Therapists Need Self Care Too

One of the things that I stress to my clients is the need for self care. Taking the time to breathe, to pause, to be mindful, to eat right and regularly, to exercise, to laugh.

Self care is important for all people, but especially for those with mental health issues. Life is much more manageable when we are taking care of ourselves. And especially if we are suffering from trauma, addiction, depression - anything, really - we need all the help we can get. (Parents and other caregivers need self care so much more, even as there is less time to engage in it.)

A client of mine asked, after a session in which I suggested that she take a brief vacation, “Do you practice what you preach”? Do you take care of yourself the way you want your clients to take care of themselves?

I was struck by the tremendous responsibility that I have - that all therapists have - to take care of ourselves. Physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually. Self-care needs to be paramount. If we are not fully present each and every time a client walks through that door, we do more than a disservice. We do harm. We invalidate. Self care means that we make sure our own needs are met outside the therapy session, so that we may be present and help others when they enter.

So it is on us therapists to put self-care first. It’s not something important. It’s not even just essential. It’s a prerequisite.