Reflecting on self-care practices during clinical psychology training and beyond. Issue 3 (4th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bettney, Laura
• Is Part Of: Reflective practice. Volume 18:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 369
• Page End: 380
• Publication Date: 2017-05-04
• Subjects: Clinical psychology -- self-care -- professional and personal development -- reflective practice; Professions -- Periodicals; Reflection (Philosophy) -- Periodicals; Thought and thinking -- Periodicals; Self-knowledge, Theory of -- Periodicals; Career development -- Periodicals; 370.15
• DOI: 10.1080/14623943.2017.1294532
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1462-3943

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper, I will discuss the concept of self-care and its importance for clinical psychologists, both during training and post-qualification. I will review the pertinent literature in this area covering the concept of self-care and its meaning, the personal and professional impact of a lack of self-care for clinical psychologists, and discuss some of the barriers to implementing self-care practices. Throughout the discussion of barriers to self-care, I will intersperse three reflective pieces on my own experiences throughout clinical psychology training, which will allow for a more in-depth exploration of the issues. My conclusion will highlight the personal, professional and systemic barriers to self-care in clinical psychologists, and in other helping professionals, and suggest possible ways of tackling these barriers and promoting greater utilisation of self-care during clinical training and beyond and across different professional groups.