At some point in our career, many of us will experience a stressful work situation. We may be dealing with harassment, a demanding and erratic boss, or a toxic work environment. Maybe we were terminated or laid off suddenly without explanation, causing self-doubt about our professional competence. While it’s natural to encounter occasional conflict in the work environment a hostile or toxic workplace can leave us feeling demoralized and defeated. Because we are relational beings, hostile workplaces can also have an impact on our friendships and family life.  

Are You in a Toxic or Hostile Workplace?

Here are some questions to help you determine if you’re stuck in the aftermath of a hostile event at work:

• Did you experience an event in the workplace that led to a dip in your confidence or self-esteem?
• Is your ability to find another job or move forward in your career affected by recent events?
• Are you anxious about your next step in your career or job search?
• Have these factors impacted your family life or relationships?

 

How a Hostile Workplace Can Affect Your Career

Lack of confidence and self-doubt about our professional capabilities can impede us from taking steps to improve our careers. You might:

• Hold on to a stressful job because of self-doubt
• Feel paralyzed by fear of bad references
• Procrastinate on sending out resumes
• Lack confidence when you interview.

If any of the above sounds like you, I can help you get past your internal and relational barriers. I believe we are all capable beings with unique gifts and talents that may have yet to be discovered or even rediscovered. And I know that we are relational beings who thrive on supportive connections with family, friends, work, and nature. When we feel centered and confident we make the best decisions for ourselves regarding our careers and how they impact our relationships. As a trained counselor, I’ll help you regain your confidence and belief in yourself as a competent professional.  

Boost Your Professional Confidence and Strengthen Family Support

Sometimes we tend to take on too much responsibility and blame ourselves for things that were not entirely our fault. Together we will process the workplace event that caused distress and sort out who was responsible for what. Then, we will explore a variety of techniques including mindfulness, relaxation, journaling, and guided imagery to help you boost your confidence and reduce your anxiety. If your family is struggling along with you, I will gladly apply my skills as a marriage and family therapist intern to work with your partner or family to increase resilience and support.  

Put Together a Job Search Strategy

In addition to working through the traumatic feelings, we will address the practical side of your job search--finding job postings, tailoring resumes, honing interview skills, and developing a networking strategy. Often simply taking tangible steps that result in small outcomes are all it takes to regain confidence and boost self-esteem.  

RATES

Please note that I do not accept insurance. I charge $110.00 an hour and offer a sliding scale. You determine how often you need to see me and what your priorities are. We can take steps to reduce your distress right away, or we can start with the nuts and bolts of looking for a new job that's right for you…whatever you think will be most helpful. I will guide you, but you’re in the driver’s seat because it’s your career and your life.  

Discover more about our full range of our services at aportlandcareer.com