Being a therapist is one of the most rewarding jobs but also one of the most difficult. Between your personal problems and your clients' problems, things can get overwhelming. However, given your job's ethical requirements, most people expect you to be your own therapist. This is not true, and here are our top reasons why therapists need therapy.
To process clients' thoughts and feelings
As a therapist, you must learn to separate your feelings when dealing with clients. However, this is easier said than done. Hearing about abuse, trauma, addiction, and other mental problems can weigh heavy on you. Therapy helps you to process what you hear and allows you to preserve your mental health. Opportunity to deal with personal issues Therapists may look invincible, but they are not. Their work requires them to stay put together at all times for the sake of their clients. As a matter of fact, a lot of them suffer from issues such as substance abuse, depression, anxiety, etc. It is therefore crucial that you dedicate time to unpack and deal with your own problems.
It prevents burnout
People in helping professions often get burnout and compassion fatigue. No matter how much you enjoy helping people, you will need to take a break to recharge. Regular counselling sessions can help you prevent this problem. Makes you feel less isolated Unlike many professionals, therapists can't share the particulars of their work with anyone due to confidentiality restrictions. Also, most of them work alone in their private practises, which makes them feel much more isolated. Talking to another therapist who understands the demands of the job is an excellent opportunity for comfort and support.
De-stigmatise therapy
Unfortunately, many people still associate therapy with weakness. You can help change this narrative by letting clients know that you also have therapy. This will help normalise it and encourage your clients that they are doing the right thing by choosing to take care of their mental health.