It is often the case that positions of leadership and social service require that helpers take on a heavy burden as they assist others in working through their challenges. The recent COVID public health crisis is a good example of the kinds of fears, stresses, and trauma that lie beneath the surface and emerge during challenging times.
For many of us who aim to be helpers, one of the important steps of training is psychologically preparing ourselves to be able to receive and hold the emotional weight that patients, clients, followers, and mentees bring to us in times of need… all while not becoming overwhelmed.
Each of you may have found yourself working through similar hard times, and in the process perhaps reflecting on your own personal life challenges. With that in mind, the discussion questions are:
1. Do you think that future Helpers and Counselors should first be required to get counseling/self-help before working with others?
2. What are the potential drawbacks of getting into the practice of psychology without first having done your own psychological "work"?
3. Do you think social media influencers in the "self help" space are beneficial or detrimental to promoting good mental health practice?
4. Can you think of any other important self-development tools besides traditional therapy that might help you get ready for the professional role of helping others?