Individualized Formulation of the Anchoring Diagnosis
Biological/Somatic Factors The physical symptoms that Josh experiences are the nightmares of the death of his fiancée. This has become a biological factor, which makes it difficult for him to find solace. Furthermore, his prior diagnosis, per parents report, of depression in adolescents makes it more likely that the trauma is more disturbing and complicated.
Behavioral Factors The key behavioral aspects of Josh’s difficulties are avoidance, withdrawal, irritability, trouble focusing, concentration, task completion, memory, and emotional detachment. These elements make it difficult for Josh to move forward from his trauma and have caused him to, essentially, stand still with the disturbing event. He has also been unable to go back to work, which is causing significant strain to him financially. These avoidant and withdrawal tendencies he presents with are causing him to disengaged …show more content…
An initial goal is (1) to psychoeducate Josh on PTSD and the elements of the symptoms he is experiencing. It is important for him to come to understand that based on his history and the trauma he has recently experienced, he was at high risk for developing PTSD with any triggering event. Another treatment goal is (2) practice breathing relaxation techniques, which will help him when feeling overwhelmed or having flashbacks throughout his day. Another treatment goal is (3) to begin emotional regulation skills utilizing (a) emotional awareness, (b) affective expression, (c) progressive muscle relaxation, (d) distraction, (e) self-soothing, and (f) mindfulness. This process will ultimately aid Josh in gaining back the control he has lost with regard to his emotional state. Actively practicing these techniques can lead him back to a somewhat “normal” life. There will also be an added element of reducing his alcohol intake, which should gradually reduce if these skills are
Biological/Somatic Factors The physical symptoms that Josh experiences are the nightmares of the death of his fiancée. This has become a biological factor, which makes it difficult for him to find solace. Furthermore, his prior diagnosis, per parents report, of depression in adolescents makes it more likely that the trauma is more disturbing and complicated.
Behavioral Factors The key behavioral aspects of Josh’s difficulties are avoidance, withdrawal, irritability, trouble focusing, concentration, task completion, memory, and emotional detachment. These elements make it difficult for Josh to move forward from his trauma and have caused him to, essentially, stand still with the disturbing event. He has also been unable to go back to work, which is causing significant strain to him financially. These avoidant and withdrawal tendencies he presents with are causing him to disengaged …show more content…
An initial goal is (1) to psychoeducate Josh on PTSD and the elements of the symptoms he is experiencing. It is important for him to come to understand that based on his history and the trauma he has recently experienced, he was at high risk for developing PTSD with any triggering event. Another treatment goal is (2) practice breathing relaxation techniques, which will help him when feeling overwhelmed or having flashbacks throughout his day. Another treatment goal is (3) to begin emotional regulation skills utilizing (a) emotional awareness, (b) affective expression, (c) progressive muscle relaxation, (d) distraction, (e) self-soothing, and (f) mindfulness. This process will ultimately aid Josh in gaining back the control he has lost with regard to his emotional state. Actively practicing these techniques can lead him back to a somewhat “normal” life. There will also be an added element of reducing his alcohol intake, which should gradually reduce if these skills are