Wellness Planning

I’ve always understood that self-care is important for overall wellbeing, but for a long time, I struggled to truly dedicate time to myself in a meaningful way. Despite knowing the value of rest and balance, I often felt overwhelmed—juggling multiple responsibilities while trying to meet the needs of others and raising a young child. I took on far more than I could reasonably manage, often without much appreciation or recognition, and I rarely allowed myself permission to pause or just breathe. In those moments, I often thought to myself, How can I take care of myself when so many other people need me?

That question became even more pressing once I stepped into the role of a counselor-in-training. Now, my emotional energy was being extended not only to loved ones, but also to clients—individuals who bring with them complex life experiences, diverse emotions, and unique needs. While counseling is an incredibly rewarding and meaningful profession, it can also be emotionally taxing. I quickly realized that it is nearly impossible to hold space for someone else’s pain if you are neglecting your own needs or operating from a place of exhaustion. This realization deepened my understanding of just how critical self-care is—not as an optional luxury, but as an essential part of being an effective and compassionate counselor. Burnout is a very real and common risk in our field, and without consistent boundaries, healthy limits, and intentional self-care practices, it’s easy to lose sight of your own wellbeing. I’ve learned that it’s not selfish to prioritize rest or joy; it’s actually necessary to remain grounded and present for the people we serve.

For counselors, self-care can take many forms, and I now fully appreciate the importance of engaging in activities that fulfill and nourish us. Whether that means taking time to rest, connecting with loved ones, going on vacation, unplugging from work, attending personal therapy, or simply doing something that brings joy—these practices are vital. Through this journey, I’ve come to understand the importance of creating separation between my professional life and personal life. If I don’t create that space, I run the risk of carrying emotional residue home with me, which only contributes to stress and fatigue.

Throughout my internship experience, I’ve worked hard to establish healthier habits that allow me to recharge and return to my work with replenished energy and compassion. Some of my favorite self-care activities include spending quality time with loved ones, playing pickleball, singing karaoke, enjoying nature, watching feel-good TV shows, and taking a hot bath to unwind. These moments of joy and relaxation remind me of who I am outside of my counseling identity and help restore that sense of balance.

While I feel I’ve made significant progress, I still recognize areas where I can improve—particularly in attending to my physical wellness. I’m actively working on incorporating more exercise into my routine, not just for physical health but as another form of self-care. I acknowledge that wellness is an ongoing process, and I am committed to making intentional changes that support both my personal growth and my professional effectiveness. I don’t claim to have it all figured out, but I’m learning to show up for myself with the same care and compassion I offer others.