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Unlike our counterparts who often gain energy from others, introverts may find social interactions exhausting. As an introverted therapist, you want the best for your patients but the daily need to engage and have conversations can be mentally taxing. Therefore in order to be your best practitioner self, you need strategies to cope and recharge.
1 - Plan Ahead
Planning out your work day can lead to success. Review your patient’s chart, research their diagnosis and read the previous notes from other clinicians. When you feel more prepared it can help to reduce your anxiety. Also, allow yourself some time in between each session if you can. If possible, find a calm space where you can ease your nerves prior to a session. A park, a coffee shop, library etc. For example, I often give myself 5 to10 minutes to just sit in my car.
2 - Solo Hobbies
After a full day of interacting, you may need some solitude. Some people like to read, exercise or watch tv. Do whatever it is you enjoy, but do it alone. I recently took up practicing bowling. Even though I joined a league, some days I will rent a lane for myself and play a game.
3 - Don’t Burnout Out
As clinicians we do alot for our clients. We give alot of ourselves to our work. Our profession can be mentally, emotionally and physically tiring. Allow yourself to take short breaks to help maintain your energy and focus. Most importantly, if you have PTO…use it!
4 - Don't Be Hard On Yourself
Feeling nervous is normal…accept that. Remind yourself of the strengths you have as an introvert. You're empathetic, a good listener, kind, understanding and so on. Trust me your patient’s appreciate you just as much as the extroverted therapist that’s good at small talk.
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