THERAPY FOR Work
RELATED STRESS
THERAPY FOR Understanding Work Stress
In the fast-paced world of professional life, stress can become an unwelcome but socially acceptable companion. Deadlines, expectations, and the relentless demands of the workplace can leave you feeling overwhelmed and anxious. With studies showing that half of Millennials and 75% of Gen-Zers admit to voluntarily leaving a job due to mental health issues, it's become increasingly clear that mental well-being and a balance between work and life are essential.
If you find yourself constantly on edge, battling with stress and anxiety, you might think this is just part of what life is like, but it doesn't necessarily have to be that way.
WHO AM I?
I have a nearly decade's worth of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and work with a wide range of clients struggling with work-related stress and burnout.
My extensive training in Psychoanalytic Studies at LAISPS and expertise in group dynamics and systemic relationships has helped me guide many clients around complicated work situations
WHAT I HELP WITH
Using a variety of methods, I will be able to guide you into deeper understanding and releif from your job or work related stress. I have a holistic approach to therapy, and our treatment may involve some Cognitive Behavioral Therapy elements, Communication Skills building and traditional psychotherapy to help you understand the impact your job is having on your mental health and well being.
WHAT THEY SAY:
"The absolute best. Oliver Drakeford is the most talented and knowledgeable therapists I've ever crossed paths with"
"His insights were spot on and put things into perspective, which is exactly what I needed and wanted... the best therapy I've had!"
Tired of trudging through your workday, feeling drained and overloaded?
Constantly battling feelings of exhaustion and overwhelm?
The team of expert therapists at Oliver Drakeford Therapy in Los Angeles and West Hollywood is here to guide you towards a brighter future.
Step onto a path of empowerment with us. In our supportive environment, free from judgment, you'll learn invaluable skills to tackle stress head-on, reclaim control over your life, and pave the way to the fulfilling existence you desire.
THERAPY RESOURCES AND ACTIVITIES RELATED TO WORK RELATED STRESS
The Allocation Exercise:
One effective approach involves guiding them through an exercise in energy allocation. This exercise prompts individuals to reflect on how they distribute their energy throughout the day, considering the demands of work, family, and personal life. By visualizing energy allocation as a pie chart, clients can gain insight into whether work disproportionately consumes their energy and assess whether this distribution aligns with their overall well-being. Through open dialogue, clients can explore potential discrepancies between their current energy allocation and their values, identifying areas where adjustments may be necessary to alleviate stress.
Clarification & Goal Setting:
Another valuable technique is values clarification coupled with goal setting. Counselors assist clients in identifying their core values and ranking them in order of importance. By aligning personal goals with these values, clients can establish a framework for prioritizing their time and energy. For instance, clients may set boundaries regarding work-related communication outside of office hours to preserve personal time and foster work-life balance. By making tangible changes in their daily routines that reflect their values, such as prioritizing self-care or quality time with family, clients can cultivate a sense of fulfillment and resilience in the face of work-related stresso
Mindfulness & reflection
Self-reflection is often at the core of understanding work-related stress. Counselors introduce clients to techniques such as journaling or mindfulness to enhance self-awareness and introspection. By fostering a habit of regular self-reflection, clients can develop a deeper understanding of their own needs and boundaries. These practices empower clients to take ownership of their well-being by monitoring their energy levels and assessing whether their life domains align with their priorities. Ultimately, cultivating these skills equips clients with the resilience and self-awareness needed to navigate work-related stressors effectively in the long term.
Recognizing the Signs of Workplace Stress
Living in Los Angeles often means dealing with difficult commutes, high living costs, and demanding work schedules. The constant hustle and bustle can affect your mental and emotional health, leading to work stress.
Stress doesn't discriminate—it affects individuals across industries and roles.
Work stress poses significant risks to both our physical and mental well-being. Its chronic manifestations increase vulnerability to heart attacks, hypertension, anxiety, anger, and depression. Even the anticipation of a new workweek, often marked by the Sunday Night Blues, underscores the pervasive impact of stress.
Common Symptoms of Burnout
Workplace stress can lead to burnout, and you may start to notice physical symptoms like a racing heart or trembling hands, accompanied by a constant feeling of dread.
Burnout is characterized by feelings of exhaustion, cynicism, and inefficacy related to your job. Symptoms may include fatigue, lowered immunity, sense of failure, and loss of motivation.
Even mundane tasks can feel daunting, and interacting with others may trigger anxiety, affecting your overall performance.If you constantly feel weighed down by stress, you might be grappling with significant work stress or burnout if you notice the following signs:
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Persistent exhaustion and feeling drained
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Increased susceptibility to illness or weakened immunity
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A pervasive sense of failure
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Feelings of defeat or helplessness
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Outbursts of anger or venting frustrations on others
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Regular headaches or physical discomfort
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Changes in appetite
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Resorting to alcohol as a coping mechanism
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Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
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Decreased motivation or a loss of sense of purpose
Addressing Workplace Challenges AT OLIVER DRAKEFORD THERAPY
Our therapy sessions delve deep into the root causes of your stress, offering practical strategies to manage work-related anxieties. Whether it's dealing with high-pressure environments, navigating office dynamics, or finding a healthy work-life balance, we're here to provide guidance every step of the way.
The Path to Relief: OUR APPROACH TO WORK STRESS AND BURNOUT:
INTERVERNETION AND PREVENTION
Therapy can help individuals recognize and address stressors before they escalate. By intervening early, the intensity of the stress response can be reduced.
CONCRETE TOOLS THAT WORK
Therapisy can provide practical techniques and tools to manage stress effectively, including relaxation techniques, cognitive restructuring, time management skills, and boundary setting.
REDUCING STRESS DURATION
Helping individuals minimize the duration of stressful episodes, preventing them from becoming prolonged or chronic is often a goal. Ind doing so we can reduce the physical and emotional toll it takes on their well-being.
IMPACT ON PHYSIOLOGY AND EMOTIONS
Unmanaged stress can have significant effects on both physical and emotional health. It has been linked to various concerns including cardiovascular issues, weakened immune function, and anxiety / depression
RELATIONSHIPS & PERFORMANCE
High levels of stress can impair relationships and lead to poor work performance. Addressing stress can improve communication and interpersonal dynamics, as well as enhance productivity and job satisfaction.
POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE STRESS
Not all stress is harmful. Short bursts of stress can have beneficial effects, such as improving focus, motivation, and immune function. Stress management therapy aims to help individuals differentiate them
STRESS AS A CONTINUOUS PRACTICE
Stress management is a skill that requires practice and reinforcement. Therapy sessions provide a supportive environment for individuals to learn and apply stress management techniques consistently
A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO STRESS
Effective stress management considers various aspects of an individual's life, including physical, emotional, social, and environmental factors. Interventions are created to address the unique needs of each client
Finding the Best Therapist for work related Stress In Los Angeles
Oliver Drakeford, LMFT, CGP, is a seasoned therapist renowned for his expertise in navigating the complexities of professional life and mitigating work-related stress. With nearly a decade of dedicated service in West Hollywood, California, Oliver has become a trusted ally for individuals grappling with the demands of modern-day workplaces.
Drawing from extensive training at the Maple Counseling Center in Beverly Hills and certifications from prestigious institutions like the Los Angeles Institute and Association for Psychoanalytic Studies (LAISPS), Oliver has honed a multifaceted approach to therapy. His commitment to continuous improvement is evident through his incorporation of contemporary modalities such as Mentalization-Based Training and Modern Group Analysis.
Oliver's professional journey extends beyond traditional therapy sessions. He is a sought-after speaker and educator, engaging with diverse audiences on topics ranging from family systems to LGBTQ+ inclusion in group therapy. Through speaking engagements and teaching roles, Oliver empowers professionals to navigate workplace challenges while prioritizing mental well-being.
Recognized for his contributions to mental health advocacy, Oliver has received accolades including the Donald T Brown Memorial Scholarship for Group Psychotherapy. This acknowledgment underscores his dedication to advancing the field and supporting individuals facing work-related stressors.
In his practice, Oliver creates a safe and supportive environment where professionals can explore the intricacies of their work lives. Whether addressing burnout, interpersonal conflicts, or career transitions, Oliver's compassionate guidance fosters resilience and empowers individuals to reclaim balance and fulfillment in their professional endeavors.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WORKPLACE THERAPISTS
How can therapy help with workplace stress?
Therapy offers a supportive space to explore the underlying causes of stress and develop coping strategies tailored to your specific needs.
Is therapy suitable for professionals in all industries?
Yes, therapy can benefit individuals from diverse professional backgrounds, providing tools to navigate workplace challenges effectively.
What can I expect from a therapy session at Oliver Drakeford Therapy?
Our sessions are personalized to address your unique concerns, focusing on practical solutions to alleviate workplace stress and promote well-being.