Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision

I have come to understand that intentional self-care is not optional in professional counseling practice, but rather an ethical responsibility essential to counselor effectiveness, wellness, and longevity in the field. Early in my counseling career, I emphasized the importance of self-care to clients while failing to consistently engage in those practices myself. Over time, this disconnect contributed to emotional fatigue and early signs of burnout, prompting critical self-reflection regarding my professional sustainability.

As a result, I intentionally restructured my routine to prioritize counselor wellness and work–life balance. I now reserve Thursdays and every other Sunday and Monday as a dedicated day for restoration and reflection, allowing space to attend to my personal, relational, and emotional needs. This practice has become foundational to maintaining clarity, presence, and effectiveness in my clinical work.

My current self-care practices include regular physical activity and swimming, creative and reflective journaling, preparing nourishing meals, reading for pleasure, and engaging in meaningful connection with friends, family, and my spouse. As a working mother, I recognize the importance of boundaries between professional and personal roles, and I intentionally cultivate practices that support both emotional regulation and relational connection beyond the counseling setting.

These self-care practices allow me to remain grounded, reflective, and ethically attuned in my work with clients. By actively engaging in counselor wellness, I am better equipped to model healthy boundaries, manage professional stressors, and sustain compassionate, effective, and culturally responsive counseling practice over time. I view self-care as an ongoing, evolving process that supports not only my personal well-being, but also the quality of care I provide to those I serve.