ABSTRACT

This chapter identifies common self-care strategies. It discusses that, why they are needed and how to implement them. The chapter presents twenty five concrete strategies for taking care of ourselves in a private practice setting. The balance may look different from one week to the next, but awareness of personal and professional priorities is very important in being able to achieve an overall balance. Some basic guidelines may help to at least start the process. The mental health field is ever changing and growing. It is hard to keep up with all of this new information that is being generated, and with a full caseload, the time available to read all of this information is just not available. The simplest way to begin mindfulness is through your breathing. Goals provide a framework and direction for self-improvement, and help provide motivation for positive changes. The point is to set short- and long-term goals for both personal and professional domains.