People in the helping professions are taught to put the needs of others before their own. Most often, this tendency comes naturally to us and is reinforced in our education and in our practices. Even our own friends and families see us as the strong ones who provide care and support but never seem to ask for it or need it.

On top of it all, most of us work in isolation, bound by confidentiality, consistent in our presentation to others and always calm and caring.

But helping professionals are still human. Who do the people who support and guide others share their feelings and struggles with? Who listens to the caregivers with empathy and without judgment? Who provides support to the supporters when they are feeling vulnerable and uncertain?

I do. As a therapist, I know how difficult it can be to find someone who understands the expectations that come with our profession. Someone who can help parse out and piece together a way through our unique challenges. Who knows without explanation the intricacies of our code of ethics and standards of practice.