Individual Counseling EDG 6320 by Keely Baker

Professional "Takeaway"

kbaker291 — 2024-03-21 17:56:31 UTC

Being therapeutically present for my clients is very important and can be hindered by a lack of self care. Self care has to be intentional, daily, and planned from the beginning. Otherwise, burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary trauma can sneak in and cause my focus on my patients to be interrupted or overshadowed by my own stress.

Reflection on the Importance of Self-Care

kbaker291 — 2024-03-22 19:56:07 UTC

Self-care can be viewed as an ethical mandate. The importance of it cannot be overstated and it is not an indulgence. A counselor cannot properly care for her clients if she is not well herself. We cannot give peace if we have no peace to give.

Identification & Description of Personal Self-Care Strategies

kbaker291 — 2024-03-22 19:56:22 UTC

One of my personal self-care strategies is to spend time in nature. Simply sitting on my porch, looking at the sky and clouds, and listening to the birds helps me feel connected to the larger world and helps me let go of my stress. Breathing the fresh air and feeling the wind on my skin encourages me to be mindful and stay in the moment.

Another self-care strategy is a form of mindfulness and meditation, but in my case, it is prayer. Spending time in prayer helps me to recognize my own limitations and allows me to let go of the issues that I cannot control. When I allow myself to understand my role in the lives of my patients, it helps me to understand that I am not the only hope in a person's life.

kbaker291 — 2024-03-22 20:17:31 UTC