Taking the Escalator

04/04/2025

https://www.takingtheescalator.com/post/what-does-this-say-about-me

This activity invites you to reflect on everyday choices and preferences—then consider what these details might reveal about your personality, lifestyle, and values.Instructions: For each topic, briefly share your answer (e.g., their bedtime, favorite movie, or weekend activity), then respond to t...

03/17/2025

https://www.takingtheescalator.com/post/contributing-factors-substance-use-and-mental-health

NOTE TO TAKING THE ESCALATOR MEMBERS: This is actually an activity that was made a while ago that must have been removed from the site. If anyone finds this activity already on the site, please notify Taking the Escalator staff (Ken) at [email protected] there can be a lot of simi...

03/04/2025

Exposure therapy is a highly effective, research-backed approach that helps people gradually overcome fear and anxiety tied to specific situations, thoughts, or objects. By confronting fears in a safe and structured way, the brain learns that these triggers aren’t as threatening as they seem—allowing anxiety to fade over time.

In this worksheet, you’ll explore how exposure therapy can be used to manage Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Start by watching this insightful video featuring Exposure Therapy Expert, Andy Dean, LCSW, then use the accompanying worksheet to build awareness and develop practical, evidence-based coping skills.

Exposure therapy is a highly effective, research-backed approach that helps people gradually overcome fear and anxiety tied to specific situations, thoughts, or objects. By confronting fears in a safe and structured way, the brain learns that these triggers aren’t as threatening as they seem—all...

03/03/2025

Great overview on exposure therapy for anxiety and OCD -

Andy Dean is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who owns and operates Dean Counseling and Consultation in Bordentown, New Jersey, specializing in evidence-bas...

02/17/2025

New for therapy groups -

Depression is increasingly prevalent today, so here's an additional resource for learning about, assessing, and discussing depression. While the Taking the Escalator website already offers a worksheet on Depression, that one provides a broader overview. In contrast, this worksheet delves deeper into...

02/07/2025

Follow along with the new content guide to the new Taking the Escalator clinician skill building video - https://www.takingtheescalator.com/_files/ugd/5d7aa2_b7b29fff68fb4379a11b686eaa31df68.pdf?index=true

02/06/2025

Hear Taking the Escalator's Ken Pecoraro's perspective on the evolution of substance use treatment and practical skill and tools for clinicians -

The latest edition of the CPC Speaks Podcast kicks off a special two-part series! In this first episode, CPC’s Ken Pecoraro sits down with guest Andy Dean fr...

02/04/2025

New group therapy material from Taking the Escalator -

This worksheet contains 61 trivia questions based on topics commonly discussed in group therapy related to substance use, mental health recovery, and skill-building. You are free to use these questions in any way that best suits your group. You can choose to go through the questions in order or skip...

01/21/2025

Responding to a recent request for relapse prevention materials, we're excited to share this new post centered around effective strategies for staying on track. Dive into our latest insights and tools tailored to support the journey towards sustained recovery -

Did you know that Taking the Escalator is open to requests? This latest activity was developed in response to a request for more Relapse Prevention (aka Setback Prevention) therapy material - See PDF Download below picture for group therapy material - Enjoy!Click below for group therapy worksheet PD...

01/08/2025

New therapy material -

This exercise explores qualities animals possess and how these traits can inspire personal growth, recovery, and resilience. Review each one as a group and focus on the discussion points by making personal applicationCLICK BELOW FOR WORKSHEET:

12/27/2024

New -

By reflecting on the big picture, we can gain a fresh understanding of our place and how our seemingly significant problems can shrink in comparison to the grandeur of nature and the universe. The overall goal of looking at the “Big Picture” is to foster humility and promote personal growth by s...

12/14/2024

Exciting News: Published Article on Integrated Care

Best, Ken Pecoraro Taking the Escalator

12/13/2024

New from Taking the Escalator - Future Gifts -

During this time of year, many individuals focus on giving. This act is beneficial and uplifting for all involved. It encourages generosity and contributes to group unity which is the theme of this unique group exercise...Download PDF of Group Therapy Activity - FUTURE GIFTS below:

12/09/2024

https://www.takingtheescalator.com/post/the-trench-a-metaphor-for-recovery-and-positive-change-video-discussion

Imagine yourself at the bottom of a deep, dark trench. The air feels heavy, and the walls around you rise steep and jagged, as if designed to keep you trapped. Above, the sunlight glows with warmth and promise—a life of peace, freedom, and fulfillment. But from where you stand, the climb looks dau...

11/27/2024

The Big Gratitude List - https://www.takingtheescalator.com/post/the-big-gratitude-list

11/19/2024

https://www.takingtheescalator.com/post/the-science-of-gratitude-and-happiness-why-being-grateful-feels-so-good

Discuss each of the following researched points about gratitude. Focus on being self-searching with open and honest reflection and encouraging group discussion:CLICK BELOW FOR ACTIVITY DOWNLOAD (PDF)

11/04/2024

As we approach the US election, it's important to recognize that strong reactions are expected regardless of the outcome. This exercise provides an alternative focus, encouraging the group to concentrate on what we can control -

IMPORTANT: Please Read Before Using This Worksheet During the Week of 11/5/24As we approach the US election and the days and weeks to follow, it's important to recognize that strong reactions are expected regardless of the outcome. Emotions run high on both sides, which may lead to intense feelings....

10/29/2024

New -

Directions – This activity can be used as an icebreaker or at any time with the purpose of getting group members to open up, talk, and share. The counselor/group leader should select phrases from the list and open it up to members in the group to share in one or two ways (listed below), related to...