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My biggest "take away" is that with useful self-care techniques you can prevent things like burnout and compassion fatigue. I thought it was interesting how many different forms of self-care there are. The article about creative approaches to self-care was engaging, as it really gave examples that I was not expecting. Such as hobbies in the arts, like theater and writing vs the usual self-care like exercising and good sleep.

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Importance of Self-Care in Professional Counseling

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Importance of Self-Care in Professional Counseling

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In my future career as a Professional Counselor, hopefully working in the college/university setting, self-care is important. I know that I will be dealing with a lot of emotional situations and helping students through stressful times. I know there are a lot of times where students can express trauma and certain situations that may be uncomfortable. I want to be at my best mentally when these situations arise, since they can be sensitive topics for the students to express. I look forward to learning how to help in these situations but also how to personally prepare myself for dealing with knowing this information. I think referencing the ACA Code of Ethics will be beneficial, as it will help me navigate certain situations. I also believe that practicing basic self-care like getting good sleep, talking about my feelings (with a professional) and taking time to myself will help me be mentally prepared for a position as a Professional Counselor.

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While there are many self-care strategies that I plan to use as a way to release stress, the two I have chosen to talk about are, seeking professional help and cooking. I find myself often taking on other peoples issues and I have noticed that in certain situations it can become a lot for me. I find myself caught up with multiple stressors and constantly trying to solve issues. I think one thing that I am going to do is seek help from a counselor/therapist. That way I can work on my own personal stress and issues, but still be able to be there for people who need to discuss theirs. I think that therapy can be a really useful tool in life and there is nothing wrong with a counselor seeing a counselor. My other self-care technique is cooking. I find cooking to be a great de-stressor for me, as it helps me feel calm and creative. I can express myself through food and also take care of a basic need. It gives me control over something, which I enjoy. It will allow me to release stress in a normal and safe way.