Common Unhelpful Thinking Patterns

Free Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Resource for Mental Health Professionals

A helpful guide to identify and work with distorted thinking. The Common Unhelpful Thinking Patterns, from the course Foundational CBT, outlines frequent cognitive distortions such as all-or-nothing thinking, catastrophizing, and overgeneralizing.

It’s a clear, ready-to-use tool for teaching clients how thought patterns affect mood and behavior, a cornerstone of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Use this resource to:

  • Teach clients to recognize and challenge cognitive distortions

  • Support psychoeducation and thought record work

  • Reinforce CBT concepts around thoughts, emotions, and behaviors

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Clinical tool

Common Unhelpful Thinking Patterns

Review the most common types of cognitive distortions that impact our emotions and actions.