Self-Care Wheel
A colourful six-segment self-care wheel with fillable boxes for ideas in each domain and a prompt for the most neglected area.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Wellbeing planning
- Approach / concern
- Universal
- Technique
- Wellbeing planning
- 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 Self-Care Wheel?
A self-care wheel is a visual tool that organizes self-care into life domains, helping people plan balanced practices and notice neglected areas. This original version uses six domains: physical, emotional, social, mental, spiritual and practical.
Why it works
Wellbeing depends on meeting multiple psychological needs, including autonomy, competence and relatedness (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Treating oneself with kindness supports emotional health (Neff, 2003).
When to use it
- Stress and burnout prevention
- Clinicians and caregivers
- Groups and workshops
- Maintenance planning at the end of therapy
How to use it in session
- Explain the six domains.
- Brainstorm realistic ideas for each.
- Identify neglected areas.
- Choose one small step.
- Revisit regularly.
Clinician tips
- Small and realistic beats ambitious.
- Practical self-care (bills, chores) counts.
- Adapt domains to the client’s culture and values.
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
Is this the same as a wellness wheel?
It’s similar. This is an original TherapyAid self-care wheel with six domains.
How often should I update my self-care wheel?
Every few months, or whenever life changes significantly.
References
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68-78.
Neff, K. D. (2003). Self-compassion: An alternative conceptualization of a healthy attitude toward oneself. Self and Identity, 2(2), 85-101.
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.
