A CAT technique: Self-Monitoring / Diary Keeping. It helps therapist and client recognize reciprocal-role patterns, map the procedure and choose a small revision point that can be tested in real life.
Step-by-step guide
- Identify the concrete moment where self-monitoring / diary keeping is relevant.
- Name the reciprocal roles or procedure involved.
- Locate the trap, dilemma, snag or revision point on the shared map.
- Choose one small alternative action that the client can try before the next session.
- Review what happened and update the reformulation if needed.
When to use
- When relational patterns repeat across situations.
- When client and therapist need a shared map rather than only insight.
- When the client is ready to notice and revise procedures between sessions.
Key phrases
Let us see where this fits in the pattern we have been mapping.
Follow-up questions
What did you notice in the moment?
What would be the smallest useful next step?
Alternative phrasings
We can use Self-Monitoring / Diary Keeping here without rushing the process.
Let us keep this concrete enough to review next time.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not present the map as a final diagnosis.
- ⚠️ Do not overload the diagram with every detail.
- ⚠️ Do not push revision before recognition is strong enough.
Source: Ryle & Kerr (2002)
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.