Strengths & Qualities Record

When to Use

Use when the client's self-concept is dominated by perceived weaknesses and deficits, which is common in depression. Helpful alongside positive data logging and core belief work. Particularly useful for clients who respond to 'What are your strengths?' with a blank stare or dismissal, as the structured format provides scaffolding.

How to Introduce

Acknowledge the difficulty: 'Depression makes it very hard to see our own strengths. It's like wearing dark glasses that filter out the good stuff. This record is designed to help us look for those qualities systematically, even when your mind tells you there aren't any.'

Adaptations

For clients who cannot identify any strengths, start with what others have said about them or use a checklist of common strengths to prompt recognition. For those who dismiss strengths as 'not counting,' include a column for the dismissing thought to make the filtering explicit. Consider starting with a strengths-spotting exercise for someone they admire.

Avoid if the exercise triggers significant shame or distress rather than gentle challenge. Not suitable as a standalone intervention for severe depression; embed within broader cognitive and behavioural work. Be cautious with clients who may use it as a social comparison tool.

Clinical Tips

Building a strengths record is a process that gains power over time through accumulation. Review it in session and ask the client to add to it between sessions. Connect identified strengths to the client's ability to engage with therapy and make changes. This record can become a powerful resource during relapse prevention planning.