Understanding Hoarding (Client Handout)
What hoarding is, why it happens and what helps.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Habits, Hoarding & Body-Focused Behaviours
- Approach / concern
- Habits, Hoarding & Body-Focused Behaviours
- Technique
- Habits, Hoarding & Body-Focused Behaviours
- 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
- November 2026
Key facts
What is Understanding Hoarding (Client Handout)?
What hoarding is, why it happens and what helps. Hoarding is difficulty parting with possessions, leading to clutter that affects daily life. It is treatable, and shame only makes it harder.
When to use it
- Hair pulling, skin picking and similar behaviours
- Difficulty discarding and clutter
- Building awareness before behaviour change
How to use it in session
- Explain the purpose and check that the client wants to do this.
- Why it happens.
- What helps.
- Agree one small next step.
Clinician tips
- Lead with curiosity; shame increases these behaviours.
- Set small, client-chosen goals.
- Address safety risks first in hoarding.
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.
References
Tolin, D. F., Frost, R. O., & Steketee, G. (2014). Buried in treasures (2nd ed.). Oxford University 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.
