This worksheet helps clients evaluate negative automatic thoughts using an engaging courtroom trial metaphor.
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.
An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.
Grounded in Beck’s cognitive model, this worksheet supports clients in re-evaluating their negative automatic thoughts (NATs). It uses a courtroom metaphor which helps clients to externalize their negative automatic thought (NAT) and scaffolds the process of cognitive restructuring. This format can be particularly helpful when clients are able to identify their negative automatic thoughts (NATs) but struggle to identify counter-evidence and develop a balanced, more realistic alternative thought.
This tool supports cognitive restructuring, a key component in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It allows clients to:
Clients often experience automatic thoughts that contribute to hopeless and low mood.
Clients may experience catastrophic, anxiety-provoking thoughts.
Helps reframe self-critical thoughts that contribute to low self-worth.
Suitable for any client struggling with biased or unhelpful patterns of thinking.
Select a distress thought that troubles the client.
Explore the evidence supporting the validity of the negative thought from the perspective of the 'prosecution'.
Explore the evidence that does not the thought from the perspective of the 'defense'.
Act as the jury to weigh both sides and reach a conclusion.
Formulate a balanced, realistic perspective based on the analysis.
Beck’s cognitive model suggests that cognitive modification can alter emotional responses. The Thought Record – Courtroom Trial tool uses a courtroom metaphor to bring the process of cognitive restructuring to life and make it more understandable and engaging. In doing so, this metaphor helps clients to separate themselves from their thoughts, facilitating more objective and effective re-evaluation.
Clinicians benefit from a structured tool that can be a used with a wide variety of clients.