In this episode, I share my personal frustration with insurance companies and how their delays and denials led me to burn out. During the pandemic, I went months without payment, which made me feel like I was being scammed by the system. This experience, along with many others, eventually pushed me to leave my insurance-based private practice.

I reflect on how therapists, including myself, often feel like failures in these situations, when in reality, we’re facing a broken system. Many of us are moving away from insurance panels, opting for private pay models or newer platforms like Alma or Headway that promise more reliable payment.

I also discuss the importance of finding supportive communities and building systems that prevent isolation in private practice. We need to stop feeling guilty for making changes that protect our well-being.

If you’re feeling stuck in your practice or considering a change, don’t wait. Think about what your future self would want you to prioritize. If you need support, I’m here to help with a free consult.

Links to all my stuff including my free 15-minute consult: https://linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

Key Takeaways:

1. Insurance Woes: Therapists often struggle to get paid by insurance companies, facing delayed payments, clawbacks, and denials, which leads to burnout and financial stress.
2. Systemic Failures: The broken insurance system adds to the emotional toll on therapists, making them feel like failures when in reality, the system is flawed.
3. Choosing a Different Path: Many therapists are moving away from insurance panels to prioritize their well-being, with private pay practices becoming more common.
4. Community & Support: Therapists need supportive systems, both professionally and socially, to combat isolation and burnout in private practice.
5. Imposter Syndrome & Visibility: Being visible and sharing personal struggles can be difficult for therapists, but it's essential for destigmatizing burnout and creating community.
6. Making a Change: If you've been thinking about quitting or changing your practice, don't delay. Ask yourself what your 80-year-old self would prioritize and consider how to create a career that aligns with your values.

Ever feel like you're just waiting for the day when someone finally calls you out as a fraud? You're not alone. In this episode, we're diving deep into the nuances of imposter syndrome specifically within the world of therapists. Arya Prasaad, a seasoned therapist and mental health advocate, joins us to unravel how this pervasive feeling of inadequacy impacts therapists more than we often acknowledge.

In this insightful conversation, Arya Prasad and I explore the less-talked-about aspects of imposter syndrome in the therapeutic profession. While it’s a common struggle across many fields, therapists face unique challenges when their self-doubt is tied directly to their ability to help others. We discuss how imposter syndrome can exacerbate feelings of burnout, lead to overcompensation, and even impact client outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

• The Hidden Burden: Therapists often carry the extra weight of imposter syndrome, which can lead to burnout as they strive to prove themselves worthy in their roles.
• Impact on Client Care: How self-doubt might subtly influence your work, from over-preparing for sessions to hesitating in setting boundaries.
• Practical Strategies: Arya shares actionable advice for recognizing imposter syndrome and developing a healthier relationship with your professional identity.

Quotes:

• "Imposter syndrome isn't just a personal struggle; it's a systemic issue that can deeply affect the quality of care therapists provide."
• "When we tie our self-worth to our professional success, the stakes become impossibly high. It’s no wonder so many therapists burn out."
• "Therapists need to give themselves the same grace and understanding that they offer their clients. We're all works in progress."

More from Arya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/workwitharya/

More from Jen: https://linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

In this solo podcast episode, Dr. Jen Blanchett reflects on the year 2023, discussing the wins, disappointments, and lessons learned. She encourages therapists and mental health professionals to celebrate their accomplishments, such as certifications and successful client outcomes.  She also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging personal growth and overcoming mindset challenges.

Dr. Blanchette shares her own experiences with burnout and the journey towards finding joy and purpose again. She encourages listeners to take stock of their wins, losses, and disappointments, and consider the lessons they've learned. Sometimes we have to learn to take an L (loss).

Looking ahead to 2024, she explores themes of enoughness, playfulness, and rest, highlighting the importance of self-care and wellbeing amidst the demands of the profession.

Links to all my stuff free and paid: linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

Ever felt that your job asks more of your humanity than it should? In this week's episode, I explore the concept of moral injury in therapy work. We often talk about burnout, but what happens when we’re pushed to betray our own values for the sake of our roles?

In this solo episode of The Therapist Burnout Podcast, Jen Blanchette dives into the topic of moral injury among therapists. Reflecting on the recent conversation with Dr. Jenny Byrne in Episode 43, Jen expands on how the concept of moral injury applies to therapists, sharing insights on current events, systemic challenges, and her own personal experiences. She also touches on a recent strike involving mental health workers, highlighting ongoing issues of workload, reimbursement, and the emotional toll of the profession.

Takeaways

• Therapists are feeling overwhelmed by high caseloads and inadequate support.
• The concept of moral injury is crucial for understanding therapist burnout.
• Many therapists wish for a union to advocate for better conditions.
• Moral injury can stem from systemic issues within the healthcare system.
• Personal experiences of moral injury can shape a therapist's career.
• Burnout, moral distress, and moral injury are interconnected but distinct.
• Therapists often feel like cogs in a machine, losing their sense of self.
• The healthcare system profits from the labor of therapists without adequate compensation.
• Taking breaks and managing stress is essential for therapists' well-being.
• The holiday season can exacerbate stress for both therapists and their clients.

Sound Bites

"Therapists are humans too."

"Moral injury can be helpful in seeing systemic issues."

"We need to increase our pay and support."

More from Jen:

www.drjenblanchette.com

The therapist pen-pal list write back": https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

More from Monica: www.businessofthriving.com

More from Jen: www.drjenblanchette.com 

Links to my freebies: https://linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

In this episode, Felicia, also known as the Bad Therapist, shares her unique perspective on avoiding burnout in the therapy field. She discusses the importance of setting strong boundaries with clients and the challenges therapists face in maintaining those boundaries. Felicia also reflects on the unrealistic expectations placed on therapists to always be available and unaffected by abuse or rudeness. She emphasizes the need for therapists to prioritize their own well-being and challenges the notion that sacrificing personal needs makes one a better therapist. Felicia advocates for a shift in the therapy field towards a more supportive and compassionate approach. In this conversation, Jen Blanchette and Felicia discuss the taboo of talking about finances in therapy and the impact of low pay and gendered expectations on therapists. They explore the exploitation of therapists' labor and the clash between good therapist conditioning and advocating for financial security. They also discuss the influence of the healthcare system and tech companies on therapists' fees, as well as the need for support and roadmaps to navigate financial sustainability in private practice. Finally, they highlight the importance of self-care and finding joy in personal connections.

Takeaways

• Setting strong boundaries with clients is crucial for avoiding burnout in the therapy field.
• Therapists often face unrealistic expectations to always be available and unaffected by abuse or rudeness.
• Prioritizing personal well-being does not make one a bad therapist; it is essential for sustainable and effective therapy.
• The therapy field needs to shift towards a more supportive and compassionate approach, challenging the hazing mentality and promoting self-care. The taboo of discussing finances in therapy perpetuates the undervaluing and exploitation of therapists' labor.
• Therapists, especially women, often face low pay and gendered expectations in the field.
• The healthcare system and tech companies play a significant role in artificially lowering therapists' fees.
• Therapists need support and resources to navigate financial sustainability in private practice.
• Prioritizing self-care and finding joy in personal connections are essential for therapists' well-being.

More from Felicia: https://www.thebadtherapist.coach/

More from Jen: www.drjenblanchette.com

Winners never quit...spoiler alert, they do! In this episode, the host reflects on her recent vacation and the challenges of traveling with children. She discusses the clinical responsibility of holding a caseload and the difficulty of leaving work behind. The theme of quitting is explored, with the host emphasizing that quitting is not a sign of weakness but a testament to strength and self-awareness. She encourages therapists to make strategic decisions and offers support and coaching for those considering a change in their practice or career.

Takeaways

• Traveling with children can be challenging, but as they grow older, it becomes easier.
• The clinical responsibility of holding a caseload can be emotionally and mentally draining.
• Therapists should choose clients they can best serve and consider discharging clients who are not meeting treatment goals.
• Quitting is not a sign of weakness but a strategic decision that demonstrates strength and self-awareness.
• Therapists should reframe their perspective on quitting and make choices that align with their well-being and career goals.

Links to my free 20-minute consult, and the rest of my free stuff: 

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host Dr. Jen Blanchette sits down with Dr. Melvin Varghese, psychologist and host of the renowned Selling the Couch podcast, to explore the emotional toll of burnout and the journey of reimagining success in the therapy profession. Together, they discuss the pressures of clinical work, the impact of systemic challenges, and how to embrace career pivots with curiosity and patience.

Melvin shares pivotal moments from his own path, including the burnout that stemmed from his early career as psychologist in testing, to the realization that the traditional practice model wasn’t sustainable for him, and the careful steps he took to transition into podcasting and course creation. From starting with a $60 mic and an ironing board to building a top 0.5% global podcast, Melvin’s journey offers both inspiration and practical takeaways for therapists seeking to prioritize their well-being and explore new opportunities.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The Emotional Toll of Burnout and Self-Sacrifice: Melvin reflects on feeling the weight of being one of the few Indian male psychologists and the need to meet overwhelming demand. He vulnerably shares the physical and emotional toll of prioritizing others’ needs over his own—hair loss, insomnia, and emotional exhaustion—and emphasizes the importance of deep self-care: “We deserve the same level of care we give to others.”

Signs It’s Time for a Change: Melvin and Jen share moments of clarity when they knew something had to shift. From dreading the workweek to questioning their ability to keep going, they discuss how the emotional labor of balancing clients’ needs with their own well-being made traditional therapy unsustainable.

The Pivot to Podcasting and Courses: Melvin’s transition started with small, curious steps and years of consistent effort. He recounts key milestones:

• • Launching Selling the Couch in 2015 as a side hustle.
  • Balancing early-morning recordings, full workdays, and late-night editing.
  • Transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship with careful planning.

The Realities of Building a Podcast and Course:Melvin shares the slow, steady growth of his podcast, now with 379 episodes, 1.1 million downloads, and a spot in the top 0.5% globally. His podcasting course has served 244 students and generated $323,000 over nine years, a testament to persistence and adaptability.

Balancing Life and Business During COVID-19:The pandemic cemented Melvin’s decision to leave clinical work, as safety concerns for his family—including a premature daughter and a partner with severe asthma—made in-person therapy impractical. This challenge ultimately led to clarity and growth.

Key Takeaways for Therapists Looking to Transition:

• You don’t have to sacrifice your well-being to meet others’ needs.
• Start small, be patient, and focus on creating something sustainable.
• Give yourself permission to pivot and evolve over time.

Resources Mentioned:

• Selling the Couch Podcast: https://sellingthecouch.com/stcpodcast/
• Melvin’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melvinvarghesephd

Connect with Jen

• Website: www.drjenblanchette.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjenblanchette/
• Newsletter: The Burned Out Therapist Pen-Pal List

This episode of the Joy After Burnout podcast focuses on thriving during the holiday season as a mental health professional. Dr. Jen Blanchette discusses the importance of setting realistic boundaries and expectations to maintain a healthy therapist balance. She advises therapists to consider the length of time spent with family and friends during the holidays, keeping in mind their own needs and well-being.

Adjusting to one's current season of life is also highlighted, as it may require redefining holiday plans and finding a balance between clinical work and personal life. Dr. Blanchette emphasizes the necessity of recovery time after the holidays and offers strategies for managing stress. Furthermore, she encourages therapists to challenge idealized holiday expectations and create their own traditions that bring genuine joy. The episode concludes with a reflective exercise to visualize a happy and grounded future self during the holiday season.

Links to all my stuff including a free 20-minute Career Refresh Consult Call for therapists who are done with 1:1 Therapy. Book Here Today! https://linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

In this conversation, Dr. Jen Blanchette interviews Andy Benckart about his experience with burnout. Andy shares his burnout story from working in residential treatment and how he decided to go back to school as a way to alleviate burnout. They discuss the challenges of being a former client working in the recovery community and the blurred boundaries between work and personal life. They also touch on the feelings of resentment and frustration that can arise when clients don't make progress in therapy. Andy talks about his current experience as an MSW student and how the structure and support of the program have been helpful in preventing burnout. The conversation explores the importance of community and connection in preventing burnout among therapists. It highlights the transition from a supportive and communal environment in graduate school to the isolation of solo practice. The lack of emphasis on community care for therapists is discussed, as well as the need for intentional efforts to cultivate peer supervision groups and support systems. The conversation also touches on the concept of counterbalance rather than balance, emphasizing the need for small, daily actions to restore energy and prevent burnout. The importance of self-care and making non-negotiable commitments to oneself is emphasized. The conversation concludes with a discussion on finding joy in small things and the potential for change and growth in the field of mental health.

takeaways

• Working in a high-intensity setting with blurred boundaries between work and personal life can contribute to burnout.
• Former clients working in the recovery community may experience unique challenges and feelings of resentment.
• Therapists may feel frustrated when clients don't make progress in therapy, but it's important to remember that everyone has their own journey.
• Structured support and supervision in a graduate program can help prevent burnout and promote self-care. Community and connection are crucial in preventing burnout among therapists.
• Transitioning from a supportive graduate school environment to solo practice can be isolating and contribute to burnout.
• Intentional efforts are needed to cultivate peer supervision groups and support systems for therapists.
• Counterbalance, rather than balance, is important in preventing burnout, and small daily actions can help restore energy.
• Non-negotiable commitments to self-care are essential for therapists to prevent burnout.
• Finding joy in small things and making 1% changes can lead to personal growth and prevent burnout.

Sound Bites

• "I was so overworked at residential and not moving up at all that somehow the way to be less burned out for me was going to school."
• "Being a client and then a provider is impactful and helpful, but it also led to feeling like I had no control over my life and job."
• "I wanted clients to change their lives and when they didn't, it built resentment."
• "We go from all of that supervision, talking about our work, being seen in our work, to then not doing any of that. Being alone, which I think is really the problem."
• "There should be more of a built-in community system that we just don't have."
• "We talk about community all the time with our clients. And I did it. But on the back end, we never do that for ourselves."

Let's Connect: My pen-pal list! My newsletter for therapists, I write back: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

My website: www.drjenblanchette.com

Judy Hu, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) turned Boundary Coach. She provides short term, intensive boundary healing and boundary coaching for adults, couples, and groups. Her clinical experience includes two decades of serving as a therapist for adults, children, couples and families; as a supervisor for clinical interns; and as a clinical director at a renowned outpatient clinic. Without being aware of it, Judy’s life was shaped by trying to fit into boxed laid out in front of her–by her immigrant family, by her peers, and by a society based on capitalism, patriarchy, and supremacy thinking. None of those boxes or expectations fit. Trying to mask feelings of being an imposter, she landed at an all time low and finally chose her Self.

In this episode, Judy shares her story of therapist burnout and how she transitioned to becoming a boundary coach. She also discusses the importance of boundary coaching for therapists and clients alike, and offers tips for preventing and healing from burnout.

**Key takeaways:**

* Set boundaries with your clients, your work, and your personal life.

* Take care of yourself physically and emotionally.

* Find a supportive community of other therapists or healers.

* Seek professional help if needed.

**Boundary coaching and it’s application to helpers:**

Boundary coaching can help therapists to:

* Set and enforce boundaries with clients, paperwork, and other demands on their time and energy.

* Identify and challenge their own limiting beliefs about boundaries.

* Develop a self-care routine that is sustainable and effective.

* Create a work-life balance that is healthy and fulfilling.

**Boundary coaching for clients:**

Boundary coaching can help clients to:

Identify and understand their own boundaries.

• Set and enforce boundaries with others, including family, friends, and coworkers.
• *Communicate their needs and expectations clearly.
• Say no without guilt or shame.
• Protect themselves from emotional and physical harm.

More from Judy: https://judyhucounseling.com/

More from Jen: www.drjenblanchette.com

My freebie: Before you Quit: A guide for therapists 

In this episode of The Therapist Burnout Podcast, I dive into one of the most challenging aspects of our work—terminations. Whether you’re closing your entire practice, making the difficult decision to leave certain clients behind, or navigating the ethical complexities of unilateral terminations, these conversations are never easy.

I reflect on Irvin Yalom’s insights about the therapist’s experience of termination, acknowledging that we, too, feel the weight of these goodbyes. Therapy is a space filled with anguish, conflict, fear—and undeniable beauty. Leaving it, in any form, carries grief.

In this episode, I discuss:

• When and how to close your practice – including what to tell clients and how much to disclose.
• Unilateral terminations – making the call when therapy is no longer beneficial for a client.
• The emotional toll of saying goodbye – and why we don’t talk enough about what therapists need during these transitions.
• The grief of leaving therapy behind – whether you’re stepping away from one client or the profession as a whole.

If you’re facing terminations—planned or unexpected—know that it’s okay to struggle with these decisions. You’re not alone in this.

🔗 Download my free practice closure guide and join the pen-pal list! Click for step-by-step support in navigating this process: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/closureguide

What’s Inside This Episode?

🔹 Burnout Recovery & Learning to Ski at 44 – How facing my fears on the mountain mirrors the journey of recovering from burnout. Am I cruising yet? Not quite, but I’m getting there.

🔹 Political Stress & Holding Space as a Therapist – If you’re feeling the weight of absorbing difficult conversations, especially in 2025, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about when it’s okay to say, I can’t hold this anymore.

🔹 Termination: The Ending We’re Supposed to Plan For – We’re trained to begin with the end in mind, but that doesn’t mean terminations are easy—for clients or for us. I cover:

• Why termination gets rusty for mid-career therapists
• The fear of abandoning clients vs. the reality of ethical endings
• A refresher on APA guidelines for termination
• When therapy has become stagnant and how to navigate those tough calls

🔹 Looking Ahead – Next week, I’ll dive into mass terminations—when you have to end with multiple clients at once, like when closing a practice or leaving a job.

If termination has ever felt messy, emotional, or just plain confusing, this episode is for you.

Resources Mentioned:

• My free practice closure guide for therapists: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/closureguide
• APA article: When Therapy Comes to an End: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2022/07/career-therapy-conclusion

Let’s Connect!

Join my therapist burnout pen-pal list: I write back, you aren't alone if your tired, hopeless, and can't do this work anymore: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

Thanks for listening! If this episode resonated with you, share it with a therapist friend who needs to hear it. That's how we grow this message!

What is moral injury and how does it relate to burnout? Dr. Jennie Byrne shares her personal experience of facing a medical board investigation and the impact it had on her mental and emotional well-being. She discusses the concept of moral injury and how it differs from burnout and trauma.

The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by healthcare professionals during the pandemic, including increased demand, virtual practice, and the loss of autonomy. Dr. Byrne emphasizes the importance of examining our ways of working and making intentional choices to prioritize self-care. The conversation explores the themes of burnout, feeling like a cog in a machine, shame, lack of collegiality, and the impact of technology on work-life balance. The guests discuss the need for better language to describe the experiences of therapists and clinicians, as well as the importance of setting boundaries and finding joy in one's work. They emphasize the need for peer support, self-awareness, and intentional self-care to address moral injury and prevent burnout.

Takeaways

• Moral injury is a deep wound to the soul that occurs when one's actions or experiences go against their internal values.
• Burnout, moral injury, and trauma are interconnected but distinct concepts that can affect healthcare professionals.
• The pandemic has exacerbated burnout and moral injury among healthcare professionals due to increased demand, virtual practice, and loss of autonomy.
• Examining and reevaluating our ways of working can help alleviate burnout and moral injury.
• Prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries are essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being in the healthcare field. Burnout is a complex issue that can have different meanings for different individuals. It is important to go beyond the surface level and explore the specific experiences and emotions behind burnout.
• Many therapists and clinicians feel like cogs in a machine, disconnected from the collegiality and support they once experienced in their work. This industrial mindset can contribute to feelings of burnout and dissatisfaction.
• Shame and self-loathing are common experiences among those who are struggling with burnout or moral injury. It is important to create a safe space for open and honest conversations about these challenges.
• Setting boundaries and finding a work-life balance that aligns with individual needs and preferences is crucial for preventing burnout. This may involve utilizing technology to support boundaries and being intentional about self-care.
• Peer support and connection are essential for addressing moral injury and preventing burnout. Creating opportunities for meaningful conversations and support among colleagues can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a sense of community.
• Finding joy in one's work is a powerful antidote to burnout. Engaging in activities that bring personal fulfillment and reconnecting with passions and hobbies can help restore a sense of purpose and well-being.

About Dr. Jennie Byrne:

Dr. Jennie Byrne is a psychiatrist with years of experience in both private practice and larger healthcare systems. She is passionate about mental health care reform and shares her insights in her book, helping clinicians navigate the complexities of modern healthcare.

Resources:

• Dr. Jennie Byrne's website: https://drjenniebyrne.com/

More from Jen:

www.drjenblanchette.com

The therapist pen-pal list write back": https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

Hey, therapist! If you've been wondering about the logistics of closing your private practice or leaving a long-term group practice, this episode is for you. Dr. Jen Blanchette walks you through the first steps to take when planning your closure timeline. Whether you're retiring, transitioning out of private practice, or simply ready for a change, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you move forward.

Dr. Jen also shares her thoughts on systemic issues contributing to therapist burnout, why self-care alone won’t solve the bigger problems, and the emotional weight of closing this chapter of your career. Plus, hear her insights on navigating the shame therapists often feel when advocating for fair compensation and better systems of support.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why planning a 90-day timeline is often ideal—and when shorter timelines might work.
• Key steps: reviewing contracts, contacting liability insurance carriers, and setting closure dates.
• The importance of creating a transition plan that supports your clients and yourself.
• How systemic issues, not individual failings, are the root cause of therapist burnout.
• Dr. Jen’s response to criticism around therapists advocating for fair pay.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Practice Closure Guide: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/gwk8pcfmpb

Key Quotes from the Episode:

• "While self-care can help, it won’t fix a system that underpays and overworks mental health professionals."
• "If you’re here, you’ve likely already made the decision. You can do this, and you can do it well."
• "The shame train needs to stop—advocating for fair compensation is not a failing, it’s survival."

Next Week’s Episode:

Join Dr. Jen next week as she tackles the emotional side of closing your practice—how to navigate multiple client terminations while maintaining ethical care and compassion.

In this podcast episode, therapist and host Dr. Jen Blanchette delves into the top three money mistakes private practice therapists make, often leading to burnout and the desire to quit. Drawing from her own experiences and the issues therapists commonly face, Dr. Blanchette offers valuable insights and practical solutions.

• The first mistake discussed is the failure to recoup earned income, such as not charging for no-shows or unpaid bills. Dr. Blanchette emphasizes the importance of implementing clear cancellation policies and effectively communicating them to clients.
• The second mistake revolves around undercharging for services, often driven by imposter syndrome and the fear of losing clients. Dr. Blanchette advises therapists to conduct market research, understand their value, and gradually increase their fees.
• The final mistake centers on therapists' failure to calculate their financial numbers accurately, resulting in stress and financial instability. Dr. Blanchette recommends creating a budget, setting clear financial goals, and regularly reviewing progress. By addressing these money mistakes, therapists can achieve financial success and find joy in their private practices.

Grab the money guide here with all the links discussed in the podcast!

Therapists constantly tell me they can't do what their doing anymore. I know you have no idea where to start. This podcast delves into the challenges therapists face when considering a career pivot or drastically reducing 1:1 therapy. Highlighting the difference between burnout prevention and recovery, the host suggests practical steps for therapists to evaluate their current roles and explore new opportunities. The episode provides insights into the importance of co-regulation, particularly for those in solo practice, and stresses the need to balance work with personal responsibilities. By assessing emotional triggers, favorite job roles, and financial requirements, therapists can map out a plan for career change that prioritizes both professional satisfaction and personal well-being.

Links to my stuff: https://linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

In this episode, Jen dives deep into the realities of burnout recovery, practice closure, and how therapists can navigate career shifts without losing themselves in the process. She opens up about her own burnout journey, the need for meaningful rest, and the micro-moments that help signal safety to an overstressed nervous system. Jen also shares insights on ethical considerations for practice closure, balancing personal and professional ethics, and how to create space for career decisions while still in the thick of burnout.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Burnout Recovery Essentials:
   • Why recovering from chronic stress takes time and how simple, small steps—like micro-breaks and rest—can make a difference.
   • Jen's mantra for 2025: Working at a human pace.
2. Navigating Career Decisions in Burnout:
   • Why it’s not the time for long-term decisions when you’re in survival mode.
   • How Jen is making space to figure out her next steps by adjusting her workload and setting boundaries.
3. Practice Closure 101:
   • Ethical considerations for closing a practice or leaving a job, including timelines, client communication, and referrals.
   • Step-by-step guidance from Jen’s free Practice Closure Guide.
4. Personal Reflections on Burnout and Seasons:
   • Jen’s experience managing burnout alongside depression and navigating seasonal challenges in Maine’s cold winters.
   • Her humorous (but serious) pitch for speaking gigs in Australia during the winter months to escape the cold and attend the Australian Open.

Notable Quotes from Jen:

• "Burnout recovery looks like deep self-care—caring for ourselves in a way that our nervous system knows we are safe."
• "If you’re asking, 'What’s next?' the answer might be to let go of something first."
• "Work doesn’t have to take our whole being anymore."

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Practice Closure Guide: Get Jen’s step-by-step resource for therapists considering closing their practices. https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/closureguide
• Kate Donovan’s Fry the Burnout Podcast: A shoutout to Kate for reminding us about the importance of simple self-care, like peeing when we need to!

Jen’s Call to Action:

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or questioning your next steps, start by creating space to rest and reflect. Download the Practice Closure Guide if you’re contemplating closing your practice, and don’t hesitate to seek support for your burnout recovery.

Connect with Jen:

• Website: www.drjenblanchette.com

Final Thought:

You don’t have to figure it all out right now. Burnout recovery is a process, and small changes can lead to big shifts over time. You’ve got this!

Episode Summary:

In this in-between time, as we transition from the holidays into the new year, we’re diving into how therapists can recharge, reflect, and prepare for meaningful change in 2025. Jen Blanchette recaps the December series on why it’s so hard to make changes as a therapist and shares actionable insights for overcoming fear, burnout, and those pesky “asshole stories” that keep us stuck. Plus, Jen gets personal about her own goals, challenges, and wins as she navigates this season of her career.

Key Themes from the December Series

1. Fear as a Barrier to Change (Episode 49)

Fear is one of the biggest reasons therapists struggle to make changes, whether it’s closing a practice or stepping away from a role.

• Common fears include:
  • Not knowing what comes next.
  • Letting clients down or worrying about their reactions.
• Jen explores ways to work through fear and shift focus from what might go wrong to what’s possible.

2. Burnout and Chronic Depletion (Episode 50)

When you’re deeply tired, even small changes can feel impossible. Many therapists in end-stage burnout feel stuck and unable to recover fully, even with reduced workloads.

• Key takeaways:
  • Rest is essential to recovery—become an “expert” on rest.
  • Address chronic depletion by prioritizing joy and rediscovering what renews you.
  • Avoid jumping into drastic changes like new coaching programs or group models without first replenishing yourself.

3. Negative Self-Talk and “Asshole Stories” (Episode 51)

Our internal narratives often sabotage our progress. Jen discusses how exposure to trauma and years of caregiving shape the way we think about ourselves.

• Tips for managing self-talk:
  • Recognize how vicarious trauma impacts your emotional experience.
  • Use tools like journaling or thought reframing to neutralize negative self-talk.
  • Ask yourself questions like, “How can I make this easier?” or “How can I be kinder to myself?”

Reflection: What Do You Need in 2025?

Jen challenges listeners to reflect on their needs as the new year approaches. Consider:

• What is depleting you in your work or personal life?
• What brings you renewal?
• Are you holding onto fear, exhaustion, or negative stories about yourself?
• Sketch out your ideal week and note where your energy is drained or renewed.
• Make intentional changes, even small ones, to shift the balance toward renewal.

Building Sustainable Habits

Jen highlights the importance of gentle, consistent changes in both professional and personal life:

• Incorporate small, achievable habits like regular walks, yoga nidra, or weightlifting.
• Avoid perfectionism and focus on consistency.
• Resources mentioned: Atomic Habits by James Clear and the Full Focus Planner.

Closing Thoughts

The transition into a new year can be overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to reassess and realign. Whether you’re considering a major career change or just seeking more balance, Jen encourages you to take the first step toward the life you need and deserve.

Resources Mentioned:

• Join my pen-pal list! I write back: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb
• My email: info@drjenblanchette.com

Let’s make 2025 the year you prioritize yourself. Tune in to future episodes as Jen continues to guide therapists toward thriving personally and professionally.

Burnout can make everything feel impossible. Decisions become overwhelming, and the stories we tell ourselves—especially the ones rooted in fear and self-doubt—only make it harder. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lisa Herbert, a coach and leader who helps women in healthcare reclaim their confidence and balance their careers with purpose.

Together, we dive into how burnout impacts our sense of self and how to rebuild trust in our intuition when it feels like we’ve lost our way. Dr. Lisa shares her journey through burnout and self-doubt, offering insight into why so many high-achieving women feel stuck when it's time for a change. We explore the pivotal moments that helped us pivot and the practical strategies anyone can use to take the next best step forward.

Whether you’re in the thick of burnout or wondering if it’s time for a major pivot, this episode will help you recognize your resilience and take the first step forward.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How burnout mimics depression and impacts decision-making.
• The stories burnout tells us—and why they aren’t true.
• How to stop overthinking “the right decision” and focus on the best choice for you right now.
• Why intuition doesn’t disappear during burnout—it’s just buried.
• Practical strategies to rebuild self-trust and take action.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Dr. Lisa’s advice for high-achieving women navigating self-doubt and career pivots.
• The advice that shifted my mindset: “Don’t worry about the ‘right’ decision. Make the best decision for you right now.”
• How burnout influenced my decision to close my private practice and take a leap in my career.

About Dr. Lisa Herbert:

Dr. Lisa is a healthcare leader, speaker, and coach who helps women in healthcare balance career success with personal fulfillment. Through her programs, she empowers women to reclaim their confidence and pursue their purpose with clarity and courage.

Resources for You:

• Connect with Dr. Lisa Herbert

Let’s Connect:

• www.drjenblanchette.com
• My Pen-Pal List--I write back!
• If this episode resonated, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it!

In this episode, host Dr. Jen Blanchette takes you behind the scenes of her podcast journey, including a technical hiccup that led her to re-record this episode. But the silver lining? It gave her a chance to dive deeper into the topic of fear—specifically, how fear holds therapists back from making necessary changes in their careers and lives.

Jen shares her own story of hitting peak burnout in 2021, navigating the challenges of balancing parenting, a private practice, and the financial frustrations of dealing with insurance panels. She discusses the two biggest fears therapists face when contemplating change:

1. The Fear of No Options
   • When burnout hits, it can feel like there’s no way out. Jen reflects on her journey of discovering options beyond one-on-one therapy and encourages listeners to explore alternatives they may not have considered.
   • She also revisits episodes from her career series (episodes 25-28), offering a roadmap for therapists wondering what’s next.
2. The Fear of Letting People Down
   • From closing practices to discharging clients, the fear of disappointing or harming clients can be paralyzing. Jen normalizes these feelings and offers insights on navigating these transitions ethically and compassionately.

Throughout the episode, Jen highlights the importance of giving yourself permission to rest, recognizing your limits, and trusting that change doesn’t mean failure—it’s a step toward sustainability.

Key Takeaways:

• Burnout isn’t a personal failing; it’s often a sign that your current circumstances are unsustainable.
• Fear is natural, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. With reflection and support, you can find new paths that align with your needs.
• Rest and recovery aren’t just privileges—they’re essential for your longevity as a therapist.

Resources Mentioned:

• Career-focused episodes:
  • Episode 25: The Passion Paradox in Therapist Careers
  • Episode 26: What Other Jobs Could Therapists Do Besides Therapy?
  • Episode 27: Why Therapists Fantasize About Working at Target
  • Episode 28: Three Steps to Pivot Your Career Away from One-to-One Therapy
• Episode 35: Unspoken Endings—Navigating Unilateral Terminations

Let’s Connect:

• Find me on LinkedIn: Dr. Jen Blanchette
• Ready to explore your options? Check out my coaching offerings for therapists navigating burnout and career change. www.drjenblanchette.com

Final Reflection:

Fear often shows up when we’re on the brink of transformation. If you’ve been feeling stuck or scared to make a change, know that you’re not alone. You have options, and your next step doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be yours.

Ever felt the weight of burnout, especially when the new year brings not just resolutions, but also a surge in therapy demands? In this episode, we're diving deep into the strategies to not just survive but thrive in the face of burnout.In this episode, Dr. Jen Blanchette discusses the challenges therapists face during busy season and offers strategies for finding balance. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and taking breaks to prevent burnout. Additionally, she explores the financial aspect of therapy and encourages therapists to consider raising their fees or assessing insurance panels to ensure fair compensation. Dr. Blanchette  highlights the need for therapists to advocate for themselves and create a supportive work culture. She shares personal experiences and insights, providing valuable advice for therapists navigating the demanding nature of their profession.

Hey therapists, welcome back to the podcast! As we step into 2024, let's talk about the challenges therapists face during busy seasons and the impact of burnout. Here are three key takeaways:

1️⃣ Deductible Season Awareness: It's not just busy season, but also deductible season. Many clients have deductibles to meet, so as a therapist, make sure you're collecting the whole session fee. Learn from my experience of starting solo in private practice without knowing the importance of checking deductibles.

2️⃣ Recognizing Depletion: January through April can be tough. Seasonal affective disorder, post-holiday stress, and personal depletion can affect both therapists and clients. Acknowledge your own depletion and prioritize deep rest between therapeutic days to maintain emotional resources.

3️⃣ Empowering Change: Therapists often face burnout due to low pay and high stress. Consider advocating for change – whether it's increasing fees, working with insurance companies strategically, or exploring alternative sources of income. Take steps to reduce caseload temporarily if needed and embrace a personalized approach to therapy.

Remember, 2024 is an opportunity for positive change in your practice and life. You have the power to rewrite the script and create a fulfilling and sustainable career. Wishing you a transformative year ahead! Links to all my stuff free and paid: linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

In this episode, I get personal about the highs and lows of 2024, reflecting on burnout recovery, battling impostor syndrome, and redefining my career as a contractor and part-time school psychologist. Through my journey, I’ve learned to value my unique expertise, embrace writing as a strength, and hold space for others in transformative ways. If you’ve ever felt like your skills don’t transfer, or you’re doubting your ability to make a change, this episode is for you.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• Navigating Burnout:
• I share the challenges of working through burnout without adequate recovery time and how my body reminded me to slow down.
• Impostor Syndrome Insights:
• Hear how I overcame doubts in my psychological assessment abilities and learned to appreciate the value I bring to my roles.
• Recognizing Transferable Skills:
• Discover how your expertise as a therapist can translate into new opportunities and help you thrive in unexpected ways.
• The Power of Reflection:
• I encourage you to write your 2024 story—focusing on facts, feelings, and the shifts you’ve experienced—to uncover areas for growth and self-compassion.
• Reframing Mindset and Expectations:
• Learn how to neutralize negative self-talk, manage unrealistic expectations, and view yourself with kindness, especially during burnout.

Resources Mentioned:

• Before You Quit Guide: A resource to help untangle your burnout and identify next steps for managing your career and well-being.
• Financial Systems with Rameet Sethi: Practical strategies to align your money with your values and goals.
• Episode 22 Money Scripts: https://drjenblanchette.com/podcast/022-therapist-money-scripts-how-therapists-can-move-from-money-shame-and-financial-burnout-to-awareness/

Actionable Takeaways:

• Reflect on Your Year:
• Write your 2024 story—beginning, middle, and end. Look for patterns of depletion, burnout, or sticky thoughts, and hold them with curiosity and compassion.
• Embrace Neutrality:
• Shift to a neutral perspective when it’s hard to see the positives. Ask yourself, “What’s the next best thought I can think about this?”
• Redesign Your Environment:
• Consider what environmental changes you need to feel supported—whether it’s delegating tasks, simplifying routines, or seeking help.

A Note from Jen:

Thank you for tuning in and for all the messages, DMs, and consult calls you’ve shared with me this year. Your stories inspire the direction of this podcast and the work I do with therapists like you. Remember, you don’t have to live the way you’re living now. Change is possible—it just takes time and intention.

Connect with Me:

• Grab the Before You Quit Guide
• Grab my Free Money Guide for therapists who want to quit

Next Week:

Tune in for a year-end recap and a look ahead to January, with exciting guests and burnout stories to inspire and support you in the new year.

Have you ever been told that you're 'bad with money' or that your career in therapy won't pay the bills? Are you feeling burned out financially?

This self-fulfilling prophecy can seriously hold me back. In my latest podcast, I dive into the money scripts that keep therapists like me from building wealth.

I explore the impact of money scripts on my financial success and highlight three key money scripts that commonly affect therapists. I also share strategies for overcoming them. I emphasize how societal messages around women and marginalized populations, the undervaluation of mental health professionals, and the stigma around financial success play a role in my financial struggles. By challenging these money scripts and reframing my beliefs about money, I can find empowerment and achieve greater financial stability and success.

Grab my guide here

In this episode, we're diving into the unique challenges that therapists face during election week, especially when clients bring their political views and anxieties into sessions. Reflecting on my past experiences as a therapist, I share insights into managing the emotional load that can arise during election cycles and tips for navigating difficult conversations that touch on politics, identity, and values.

I talk about some of the regrets I felt in 2020, a year marked by intense political and social divides. I discuss how challenging it was to sit with clients whose values didn’t always align with my own, and how I wish I had approached certain conversations differently—especially when I felt compelled to stay neutral, even as clients voiced polarizing or prejudiced views. If you’re feeling a mix of frustration and empathy in these situations, you’re not alone.

What to Expect:

• Reflection on Boundaries: Why therapists often feel pressured to listen without inserting their own views, and how to manage those boundaries more intentionally.
• Navigating Difficult Conversations: Practical ways to respond when clients’ political beliefs clash with your values, including prompts that encourage clients to self-reflect without escalating tension.
• Self-Care During Election Season: Tips for self-reflection, self-care, and minimizing political overload both before and after sessions.
• Building Self-Awareness: Why reflecting on your own political beliefs can actually strengthen your therapeutic work and help you approach challenging conversations with confidence.
• Practical Strategies for Support: Steps to take if you’re feeling especially triggered, including adjusting your schedule, limiting news exposure, and seeking supervision or training for support.

Why Listen?

Whether you’re a seasoned therapist who has weathered multiple election cycles or a newer therapist facing this for the first time, this episode offers insights on balancing professional obligations with personal beliefs. Learn how to manage your emotional load while maintaining an empathetic stance—even when it feels tough.

Resources Mentioned:

• American Psychological Association article on navigating authority topics in therapy: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2022/03/career-navigating-therapy

More from Jen:

www.drjenblanchette.com

The therapist pen-pal list write back": https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

In this episode, host Jen Blanchette dives into the challenging decision therapists face when considering closing their practice or transitioning out of the field. Whether you're in private practice or agency work, the uncertainty of such a big shift is real—but you're not alone. Jen offers practical insights to help you evaluate if it's time to make a change and shares her personal experiences, including navigating burnout, financial considerations, and the emotional toll of solo practice.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Evaluating Financial Viability:
  • How to assess whether your practice is financially sustainable.
  • The importance of understanding your personal finance needs and setting clear income goals.
  • Tools and resources, including Rameet Sethi’s Conscious Spending Plan, to help calculate your financial situation.
• Recognizing Burnout Symptoms:
  • The key burnout signs defined by the World Health Organization, including emotional exhaustion, increased cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy.
  • How these symptoms might show up in your practice and what they could mean for your future.
• Combatting Loneliness in Solo Practice:
  • Why isolation can be a hidden challenge for therapists in private practice.
  • Jen’s reflections on the value of workplace camaraderie and how leaving solo practice revealed what was missing.

Other Highlights from the Episode:

• Reflections on deductible season and navigating the financial logistics of private practice in January.
• Jen’s personal journey with seasonal depression and menopause while managing a therapy practice.
• How starting a practice during the pandemic added unique challenges for many therapists.

Resources Mentioned:

• Selling the Couch Podcast: Jen’s recent guest appearance where she shares more about her story.
• Conscious Spending Plan by Rameet Sethi: A tool to help you evaluate your financial priorities. Link to the tool here.
• Episode 15: Navigating Busy Season as a Therapist: Tips for handling the January surge in client demand.

Stay Connected:

• Sign up for Jen’s newsletter for burnout tips, personal insights, and links to her latest podcast episodes.

🎄 Finding Rest in the Holiday Hustle:

• Why December can feel like both a magical and overwhelming season.
• Jen's personal strategy for embracing rest during the holidays (spoiler: leftover Christmas dinner and lots of nothing!).
• The importance of communicating your needs and planning ahead to avoid burnout during festive chaos.

🛑 Rest as a Priority (Not a Luxury):

• What it means to be an "expert in rest" and why it’s a goal worth striving for.
• Breaking the cycle of constant push: Jen’s candid reflection on working through the weekend and her plan to make rest intentional.
• Rethinking support: Hiring help at home or in your practice to lighten the load.

✨ Energy Audits and Letting Go:

• Identifying your most depleting tasks or client sessions.
• How to evaluate your caseload and make ethical, compassionate discharges when needed.
• The emotional and professional benefits of “letting go” when it’s time.

🌿 Making Space to Be Human:

• Strategies to build in more space for boredom, play, and joy in your week.
• Why Jen values activities like tennis, fitness instruction, and even the possibility of learning drums!
• The power of recognizing when schedules or habits no longer serve you—and making changes to reclaim time for yourself.

❄️ Leaning Into Winter:

• How to embrace the coziness of the season, even if you’re not a fan of the cold.
• Exploring the beauty of winter routines like sunrises, snowfall, and the Scandinavian art of making the most of long nights.

💡 Practical Takeaways:

1. Be an Expert on Rest: Give yourself permission to stop and re-evaluate what’s depleting you.
2. Audit Your Energy: Identify what’s draining your time and energy—and let it go.
3. Create Space for Joy: Make room in your life for human moments, hobbies, and fun.

Free Resource for You:

Feeling overwhelmed and unsure what needs to change? Grab my free guide on burnout and depletion to pinpoint what’s holding you back and map out your next steps.

In this reflective and practical episode, Dr. Jen breaks down the holiday chaos therapists face—not just with clients but also within their own families, workloads, and personal lives. She offers simple, actionable steps to create a season that feels spacious, joyful, and manageable.

Key Themes in This Episode:

• Increased Client Needs & Emotional Labor: Supporting clients through their holiday stress without depleting yourself.
• Handling Cancellations: Practical strategies for clear policies and managing gaps in income during the holiday shuffle.
• Planning for Financial Dips: Tips to smooth out income fluctuations and plan ahead for slower months.
• Personal Holiday Stress: Why adjusting traditions and setting boundaries can help you reclaim joy in the season.
• Year-End Admin Burnout: Ways to tackle renewals, insurance headaches, and deductible resets without feeling overwhelmed.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Reframing Holiday Stress:
   • The drama in our minds about December is often a predictable cycle.
   • Recognizing the patterns (with clients and family) helps reduce overwhelm.
2. Boundaries and Planning:
   • Map out your holiday season. Where are the breaks?
   • Be intentional about setting limits with clients and family.
3. The Four Pillars of Brain Health:
   • Dr. Jen shares her pillars—movement, nutrition, sleep, and connection.
   • Simple ways to check in with yourself and get back to basics.
   • Why neglecting these needs during the holidays leads to burnout.
4. Celebrating Joy and Novelty:
   • Breaking free from the monotony of midlife with small, joyful experiences.
   • Building simple traditions or moments of joy that anchor the season.

Key Quote:

"If you feel burned out, stretched thin, or untethered this holiday season, pause and ask: What do I need? Spaciousness? Connection? Rest? When you listen to your body, you’ll find the answer."

Reflections on Burnout and Connection:

Dr. Jen opens up about how the pandemic disrupted her relationships and the sadness that comes with losing connections. She offers reassurance that rebuilding relationships, even small steps like sending a text, is possible and worth pursuing.

Dr. Jen’s Quick Brain Health Checklist for Therapists:

• Movement: Aim for joyful movement like walks, yoga, or a tennis match (that's me ya'll).
• Nutrition: Focus on adding nourishing foods like berries, leafy greens, and omega-rich choices.
• Sleep: Prioritize rest, even if it means adjusting routines or asking for help.
• Connection: Reconnect with loved ones, friends, or pets. Relationships are healing.

Practical Takeaways:

• Schedule mini breaks throughout December to recharge.
• Reflect on how you want to feel after the holidays and build habits to get there.
• Identify one or two non-negotiable moments of joy or novelty to make the season special.

Resources:

• Email Dr. Jen to join her Pen Pal list for updates: info@drjenblanchette.com
• Follow on LinkedIn for more therapist-specific insights: Dr. Jen Blanchette
• Pen Pal List: Sign up for Dr. Blanchette’s newsletter for podcast updates and exclusive insights.

Spread the Message:

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a therapist friend or leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Let Dr. Jen know what you need most this holiday season by dropping her a message.

Am I burned out, or am I actually depressed? That's the question I'm unpacking this week. It’s a tough one, and if you’ve ever felt completely depleted and disconnected from your work, you’re not alone.

Let’s Connect:

💌 Join my pen pal list for resources, updates, and support: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

What We Cover in This Episode:

🔹 The blurred line between therapist burnout and depression

🔹 Understanding burnout: the role of exhaustion, cynicism, and compassion fatigue

🔹 How resentment can be a warning sign that you need support

🔹 When burnout becomes a safety issue for both you and your clients

🔹 The physiological aspects of depression, including hormonal changes

🔹 The power of connection and why strong relationships are essential for healing

If you’ve been feeling stuck, exhausted, or questioning your next steps, this episode is for you. You deserve care, too.

Resources Mentioned:

📌 Practice Closure Guide – A free resource to help therapists navigate closing their practice:https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/closureguide

📌 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for immediate support:https://988lifeline.org/

📌 NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Professional Support Resources for therapists and front line workers: https://www.nami.org/your-journey/frontline-professionals/health-care-professionals/confidential-and-professional-support/

Let’s Connect:

💌 Join my pen pal list for resources, updates, and support: info@drjenblanchette.com

🎙 Want to share your burnout story on the podcast? Reach out – you can even remain anonymous!

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts—send me a message or share with a fellow therapist who needs to hear this.

Join Dr. Jen Blanchette in a candid coaching conversation with Christa Harrison, a trailblazer in the LGBTQ+ community. Christa opens up about her journey through burnout, career transitions, and her commitment to supporting queer providers and allies.

🌟 Shifting Paths: Discover how Christa is transitioning from traditional therapy to coaching while overcoming burnout.

🌈 Community Connection: Learn about Christa's initiative to create a network of support for queer professionals and allies.

❤️ Personal Insights: Gain valuable takeaways for your own career and personal growth.

For the full show notes, transcripts, resources and links, visit www.drjenblanchette.com.

Link to my freebie here: Before you Quit: A guide for therapists

Stay inspired and empowered with this engaging coaching episode. Click follow in your podcast player for more transformative conversations!

Ryan Ryan Derousseau, CFP®, a certified financial planner, specializes in working with therapists and helping them thrive financially. He started working with therapists after realizing the need for financial guidance in the therapy world. Many therapists lack education on running a business and managing their finances, which can lead to financial pitfalls. One common pitfall is not transitioning from being self-employed to owning a business, resulting in a constant struggle to earn income. Ryan emphasizes the importance of creating financial systems and shifting income towards long-term savings and investments. He also highlights the need for therapists to have a clear understanding of their financial goals and to make conscious spending decisions. In this conversation, Ryan and Jen discuss the importance of setting big goals and thinking beyond the traditional mindset of therapists. They also talk about the need for therapists to be more business-minded and assertive in order to succeed. They explore different ways therapists can generate income, such as group sessions, retreats, coaching, and online courses. They also touch on the role of financial planners and the importance of finding a fee-only advisor who acts in the best interest of the client. Ryan shares his joy in being a parent and getting back into playing basketball.

Takeaways

• Therapists often lack education on running a business and managing their finances, which can lead to financial pitfalls.
• Transitioning from being self-employed to owning a business is crucial for therapists to create long-term wealth.
• Creating financial systems and shifting income towards long-term savings and investments is essential for financial security.
• Therapists need to clearly understand their financial goals and make conscious spending decisions. Set big goals and think beyond the traditional mindset of therapists.
• Be more business-minded and assertive in order to succeed
• Explore different ways to generate income, such as group sessions, retreats, coaching, and online courses
• Find a fee-only financial planner who acts in your best interest
• Take time for personal joy and hobbies

More from Ryan: https://thinkingcapfinancial.com/incometowealth

More from Jen: Grab my free guide for therapists who are done with 1:1 therapy here!

Hey, fellow therapists! I'm sharing my experience of leaving my therapy practice three months ago. Financially, running a private practice isn't as lucrative as advertised, considering overhead costs and admin work. The emotional toll of the pandemic, along with inadequate compensation, contributed to my decision. I realized my evolving desires for variety in my work and the trap of the sunk cost fallacy. Ultimately, I chose to leave to honor my well-being and aspirations.

Top Three Takeaways:

1. Financial Realities: Private practice earnings can be deceptive due to overhead costs, insurance battles, and admin work. Recognizing the gap between projected earnings and take-home pay is crucial.

2. Balancing Emotions: The pandemic magnified the emotional toll of being a therapist. The struggle to juggle clients, family, and practice responsibilities took a toll on my mental and physical health.

3. Evolving Desires and Identity: As therapists, our identity can be tied to our career. However, it's okay to evolve and desire something different. Overcoming the sunk cost fallacy is important to embrace new paths.

Remember, your journey and insights can help others navigate their own career decisions in the therapy field. Your experience serves as a reminder to prioritize financial stability, emotional well-being, and personal growth.

More from me: www.drjenblanchette.com

In this episode of the Finding Joy After Burnout podcast, host Dr. Jen Blanchette interviews Joe Sanock. Joe Sanok is the author of Thursday is the New Friday: How to work fewer hours, make more money, and spend time doing what you want. It examines how the four-day workweek boosts creativity and productivity. Joe has been featured on Forbes, GOOD Magazine, and The Smart Passive Income Podcast. He is the host of the popular The Practice of the Practice Podcast, which is recognized as one of the Top 50 Podcasts worldwide with over 100,000 downloads each month.

Joe shares his personal burnout story, which involved working long hours, dealing with medical emergencies, and reassessing his career goals.

He delves into the challenges he faced as a therapist and the decisions he made to transition out of therapy and embrace new opportunities. The conversation highlights the importance of self-reflection, setting boundaries, and exploring alternative paths to find fulfillment in a changing professional landscape.

More From Joe: https://practiceofthepractice.com/

More From Jen: Are you beyond burnout and need to know how to get out of so much 1:1 therapy? Sign up for a career refresh consult call. In this 20 min call, we'll identify the need for changes in your career and learn more about how my services can help you feel a greater sense of calm and direction Click Here to Book!

This episode of the Joy After Burnout podcast delves into a topic rarely talked about among therapists - secret grief. In this solo episode, Dr. Jen Blanchette, the host, highlights the heaviness associated with the therapy profession and the losses therapists encounter. She shares a personal story of losing a former client during COVID-19, discussing the challenges of grieving in a professional setting and the unfulfilled desire to express her grief openly.

Dr. Blanchette explores the concept of secret grief and its impact on therapists' well-being, emphasizing the importance of support networks. She also provides resources for therapists grappling with secret grief, such as Facebook groups and support organizations. The episode concludes with advice for therapists facing secret grief, encouraging them to take breaks, seek therapy, and prioritize their own needs to navigate the emotional toll of their work.

🌈 Here are some key takeaways: 

1️⃣ The Unseen Grief: As therapists, we often don't hit pause to tend to our own grief. Balancing the needs of our families, other clients, and more, we keep moving forward. It's time to explore the importance of fully acknowledging and processing the loss of a client.

2️⃣ Stacked Losses: The emotional weight adds up — from clients who unexpectedly vanish to facing the reality of multiple client losses and the toll of vicarious trauma. Let's unpack how these losses can impact us and strategies for coping.

3️⃣ Rituals Denied: Unlike other professions, we can't always partake in traditional grief rituals like client memorial services.

Resources for therapists who have lost clients by suicide: https://www.cliniciansurvivor.org/

Sample practices for therapists who have suffered a loss of a client (by suicide but may be helpful for other deaths: https://sprc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Sample_Individual_Practitioner_Practices.pdf

Links all my stuff free and paid stuff including my free 20- minute consult for therapist who are done with doing so much 1:1 therapy: linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

In this hot take episode, Dr. Jen Blanchette delves into the challenges that smartphones and screen time pose to modern-day parenting, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. She shares her journey of self-awareness and steps taken to minimize digital distractions, inspired by authors like Susan Cain and Cal Newport. The conversation reflects on how these digital habits contribute to parental burnout and the importance of being present for both personal wellbeing and effective parenting.

Are you struggling with burnout and want to quit? Check out this free guide

Today, we're going to do a quick recap of June and give you a sneak peek of what’s coming in July. Last month, we dove deep into the topic of money. We explored money scripts, how therapists can move from money shame and financial burnout to awareness. If you missed it, definitely go back and check out episode 22—it’s full of great insights!

Key Highlights from June

• Money Scripts: In episode 22, we discussed how therapists can overcome money shame and financial burnout. This sparked a lively discussion on LinkedIn—if you’re not connected with me there, come find me! I post a lot of content there, and I’d love to chat with you. Just look up Jennifer Blanchett, licensed psychologist, host of the Therapist Burnout podcast.
• Therapists Judging Each Other: We also talked about how tough it can be out there in the therapy community. I shared a story about raising my fees during the pandemic and the backlash that came from some fellow therapists. It’s a reminder that we need to support each other and not tear each other down, especially when it comes to financial decisions.
• Ethical Principles: We touched on the ethical principles of social workers and psychologists, emphasizing that while we should strive to help others, there’s no enforceable rule that says we must take low fees or accept insurance. It’s about finding a balance that allows us to provide some pro bono services while also making a living.

Upcoming in July

• Therapist Burnout Deep Dive: I’m excited (and a little nervous) to finally tackle a mega episode on therapist burnout. This has been on my mind for a while, and I want to break it down into three key points to avoid overwhelming you. We’ll look at why so many therapists are burning out, with a focus on administrative burdens and other contributing factors.
• LinkedIn Conversations: Our discussions on LinkedIn have been so rich and engaging. We’ve talked about the undervaluation of mental health work, the financial challenges therapists face, and the sacrifices we make early in our careers. If you haven’t joined the conversation, now’s the time!

Looking Ahead to August

• Self-Care: In August, we’ll dive into the concept of self-care, backed by research. I’m also planning to discuss the idea of “weaponized self-care”—the notion that if we just take more bubble baths or breaks, we can avoid burnout. Spoiler: it’s not that simple. We’ll explore realistic, research-backed ways to care for ourselves and prevent burnout.

Stay Connected

• LinkedIn: I’m very active on LinkedIn, and it’s a great place to continue the conversation. Find me under Jennifer Blanchett, with two t’s and an e.
• Consult Calls: If you’re feeling stuck in your career, whether you’re considering starting a private practice, need help with burnout, or are thinking of leaving therapy for a while, I’m here to support you. Book your Career Refresh consult call to figure out the first steps in making a change here

Email me: info@drjenblanchette.com

Hey there, fellow therapists! 🌟 Get ready to dive into a game-changing topic that hits close to home. In this episode, we're unraveling the fascinating link between burnout and brain science. A Swedish study has spilled the beans on how burnout messes with our brain circuits, and we've got the inside scoop just for you.

Here's the link to that study: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0104550

Picture this: chronic stress meets neural circuitry, and the results are mind-blowing. We're talking about more than just feeling tired. This discovery could flip the script on how we understand and tackle burnout, not just in our clients but in ourselves too. So, if you're up for some eye-opening insights and a dash of self-care wisdom, tune in – because balancing your well-being is about to get a whole lot more intriguing! 🧠🌈

Full show notes here: www.drjenblanchette.com

Burnout is something almost every profession deals with, but for therapists, it hits differently. We’re not just exhausted from the long hours or the endless paperwork—it’s the emotional weight of holding space for others, the vicarious trauma we take on, and the unrelenting pressure to be “okay” so we can keep helping our clients.

In today’s episode, I dive into why burnout for therapists has its own unique layers, and why it often takes us much longer to admit we need help. I’ll share some of my personal struggles with burnout, how I got trapped in a cycle of overwork, and what finally made me realize I needed to make a big change.

Key Takeaways:

Caseload & Case Mix: It’s not just the number of clients, but the emotional toll of each case. Regularly auditing your caseload can help manage triggers and reduce stress.

The Payment Dilemma: Relying solely on client sessions for income adds pressure to maintain a full schedule. Diversifying revenue can ease this burden and reduce burnout.

Fear of Losing Your License: Ethical pressures and people-pleasing often cloud treatment decisions. Focusing on therapeutic outcomes instead of trying to keep everyone happy is key.

The Expectation to Be Superhuman: The pressure to seem emotionally resilient can be overwhelming. Setting boundaries and embracing vulnerability is essential for long-term sustainability.

Emotional Labor & Compassion Fatigue: Holding space for clients’ trauma can be exhausting. Understanding the nuances between burnout and compassion fatigue is important for healing.

Moral Injury: Dealing with systemic injustices can lead to moral injury, further deepening burnout.

Burnout Before the Profession: Burnout can start as early as graduate school, with heavy workloads and financial stress. Robust support systems are critical for students entering the field.

Get Support:

• Coaching for Therapists: Jennifer discusses her coaching services aimed at helping therapists navigate burnout, offering strategies like pausing, creating a 90-day game plan, and providing ongoing support. https://drjenblanchette.com/love-it-or-leave-it-coaching/

Resources Mentioned:

• Episode #38: Conversation with Kate Donovan, host of Fried: The Burnout Podcast.https://drjenblanchette.com/podcast/038-escaping-burnout-with-cait-donovan-the-host-of-fried/
• LinkedIn Poll Insights: Featuring quotes from Michael Rose, Colin Albrow, Tamara Hubbard, and Brittney Lindsay. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/drjenblanchette_therapists-and-mental-health-professionals-activity-7240405419452436480-UE6X?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
• Compassion Fatigue Literature: Definitions and distinctions between burnout, compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress, and vicarious traumatization. http://www.figleyinstitute.com/documents/Workbook_AMEDD_SanAntonio_2012July20_RevAugust2013.pdf
• National Center for PTSD: Information on moral injury and its implications beyond the military context. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/treat/cooccurring/moral_injury.asp

Have we really talked about the impact of the pandemic on therapists? I don't think so! Emily Irwin shares her burnout story, which includes experiences in the school system and private practice. She discusses the challenges of working in a dual role as a school psychologist and counselor, the impact of stress on her mental and physical health, and the decision to leave the school district and open a private practice. She also talks about the additional challenges and burnout caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the pressure to fix clients, and the fear and restrictions imposed by the profession. Emily also explores the concept of masking and the toll it takes on neurodiverse individuals, as well as the importance of showing up as our true selves in therapy. The conversation explores the idea of healing in community settings and challenges the traditional one-on-one therapy model. It discusses the impact of the mental health industrial complex and the need for systemic changes in the field. The conversation also touches on burnout in private practice and the search for joy and meaning in life. The concept of play and its role in healing and regulating the nervous system is highlighted.

Takeaways

• Working in a dual role in the school system can lead to burnout due to the high workload and diverse responsibilities.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has added additional challenges and stress to the field of therapy, including the shift to virtual sessions and ethical considerations.
• The pressure to fix clients and the fear instilled by ethics training can contribute to therapist burnout.
• Masking, or hiding one's true self to be socially accepted, is common among neurodiverse individuals and can contribute to burnout.
• It is important for therapists to show up as their authentic selves in therapy and create a space where clients can do the same. Healing in community settings has been a traditional approach in many cultures, and there is a need to explore alternative therapeutic models that prioritize collective healing.
• The mental health field is influenced by the mental health industrial complex, which treats mental health as a commodity and often fails to prioritize the well-being of therapists and clients.
• Burnout in private practice can be addressed by setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and exploring alternative ways of practicing therapy.
• Finding joy and meaning in life involves adding activities and experiences that bring joy and regulating the nervous system, rather than focusing on restrictions and limitations.
• Play is an essential aspect of human well-being and can contribute to healing and regulating the nervous system.

More From Emily: https://www.emilyirwin.com/about

More From Jen: www.drjenblanchette.com

Are you a therapist who's ready to quit? I've got you. Let's talk on a free 15 minute consult call: https://drjb.hbportal.co/schedule/6160e28b5e574330da01b03d

Nearly half of therapists will end up leaving community mental health. Some are leaving entirely. So what else can we do for work?! The conversation covers three main categories: using clinical skills in a different way, utilizing therapy skills in non-clinical roles, and completely departing from the field of therapy. The host provides examples and suggestions for each category, including assessment work, working in a school setting, teaching adjunct courses, working in human resources, and exploring sales or marketing roles. The conversation emphasizes the importance of considering transferable skills and finding a job that aligns with personal interests and strengths.

Keywords therapists, burnout, careers, quitting, therapy, transition, clinical skills, non-clinical roles, transferable skills

Takeaways

• Therapists often experience financial strain and burnout, leading to high turnover rates in the field.
• There are various career options for therapists looking to transition out of therapy, including using clinical skills in different ways, utilizing therapy skills in non-clinical roles, and completely departing from the field.
• Examples of using clinical skills in different ways include assessment work, working in a school setting, and providing supervision or consultation.
• Examples of utilizing therapy skills in non-clinical roles include teaching adjunct courses, working in human resources, and exploring sales or marketing roles.
• Completely departing from the field of therapy can involve leveraging transferable skills in other industries, such as project management, real estate, or sales.
• It is important for therapists to consider their interests, strengths, and desired work-life balance when exploring career options outside of therapy.

Titles

• Exploring Career Options for Therapists: Using Clinical Skills in Different Ways
• Utilizing Therapy Skills in Non-Clinical Roles: Teaching, Human Resources, and More

Sound Bites

• "Nearly half of therapists are leaving their jobs, it's the system's problem, not your own problem."
• "If you are in the throes of burnout, we need to find more ways for you to rest and replenish."
• "Career options for therapists: using clinical skills, therapy-adjacent roles, and complete departures."

Grab my free money guide: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/tshwticuti

Have you felt so alone in your burnout that you feel like you literally have nothing to give this world? In this conversation, Dr. Jen Blanchette interviews Cait Donovan, host of the Fried, the Burnout Podcast, about her personal experience with burnout and the importance of addressing both the mental and physical aspects of burnout recovery. They discuss the similarities between therapists and acupuncturists in terms of work dynamics and the impact of burnout on their health. Kate shares her journey of discovering burnout and the self-judgment she experienced as a practitioner of stress management techniques. They also explore the role of self-neglect and the need for self-care practices that go beyond face value in burnout recovery.

The conversation highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to burnout, including therapy, coaching, and physical practices like yoga or acupuncture. They emphasize the need for therapists to be gentle with themselves and prioritize their own well-being. The conversation explores the importance of nature and movement in combating burnout. Walking in green spaces, being among trees, and getting sunlight can have significant benefits for mental and physical well-being. The definition of burnout is often limited to workplace stress, but it can also be caused by cultural, family, health, and environmental factors.

Takeaways

• Burnout is not just a mental issue, but also affects the entire physical body.
• Burnout prevention is stress management, but it may not be enough for those already in burnout.
• Therapists and acupuncturists often have a higher tendency to have experienced trauma, which can impact their ability to notice and respond to stress.
• Engaging in self-care practices, such as movement exercises like Tai Chi or Qigong, can help emotions move through the body and aid in burnout recovery.
• A multidisciplinary approach, including therapy, coaching, and physical practices, is crucial for addressing burnout. Walking in nature and being among trees can have significant benefits for mental and physical well-being.
• Burnout is not limited to workplace stress and can be caused by cultural, family, health, and environmental factors.
• Therapists may be susceptible to burnout due to their high ACEs scores and the nature of their work.

Sound Bites

"If you just pee when you need to pee for a few weeks, your life will be different, because your brain will be different."

"Your ability to learn what your body feels like at safety is a key element to your ability to recover."

"Engaging in something like Tai Chi or Qigong allows emotions to move through the physical form."

"Just knowing like walking can be one of those simple tools, gentle walking, know, in somewhere green."

"When you are walking amongst trees, not only are you having this, this, you know, carbon dioxide oxygen exchange, but you're also the sunlight when it reflects off bark turns into infrared light."

"There's no money made off walking or a tree, you know, like, you're not going to see an advertisement walking the new cure for everything. Trees, touch them. Not really going to happen."

More from Cait:

https://www.caitdonovan.com/

https://www.friedtheburnoutpodcast.com/

More from Jen:

The therapist burnout newsletter (the pen-pal list): https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

www.drjenblanchette.com

Have you ever felt like you don’t know enough as a therapist? Maybe you’ve questioned your competence, especially when burnout has you feeling drained? In this episode, Dr. Jen Blanchette gets real about imposter syndrome—a struggle that hits hard for therapists. Sharing her own story of feeling unprepared in a postdoc neuropsychology role, she opens up about the self-doubt many of us face in new or challenging situations.

Jen highlights statistics from a Monitor on Psychology article, revealing that imposter syndrome impacts up to 82% of people, and dives into how this feeling is heightened for those in caregiving professions, like therapists. Whether it's feeling like you should "know it all" or thinking you’ll be exposed as a fraud, imposter syndrome is a real mental battle that needs addressing.

In this episode, Jen reflects on:

• The pressure therapists feel to be experts from the start
• Stories of other therapists navigating self-doubt
• How imposter syndrome affects those from underrepresented backgrounds
• Practical ways to work through imposter syndrome

If you’ve ever felt like you’re not enough, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and you are more than enough.

Connect with Jen:

• Get the newly updated pod-course and free money guide HERE

How do you handle discussions around political stress with clients? Do you find it challenging to stay grounded, or is it a non-issue for you? With election week past us in the U.S., this episode touches on the impact of heightened political division, how it affects therapists, and strategies for supporting clients through politically charged sessions.

Episode Highlights:

• Opening Thoughts on Political Anxiety: Dr. Blanchette reflects on the unique challenges therapists face around election time, balancing personal reactions with professional responsibilities. She shares insights from recent LinkedIn conversations where therapists voiced the complexities of showing up during a politically fraught period.
• Why Neutrality Can Be a Challenge: Traditional training encourages therapists to remain neutral, but in today’s climate, neutrality may not always feel possible—or authentic. Dr. Blanchette discusses how identity factors and the needs of marginalized communities complicate neutrality, and the importance of practicing ethical transparency.
• APA’s 2024 Stress Survey Findings: This episode references new findings showing that 77% of U.S. adults report significant stress about the future of the nation, highlighting how political anxiety has become a chronic cultural stressor. Dr. Blanchette shares tips on how to bring psychoeducation into sessions, normalizing these feelings for clients.
• Refocusing on Clinical Goals Amid Political Discourse: Dr. Blanchette offers grounding strategies for therapists feeling inundated by political discussion. She discusses how using techniques like DBT’s Radical Acceptance and EMDR’s Calm Safe Place can help re-center sessions on therapeutic goals, rather than purely venting.
• Encouraging Healthy Connection: The episode suggests ways therapists can guide clients to reduce news consumption and increase meaningful social interactions. Borrowing from Cal Newport, Dr. Blanchette recommends prioritizing face-to-face connections over social media as a way to support deeper connection and reduce anxiety.
• Tools for Navigating Sessions this Week: Dr. Blanchette advises therapists to come prepared with a “frame” for sessions, using psychoeducation and therapeutic techniques to help clients (and themselves) manage political anxiety and maintain focus on mental health goals.
• The Reality of Therapist Burnout During Election Season: Dr. Blanchette shares candid insights on the emotional toll election season can take on therapists. She offers strategies to help therapists maintain their own well-being and avoid numbing out by reconnecting with personal supports and routines.

Episode Links:

• Episode 3: Navigating Burnout to Advocate with Krista Harrison – Insights on working with marginalized communities in politically charged climates.
• APA 2024 Stress Survey – Highlights current statistics on the mental health impact of U.S. political division.

Connect with Dr. Jen Blanchette

• Email: info@drjenblanchette.com for comments or feedback.
• Pen Pal List: Sign up for Dr. Blanchette’s newsletter for podcast updates and exclusive insights.
• Website: www.drjenblanchette.com

In this episode, Dr. Jen Blanchette discusses the intersection of imposter syndrome and burnout. She shares her personal experience with burnout and how it made her question her career and worth as a therapist. Dr. Blanchette talks about the difficulty of leaving a private practice and the feelings of being an imposter in a new job. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing our accomplishments and giving ourselves permission to take time and space to recover from burnout. Dr. Blanchette also encourages therapists to explore alternative career options and not feel trapped in their current path.

keywordsimposter syndrome, burnout, career, worth, private practice, job, experience, time, space, choices

takeaways

• Imposter syndrome can be exacerbated by burnout and can make us question our abilities and worth as therapists.
• Taking time and space to recover from burnout is essential and can look different for each person.
• Therapists have choices and can explore alternative career options if they feel stuck in their current path.
• Recognizing our accomplishments and leaning into our experience can help combat imposter syndrome and build confidence.

titles

• The Intersection of Imposter Syndrome and Burnout
• Leaving a Private Practice: The Fear and Challenges

Sound Bites

• "I honestly didn't trust myself anymore."
• "Oh, I don't have to do therapy anymore."
• "I bring up all that experience in this role. Like, oh yeah, I worked residential. Oh yeah, well, I remember this one time I was working, da, da, da, da."

How to replace your 1:1 Therapy income Freebie link: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/tshwticuti

My Website: www.drjenblanchette.com

This is a reair of the first episode, my edits weren't saved, so I fixed it and now it's out of order, haha! This is real life inperfection :) If there are some editing mistakes, I have tried to update in podcast players, but they may not be updated. Anyways! If you're a therapist feeling burned out or considering leaving the profession?   I want to share with you my story on the "Finding Joy After Burnout" podcast. I've been passionate about burnout, compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, and working with therapists from the start of my career, even though I didn't realize it until recently. The pandemic was a culmination of burnout and vicarious trauma for me, and it made me want to help other therapists avoid the same situation.

As a therapist myself, I understand the toll that the work can take on one's mental and emotional health. The pressures of the job, coupled with the stress of everyday life, can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and even vicarious trauma. It's a tough road to navigate, and many therapists struggle with finding the support they need to continue doing the work they love.

In this podcast episode, I share my personal experiences with burnout and how I overcame it. I've been in your shoes, and I understand how challenging it can be to find the right path forward. Whether you're just starting your career or have been in the field for years, my story can help you find the support and resources you need to overcome burnout and continue doing the work you love.

By listening to this podcast, you'll learn practical strategies to help you manage burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma. You'll hear about the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and finding support. I'll also discuss how to recognize the signs of burnout and what steps you can take to prevent it.

If you're considering leaving the profession because of burnout, I urge you to listen to this podcast before making any decisions. Burnout is a serious issue, and it's not something you should ignore. With the right support and resources, you can overcome burnout and find joy in your work again. I'm living proof of that.

So, join me on the "Finding Joy After Burnout" podcast, and let's work together to find a way to continue doing the work we love without sacrificing our mental and emotional well-being. 

Link to my website: www.drjenblanchette.com

Ending a therapeutic relationship is never easy, whether it’s because you're closing your practice, changing your career path, or setting necessary boundaries to protect your own well-being. In this episode, I share my personal experiences and challenges with therapy terminations, especially when they’re not planned or mutual. We dive deep into the fears therapists often have about letting clients down and the emotional toll that comes with the decision to prioritize your own mental health.

Join me as I discuss the importance of setting boundaries, handling the complex emotions that arise during terminations, and finding ways to ensure both you and your clients feel supported through the transition.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• The common fears therapists experience when deciding to end therapeutic relationships, such as the fear of letting clients down.
• My personal journey with therapy terminations and the impact of these decisions on my practice and personal well-being.
• Strategies for effectively communicating terminations to clients in a way that acknowledges their feelings while setting clear boundaries.
• How to recognize when it's time to make changes in your practice or career for your own mental health and sustainability.
• The importance of self-compassion and self-care during the process of ending therapeutic relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• Recognize Your Limits: Understanding and acknowledging your own boundaries is crucial for long-term sustainability as a therapist.
• Clear Communication: Honest, empathetic communication can help ease the transition for both you and your clients.
• Emotional Resilience: Allow yourself to feel the emotions that come with terminations, and seek support when needed.
• Prioritize Clinician Wellbeing in Therapy: Taking care of yourself is not just beneficial for you; it's essential for providing the best care to your clients.

Resources Mentioned:

• Episode 12: Secret Grief when a client dies: 012: Secret Grief: Attending to the Loss of Therapists | Dr. Jen Blanchette (drjenblanchette.com)
• Insights into how to handle complex emotions and fears around ending therapeutic relationships.
• APA Guide on Termination: https://www.apaservices.org/practice/good-practice/discontinuing-treatment-issues.pdf

Let's connect!

Are you thinking of quitting your role as a therapist (or drastically reducing 1:1)? Be the first to hear about podcast updates, resources, and ways to work with me by joining my list. I call it the therapist pen-pal letter. I write back! It's a love letter to you. Sign up here: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

My free 15-minute consult call: https://drjb.hbportal.co/schedule/6160e28b5e574330da01b03d

In this episode, therapist Susannah Horwitz shares her personal journey of burnout and the pivotal moments that led her to find joy again. She discusses the challenges she faced upon moving to a new location and the pressure she felt to maintain stability for her family.

Susannah reflects on her beliefs around money and how she overcame scarcity mindset to increase her fees and create a more sustainable practice. She also explores the role of rest and play in finding abundance and shares her experience of shifting to offering intensives as a therapeutic approach. Susanna emphasizes the importance of collaboration and connection with other therapists and the need for a collective shift in the field of therapy.

 She shares her passion for supporting young parents in STEM who are dealing with chronic illness or health anxiety. Susanna also introduces her coaching program for introverted therapists who struggle with  networking and offers insights into somatic regulation as a tool for building relationships and referral bases.

More from Susannah: https://www.susannahhorwitz.com/

More from Jen: https://linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

In this episode of the Therapist Burnout Podcast, Karen Conlon shares her personal journey navigating burnout as a therapist specializing in anxiety and trauma. She highlights the importance of setting boundaries and understanding the role of a therapist—not as a fixer but as a guide. Karen discusses her experiences across various stages of her career, including challenging environments like adolescent health centers and Mount Sinai Hospital. She addresses the unique impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health professionals and explores the notion of therapists becoming part of their clients' emotional lives.

Get Support:

• Are you ready to leave therapy? Jennifer discusses her coaching services aimed at helping therapists navigate burnout, offering strategies like pausing, creating a 90-day game plan, and providing ongoing support. https://drjenblanchette.com/love-it-or-leave-it-coaching/
• Join the list: I send weekly burnout tips and stories to my list. I write back :)

Karen's website: https://expressivetalks.com/

What is really going on with Gen Z's mental health? For Therapists that are parents or work with parents or youth, this is a must listen! This book is blowing my mind about the role of phones in the lives of children and for all humans.

Here are some the takeaways:

• The impact of smartphones and social media on the mental health of the younger generation.
• Evidence of a significant increase in mental health issues like depression and anxiety since the introduction of smartphones.
• The negative effects of a decline in play-based childhood and overprotection, leading to decreased socialization and physical activity among youth.
• Recommendations for parents include limiting screen time, promoting in-person activities, and fostering independence and responsibility.
• Emphasizes the need for therapists to address their own burnout and consider the impact of social media on their well-being.

All my stuff: https://linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

Email me, yes, I'll write you back: info@drjenblanchette.com

Hey therapist, ready to listen to a real life stories of leaving private practice? Dr. Jen Blanchette and Business Coach Annie Schuessler are diving deep into those career change thoughts we've all had. During this episode, they talk about the hesitations, attachments, and fears that come with potentially abandoning clients and their professional identity.

Guess what? You're not alone in this. If you're a therapist considering a career transition, listening to this conversation can give you a sense of relief and validation. You'll realize that many therapists share the same concerns and struggles as you do. It's reassuring to know that you're not alone in this journey.

This discussion will encourage you to take a closer look at your own motivations for staying in or leaving the therapy field. It's essential to explore your aspirations and personal growth to ensure that they align with your chosen profession.

Ever heard of sunk cost fallacy? We're breaking it down in a big way. Consider it a friendly push to break free from that trap and make decisions based on what's right for you now. Dr. Jen and Annie talk a lot about finding that balance and happiness in your work. 

Now, let's talk takeaways. Here are three gems you'll snag from this episode

• You're Not Alone: This conversation is like a reminder that you're part of a community. Other therapists are going through the same thought process. It's comforting to know you're in good company.

• Reflect and Align: Dr. Jen and Annie will inspire you to dig deep into your motivations. Take a moment to reflect on your journey and see if your career is still aligned with where you want to go.

• Break Free and Prioritize: The sunk cost fallacy is a tough one, but hearing stories of others who've moved past it is empowering. Plus, the emphasis on your well-being isn't just advice – it's a reality check.

More from jen:www.drjenblanchette.com

More from Annie: www.rebeltherapist.me

Judy Hu, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) turned Boundary Coach. She provides short term, intensive boundary healing and boundary coaching for adults, couples, and groups. Her clinical experience includes two decades of serving as a therapist for adults, children, couples and families; as a supervisor for clinical interns; and as a clinical director at a renowned outpatient clinic. Without being aware of it, Judy’s life was shaped by trying to fit into boxed laid out in front of her–by her immigrant family, by her peers, and by a society based on capitalism, patriarchy, and supremacy thinking. None of those boxes or expectations fit. Trying to mask feelings of being an imposter, she landed at an all time low and finally chose her Self.

In this episode, Judy shares her story of therapist burnout and how she transitioned to becoming a boundary coach. She also discusses the importance of boundary coaching for therapists and clients alike, and offers tips for preventing and healing from burnout.

**Key takeaways:**

* Set boundaries with your clients, your work, and your personal life.

* Take care of yourself physically and emotionally.

* Find a supportive community of other therapists or healers.

* Seek professional help if needed.

**Boundary coaching and it’s application to helpers:**

Boundary coaching can help therapists to:

* Set and enforce boundaries with clients, paperwork, and other demands on their time and energy.

* Identify and challenge their own limiting beliefs about boundaries.

* Develop a self-care routine that is sustainable and effective.

* Create a work-life balance that is healthy and fulfilling.

**Boundary coaching for clients:**

Boundary coaching can help clients to:

Identify and understand their own boundaries.

• Set and enforce boundaries with others, including family, friends, and coworkers.
• *Communicate their needs and expectations clearly.
• Say no without guilt or shame.
• Protect themselves from emotional and physical harm.

More from Judy: https://judyhucounseling.com/

More from Jen: www.drjenblanchette.com

My freebie: Before you Quit: A guide for therapists 

Let's go back in the way back machine. Jen Blanchette reflects on their career journey as a psychologist, sharing insights on what they would do differently if given a second chance. Discussing their transition from private practice to school psychology, the conversation touches on the importance of setting boundaries, managing emotions, and navigating the challenges of therapist burnout. The host also previews upcoming podcast topics, including the unique aspects of therapist burnout and the impact of election cycles on therapy sessions.

The money talk. Dr. Blanchette shares about the financial dance therapists engage in, recounting her own experiences. She breaks down the essentials – understanding your financial needs, conducting a financial assessment, and breaking free from the burnout-money cycle. 💸💡

Key Takeaways to Fuel Your Journey:

1️⃣ Financial Literacy: Get cozy with your finances. Dr. Blanchette's journey becomes a guide for understanding your financial needs, unlocking a path to joy and stability.

2️⃣ Toolbox Essentials: Explore the wisdom of financial guru Ramit Sethi's 'I Will Teach You to Be Rich' and the MIT living wage calculator. These tools are your companions to demystify your financial situation.

3️⃣ Curiosity in Action: Dr. Blanchette ignites curiosity. Discover alternative paths to enhance your income. It's not just a job – it's a journey, and curiosity is your guide. 🚀💖

Crafting Your Path to Joy: Dr. Blanchette isn't just sharing insights – she's a guide to action! Craft a six-month income plan, take practical steps, and transform your financial landscape. Joy is within reach – seize it! 🎉💰

Grab the free money guide HERE!

Ever felt that following your to become a therapist has led you to burning out and resenting your work? Or that you're not sure that becoming a therapist was the best choice for you. In today's episode, we're uncovering the truth behind the passion hypothesis and why your skills might trump your passion when it comes to finding career happiness.

We delve into the controversial ideas presented in Cal Newport's book, "So Good They Can't Ignore You," and explore why the common advice to "follow your passion" might actually be leading us astray. If you're a therapist thinking about quitting your role or significantly changing your career, this discussion is especially for you.

Key Takeaways:

1. Passion vs. Skills:
   • Cal Newport argues that following your passion is not the key to career satisfaction.
   • Most people do not have pre-existing passions related to work.
   • Developing skills and career capital is more important for job satisfaction.
2. The Reality of Burnout:
   • Burnout is a significant issue in the therapy profession, often exacerbated by the pressure to follow one's passion.
   • Therapists may find themselves paralyzed by too many ideas and directions, leading to burnout.
3. The Passion Hypothesis:
   • The assumption that everyone has a pre-existing passion waiting to be discovered is flawed.
   • Passions are often unrelated to work or education and tend to be hobby-like interests.
4. Steve Jobs’ Misinterpreted Advice:
   • While Steve Jobs advised to "do what you love," his own path to founding Apple was not driven by passion but by opportunity and skill development.
5. Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness:
   • According to Self-Determination Theory, these three factors are essential for intrinsic motivation at work.
   • Therapists need to consider these elements to find fulfillment, especially in private practice where relatedness can be challenging.
6. Career Capital:
   • Building valuable skills and expertise in your field (career capital) is crucial.
   • Passion can develop from becoming skilled and achieving mastery in your work.
7. The Privilege of Choice:
   • The ability to follow one’s passion is a privilege not everyone has.
   • A more practical approach is to focus on developing skills that make you valuable in your career.

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: "So Good They Can't Ignore You" by Cal Newport
• Self-Determination Theory (SDT)

Episode Quote: “Follow your passion might just be terrible advice. Focus on developing valuable skills and career capital to find true job satisfaction.”

Send me an email I'd love to connect: info@drjenblanchette.com

Links to my freebie and connect with a free consult call to Un*uck Your Practice: https://linktr.ee/drjenblanchette

The title says it all! We're diving into the top reasons that you are not making and change, and why it's the right time to heal your burnout. Dr. Blanchette explores the complex emotions therapists face when contemplating a career change. She shares a viral LinkedIn post where many therapists expressed a desire to switch to less demanding jobs, such as working at a library or a bookstore. Jen emphasizes the importance of play, awe, and small moments of happiness in overcoming burnout. She dispels the myth that one should have a single 'dream career' and encourages therapists to consider career pivots without feeling broken. The episode also invites therapists to share their own burnout stories to foster community and support.

Takeaways

• Fear of change is normal, but it shouldn't prevent therapists from making necessary career changes.
• Therapy is not the only calling, and it's okay to explore other interests and passions.
• Setting boundaries and making changes in your practice or career is not letting clients down; it's prioritizing your own well-being.
• It's important to identify what brings you joy and fulfillment in your work and seek opportunities that align with those experiences.
• Building a support team and seeking professional help is crucial for preventing and healing from burnout.
• Taking action sooner rather than later can prevent further mental and physical health issues and save time and money in the long run.

More from Jen: https://drjenblanchette.com/love-it-or-leave-it-coaching/

My Free Guide for therapists who are done with 1:1

This episode of the Finding Joy After Burnout podcast delves into the challenges therapists face when contemplating change in their careers. Dr. Jen Blanchette explores the inherent pull towards stability and routine that comes with age, and how this often clashes with the desire for personal growth and exploration. She discusses the fear, shame, and feelings of abandonment that therapists may experience when considering leaving therapy or changing their roles. Drawing on her EMDR training, Dr. Blanchette shares a reframing technique to help therapists navigate these complex emotions and make informed decisions. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with peers and seeking support outside of the therapy room to understand the emotional toll of the work and the need for professional change. This thought-provoking episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for therapists looking to embrace change and find joy after burnout.

Check out my before you quit journal prompt guide for therapists who want to quit their practice or career:https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64c669fa7e6b513e5bacc64e

How can we ever truly balance the weight of this work? That's the question I seek to answer in this episode. In this conversation, Dr. Jen Blanchette discusses the myth of work-life balance and offers a different perspective on how to think about it. She shares four reasons why work-life balance is a myth and emphasizes the importance of counterbalance instead. Dr. Blanchette talks about the different seasons in life and how they require different levels of attention and focus. She also addresses the challenges of being constantly connected through smartphones and social media, and provides strategies for setting boundaries and managing time. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for self-care, breaks, and support in order to maintain a healthy work-life integration.

Takeaways

• Work-life balance is a myth, and it's normal for our lives to be out of balance at different points in time.
• Counterbalance is a more realistic and helpful concept to strive for, considering the different seasons and demands in our lives.
• Setting boundaries and managing time are essential for maintaining a healthy work-life integration.
• The influence of smartphones and social media makes it harder to achieve a sense of equilibrium, but establishing non-negotiables and guardrails can help.
• Self-care is important, but it cannot fix burnout or depletion. It requires constant care and attention to restore ourselves.
• Taking breaks and having time for ourselves is crucial, and we deserve it.

Let's Connect:

The List: The Therapist Burnout Newsletter- I write back: https://balanced-thunder-281.myflodesk.com/drjenb

Before you Quit Consult Call: https://drjb.hbportal.co/schedule/6160e28b5e574330da01b03d