How To Apologize Worksheet
GinaMarie Guarino, LMHC
Apologizing can be difficult, especially when there is tension between the people involved. Taking accountability can be tough, but teaching clients how to express remorse for their role in the conflict can help clients feel more comfortable opening up and saying they are sorry.
Clients can learn steps to take during an apology that will help them take responsibility and apologize to those they have hurt. Teaching clients key skills for a successful apology can help them feel empowered to apologize and express remorse for their actions.
About This Worksheet
Apologizing can feel vulnerable, which can be uncomfortable for clients in therapy. The How To Apologize worksheet offers 3 steps to prepare for an apology, which can reduce feelings of vulnerability and boost the client’s confidence in their ability to apologize.
The How To Apologize worksheet can help teens and adults create a plan to apologize to someone they have hurt. It offers reflection questions and actionable steps to maximize the value of an apology. This worksheet can be used in individual and couples counseling sessions.
Instructions
Begin by introducing the worksheet and explaining how a successful apology involves taking accountability for their role in the conflict. Then, review each step with the client and give examples of how they can be used to apologize.
Instruct the client to complete the reflection questions and provide guidance as needed. When they have completed the reflection questions, review their responses with them. Guide the conversation to make an action plan for the apology with reflection questions, like:
- How do you think your apology will be received?
- What concerns or hesitations do you have about apologizing?
Provide the client a copy of their completed worksheet to reference while they prepare for the apology. Follow up on how the apology went during the next session.
References
Corliss, J. (2023, December 21). The art of a heartfelt apology. Harvard Health Publishing.
Yamamoto, K., Kimura, M., & Osaka, M. (2021). Sorry, not sorry: Effects of different types of apologies and self-monitoring on non-verbal behaviors. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 689615.
