Performance Anxiety: A Guide for Counseling Professionals

Performance anxiety

Is this a manifestation of anxiety? As a full-time counselor, I often feel an emptiness inside and fear that I am becoming less capable.
This feeling seems to affect my ability to connect with children during sessions, as if I don't understand how to conceptualize cases.
I wonder if doctors can share what conceptualization means.
I have seen that it is often tested in graduate school entrance exams, but despite my constant searching, I find no answers.
Sometimes I feel like I am struggling to articulate my thoughts, even though I have done a lot of work in gathering information and trying to explain why a child might be experiencing certain issues.
It seems like everyone else has theories and frameworks to explain things, while I feel empty.
What I have seems to be just a continuous collection of data and questions, but I struggle to assess the child's progress through their play.
Perhaps I have set high expectations for myself, thinking I should understand everything, when in reality, just being a good companion and showing care is enough.
I feel like I am already working 99% of the time, dedicating my weekends to further education and gathering information online.
I am truly putting in a lot of effort, but sometimes this leads to more frustration because others seem to manage their work effortlessly without doing all this.
I worry about burnout, but it feels like more than that; I fear that if I continue feeling down, it will lead to worse outcomes.
A psychologist once told me that my traits are suitable for counseling, but I don't understand how that can be true if I feel this way.
I hesitate to ask for clarification because I feel weak and as if I don't even know myself.
Perhaps there is a strong internal desire not to be underestimated.
I seem to struggle with understanding and evaluating interventions, and I fear becoming a mere recording machine.
I find it difficult to articulate professional terminology related to counseling.
Helping others is a lifelong commitment, and I want to continue on this path.
I am seeking guidance on how to adjust and reorganize myself so that I can restart and at least manage to live my days well.
I am very afraid of overworking myself or feeling down, which I do not want to happen.
I truly hope that work can be enjoyable, and I worry that as I get older, this approach to work will become overwhelming.
Thank you.

sel, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/22

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry

Hello, it's nice to connect online, although we haven't met in person, and it's challenging to make a comprehensive judgment based on the limited personal information you provided.
I would like to share my personal views based on my limited understanding.

Firstly, in any job, whether it's a counselor, a worker, or a homemaker, individuals usually become more familiar and competent over time.
However, I have seen cases of depression where individuals suddenly feel they are no longer capable of performing their jobs.
For instance, some homemakers who have been cooking for decades suddenly claim they can’t cook anymore or feel lost when shopping for groceries.
This is something you might want to consider.
Additionally, individuals with perfectionist tendencies often focus on their shortcomings.
While this can drive personal and societal progress, the pursuit of perfection can also be a form of self-criticism.
Doctors cannot guarantee to heal every patient, and not everyone enjoys the food from even the most renowned restaurants.
Moreover, we do not need to be flawless to live and work in this world.
Counseling is a broad field of helping professions.
Our focus is on people, not cold machines or mathematical formulas.
Fortunately, the psychological theories and schools of thought you mentioned are merely tools to help us understand the issues faced by clients and to devise solutions.
I believe that genuine concern and therapeutic skills are more important than theory.
When we sincerely care for our clients, the therapeutic effects begin to manifest.
Having a plethora of theories without genuine empathy often leads to wasted time and can even result in negative outcomes.
I suggest you spend more time listening to your clients and entering their inner worlds.
Approaching them with a blank slate can be beneficial.
When you encounter problems or difficulties, you can then revisit the theoretical aspects.
This might lead to better outcomes.
Wishing you all the best,
Dr.
Ding Shuo-Yan

Reply Date: 2016/10/22

More Info

Performance anxiety, often referred to as stage fright, is a common experience that can affect individuals in various professional settings, including counseling and teaching. It manifests as feelings of apprehension, nervousness, or fear when faced with the prospect of performing or presenting in front of others. In your case, as a dedicated counselor, it seems that you are grappling with not only performance anxiety but also self-doubt and the pressure to meet high expectations, both from yourself and the environment.

Understanding performance anxiety involves recognizing its symptoms, which can include physical manifestations such as increased heart rate, sweating, and difficulty concentrating, as well as emotional responses like fear of judgment or failure. Your feelings of emptiness and the fear of not being knowledgeable enough to connect with your students are indicative of this anxiety. It’s important to acknowledge that these feelings are not uncommon among professionals who care deeply about their work and the people they serve.

The concept of "conceptualization" in counseling refers to the process of understanding a client's issues within a theoretical framework. It involves gathering information about the client’s background, experiences, and presenting problems to develop a comprehensive understanding of their situation. This can be challenging, especially when you feel overwhelmed by the need to have all the answers. However, it’s crucial to remember that effective counseling is not solely about having theoretical knowledge; it’s also about building a genuine connection with your clients and being present with them in their experiences.

Your self-reflection indicates a high level of commitment to your role as a counselor, but it also suggests that you may be setting unrealistic standards for yourself. It’s essential to practice self-compassion and recognize that it’s okay not to have all the answers. The process of learning and growing in your profession is ongoing, and every interaction with a client is an opportunity for both you and them to learn.

To manage performance anxiety and the associated feelings of inadequacy, consider the following strategies:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your routine. These techniques can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.

2. Preparation and Practice: Familiarize yourself with the material you need to present or discuss. Role-playing scenarios with a trusted colleague or friend can help you feel more confident and prepared.

3. Focus on the Client: Shift your focus from your performance to the needs of your clients. Remember that your role is to support them, and your presence is what matters most.

4. Seek Supervision or Peer Support: Engaging in supervision or peer consultation can provide you with valuable feedback and reassurance. Sharing your experiences with colleagues can help normalize your feelings and reduce isolation.

5. Set Realistic Goals: Instead of striving for perfection, aim for progress. Celebrate small victories and recognize that every effort you make contributes to your growth as a counselor.

6. Professional Development: Continue to seek out training and educational opportunities that resonate with your interests and strengths. This can enhance your skills and boost your confidence.

7. Consider Professional Help: If your anxiety continues to interfere with your work or well-being, seeking support from a mental health professional can be beneficial. They can help you explore underlying issues and develop coping strategies.

In conclusion, performance anxiety is a common challenge that can be addressed through self-awareness, preparation, and support. By focusing on your strengths and the positive impact you have on your clients, you can cultivate a more fulfilling and sustainable approach to your work. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and take the time you need to navigate these feelings. Your dedication to your profession is commendable, and with the right strategies, you can continue to thrive as a counselor.

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