Lifeline: Highs, Lows & Turning Points
A life story worksheet for mapping highs, lows and turning points by age, with what helped the client cope and a reflection on patterns and strengths.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Life story · Narrative
- Approach / concern
- Universal
- Technique
- Life story · Narrative
- 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 Lifeline: Highs, Lows & Turning Points?
A lifeline is a visual or written timeline of significant life events. It supports narrative understanding of one’s life, highlights resilience and resources, and is used in assessment and in therapies such as narrative exposure therapy.
Why it works
Life story research suggests that how people construct their narratives relates to identity and wellbeing (McAdams, 2001). Lifelines are a structured component of narrative exposure therapy for trauma (Schauer et al., 2011).
When to use it
- Assessment and rapport-building
- Identity and meaning work
- Trauma therapy (by trained clinicians)
- Older adults and life review
How to use it in session
- Explain that the client controls detail and pace.
- Mark highs, lows and turning points.
- Note coping and resources for each.
- Reflect on patterns and strengths.
- Use symbols for very painful events.
Clinician tips
- Monitor distress and window of tolerance.
- Highlight survival and strengths, not just difficulties.
- Detailed trauma processing requires specific training.
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
Do I have to include painful events?
Only if and as much as you choose. A single word or symbol is enough.
Is this narrative exposure therapy?
No. It’s a lifeline reflection. NET is a specific trauma treatment delivered by trained clinicians.
References
McAdams, D. P. (2001). The psychology of life stories. Review of General Psychology, 5(2), 100-122.
Schauer, M., Neuner, F., & Elbert, T. (2011). Narrative exposure therapy: A short-term treatment for traumatic stress disorders (2nd ed.). Hogrefe.
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.
