Eyewitness to Therapy Episode 4: Managing Stress

Eyewitness to Therapy

Presenting Problem:
My guest, Tom, reports high levels of stress and is seeking to manage it effectively.
Mood and Affect:
Tom’s mood appeared to be tense and distressed as evidenced by his one-word description of his current experience: stress.
Summary of Session:
Tom identified his current emotional state as being under significant stress. He expressed a desire to gain practical tools from our session to help manage this stress. Specifically, he is interested in tools that can be easily implemented and form part of a sustainable daily practice, lasting around five to ten minutes. We explored his stress to understand its origin and impact more fully.
Conclusion of Session:
Tom provided positive feedback at the end of the session indicating that he found the session helpful in identifying key aspects contributing to his stress, particularly related to future anticipation. Tom appreciated the introduction to the idea of observing emotions through meditation and using affirmations as an anchoring tool. He felt that the session was efficient, not taking up an excessive amount of time, which was in alignment with his initial expectations and desires. Tom expressed a sense of relief and indicated that he felt better equipped to manage his stress going forward.
Suggestions Going Forward:
Tom is encouraged to apply the tools and techniques discussed during the session, such as meditation and using affirmations on a daily basis. He could also continue to reflect on any anticipation-related stressors and how these can be managed or reframed more productively.
Therapist Impressions:
Tom demonstrated a keen understanding of the therapeutic process and tools suggested during the session. He showed an ability to introspect and identify his stressors, which is promising for future therapeutic outcomes.
Recommendations:
I recommend Tom continue self-reflection on the nature and source of his stress. Additionally, he may benefit from beginning simple mindfulness techniques as a preliminary tool for stress management.