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Using creativity as a self-care strategy can promote the expression of feelings and thoughts that are difficult to put into words. Participating in art, poetry, writing, or painting can help counselors step outside of their counseling role to cope and express emotions that can come from personal and professional stress.

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Establishing relationships that provide feelings of connectedness and belonging, such as joining professional organizations and networking has a positive influence on the self-care of helping professionals. Having a supportive community that can empathize with experiences and provide guidance and compassion can empower counselors and help maintain balance in a counselor's life.

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Self-care is crucial to those in helping professions because it allows time to improve physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual health. Counselors experience powerful emotions working with clients and dedicate a substantial amount of time to the needs of clients. Counselors must prevent losing their way or experiencing setbacks that can come from neglecting their health.

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Counselors have a responsibility to engage in and maintain self-care to best meet their professional responsibilities, effectively serve their clients, and grow as professionals Engaging in self-care allows counselors to prevent the negative side effects of professional and personal stressors that can cause compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary trauma from clients.

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Typically traveling and new experiences are ways I would engage in self-care. However, after reviewing the resources, I found new strategies to add to my self-care routine. Consistent self-reflection will allow me to evaluate my wellness and recognize any signs of burnout or compassion fatigue I experience to take the appropriate steps to take care of myself. I can also create a self-care plan to ensure I have planned time for relaxation and doing the things I love. A self-care plan is a great proactive approach for me to prioritize my health.