CBT Treatment Session:
Review: The client reported feeling more anxious in social situations over the past week, particularly when attending the weekly book club. She completed the thought record homework, identifying several cognitive distortions related to her self-perceived performance in social settings. She reported feeling overwhelmed by the amount of homework assigned in the previous session.
Interventions carried out: We reviewed the client's thought record, identifying cognitive distortions such as catastrophizing and overgeneralization. We then practiced cognitive restructuring techniques, challenging the negative thoughts and replacing them with more balanced and realistic ones. We also used behavioural activation, encouraging the client to engage in a small, enjoyable social activity (e.g., calling a friend) to counteract avoidance behaviours.
Clients learning/ takeaways: The client demonstrated a good understanding of cognitive distortions and was able to identify them in her own thought patterns. She expressed feeling more empowered to challenge her negative thoughts. She stated that she felt more confident in her ability to manage her anxiety in social situations.
Risk update: The client denied any suicidal ideation or self-harming behaviours. She has a strong support network of friends and family. The client's anxiety levels have increased slightly over the past week, but she is coping well with the support of her family and friends.
Homework assigned: The client was assigned to complete a thought record for any social situations that trigger anxiety. She was also asked to practice the cognitive restructuring techniques learned in the session. She was also asked to attend the book club and to make a note of her feelings and thoughts during the event.
Plan
- Continue to work on cognitive restructuring techniques.
- Explore the client's core beliefs about social situations.
- Schedule a follow-up session for 15 November 2024.
- Review the client's progress in the next session.