worksheets can be used when the client encounters a roadblock when it comes to recognizing negative or unhealthy behaviors, thoughts, feelings, and habits. They provide greater insight into the client's state of mind and can be used if you wish to get to know your client on a more personal level, without feeling invasive. You can assign the worksheets as homework for the client to complete independently outside of your office, or they can be used within sessions to work through together.

To complete an automatic negative thought worksheet, clients simply have to answer the questions on the sheet. There is space for clients to freely express their thoughts and feelings, which provides some flexibility, however, it is recommended that they complete the sheet in its entirety. Of course, if the client is not comfortable, then you can skip questions. The worksheets are designed to be intuitive and easy to use, meaning that clients should be able to work through these reasonably quickly and without confusion.

If you would like to share the automatic negative thoughts worksheet, always ask for permission from your client. These worksheets contain highly sensitive and personal information, so if you wish to edit, store, manage, or share this document, then you must receive explicit permission from the client.