Self-Esteem Sentence Completion
A self-esteem worksheet with ten sentence starters about strengths, pride, worth and self-compassion, followed by a reflection on patterns.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Self-esteem
- Approach / concern
- CBT
- Technique
- Self-esteem
- 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-Esteem Sentence Completion?
Sentence completion is a simple reflective exercise that invites spontaneous responses about oneself. Used in self-esteem work, it surfaces strengths, beliefs and areas where self-criticism dominates.
Why it works
Low self-esteem is linked to many mental health difficulties, and promoting self-esteem is a recognized mental health target (Mann et al., 2004). Noticing and recording positives is a key part of CBT for low self-esteem (Fennell, 2016).
When to use it
- Low self-esteem
- Teens and adults
- Groups and workshops
- Early rapport-building sessions
How to use it in session
- Invite quick, honest answers.
- Notice which prompts are hard.
- Explore patterns together.
- Add what a kind friend would say.
- Revisit later to see changes.
Clinician tips
- Difficulty finishing prompts is useful information.
- Pair with the Positive Qualities Log.
- Keep the tone light and curious.
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 if I can’t answer some sentences?
That’s okay and often meaningful. Come back to them later or ask someone who knows you well.
Can teens use this?
Yes. It works well with adolescents, individually or in groups.
References
Fennell, M. (2016). Overcoming low self-esteem (2nd ed.). Robinson.
Mann, M., Hosman, C. M. H., Schaalma, H. P., & de Vries, N. K. (2004). Self-esteem in a broad-spectrum approach for mental health promotion. Health Education Research, 19(4), 357-372.
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.
