ABSTRACT
In this final chapter, authors discuss the importance of the therapist’s self-care so as to avoid personal burnout, vicarious traumatization, or harming a client. Self-care is defined as an activity which reduces stress in the areas of physical, mental, social, and/or spiritual health. Seven parts to a wellness plan are presented: Maintenance & Prevention, Restoration, Emergency Strategies, Challenges, Record Successes, Support and Self-Compassion. Challenges to self-care are explored, including cost, effort and priority, and strategies to overcome these barriers are discussed. Readers are encouraged to pursue their own personal therapeutic work and to develop daily, active self-care rituals. The Creative Play Therapy technique of creating a personal sand tray is discussed, and steps are given to aid the reader’s experience with this self-care strategy
