Before I Blame Myself And Feel Guilty
A structured checklist to help therapists address cognitive distortions related client's experiences of trauma-induced guilt.
Before I Blame Myself And Feel Guilty
This Before I Blame Myself And Feel Guilty tool helps you notice thinking traps that might make you feel unfairly guilty, ashamed, or responsible for traumatic events. Learning to spot these ‘traps’ in your thinking can help you to think and feel differently about these experiences.
This exercise describes some of the different responses people can have to trauma. It may bring up difficult memories or feelings for you. Be kind to yourself and complete it at your own pace. It’s OK if you need to take breaks or if you’d rather do this with your therapist.
Overview
Survivors of trauma often grapple with inappropriate guilt or shame regarding their actions (or inactions) during the traumatic events. This structured checklist identifies common cognitive distortions, providing a basis for clinicians to explore and address these unhelpful beliefs. It is designed to facilitate meaningful conversations around post-traumatic guilt and guide clients toward accurate ways of viewing their actions.
Also available as:
PDF ToolUse this tool with your clients
Support therapeutic work between sessions.
Assign
Send the tool securely to your client.
Client completes
Your client works through it on any device, at their own pace.
Review
Review their responses before the next session.
Part of a complete library of evidence-based tools
Worksheets, guides, audio resources and interactive digital tools for mental health professionals.