The work school-based therapists do is that of superheroes - it comes with the deep satisfaction of helping your students, make progress, and improve their lives, but it can also come with challenges. Even the most dedicated therapists can encounter a common challenge: burnout.
The progress students make is reliant upon the therapists providing services, so it is important to make sure you are at 100 percent for your students! Practicing burnout prevention strategies can help ensure balance as you fulfill your superhero duties for the students you serve. This guide will equip you with tips on dealing with some of the common challenges professionals often face.
Strategies for Preventing Therapist Burnout
Self-awareness and taking preventive action are important for avoiding therapist burnout. This can improve your mental health, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling career. Some practical tips for preventing therapist burnout include:
1. Prioritize Self-Care
You can't pour from an empty cup. So, for your mental, physical, and emotional well-being, it's important to practice personalized self-care. This could include regular exercise and doing things you enjoy. This can help you deal with stress, regain your energy, and bring more focus and energy to your sessions.
Invest time in nurturing relationships with friends, family, or industry peer support. Sharing experiences and fun with loved ones helps you feel connected and reduces feelings of isolation.
Meditation and mindfulness practices can also help you prevent burnout by concentrating and keeping your emotions in check. Just 10 to 15 minutes a day of guided meditation or focused breathing can develop a sense of calm and mental strength!¹ This lets you be more present and supportive of your students without feeling mentally worn out.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
Focus on balancing skill development with achieving results. Set attainable goals that encompass improving your techniques, gaining student interaction experience, and learning new things.
Don't forget that progress, not perfection, is the key to staying motivated and not getting burned out. This makes you more motivated and helps you succeed in the long run. To set reasonable goals:
- Set SMART Goals: Make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, " I will complete two online courses on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) techniques within the next six months."
- Seek Mentorship and Support: Find a seasoned therapist who can offer guidance and support. Discussing challenges with a mentor can normalize experiences and provide valuable insights.
- Celebrate All Wins: Be proud of your progress, no matter how big or small! Completing a challenging case write-up or receiving positive feedback are all victories worth celebrating.
3. Set Priorities and Manage Your Time
Managing a caseload efficiently and effectively is important to striking the right balance in your workload. Leveraging organizational strategies and seeking support will support your success.
Discuss caseload expectations with your supervisor. Be honest if you feel overwhelmed and ask for help when you need it. Identify urgent tasks for each student and allocate time accordingly. To stay organized, consider using to-do lists or scheduling tools.
Schedule yourself efficiently, leaving time where possible between sessions to catch your breath and reset for your next student.
Remember, by effectively managing your caseload, you are able to be fully present for each student. This builds trust, leads to better outcomes, and reduces your chances of experiencing burnout. It's beneficial for everyone!
4. Grow Professionally
The field of speech-language pathology is constantly evolving, with new research and approaches emerging all the time. Engaging in continuing education keeps your knowledge base fresh and your skills sharp. In addition to helping students, this keeps you feeling engaged, motivated, and passionate about your work.
Consider attending workshops, conferences, or webinars on topics relevant to your practice area. Many professional organizations offer continuing education opportunities, and some employers may even provide financial support for these activities.
As an organization that has launched the careers of thousands of SLPs, Invo has always prioritized professional development for our team members through funds and unlimited CEUs.
Staying updated in the field offers your students the most effective interventions and treatment plans. This sense of growth and mastery can also improve your mental health because therapists prioritizing CPD report higher job satisfaction and experience less burnout.² Think of it like refreshing your mind. So, learn new things to improve your work and make your role more satisfying.
5. Maintain Work-Life Balance
As a therapist, it's natural to bond with your students, which can sometimes blur the lines between work and personal time. Developing an end-of-day routine can help you transition from work mode. Here are some tips to help you recharge at the end of the day.
Define your work hours: Set boundaries for when work begins and ends.
Tech-free time: Designate periods free from work emails and calls to focus on personal activities.
Communicate availability: Let others know when you're available outside of work in a friendly manner.
It's okay to limit your availability and take time for yourself. This doesn't mean you care less about your students - it means you're ensuring you can be at your best when you're with them.
PRIORITIZE YOUR WELL-BEING FOR A FULFILLING CAREER
Just like you guide your students toward well-being, putting your well-being first allows you to show up fully for them. This leads to a more sustainable and rewarding career path.
At Invo Healthcare, we understand the unique needs of speech-language pathologists - both new to the field and experienced. We take pride in providing dedicated support, mentorship, and a focus on work-life balance to help you thrive. Ready to learn more about launching a fulfilling career with us? Visit our Careers page to explore current opportunities and see how we can help you thrive as a new therapist.
References
1. "Breath meditation: A great way to relieve stress." Harvard Health Publishing, 15 Apr. 2024, www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/breath-meditation-a-great-way-to-relieve-stress. Accessed 28 June 2024.
2. Sohn, Emily. "There's a strong push for more school psychologists." American Psychological Association, vol. 55, no. 1, Jan. 2024, p. 72. www.apa.org/monitor/2024/01/trends-more-school-psychologists-needed.
