Self-Care beyond Bubble Baths
Avoiding Burnout as a Therapist: Practical Self-Care Strategies That Work
Self-Care beyond Bubble Baths
Avoiding Burnout as a Therapist: Practical Self-Care Strategies (that work)
Therapists are often champions of self-care, regularly encouraging clients to prioritise their mental health and wellbeing. But when it comes to looking after ourselves, we can sometimes struggle to practise what we preach. The reality is, the nature of our work—holding space for others, navigating emotional complexities, and managing professional boundaries—means we are at significant risk of therapist burnout. And no, a bubble bath and a scented candle won’t cut it (though they can be lovely!). Sustainable self-care for therapists needs to go deeper. Here’s how to truly look after yourself and maintain a fulfilling therapy career.
1. Recognise the Signs of Burnout in Therapists
Therapist burnout isn’t just about feeling tired—it’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Some common signs of burnout include:
Feeling emotionally drained or detached from your work
Increased cynicism or irritability
Difficulty concentrating or feeling ineffective in sessions
Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, or sleep disturbances
If you’re noticing these signs of therapist fatigue, it’s time to take action before burnout impacts your mental health and professional effectiveness.
2. Set and Maintain Healthy Boundaries
Therapists are natural caregivers, which can make it difficult to say no. But setting healthy boundaries is essential for preventing burnout. Consider:
Work-life balance: Stick to a manageable caseload and avoid regularly overextending yourself.
Client communication: Limit contact outside of sessions to protect your personal time.
Emotional boundaries: Resist the urge to ‘fix’ everything—therapy is about guidance, not rescuing.
By maintaining professional boundaries, therapists can prevent emotional exhaustion and sustain a rewarding career.
3. Supervision and Peer Support Are Essential for Therapists
Good supervision isn’t just about clinical work—it’s also a space to check in with yourself. Regularly talking things through with a trusted supervisor or peer group can prevent the build-up of stress and emotional fatigue. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to lean on your professional support network. Peer support for therapists is invaluable in reducing burnout and improving job satisfaction.
4. Prioritise Rest – Real, Quality Rest
Scrolling on your phone after a long day isn’t rest, nor is collapsing on the sofa with Netflix while replying to emails. True rest means:
Getting enough sleep (quality and quantity matter!)
Taking proper breaks between therapy sessions
Scheduling time off and actually switching off—no checking work messages!
Prioritising self-care for mental health professionals means acknowledging that rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
5. Nourish Your Own Mental Health as a Therapist
Just because we help others doesn’t mean we don’t need help ourselves. Therapy for therapists can be invaluable, offering a safe space to process emotions, reflect on your practice, and prevent compassion fatigue. Seeking support isn’t a failure—it’s an investment in your wellbeing and longevity in the profession.
6. Move Away from ‘Guilt-Based’ Self-Care
Many therapists struggle with guilt when taking time for themselves, feeling they should always be available for others. But you can’t pour from an empty cup. Sustainable self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Find things that genuinely nourish you, whether that’s time in nature, creative hobbies, exercise, or simply doing nothing without guilt.
7. Reconnect with What Brings You Joy in Your Therapy Work
Burnout can make us forget why we entered this profession in the first place. Reconnect with the aspects of your work that inspire you. That might mean focusing on the client groups you’re most passionate about, attending CPD that excites you, or taking a step back to reflect on the positive impact you’ve made.
Final Thoughts: How Therapists Can Prevent Burnout
Avoiding burnout as a therapist isn’t about quick fixes or one-off indulgences—it’s about creating a life and career that are sustainable. By setting boundaries, seeking support, prioritising rest, and engaging in meaningful self-care, you’ll not only protect your own wellbeing but also ensure you can continue to provide the best possible care for your clients.
So, next time you’re tempted to light a candle and call it self-care, ask yourself—what do I really need? Your long-term wellbeing as a therapist depends on it.
