ABSTRACT

Therapists, perhaps particularly trainees, are often very good at supporting and helping others but often forget to consider their own needs. Therefore, in this chapter, Heather Dale focuses on the needs of trainees themselves. She also explains how, if self-care is ignored, resilience can become low and ultimately lead to burnout. In worst-case examples, this may result in students prematurely dropping out of their courses. The chapter examines the particular stresses that the personal development group can bring but also how it can be a source of strength and support.

Readers are encouraged to look at their own support needs and to develop their own self-care plans with the help of exercises within the chapter.