New Core Belief Evidence Log
A CBT schema-change worksheet for rating an old and new core belief and logging daily evidence that supports the new belief, with a re-rating after a week.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Core belief work
- Approach / concern
- CBT
- Technique
- Core belief work
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the New Core Belief Evidence Log?
A positive data log (core belief log) is a cognitive therapy technique for strengthening new, more adaptive core beliefs by systematically recording evidence consistent with them. It counteracts the information-processing bias that maintains old beliefs.
Why it works
Christine Padesky described the positive data log as a key schema-change technique for building new core beliefs (Padesky, 1994). Core belief work is a standard part of later-phase CBT (Beck, 2021).
When to use it
- Low self-esteem and negative core beliefs
- After identifying core beliefs (e.g. downward arrow)
- Depression relapse prevention
- Personality-related patterns (longer-term work)
How to use it in session
- Identify the old belief and a believable new one.
- Rate belief in each.
- Log small daily evidence for the new belief.
- Review and discuss discounting.
- Re-rate weekly.
Clinician tips
- The new belief should be balanced, not extreme (“I’m okay as I am” vs “I’m perfect”).
- Small evidence counts most.
- Expect slow, gradual shifts.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Why log small things?
Old beliefs make us dismiss small positives. Recording them builds a body of evidence over time.
How long does belief change take?
Often weeks to months of consistent practice.
References
Padesky, C. A. (1994). Schema change processes in cognitive therapy. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, 1(5), 267-278.
Beck, J. S. (2021). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
