Therapists Burn Out Too: Here’s How to Prevent It
Jamie Letcher • May 31, 2025
You're a therapist. You teach boundaries. You preach self-care. You help other people regulate, reflect, and reconnect. But here’s the thing no one likes to say out loud:
You’re not immune to burnout.
(And honestly? The fact that you care so deeply about your work probably makes you more susceptible to it.)
Whether you’re in solo private practice or part of a team, therapist burnout is real, and it doesn’t always show up with flashing lights and a sign that says “you’re done.” Sometimes it’s more subtle. Sometimes it feels like:
- Dreading sessions you used to enjoy
- Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected from your clients
- Snapping at your loved ones over absolutely nothing
- Losing the will to respond to one more admin email (just one more...)
- Wondering if you should’ve gone into accounting
If any of this rings true, take a breath. You’re not failing. You’re probably just… tired. Here’s how to prevent burnout (or catch it before it spirals):
1. Outsource what drains you
Let’s start here, because no matter how much lavender oil you diffuse, you can’t meditate your way out of admin overload.
Scheduling, invoicing, client follow-ups, paperwork, late cancellations... none of it has to be your sole responsibility. If you're spending more time on backend tasks than client care (or your own care), it might be time to bring in a VA who gets the therapy world and can take some of that weight off.
2. Rebuild your relationship with rest
We see you, “resting” with your laptop on your chest and 12 browser tabs open. Real rest, however that looks for you, should leave you feeling at least somewhat human again.
Whether it’s a weekend without checking emails or blocking off a non-negotiable lunch break, rest isn’t just allowed. It’s essential.
3. Set actual, human boundaries
Saying no doesn’t make you a bad therapist. Ending sessions on time doesn’t make you cold. And not being available 24/7 doesn’t make you selfish.
You teach these things, remember? Apply them to yourself. (Gently. With compassion. Like you would to a client.)
4. Make space for joy (not just decompression)
There’s a difference between collapsing on the couch and actively doing something that makes your heart feel full. Even if it’s small: a walk, a playlist, a really dumb meme, or a Tuesday-night dance break in your kitchen.
Burnout prevention isn’t just about managing stress, it’s about making room for delight, too.
5. Check in with yourself like you check in with clients ❤️
How’s your nervous system today? What do you need more of, or less of? Are you holding space for yourself the way you do for everyone else?
You deserve the same gentleness, honesty, and care you give your clients.
Just remember, you're human. Not a healing robot.
Burnout doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for this work. It means you need support, space, and a reminder that you’re allowed to need things, too!
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