S – Specific – state how the problem will change
M – Measurable – how the change will be measured (write as measured by to be sure)
A – Attainable – ask yourself if the client can reach the measurement in the time allotted
R – Realistic – ask if the change can happen in the time allotted
T – Time-limited – define when the change will be completed
Objectives: a specific action step the client will do to achieve goal (written client will)
Interventions: an evidence-based technique the counselor will do to support client achieving
objective/goal (written counselor will)
Problem: the client is experiencing depressive symptoms as described as increase sadness and
lack of interest in activities.
Goal: the client will decrease depressive symptoms as measured by a decrease in the Personal
Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score from 20 to 12 by the end of week 8. A/R – is this
decrease possible in 8 weeks of therapy? Yes!
Objective: the client will learn and use two coping skills by the end of week one to decrease
symptoms of anxiety
Intervention: the counselor will teach client five coping skills and assist client is choosing two
by the end of week one to reduce symptoms of anxiety
