Self-Care for Therapists: You Don’t Have to Be Burned Out to Be a Great Clinician

Being a therapist (or other mental health provider) is not for the faint of heart. You hold space for pain, trauma, grief, and healing—all while navigating your own humanity. That’s why intentional, ongoing self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential.

You don’t need to be on the verge of burnout to start taking care of yourself. In fact, the best time to prioritize your well-being is before you hit a wall. By investing in your own care, you can show up with more clarity, energy, and presence—not just for your clients, but for yourself too.

Self-Care Strategies for Therapists

1. Strategic Scheduling

Not every client requires the same emotional bandwidth. Be mindful about when and how you schedule sessions, especially those that require higher emotional energy.

• Schedule more challenging or high-acuity clients at times when you have the most capacity.

• Avoid stacking emotionally intense sessions back-to-back.

• If possible, schedule a break or a lighter session after a particularly heavy one.

2. Actually Take a Break

Basic needs are still needs. That means scheduling time for:

• Snacks and meals

• Water and bathroom breaks

• A moment to breathe between sessions

Try to end sessions on time and protect the space in between. Your nervous system (and bladder) will thank you.

3. Support from Others

Supervision and consultation groups aren’t just for pre-licensed therapists. Even seasoned clinicians benefit from:

• Peer support

• Case consultation

• A space to vent, laugh, or cry with people who get it

Being in community helps you feel less isolated and more resourced.

4. Stick to Your Hours

Repeat after me: I do not have to be available all the time.

Holding clear boundaries around your working hours supports:

• Better client fit

• More predictable downtime

• Less frustration and resentment

Yes, there will be exceptions. But regularly stepping outside your work hours chips away at your energy and well-being over time.

5. Know When to Refer Out

You are not going to be the right fit for every client—and that’s okay.

It’s important to recognize when a client’s acuity, needs, or presentation is beyond what you can (or want to) support. Referring out is an act of care for both the client and yourself.

6. Take Care of Yourself, Too

Self-care isn't one-size-fits-all, but it should be intentional and ongoing. Some foundational practices:

• Movement or exercise that feels good to you

• Rest and quality sleep

• Going to your own therapy

• Creative outlets and joy-sparking activities

Therapists are whole people. You are more than your role. Don’t lose sight of your own humanness in the desire to support others. Want more self-care ideas? Check out my blog

And One More Thing: Make Space for Joyful Work

Clinical work can be heavy. Finding and using tools that energize you can be an unexpected form of self-care. If you're looking for something that helps you feel more supported and inspired in your work, check out The Therapist Toolbox (TTT).

TTT is designed by a therapist for therapists and includes helpful resources, worksheets, and tools that support your clinical work without adding more to your plate. Having a go-to, thoughtfully curated resource can save you time, energy, and decision fatigue.

Whether you're burned out, on the verge, or just trying to stay proactive, you deserve to feel supported.

You are a human being first, therapist second. Take care of yourself accordingly.