Validation Therapy Worksheet

Situation	Activity
When the person speaks about the past.	Listen actively and show interest. Ask open-ended questions to encourage sharing of memories.
When the person is confused or anxious.	Use calm and reassuring language. Validate their feelings by acknowledging their emotions without contradicting them.
When the person repeats old stories.	Engage by asking details about the story, showing that you value their narrative and respect their reality.
When the person is upset.	Reflect their emotions by saying things like "It sounds like you feel..." to show understanding and empathy.
When planning daily activities.	Involve them in decisions by asking for their opinions on simple choices, validating their ability to contribute.

References

Feil, N. (1982). The Validation Breakthrough: Simple Techniques for Communicating with People with Alzheimer's and Other Dementias. Health Professions Press.

You can download more Mental Health worksheets here.

Please note: There may be a more up-to-date and editable version of this worksheet available here which may be more suitable to present to clients if you are a therapist or to use in a classroom as a teacher or guidance counsellor.