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Systematically evaluate and build on existing coping strategies for managing distressing psychotic experiences.
You already cope with your experiences in various ways. Some strategies work better than others. This log helps you identify what you're already doing, rate how well each strategy works, and experiment with enhancing or adding strategies.
Use throughout CBTp to build and strengthen the client's repertoire of coping strategies for managing distressing experiences. Particularly useful when the client has some existing coping strategies that can be enhanced or when new strategies need to be introduced systematically.
Start by acknowledging and mapping the client's existing coping strategies, including those they may not recognise as coping (e.g., listening to music, social contact, distraction). Frame the work as building on their existing strengths and adding new options.
For clients with limited current coping, start with simple sensory strategies (grounding, music, physical activity) before progressing to cognitive strategies. For those with negative symptoms, focus on behavioural activation-style coping rather than cognitive techniques.
Avoid recommending strategies that may increase isolation (e.g., always using headphones to block voices) without also addressing social engagement. Do not recommend strategies that the client has already tried and found unhelpful without discussing modifications.
The most effective coping strategies typically involve some combination of social contact, meaningful activity, and managing arousal levels. Help clients develop a personalised 'toolkit' with strategies for different situations and intensity levels. Regularly review which strategies are being used and how effective they are.
Suitable for clients working with psychosis, cbtp, coping strategies, voices, enhancement. This tool can be used as a standalone worksheet or as part of a structured homework plan.
Create a free account to access 10 worksheets per month.
Explore how common unusual experiences are in the general population — and how context, stress, and sleep deprivation can produce them in anyone.
A maintenance-focused formulation for psychosis — mapping triggers, experiences, appraisals, emotions, and coping responses.
Examine beliefs about the power of voices — challenging omniscience, omnipotence, and the need to comply.