Hey therapist... Go Be a client!

As masters level faculty, I would constantly reiterate to my bright-eyed, eager to diagnose masters level social work students that "The Best Therapists have a Therapist." It's true. What most helping professional degree programs believe that you can't be an effective therapist if you have not understood the benefits of being a client. 

The Best Therapists Have a Therapist.

But why is it so hard for us in the helping profession to actually go see a therapist? 

I know for me, it took humility for me to face the need to sit on someone's couch. Yes, I know the interventions, techniques and strategies to not catastrophize what's happening in my world, or when intrusive thoughts about my mothering what to do... but I don't always do it. Pride will keep you from prioritizing your own mental wellness as a mental health provider. 

Finding space on your calendar to go BE A CLIENT is key to avoiding many pitfalls to providing effective therapy and intervention to others. When you don't create space to address your internal workings you may deal with:

• Countertransference
• Projecting Your Own Issues onto Your Clients
• Poor Boundaries with clients
• Paternalistic Interactions with Clients
• Problems Managing Your Business/Agency

During this month of Mental Health Awareness, avoid these pitfalls, prioritize your own wellness and schedule an appointment with a qualified therapist. You won't regret it.