As therapists, we understand the courage it takes for clients to start therapy. That first session, opening up to a stranger, requires immense vulnerability. Yet, we often fall into the trap of thinking our professional knowledge should exempt us from needing help ourselves. The fear that seeking help might mean we are unfit to help others can be overwhelming.
I have personally experienced the challenge of balancing roles as a therapist, wife, and mother of two boys, one with Autism and ADHD. Striving to navigate these roles effectively and with strength can sometimes leave us feeling depleted. During these times—when work-life balance is out of sync—I firmly believe that every therapist should have access to their own therapist.
In my practice, I help clients develop stress management skills, balance work and family obligations, and establish emotional boundaries to ensure that the demands of their clients do not become detrimental to their well-being.
Let’s normalize seeking support for ourselves, understanding that it enhances our ability to support our clients. By embracing our own humanity and vulnerability, we can exemplify the self-compassion and resilience we encourage in others.
Let’s normalize seeking support for ourselves, understanding that it enhances our ability to support our clients. By embracing our own humanity and vulnerability, we can exemplify the self-compassion and resilience we encourage in others.