Values Card Sort (Printable)
A printable values card sort with 24 original value cards, sorting piles, a top-five table with personal meaning, current consistency and one action each.
2-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Values clarification
- Approach / concern
- ACT
- Technique
- Values clarification
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 2 pages (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 Values Card Sort (Printable)?
Values card sorts are a hands-on way to clarify personal values by sorting cards into importance categories. The tactile process often surfaces values more vividly than lists, and is used in ACT, motivational interviewing and career counselling.
Why it works
The Personal Values Card Sort by Miller and colleagues is a widely used, public-domain tool in motivational interviewing (Miller et al., 2001). Values clarification is a core ACT process guiding committed action (Hayes et al., 2012).
When to use it
- ACT values work
- Motivational interviewing
- Life transitions and career counselling
- Groups, teens and couples
How to use it in session
- Print and cut out the cards, or tick on screen.
- Sort into three piles.
- Choose a top five.
- Describe what each means personally.
- Plan one small action per value.
Clinician tips
- Encourage personal definitions; words mean different things to different people.
- Add blank cards for values not listed.
- Couples can sort separately and compare.
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 original Personal Values Card Sort?
No. It’s an original TherapyAid card set inspired by the public-domain card sort developed by Miller and colleagues.
How often should values be re-sorted?
Values can shift with life stages. Re-sorting every year or during transitions can be insightful.
References
Miller, W. R., C’de Baca, J., Matthews, D. B., & Wilbourne, P. L. (2001). Personal values card sort. University of New Mexico.
Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of mindful change (2nd ed.). Guilford 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.
