Is behavioral activation only for severe depression?

BA is used across depression severity levels as part of CBT and related protocols. Pace activities to client capacity; document when you modify intensity due to fatigue, medical comorbidity, or acute risk.

Should I document pleasure and mastery ratings every session?

Document ratings when they are part of your clinical protocol or inform scheduling decisions. If the client did not track ratings, note that and adjust the plan.

How does BA differ from telling clients to exercise?

BA is structured, formulation-driven, and tracks avoidance cycles — not generic lifestyle advice. Notes should show individualized activity planning tied to mood maintenance patterns.

When should I add cognitive work to BA?

Many CBT protocols integrate rumination-focused and cognitive techniques alongside activation. Document which component you emphasized and why.

Behavioral Activation for Depression — CBT

Waypoint