What is a therapeutic response for a client with depression who feels they make mistakes?

Identifying recent accomplishments serves as a therapeutic response that can help clients with depression by highlighting their strengths and achievements, even if they feel overwhelmed by their mistakes. In cognitive-behavioral therapy, focusing on positive reinforcement helps in counteracting negative thoughts associated with self-criticism. This technique can bolster the client’s self-esteem and encourage a shift in their perspective, allowing them to see that their perception of constantly making mistakes may not reflect their reality. Acknowledging accomplishments builds resilience and provides tangible evidence to challenge negative thinking patterns, which is crucial in the treatment of depression.

By focusing on what a client has done well, the therapeutic process fosters a more balanced view of their capabilities, reinforcing their potential for growth and success beyond their current feelings of inadequacy.