Emotion-Focused Therapy for Symptoms of Generalised Anxiety in a Student Population: an Exploratory Study

Abstract

Anxiety issues continue to retain the highest prevalence rates within student counselling services (SCS) with generalised anxiety a prominent concern. These issues are associated with poor academic achievement, attrition and self-injurious behaviours. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is moderately effective in treating generalised anxiety in students. Initial studies of emotion-focused therapy (EFT) for GAD are indicating successful outcomes for clients though research investigating a brief format within SCS populations is needed. Aim: The present exploratory study represents an early effort to examine the effectiveness of brief EFT for generalised anxiety symptoms within a university SCS and the clients’ experiences of this type of therapy. Method: Participants (n=15) presenting to a SCS with worry and generalised anxiety symptoms received an individual EFT for GAD intervention. Outcomes were assessed using two outcome measures pre and post therapy and a semi-structured post-therapy interview examined the clients’ experiences of therapy and its outcomes. Results: Quantitative pre-post data indicated large effect sizes. Qualitative data described experiences of decreased anxiety, increased self-understanding, resilience, self-compassion and assertiveness. Experiential work and the therapeutic relationship were experienced as helpful aspects of therapy though experiential work was difficult. Personal difficulty engaging in therapy and some remaining symptoms were unhelpful aspects. Conclusion: Findings suggest that brief EFT for generalised anxiety symptoms in students may be an effective SCS intervention and warrants further investigation.