Supporting Your Partner's Journey to Becoming a Therapist: 10 Ways to Be There Every Step of the Way
When I first became a therapist I was totally lost. At the end of a long clinical day, I was nearly mute. I didn’t understand why I wanted to hide in my room and scroll on social media when I got home and why it was so difficult to connect with others or make plans. Not only was I unclear on why I was acting this way, but my partner was at a complete loss for how to navigate my difficult adjustment to this new profession.
Embarking on the path to becoming a therapist is a journey filled with both challenges and rewards. As your partner takes on the responsibility of supporting others through their mental health struggles, they may also face their own set of obstacles along the way. As their significant other, your role in supporting them is crucial. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate this journey together and provide the support they need.
Be a Listening Ear: One of the most important things you can do is to listen attentively when your partner needs to talk about their experiences, whether it's the challenges of coursework, client interactions, or self-doubt. Validate their feelings and offer empathy without judgment.
Encourage Self-Care: The demands of studying and working in the field of therapy can be draining. Encourage your partner to prioritize self-care activities that help them recharge, whether it's taking breaks, exercising, or pursuing hobbies they enjoy.
Understand Boundaries: Respect the boundaries your partner sets regarding their work. Therapists often need to maintain professional boundaries to protect both themselves and their clients. Avoid pressuring them to disclose confidential information or bring work home with them.
Celebrate Milestones: Completing coursework, passing exams, and landing internships or job opportunities are all significant milestones on the journey to becoming a therapist. Celebrate these achievements with your partner to show your support and pride in their accomplishments.
Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about the field of therapy and the challenges that new therapists may face. This can help you better understand what your partner is going through and provide more informed support.
Offer Practical Support: Help ease your partner's workload by assisting with household chores, running errands, or providing a quiet space for them to study or meet with clients. Small gestures of support can make a big difference.
Be Patient and Understanding: There may be times when your partner feels overwhelmed, stressed, or emotionally drained. Be patient and understanding during these moments, offering reassurance and support without minimizing their feelings.
Provide Constructive Feedback: Your perspective as a supportive partner can be valuable in helping your partner reflect on their practice and grow as a therapist. Offer constructive feedback when appropriate, focusing on areas for improvement in a supportive and non-critical manner.
Be Their Cheerleader: Remind your partner of their strengths and capabilities when they doubt themselves. Encourage them to stay focused on their goals and remind them of the positive impact they're making in the lives of others.
Take Care of Yourself: Supporting a partner through their journey to becoming a therapist can be emotionally demanding. Remember to prioritize your own self-care and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed.
Supporting a partner who is becoming a therapist requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to be there through both the challenges and triumphs. By following these 10 tips, you can play an integral role in helping your partner navigate their journey with confidence and resilience. Together, you can create a strong foundation for their success as a therapist and strengthen your relationship along the way.
If you or your partner could benefit from a little more support, help is here. Alison Shlomi specializes in supporting new and upcoming therapists navigate the challenges and adjustments in this new profession. Reach out today!
