While our family and friends are critical supports in our lives, there is a limit to what we can discuss with them and the depth at which they’ll be able to understand our profession-specific concerns (unless they, themselves, are in the field – or another helping profession). Rural counselors, those in private practice, counselors in busy group practices, and those in overwhelmed community mental health settings can feel isolated. Sometimes by the reality of their geographic isolation and other times when the pace and demands of the job sometimes erode opportunities for connecting on more than a superficial level with peers. Staying well in these circumstances requires getting creative and actively working to gather the support you need.
To build your support network, try attending networking events, national and regional conferences, and professional training programs. Post questions and participate in online forums for counselors through the online community I created at www.resilientcommunity.ning.com or sites like Linked In and Psychology Today. Do research to find out who in your geographical region is doing similar work to you, contact them, and schedule a time to talk in person.
When meeting in person isn’t possible, use the phone and email colleagues – to vent, to ask questions or for support, to take a moment to tell a joke or catch up. Even if your “local” colleagues end up being three counties or two hours away, they can be a resource for you. There are several free teleconference services where the only fee is the price of the phone call through your local phone service provider.
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