This CBT-based worksheet helps clients develop assertive body language through structured self-reflection, targeted practice, and progress tracking.
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Assertive communication involves more than words – it includes the non-verbal cues that accompany our speech. This resource is designed to help clients build awareness of their body language and intentionally practice assertive non-verbal behaviors such as eye contact, tone of voice, gestures, and interpersonal space.
The Assertive Body Language Practice Record enables clients to reflect on their communication style, evaluate key components of assertive body language, and identify areas for growth. Rooted in evidence-based assertiveness training models, it promotes self-monitoring, experiential learning, and behavior change over time.
Many clients who struggle with assertiveness may be unaware of how their body language contributes to how they are perceived. This resource addresses common barriers to assertive communication – such as anxiety, unhelpful beliefs, or underdeveloped skills – by encouraging intentional practice and structured reflection.
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Reinforcing non-verbal behaviors that signal competence and self-worth.
Enhancing social engagement through positive behavioral activation.
Supporting effective interpersonal boundaries and presence.
Replacing passive or aggressive patterns with confident expression.
Reducing self-consciousness and avoidance of eye contact or speech.
Improving confidence and control in interactions.
Teaching specific non-verbal communication skills.
Use the worksheet as part of psychoeducation about assertive communication.
Help clients select real-life situations where they can practice assertiveness.
Review completed records in-session to explore beliefs, reactions, and changes.
Support clients in identifying successes and areas for development using the 0–10 scale.
Use as a between-session task to consolidate work from assertiveness training or behavioral experiments.
Encourage clients to apply these skills across different people and settings.
Assertiveness training has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and to improve interpersonal functioning. Non-verbal behaviors – including voice, facial expression, posture, gestures, and proximity – play a crucial role in how assertive a person is perceived to be.
The resource integrates behavioral, cognitive, and relational models of assertiveness. From a behavioral standpoint, some clients may lack the specific skills required. Cognitive models highlight the role of beliefs (e.g., “If I make eye contact, people will think I’m rude.”), while relational perspectives emphasize how interpersonal dynamics shape communication patterns.
The practice record supports clients across these domains by encouraging planned, intentional use of body language in specific contexts, followed by structured reflection. This aligns with empirical evidence showing that assertive non-verbal behaviors (such as steady eye contact, calm tone of voice, and relaxed posture) contribute to perceptions of confidence and competence independently of verbal content.
Therapists can use this tool to normalize difficulties, scaffold skill development, and monitor change over time.
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