Getting Back to School Plan (Teens)
A teen school refusal worksheet identifying reasons school feels hard and building a graded return plan with supports, a safe person and a calm-down spot.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · CBT · Graded exposure
- Approach / concern
- Teens (13-18)
- Technique
- CBT · Graded exposure
- 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 Getting Back to School Plan (Teens)?
School refusal involves difficulty attending or staying in school, often due to anxiety, depression or social problems. Treatment typically combines CBT, graded return and collaboration between family and school.
Why it works
Kearney (2008) reviewed school refusal behaviour and functional approaches to assessment and treatment. CBT with graded exposure and parent and school involvement is an established treatment for school refusal (Heyne & Sauter, 2013).
When to use it
- Teens with school refusal or avoidance
- Anxiety and depression affecting attendance
- Return after illness or absence
- School team meetings
How to use it in session
- Identify functions and reasons.
- Rule out bullying and safety concerns.
- Build a graded return hierarchy.
- Arrange school supports.
- Review progress weekly.
Clinician tips
- Act early; avoidance grows.
- Coordinate with school counsellors.
- Coach parents to support without accommodating avoidance.
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
What causes school refusal?
Common causes include anxiety, depression, bullying, learning difficulties and family stress.
Should I let my teen stay home?
Short-term relief can increase avoidance. Work with the school and a clinician on a gradual return plan.
References
Kearney, C. A. (2008). School absenteeism and school refusal behavior in youth: A contemporary review. Clinical Psychology Review, 28(3), 451-471.
Heyne, D., & Sauter, F. M. (2013). School refusal. In C. A. Essau & T. H. Ollendick (Eds.), The Wiley-Blackwell handbook of the treatment of childhood and adolescent anxiety (pp. 471-517). Wiley-Blackwell.
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.
