An interesting alternative to Thought Sheets

The use of Thought Sheets (aka Dysfunctional Thought Record or Thought Record) is one of the techniques most strongly identified with Cognitive Therapy. The three-column thought sheet provides a simple format for collecting detailed information about thoughts and the five-column thought sheet provides a convenient format for cognitive restructuring.

Freedman, et al. (2003) present an intertesting alternative which they call the "Experience Map." I'll try describing it verbally because I don't know how to upload graphics to this forum.

The single-page form starts with the question "1. How are you feeling and what is contributing to it?" and provides spaces for recording Negative Emotions, Environment, Thoughts, and Behaviors. It then goes on to "2. How would you like to feel and what are coping strategies that might help?" and provides spaces for listing Positive Emotions, and Coping Strategies. Next it asks "3. What strategy did you try and how do you feel?" and provides spaces for recording New Mood and Strategy Used. Finally it provides spaces for Take Home Message and Therapist Comments.

It looks like a useful format and may have some advantages over traditional thought sheets.

Friedman, M. A., Cardemil,E. V., Gollan, J. Uebelacker, L. A. & Miller, I. W. (2003). The GIFT Program for Major Depression. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 10, 157-168.

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