aidemia--modules-session_ideas_request	Provide some idea(s) for a psychotherapeutic session -
What length (min)	60
Patient mood	Confused
Patient condition	Relationship Issues
Relevant challenges	Self-esteem issues
Therapeutic technique	Motivational Interviewing
Use coping techniques	Talking to a trusted friend or therapist
Patient engagement	Confused or unsure
Patient assignment	Reframe negative thoughts
Specific mindset	I cannot trust anyone
Needed behavioural change	No particular
Any other preferences	My client has never had a good example of love. He doesn't understand it and feels scared of commitment, he finds relationships boring, spends a lot of time with friends playing sport and drinking but the late nights drinking gives him anxiety the next day. When he is bored andlonely and hungover he reaches out to girlfriend and then when he is better he dumps her again. Says she is the only one for him.

Psychotherapeutic Session Plan: Addressing Relationship Issues and Self-Esteem

Session Length: 60 Minutes
Patient Mood: Confused
Main Condition: Relationship Issues
Technique: Motivational Interviewing
Coping Technique: Talking to a trusted friend or therapist
Current Patient Engagement: Confused or unsure
Mindsets to Address: "I cannot trust anyone"
Issue to Reframe: Negative thoughts about commitment and relationships

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Session Outline

I. Introduction (5 minutes)

• Check-in: Welcome the patient and ask how they've been feeling since the last session.
• Set the agenda: Explain that today, we will explore their confusion around relationships, self-esteem, and the feelings that arise after drinking nights out.

II. Explore Current Thoughts and Feelings (15 minutes)

• Open the floor: Ask open-ended questions to encourage the patient to share their feelings about their relationships.

  • Example Questions:
    • "What comes to mind when you think about your girlfriend and your feelings for her?"
    • "Can you tell me more about how you feel during and after your nights out?"

• Identify Confusions: Together, identify specific moments or experiences that exacerbate their confusion regarding love and commitment.

III. Motivational Interviewing Technique (15 minutes)

• Reflective Listening: Paraphrase their feelings to demonstrate understanding and build rapport.

• Explore Ambivalence: Discuss the patient's mixed feelings about relationships.

  • Ask questions such as:
    • "On one hand, you say your girlfriend is the only one for you. What do you think holds you back from committing fully?"
    • "What do you enjoy about spending time with friends versus being in a relationship?"

• Elicit Change Talk: Encourage the patient to articulate any desire or reasons they might want to change.

  • Example Prompt: "What would it look like if you found a way to feel secure in a relationship?"

IV. Reframe Negative Thoughts (10 minutes)

• Identify Negative Thoughts: Help the patient recognize any negative beliefs about love and trust.

  • Example: "I cannot trust anyone."

• Reframing Exercise: Guide them in reframing these thoughts into positive affirmations.

  • From "I cannot trust anyone" to "I can learn to trust in my own time."

• Practice Reframing: Ask the patient to articulate their reframed thoughts and repeat them.

V. Coping Techniques Discussion (10 minutes)

• Talking to a Trusted Friend or Therapist: Discuss the importance of reaching out during feelings of loneliness or confusion.

• Explore the burden of drunken nights out: Talk about how the temporary relief can lead to anxiety and suggest healthier coping strategies.

  • Example Strategies: Engage in sports, connect with family, or explore activities that foster genuine self-connection.

VI. Homework Assignment (5 minutes)

• Assignment: Encourage the patient to write down three positive affirmations and recite them daily.

• Journal Prompt: "Reflect on a day this week when you feel bored or anxious and note what you did instead of reaching out to your girlfriend."

VII. Closing (5 minutes)

• Summarize Session: Recap key points discussed, including the importance of reframing negative thoughts and exploring feelings.

• Encouragement: Reinforce the idea that it’s okay to feel confused and that clarity comes with time and support.

• Schedule Next Session: Agree on a date and time that works for both.

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Notes

• Maintain a non-judgmental and empathetic stance throughout the session to foster trust and openness.
• Adapt questions and techniques based on the patient's responsiveness and emotional state during the session.
• Monitor for signs of distress and provide reassurance as necessary.