Your feelings and thoughts map

This document is a simplified “five areas” formulation template that breaks down the client’s difficulties into thoughts, feelings and actions.

Designed for use during the assessment phase and adaptable throughout therapy, this tool facilitates a deeper understanding of the problem, guiding targeted interventions and adjustments as new information emerges.

References and Further Reading

  • Beck, J. S. (1995). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond. New York: Guilford Press.
  • Butler, G. (1998). Clinical formulation. In A. S. Bellack & M. Hersen (Eds.), Comprehensive clinical psychology. New York: Pergamon Press.
  • Hackmann, A., Bennett-Levy, J., & Holmes, E. A. (2011). Oxford guide to imagery in cognitive therapy. New York: Oxford University Press.
  • Padesky, C. A., & Mooney, K. A. (1990). Presenting the cognitive model to clients. International Cognitive Therapy Newsletter, 6, 13–14.
  • Persons, J. B. (1989). Cognitive therapy in practice: A case formulation approach. New York: W.W. Norton.
  • Weerasekera, P. (1993). Formulation: A multiperspective model. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 38(5), 351–358.