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    Work stress therapy

    Work-related stress, stemming from demanding environments, affects well-being and performance. Unlike burnout, it often presents as anxiety and overwhelm. Therapy provides effective strategies to manage and regain control of stress.

    Stress arises from workloads, deadlines, workplace challenges.

    Symptoms include anxiety, irritability, and overwhelm.

    Therapy offers structured stress management strategies.

    Work-related stress is a common issue that many individuals face in today’s fast-paced and demanding work environments. The CDC explains that it can arise from various factors, including high workloads, tight deadlines, and challenging workplace relationships, ultimately leading to a decline in both personal well-being and professional performance.

    Unlike burnout, which is characterized by emotional exhaustion and detachment, work-related stress can manifest as anxiety, irritability, and a constant feeling of being overwhelmed. Fortunately, therapy offers structured approaches that can help individuals manage and gain control over their work-related stress.

    What therapy is best for managing work stress?

    Several therapeutic approaches that the CDC explains are effective in managing work-related stress, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, and mindfulness practices.

    CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to stress, enabling individuals to reframe their perceptions of work challenges. Behavioral therapy emphasizes modifying specific behaviors that may exacerbate stress, fostering healthier responses to work demands.

    Mindfulness practices, on the other hand, teach individuals to stay present and cultivate awareness of their thoughts and feelings, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm. The primary purpose of these therapies is to help individuals gain control over their work-related stress and improve their overall well-being.

    Through therapy, individuals learn to recognize their stress triggers, process their emotions effectively, and develop practical strategies to navigate workplace challenges, ultimately leading to a more balanced and fulfilling professional life.

    Who needs work-related stress therapy?

    Who needs work-related stress therapy?

    There are various signs that can indicate that an individual may benefit from the support of a therapist specializing in work stress or burnout. Some key indicators listed by the CDC include:

    • Trouble concentrating or making decisions

      Difficulty focusing on tasks or frequently second-guessing decisions can signal overwhelming stress, impacting productivity and confidence.

    • Feeling irritable, tense, or restless

      Persistent feelings of irritability or tension, along with an inability to relax, can affect relationships with colleagues and overall job satisfaction.

    • Feeling on edge

      A constant sense of being on high alert or easily startled may indicate heightened anxiety levels related to work demands.

    • Experiencing physical symptoms of anxiety

      Symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, or gastrointestinal issues can manifest as a result of chronic stress, highlighting the need for professional support.

    • Experiencing symptoms of depression

      Persistent sadness, lack of motivation, or feelings of hopelessness can indicate that work stress is affecting your mental health, making therapy an essential step toward improving well-being and finding balance.

    When to seek professional help for work-related stress issues

    While experiencing stress at work is common, certain signs indicate that it may be time to consult a therapist or mental health professional. Here are some critical situations that warrant seeking help:

    • If work-related stress leads to a significant decline in self-esteem or confidence in one's abilities
    • Experiencing panic attacks, characterized by sudden feelings of intense fear or discomfort
    • If anxiety becomes overwhelming, persistent, or interferes with daily functioning
    • Noticeable shifts in mood, such as increased irritability or withdrawal from colleagues
    • If stress manifests as physical symptoms, such as chronic headaches, gastrointestinal problems, or fatigue

    7 techniques used in work-related stress therapy

    Many wonderful techniques can assist individuals in managing stress and nurturing healthier coping mechanisms. These techniques focus on uncovering the root causes of stress while enhancing overall well-being. Some popular methods often embraced in therapy include:

    Finding work-related stress therapy near you

    Local therapists often offer specialized services tailored to workplace stress and can be found through directories, professional associations, or recommendations from healthcare providers. Additionally, many therapists now provide online counseling options, allowing for greater flexibility and convenience, especially for those with busy schedules or who prefer the comfort of their own homes.

    Online platforms and teletherapy services — like BetterHelp — can also connect individuals with licensed professionals and doctors who specialize in work-related stress therapy, regardless of geographic location. Furthermore, therapy centers that focus on mental health and well-being often have dedicated programs for stress management, offering group sessions, workshops, and individualized treatment plans.

    How to choose the right therapist to treat work-related stress

    Selecting the right therapist for work-related stress can significantly impact your journey toward better mental health. Here are tips to help you make an informed decision:

    • Ensure the therapist is licensed and specializes in work stress or related issues.
    • Look for experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or mindfulness techniques.
    • Seek someone offering flexible scheduling, including virtual or evening sessions.
    • Consider their approach—collaborative and empathetic styles often yield better outcomes.
    • Check reviews or request referrals from trusted sources for insights on the therapist’s effectiveness.
    • Confirm they accept your insurance or offer reasonable payment options.

    By prioritizing these factors, you can find a therapist who meets your unique needs and supports your professional and personal well-being. Finding the right therapist may involve trying out different professionals until you find one who fits your needs and makes you feel comfortable.

    How to choose the right therapist to treat work-related stress

    FAQs

    • What do therapists do to treat work-related stress?

      Therapists employ a variety of techniques to treat work-related stress, tailoring their approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. They typically begin by conducting an assessment to understand the specific stressors and challenges the client faces in their work environment. From there, family therapists may utilize methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and modify negative thought patterns, teach relaxation techniques to manage anxiety and develop practical strategies for improving time management and work-life balance.

    • Who can diagnose a work-related stress disorder?

      A work-related stress disorder can be diagnosed by qualified mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers. These practitioners are trained to assess mental health conditions and can evaluate the severity of stress and its impact on an individual’s daily functioning. In some cases, primary care doctors may also recognize symptoms of work-related stress or depression and refer patients to mental health specialists for a more comprehensive evaluation and psychotherapy.

    • What is the most common treatment for work-related stress?

      The most common therapy treatment for work-related stress and depression often involves a combination of therapy and working with psychologists and lifestyle modifications. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized type of therapy that many psychologists prefer for its effectiveness in helping individuals reframe negative thoughts and develop coping strategies. Additionally, therapeutic techniques such as mindfulness, stress management training, and relaxation exercises are commonly integrated into treatment plans.

    • Is work-related stress treatable with therapy?

      Yes, work-related stress is highly treatable with therapy. Many individuals find that engaging in therapeutic practices provides them with the tools and support necessary to manage their stress effectively. Through structured approaches, therapy helps individuals identify stressors, process their emotions, and develop coping strategies that enhance their resilience and overall well-being.

    Dr. Rob Rohatsch, MD, is a Board-Certified Emergency Medicine physician and urgent care executive. He earned his MD from Jefferson Medical College, currently serves on multiple boards and is Solv’s Chief Medical Officer.

    How we reviewed this article

    Medically reviewed

    View this article’s sources and history, and read more about Solv’s Content Mission Statement, editorial process, and editorial team.

    Sources

    4 sources

    Solv has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

    • Stress at Work. (December 1, 2024)
    • Workplace Stress (December 29, 2024)
    • Coping with stress at work (October 22, 2024)
    • Stress in America™- 2024 Report (December 29, 2024)

    4 sources

    Solv has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

    • Stress at Work. (December 1, 2024)
    • Workplace Stress (December 29, 2024)
    • Coping with stress at work (October 22, 2024)
    • Stress in America™- 2024 Report (December 29, 2024)
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    Hamutyinei Mamutse, NP

    Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Anger Management, Dissociative Disorders, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Medication Management, Mood Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), Personality Disorders, Trauma and PTSD

    4 years of experience

    Queendroline Nkeh, NP

    ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Depression, Grief, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQ, Men's Issues, Mood Disorders, Racism, Self Esteem, Women's Issues

    3 years of experience

    Anthonia Nzika, NP

    Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, Coping Skills, Crisis Intervention, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Mood Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), Peer Relationships

    2 years of experience

    Amara Emenari, LPCC

    ADHD, Family Conflict, Men's Issues, Addiction, Anger Management, Anxiety, Career Counseling, Coping Skills, Couples Counseling, Depression, Personality Disorders, Spirituality, Trauma and PTSD

    10 years of experience

    Bethany Kelley, LISW

    Addiction, LGBTQ, Racism, Anger Management, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Domestic Violence, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Transitions, Older Adults, Parenting

    23 years of experience

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    Hamutyinei Mamutse, NP (he/him)

    Specialties

    Depression

    Anxiety

    Bipolar Disorder

    ADHD

    Anger Management

    Dissociative Disorders

    Insomnia/Sleep Issues

    Medication Management

    Mood Disorders

    Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

    Personality Disorders

    Trauma and PTSD

    Serves ages

    18-64

    Licensed in

    OH

    About

    My name is Harmony Mamutse. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practice from Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion, Indiana. The role of Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner is to assess, diagnose and treat the mental health needs of those suffering from mental health diseases. My training allows me to approach behavioral health problems in a comprehensive way, with the understanding that one has a story to tell about what he/she been through in life. I believe in building trusting relationships with my clients, empowering them to take an active role in their mental health journey I am licensed in Ohio to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan. I currently treat clients 18 and above age group. I also offer individual psychotherapy.

    Queendroline Nkeh, NP (she/her)

    Specialties

    ADHD

    Anxiety

    Bipolar Disorder

    Coping Skills

    Depression

    Grief

    Insomnia/Sleep Issues

    LGBTQ

    Men's Issues

    Mood Disorders

    Racism

    Self Esteem

    Women's Issues

    Serves ages

    All

    6-12

    13-17

    18-64

    65+

    Licensed in

    MA

    OH

    IA

    CO

    About

    Queendroline Nkeh (MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC) has over 12 years of experience in healthcare. Patients who have worked with her like that she's relatable, easy to talk to, and is sincere. Most importantly, she encourages Integrative Psychiatric Medicine for all patients with what they are comfortable in utilizing. Incorporating vitamins and nutrition coaching, alongside medications and herbal supplements are strongly encouraged.

    Anthonia Nzika, NP (she/her)

    Specialties

    Anxiety

    Bipolar Disorder

    Depression

    ADHD

    Anger Management

    Coping Skills

    Crisis Intervention

    Dissociative Disorders

    Eating Disorders

    Family Conflict

    Mood Disorders

    Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

    Peer Relationships

    Serves ages

    13-17

    18-64

    65+

    Licensed in

    OH

    About

    At Empowerment Health Solutions, we are dedicated to providing advanced health equity that improves access to care for those who need it. We specialize in working with clients with high clinical acuity and recent hospitalization. We provide Psychiatric evaluations, Medication management, and Talk therapy for Children, Adolescents, and adults and their families, in person and or via Telehealth. Our goal is to empower children and adults through a quick recovery from depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, ODD, CD, SAD, and more. We also work with a dedicated theme of specialists that provides a wide range of psychotherapy and Holistic Care.

    Amara Emenari, LPCC (he/him)

    Specialties

    ADHD

    Family Conflict

    Men's Issues

    Addiction

    Anger Management

    Anxiety

    Career Counseling

    Coping Skills

    Couples Counseling

    Depression

    Personality Disorders

    Spirituality

    Trauma and PTSD

    Serves ages

    18-64

    65+

    Licensed in

    OH

    About

    My clients have laughed, cried, practiced new things, and worked very, very hard. The only thing I ask, as a therapist, is to have hope and do the work. Each client is a functioning part of a larger whole that wants to stay the same. I see no sense in blaming a person for situations they did not create; it's what each person does that counts.

    Bethany Kelley, LISW (she/her)

    Specialties

    Addiction

    LGBTQ

    Racism

    Anger Management

    Anxiety

    Coping Skills

    Depression

    Domestic Violence

    Family Conflict

    Grief

    Life Transitions

    Older Adults

    Parenting

    Serves ages

    18-64

    65+

    Licensed in

    UT

    CA

    OH

    AZ

    About

    Greetings to You! I am Bethany and am thankful you have made the decision to live your most phenomenal life! Do you feel utterly lost, stuck or even misunderstood? Do you feel like you know what to do but don't have the will-power or tools to execute it? I help marginalized individuals identify how to show up as their most authentic selves and get the life they deserve. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, racism, transphobia or addiction, I'm here to help and comfort. Seeking therapy can feel unnerving but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal, grow, try on new perspectivesand just BE. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's work together and get you to the next level of your healing journey!

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