Externalizing Metaphors Therapy: Outcomes Related to a Three-Session Treatment Model for Anxiety and Depression

Abstract

Although effective treatments exist for transitional-aged youth presenting with dysphoria, treatment protocols often take much longer than the typical psychotherapy that clients receive. The authors proposed a three-session treatment protocol with an emphasis on the process of externalizing and shifting problem-focused identities using concrete metaphors. Trained clinicians from four post-secondary student counseling centers in Ontario, Canada, implemented externalizing metaphors therapy (EMT) to 50 participants who presented with anxiety and/or depression. Participating clients completed two self-report measures of dysphoria (DASS-21, STAI) before beginning and at the end of treatment. The results were then compared to a small sample of participants who engaged in treatment as usual (TAU). Differences on the DASS-21 between baseline and post-intervention revealed significant reductions in self-reported stress, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, data showed a significant and large reduction in trait anxiety on the STAI. No statistically significant differences were found between EMT and TAU, with limitations discussed.