Objectives

What is an objective?

An objective is the specific, measurable step used to achieve the treatment goal. It describes how the goal will be met throughout treatment.

Strong objectives typically include:

• A timeframe (for example, within 90 days)
• Treatment interventions or modalities (for example CBT, DBT, ACT, Behavioral Therapy)
• A measurable outcome (for example patient self report, therapist observation, GAD-7, PHQ-9, ADHD rating scales, or improved daily functioning)

Goal 1: Reduce Depressive Symptoms and Increase Emotional Awareness

Objective:

Client will increase awareness of depressive symptoms, mood patterns, and contributing factors by identifying how depression impacts emotional experiences, thoughts, behaviors, and daily functioning during therapy sessions over the next 90 days.

Measurement Tools (when appropriate):

• PHQ-9
• Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS)
• Clinical observation
• Client self report

Goal 2: Improve Emotional Regulation and Coping

Objective:

Client will improve emotional regulation by identifying and practicing adaptive coping strategies to manage depressive symptoms, emotional distress, and periods of increased stress during therapy sessions over the next 90 days.

Measurement Tools (when appropriate):

• PHQ-9
• Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS)
• Clinical observation
• Client self report

Goal 3: Increase Behavioral Activation and Daily Functioning

Objective:

Client will increase engagement in meaningful, pleasurable, and goal-directed activities by identifying and implementing behavioral activation strategies to reduce withdrawal and improve daily functioning over the next 90 days.

Measurement Tools (when appropriate):

• PHQ-9
• Behavioral activation tracking
• Clinical observation
• Client self report

Goal 4: Improve Social Connection and Interpersonal Functioning

Objective:

Client will improve interpersonal functioning by increasing engagement with supportive relationships, reducing social withdrawal, and developing healthier communication of emotional needs over the next 90 days.

Measurement Tools (when appropriate):

• PHQ-9
• Social engagement tracking
• Clinical observation
• Client self report

Goal 5: Develop a More Balanced and Positive Self-Perception

Objective:

Client will develop a more balanced perception of self by identifying and challenging negative self-beliefs, self-criticism, and depressive thinking patterns while increasing recognition of personal strengths and positive qualities over the next 90 days.

Measurement Tools (when appropriate):

• PHQ-9
• Clinical observation
• Cognitive thought tracking
• Client self report

Objectives (Depression)

• Patient will identify and implement 2 coping strategies to improve mood regulation within 90 days, as evidenced by improved PHQ-9 scores, patient self report, and therapist observation.
• Patient will develop and utilize 3 behavioral activation strategies to increase engagement in meaningful activities within 90 days, as evidenced by improved daily functioning and reduced withdrawal reported in session.
• Patient will identify 2 factors that contribute to depressive symptoms and decreased motivation within 60 days, as evidenced by patient self report and clinical interview.