[Nurses' assertiveness training and cognitive therapy experiences with an outpatient suffering from low self-esteem]

The experiences during nine meetings with a psychotherapy outpatient suffering from low self-esteem between 1/1/02 to 4/10/02. Using comprehensive nursing assessment practices for guidance, two conclusions were arrived at regarding the patient's mental health: a) an imbalance in individual response ability, and b) long-term problems with low self-esteem. This assessment was used to help the authors practice appropriate nursing skills associated with assertiveness training and cognitive therapy and to establish a trusting, caring, and accepting relationship with the client. The treatment plan included attempts to increase personal confidence and to promote suitable skills for improving living functions, enhancing relationships, and practicing social behavior.