How to interpret thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in therapy

The emotional thermometer allows patients to record the intensity of their daily emotions using a scale of 1 to 10. This easy-to-use visual tool helps them become aware of their distress and relate it to specific situations or thoughts.

Thought recording based on the ABC model

Through the Event–Belief–Consequence (ABC) format, patients learn to identify which thoughts arise in certain situations and how these influence their emotions or behaviors. This exercise helps to detect negative automatic patterns.

Self-recording as self-observation training

Writing down thoughts, emotions, and reactions helps patients develop introspective skills. With practice, they begin to recognize cognitive distortions and question their interpretations more objectively.

Use of standardized scales to assess emotional state

Questionnaires such as the Zung Scale or the SRQ allow the level of depressive symptoms to be measured from the first sessions. These instruments serve to establish a baseline and evaluate the progress of treatment in a quantifiable way.

Cognitive restructuring sheets to transform thoughts

Patients learn to confront dysfunctional thoughts and replace them with more rational ones. This strengthens their emotional response capacity and improves their interpretation of daily experiences.

Didactic adaptation of tools to the patient's profile

It is essential to present these tools clearly, using real examples and accessible language. Repetition and support in their use are key to their successful incorporation into the therapeutic process.