The Pivotal Nature of Clinician Self-Care: Understanding the Stakes and Recognizing the Terrain, Part 1 (Series 2 Curriculum)

This module examines self-care in detail – what it is and how it is essential to mental health treatment of all kinds. We will consider the ethical and regulatory obligations of all psychologists to proactively attend to self-care, explore its vital link to professional competence and clinical effectiveness, and situate self-care as one of the most essential risk-management practices available to clinicians.

In addition, we will look closely at the terrain of clinician distress, burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious traumatization. Relevant research and distinguishing features of each of these experiences will be examined, as will warning signs and indicators of potential impairment. In doing so we will consider the unique manifestations of these factors in our world today and the implications for providers and patients/clients alike. Lastly, a self-care continuum will be presented, with an expanded focus on wellness and a beginning look at possible pathways to clinician well-being and thriving.

Featuring: Leisl Bryant, Ph.D., ABPP

[Note] This webinar was filmed in 2021 and may not reflect the most current information and laws regarding this topic.

Objectives:

1. Define self-care.
2. Identify the connection between effective self-care and psychologists’ ethical obligations, competence, and clinical effectiveness.
3. List at least five risks of not appropriately tending to self-care.
4. Explain components of distress, burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious traumatization and how to recognize each of these.
5. Describe the self-care continuum and various pathways to improving clinician well-being.
6. Apply self-care as a risk management strategy.

NOTE: This information is provided as a risk management resource and is not legal advice or an individualized personal consultation. At the time this resource was prepared, all information was as current and accurate as possible; however, regulations, laws, or prevailing professional practice standards may have changed since the posting or recording of this resource. Accordingly, it is your responsibility to confirm whether regulatory or legal issues that are relevant to you have since been updated and/or to consult with your professional advisors or legal counsel for timely guidance specific to your situation. As with all professional use of material, please explicitly cite The Trust Companies as the source if you reproduce or distribute any portion of these resources. Reproduction or distribution of this resource without the express written permission of The Trust Companies is strictly prohibited.