CBT Appraisal Model
The CBT Appraisal Model worksheet is a transdiagnostic tool designed to help clients explore and identify their cognitive appraisals, which underlie emotional and behavioral reactions.
CBT Appraisal Model
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) suggests that difficult feelings do not arise directly from the things that happen to us – it is how we interpret those things that matters most. Psychologists sometimes call these interpretations “appraisals.”
Appraisals can be positive (leading to emotions such as excitement), negative (leading to emotions such as sadness), or neutral (not creating strong feelings). Many of our appraisals happen automatically. Unless we pay attention to them, we may not even notice that they are happening.
Appraisals can also be biased – not everything we think is completely accurate. Because our thoughts influence our feelings and actions, biased thinking can contribute to emotional difficulties such as anxiety and depression. Becoming more aware of your appraisals can therefore be a helpful skill.
The CBT Appraisal Model worksheet allows you to:
- Record situations that bother you
- Practice recognizing your appraisals
Overview
The CBT Appraisal Model aids in identifying clients' appraisals of triggering events. It helps clients to make the link that their appraisals are key in understanding their emotions and behaviors in response to an event. Separate versions provide both cross-sectional and longitudinal perspectives to understand past influences while focusing on the present.
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.