06/16/2025
You may wonder, why does my therapist tell me to journal? Journaling is a great tool to help clients process between sessions, increase mindfulness skills and self reflection.
What do you need:
1. Yourself (always)
2. A pen/pencil and paper OR your phone/computer/tablet
Some examples of different types of journal activities:
Thought Diary: A common technique in CBT, keep track of different thoughts you have between sessions and how you feel, and how this impacts your behaviour. This can help you and your therapist
Gratitude journal: Writing down things you are grateful for can help reframe your thinking into a more positive, and intentional mindset.
3 Minute Journal: Set a timer for 3 minutes, and let your thoughts flow on paper! This exercise forces you to slow down your thoughts, as your hand may not be able to keep pace with thoughts. This exercise brings intention and mindfulness into journaling.
Free thought journaling: No structure, no timeline- just you and your journal! Can be helpful to visualize you taking your thoughts our of your head, and putting them into your journal!
Journaling can help clients lighten the mental load, help to organize thoughts, practice mindfulness and can be paired with visualization exercises. Keep in mind, there is no "right" way to journal, so try different techniques to see what feels best for you!
Curious about trying therapy? Send us a DM or email us at [email protected]