According to the Washington Free Beacon report, four sources who were present at the meeting confirmed that the U.S. State Department had held a ‘therapy session’ for its employees following Donald Trump’s victory in the presidential election.

The email from the State Department was about “managing change and stress,” according to the outlet. Employees were also encouraged to come early on Friday morning for a one-hour discussion in which they could express their feelings regarding the election results.

The Free Beacon reported that sources had described a copy of an email and that Employee Consultation Services at the Bureau of Medical Services of the Department hosted the session.

The email stated, “Change can be a constant, but it is also a source of stress and uncertainty. Join us for a webinar that will help you manage stress in these difficult times. This session will offer tips and strategies to manage stress and maintain your well-being.”

The outlet reported that a licensed clinical provider was in charge of the session. A second session is scheduled for November 13.

Free Beacon:

According to three sources, the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs of the State Department, which oversees American diplomatic efforts in the Middle East, held a discussion group on Friday with Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf and Acting Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs John Bass.

A source called the meeting a “crying session” due to Trump’s win, which will likely bring about sweeping changes at Foggy Bottom. The Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs has been working to sanction Israel and withhold vital arms shipments for months, claiming that Israel does not do enough to provide humanitarian assistance in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. The officials are reported to have talked about the difficulties of Trump’s win and encouraged employees to express their feelings privately.

According to a U.S. official who was present at the meetings and has knowledge of them, “For the past four years there has been a focus on the feelings of people, sometimes with a fervor that is reminiscent of college campuses, instead of working to advance America’s interest.”

The source said that “there are still many things to be done” at the State Department.

The Free Beacon reported that the State Department did not respond to an inquiry for comment.

This wouldn’t be the first time the State Department offered therapy to employees. In May 2023, the agency offered free counseling to employees upset by a new IT feature that accidentally “misgendered” some of them.