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Treatment planning worksheet

SMART Goals

A structured way to turn a broad hope — “I want to feel better” — into a goal that's Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, with the first steps written down.

Name or initialsDate

How to use this worksheet

Start with the goal in the client's own words, then work through each SMART criterion together, rewriting as you go. A good goal is one the client can picture succeeding at and knows how they'd measure. Keep it small enough to be believable — momentum from one achieved goal beats an ambitious one that stalls.

The goal, in your own words

Start rough — a hope, a frustration, something you want more or less of. We'll sharpen it below.

S.

Specific

What exactly do you want to accomplish? Who is involved, and what will be different? Swap vague wishes for a concrete picture.

M.

Measurable

How will you and I know it's working? Name the number, frequency, or observable sign you'll track.

A.

Achievable

Is this realistic with your current resources and energy? What might you need — a skill, support, or a smaller first step?

R.

Relevant

Why does this matter to you right now? How does it connect to your values or the reason you sought care?

T.

Time-bound

By when? Set a target date and, if helpful, check-in points along the way.

Rewrite it as one SMART goal

Pull the pieces above into a single sentence. If you can read it and know exactly what to do next, it's ready.

First steps this week

The two or three smallest actions that move you toward the goal. Concrete and doable before we meet again.

1.
2.
3.

Support & resources

Who or what can help — a person, a tool, a routine, a reminder?

Anticipating obstacles

What could get in the way, and what's your plan if it does? Naming it now makes it less likely to derail you.

Readiness & confidence check

How important is this goal to me? (0–10)How confident am I I can do it? (0–10)
  • Target date is written down.
  • The goal is measurable — I know what success looks like.
  • A next check-in / review is scheduled.

The SMART framework originates in Doran, G. T. (1981), There's a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management's goals and objectives, and is widely adapted for behavioral-health treatment planning and motivational work.

Meridian · New Hampshire mental health resources · This is a general clinical handout, not a substitute for professional judgment. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call or text 988 or NH Rapid Response at 833-710-6477.