Expressive Writing Practice
A structured expressive writing worksheet with guidelines for 15-20 minute sessions over several days, a session log and a final reflection.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Expressive writing
- Approach / concern
- Universal
- Technique
- Expressive writing
- 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 Expressive Writing Practice?
Expressive writing, developed by James Pennebaker, involves writing about one’s deepest thoughts and feelings regarding a stressful or traumatic experience for 15-20 minutes on several occasions.
Why it works
Expressive writing has been associated with improvements in psychological and physical health outcomes, although effects are modest and vary by person and context (Pennebaker, 1997; Frattaroli, 2006).
When to use it
- Stressful life events
- Grief and loss
- Adjustment difficulties
- Clients who process best in writing
How to use it in session
- Explain the method and expected short-term emotions.
- Choose a manageable topic.
- Write on three or four days.
- Log feelings before and after.
- Discuss the reflection in session.
Clinician tips
- Not ideal during acute crisis or immediately after trauma.
- Offer grounding skills in case writing becomes overwhelming.
- Clients can destroy the writing afterwards if they prefer.
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 write about trauma?
No. You can write about any stressful or emotional experience that feels manageable.
Should I share what I write?
Only if you want to. The writing is primarily for you.
References
Pennebaker, J. W. (1997). Writing about emotional experiences as a therapeutic process. Psychological Science, 8(3), 162-166.
Frattaroli, J. (2006). Experimental disclosure and its moderators: A meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 132(6), 823-865.
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.
