Client Case

Presenting Issues

The client, a 35-year-old individual, sought therapy to address severe anxiety and depressive symptoms stemming from a traumatic event experienced in childhood.

Background Information

The client had been struggling with recurrent intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and a pervasive sense of fear. The trauma had significantly impacted their relationships and daily functioning. The client reported feeling detached, with low self-esteem and chronic stress exacerbated by past trauma.

Assessment

The initial assessment included in-depth clinical interviews, standardized questionnaires, and trauma-focused screening tools. The therapist identified symptoms consistent with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and co-occurring depression. The client’s trauma history and its impact on current functioning were thoroughly evaluated.

Therapy Plan

Goals

1. Alleviate PTSD symptoms and reduce the intensity of intrusive thoughts and nightmares.
2. Improve emotional regulation and reduce depressive symptoms.

Intervention Strategies

1. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to address and process traumatic memories.
2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help the client reprocess traumatic events and reduce their emotional impact.
3. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques like Cleaning to reduce physical symptoms

Frequency and Duration

Weekly 60-minute therapy sessions for the first 6 months, with progress reviews every 1 month.

Results

1. The client reported a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, including fewer intrusive thoughts and nightmares, as well as improved sleep quality.
2. Emotional regulation improved, leading to a decrease in depressive symptoms and enhanced daily functioning.
3. The client gained confidence and resilience, enabling them to rebuild relationships and pursue personal and professional goals with a renewed sense of purpose.