Occupational stress encompasses a wide range of work-related psychological difficulties; from acute stress responses to chronic workplace anxiety, burnout, interpersonal conflict, performance difficulties, and career-related identity challenges. It can develop in any industry, at any level, and often goes unaddressed because of the stigma around not being able to ‘handle’ professional life.
Individual therapy for occupational stress helps you understand what is happening, develop practical strategies for navigating it, and address any deeper patterns that may be contributing to your experience.
Common signs and presentations
You may be experiencing occupational stress if you recognise any of the following:
- Chronic work-related anxiety, dread of going to work, or Sunday evening dread
- Persistent interpersonal conflict with colleagues, managers, or direct reports
- Performance anxiety, perfectionism, or persistent imposter syndrome
- Difficulty setting limits on working hours, availability, or scope of responsibility
- A sense of being trapped, undervalued, or stuck in a role that no longer fits
- Career uncertainty, identity confusion, or dissatisfaction that pervades other areas of life
- Emotional exhaustion by the end of each day or week
- Difficulty switching off from work, even in personal time
- Physical symptoms including tension, headaches, sleep disruption, or frequent illness
What to expect in sessions
Sessions begin by mapping out the specific occupational stressors affecting you and their impact across your life. We then develop a practical, personalised plan; one that addresses both the immediate challenges and any underlying factors contributing to your experience.