Habit Reversal Plan

What is Habit Reversal Plan?

Build a competing response for a repetitive behaviour. Habit reversal builds awareness and replaces the behaviour with an action that can’t be done at the same time.

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

1. Explain the purpose and check that the client wants to do this.
2. The behaviour, in detail.
3. Early signs that it is starting.
4. My competing response (hold for 1 minute or until the urge passes).
5. Changes to my environment.
6. Someone who can encourage me.
7. 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

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.