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Self-Care For Therapists During Times of War

Tips on how therapists can care for themselves so they can better care for others.

During challenging times, including times of war, self-care is a necessity for therapists. Many of us are impacted by the ongoing war currently taking place in Israel in a variety of ways. It is critical that we take care of ourselves so that we can continue to provide the best care for our clients. Here are some important self-care tips for therapists we put together.

C – Create Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries for your work hours and client load.

A – Ask for Support

Seek supervision, consult with colleagues, and ask for help when needed.

R – Reflect Regularly

Engage in self-reflection and journal your thoughts and emotions.

E – Engage in Respite

Take regular breaks and prioritize time off to rest and recharge.

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T – Take Care of Your Physical Well-being

Maintain a healthy diet, exercise, and get adequate sleep.

H – Harness Mindfulness and Relaxation

Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage stress. Click here for some helpful meditations for difficult times.

E – Extend Your Support Network

Lean on your friends, family, and therapist colleagues for support. Maintain connections. Who can be your “support buddy”?

R – Regularly Check Your Emotional State

Periodically evaluate your mental and emotional well-being. Let go of judgmental thoughts.

A – Appreciate Yourself

Be compassionate and kind to yourself, acknowledging your own needs.

P – Pursue Hobbies and Interests

Engage in activities you enjoy outside of work.

I – Inform, But Limit Exposure

Stay informed but avoid excessive exposure to distressing news.

S – Stay Adaptable

Be flexible in your therapeutic approach to meet the changing needs of your clients.

T – Take Professional Help If Necessary

Seek your own therapy and counseling if needed.


Remember that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for therapists during challenging times. By recalling “CARE THERAPIST,” you can remember these important self-care strategies, and by taking care of yourself, you can continue to provide the best possible support to your clients.

Sources used to develop this guide:

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