Purpose 🎯

Help clients distinguish personal values and preferences from expectations created by others.

Let’s Talk About It 🗣️

Ask:

• What matters most to me?
• What makes life feel meaningful?
• What do I do because I genuinely want to?
• What do I do mainly because I feel expected to?
• Where do I feel most like myself?
• What support would make it easier to live according to my values?

Explore differences between personal values, external expectations, social pressure, and survival-based adaptation.

If the Conversation Gets Stuck 💡

• When do you feel most authentic?
• What expectations feel heavy or confusing?
• What would you choose if judgment was not part of the decision?

Telehealth / Whiteboard Version ⚖️

Create two columns labeled “Mine” and “Expected of Me.” Sort activities, roles, routines, and goals into each column, then identify values that matter most.

Why This Works 🌱

Values exploration helps clients clarify what feels meaningful and supports choices that align with identity, preferences, and authentic needs.

Clinical Pearl 🧠

Some clients may need time to separate personal values from long-standing pressure to meet others’ expectations. Move slowly and validate uncertainty.

Documentation Language 📝

Therapist utilized a values clarification intervention to support client in distinguishing personal values, authentic preferences, and external expectations.

Clinical Focus: Values Clarification, Authenticity, Identity Development