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Thoughts Or Feelings

Differentiating between thoughts and feelings (emotions and body sensations) is an essential skill in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Thoughts Or Feelings is a quiz worksheet designed to help you practice differentiating between thoughts and feelings.

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Professional version

A PDF of the resource, theoretical background, suggested therapist questions and prompts.

Client version

A PDF of the resource plus client-friendly instructions where appropriate.

Fillable version (PDF)

A fillable version of the resource. This can be edited and saved in Adobe Acrobat, or other PDF editing software.

Editable version (PPT)

An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.

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Languages this resource is available in

  • Arabic
  • Chinese (Simplified)
  • English (GB)
  • English (US)
  • Greek
  • Italian
  • Polish
  • Portuguese (European)
  • Spanish (International)
  • Ukrainian

Techniques associated with this resource

Introduction & Theoretical Background

Differentiating between thoughts and feelings (emotions and body sensations) is an essential skill in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Thoughts are often opinions or assumptions – these are open to interpretation and modification. Feelings are often a product of the way we are thinking about something – and are best modified through balanced thinking exercises or similar. Many clients may initially find it difficult to differentiate between the two – and may become confused by statements like "I feel stupid" which confuse an emotion and a thought. Thoughts or Feelings is a quiz worksheet designed to help you practice differentiating between thoughts and feelings.

Therapist Guidance

This is a Psychology Tools exercise. Suggested uses include:

  • Client handout - use as a psychoeducation resource
  • Discussion point - use to provoke a discussion and explore client beliefs
  • Therapist learning tool - improve your familiarity with a psychological construct
  • Teaching resource - use as a learning tool during training