A College Student Processing Anxiety, Isolation, and Identity Loss After Extended Medical Trauma
23-year-old Alyssa Monroe seeks therapy to process the profound sense of disconnection and identity loss she feels after returning to daily life following extended medical isolation. Guided by Dr. Caroline Rhodes, the session integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, and Narrative Therapy to address Alyssa’s anxiety, emotional numbness, and self-critical thought patterns. Through grounding, self-soothing, and reframing techniques, Alyssa begins reconnecting with her inner voice, reclaiming her story, and taking the first steps toward meaningful social reconnection. The session models deep empathy, collaboration, and emotional reengagement with the self.
Member: Alyssa, 23-year-old female college student, IndianaTherapist: Dr. Rhodes, Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Key Takeaways
Emotional isolation can persist long after physical healing and must be addressed with compassion and validationCognitive defusion and narrative reframing help patients detach from harmful thought patterns and reclaim identityGrounding and self-soothing strategies are effective in interrupting anxiety loops and emotional shutdownsSmall acts of connection can be powerful steps toward healing and reintegrationPsychotherapy is not about “fixing” but helping clients recognize their ongoing resilience and capacity to rewrite their narrative
Focus Areas
Loneliness & IsolationAnxiety & StressDepression & SadnessEmotional RegulationMental Health & Emotional Well-beingCognitive Distortions & Negative ThinkingResilience & Coping SkillsLife Transitions & Major ChangesTrauma & Recovery