,
and notice your own responses as you begin to compose
and comfort yourself. You will be very helpful
just by modeling composure, compassion,
and neutrality as you address the anxious person.
The client is learning to address his/her
symptoms as an objective observer, and it would
be helpful if you adopt this attitude of
neutrality as well. Speak in a loving but
matter-of-fact manner. Let the anxious person look
to the self for comfort, and walk their own path.
Briefly share your
warmth and sincere concern, but do not be led by the
momentum of the person’s
anxieties. Resist the urge to rescue or offer excessive
reassurances. This often unwittingly reinforces the client’s helplessness,
anxieties, or dependence. Instead, try
practicing some of these questions or approaches.
=========================================
I can see that you
feel scared and overwhelmed. How can you reassure
yourself right now?
Remember to
practice controlled breathing: it really works.
I can see that
you’re very anxious about this, but I believe that you
have the ability to cope with
this situation.
Let’s review your
list of cognitive distortions together. Which ones might
you be doing?
What are some
healthier or more positive ways of looking at this
situation?
What does the
