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National Center for PTSD; STAIR Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation

Session 3 – Emotion Regulation

Using Three Channels of Emotion > Introduction to Identifying the Three Channels of Experience-Video

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Image of client filling out form.

You've learned about the three channels in which distress can be experienced: in your body, in your mind and in your behavior. Filling out the Feelings Monitoring Form is one way in which to identify these feelings, but now your clients will need to learn how to cope with them. Using the Three Channels of Emotion Worksheet, assist your clients in writing down what they are feeling. What are their thoughts at this time? What behaviors are they using to cope? Explain to your clients that there are healthier ways of coping with stress and provide suggestions on alternate behaviors. 

When giving feedback, complement your clients on a job well done, letting them know that this is not an easy task.

The video segment on the following page, depicts a therapist introducing the three channels of experience to the client. Note how the therapist works with the clients to help them identify their own experiences.