How to prevent compassion fatigue

By Sandra Williams, T.A.Psychotherapist/ supervisor at – The Therapists Chair Compassion fatigue is common in caring professions. As therapists, we care for our clients by metaphorically and emotionally holding them in session whilst they share a part of their life journey so far. As the client’s story unfolds, the therapist becomes a part of that journey – the validator, the compassionate human, an understanding person. We witness the unfolding of a difficult time in the client’s life and are honoured to be a part of their story. Feeling empathic is a normal process. As a therapist provides a compassionate space, clients can... Read More »

Relational Needs

Relational Needs Security Physical and emotional vulnerabilities are protected, honoured and preserved The absence of actual or anticipated anger Validation To be validated and affirmed as being significant Our thoughts, and feelings are validated as significant and important to another person, someone cares about how things are for us. Acceptance Acceptance by a stable dependable and protective other. The need to look up to and rely upon ,parents, teachers, elders and mentors, to gain protection, encouragement, and information by a reliable significant other. Confirmation of personal experiences, to be in the presence of someone similar someone who understands because he or she has ‘been there’,or is ‘like me’,... Read More »