Alternative Action Formulation
The Alternative Action Formulation is a CBT case conceptualization (formulation) worksheet. Formulations help a client and therapist come to a shared understanding of a problem. This tool encourages a focus on alternative (adaptive) behavior.
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Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
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Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
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Introduction & Theoretical Background
The Alternative Action Formulation is a CBT case conceptualization (formulation) worksheet. The purpose of a formulation is for the client and therapist to come to a shared understanding of a problem. This formulation template follows a Problem > Coping strategy > Unintended consequence format and is designed to encourage a focus on alternative (more adaptive) behavioral strategies.
Therapist Guidance
Start by identifying the client's current difficulties and the strategies that they use to cope with these. The consequences of the current coping strategies are then explored (look out for short-term gains and long-term costs). Clients are then encouraged to consider alternate coping strategies.
References And Further Reading
- Eells, T. D. (Ed.). (2011). Handbook of psychotherapy case formulation. Guilford Press.
- Johnstone, L., & Dallos, R. (2013). Formulation in psychology and psychotherapy: Making sense of people's problems. Routledge.
- Kuyken, W., Padesky, C. A., & Dudley, R. (2008). Collaborative case conceptualization: Working effectively with clients in cognitive-behavioral therapy. Guilford Press.
- Persons, J. B. (2012). The case formulation approach to cognitive-behavior therapy. Guilford Press.
- Tarrier, N., & Johnson, J. (Eds.). (2015). Case formulation in cognitive behaviour therapy: The treatment of challenging and complex cases. Routledge.