Working online

Strategies to Prevent Burnout When Working Online as a Counsellor

In recent years, online counselling has become an integral part of the mental health profession. The flexibility, accessibility, and convenience it offers have allowed many counsellors to reach clients they may not have been able to serve in traditional face-to-face settings. However, working virtually is not without its challenges. Counsellors working online are often exposed to unique stressors that are different from those encountered in in-person settings. These include screen fatigue, blurred boundaries between home and work, feelings of professional isolation, and the cumulative emotional load of supporting clients through difficult times without the usual physical cues and spaces that traditionally offer grounding.

While the freedom to work from home has its advantages, it can also make it harder to disconnect, recharge, and maintain emotional resilience. Many counsellors find themselves navigating the constant tension between the demands of their clients and the need to protect their own mental wellbeing. The risk of burnout, when left unaddressed, can lead to emotional numbness, reduced empathy, and decreased effectiveness in therapy sessions, ultimately impacting both the counsellor and their clients.

The good news is that by implementing intentional and practical strategies, online counsellors can create healthy boundaries, manage screen-related fatigue, maintain emotional connection, and reduce the likelihood of burnout. Below we offer a range of strategies specifically tailored to the needs of therapist working remotely, to help sustain both personal wellbeing and professional effectiveness.

Set Clear Work-Life Boundaries

Define Your Work Hours: Establish a structured schedule and stick to it. Avoid taking sessions outside your designated hours. Have a Separate Workspace: Create a dedicated office space to mentally separate work from home life. Use a Different Phone/Email for Work: Avoid work communications bleeding into personal time. Schedule Regular Breaks: Take breaks between sessions to stretch, rest your eyes, and reset your energy.

Reduce Screen Fatigue

Adjust Your Screen Setup: Use blue light filters or anti-glare screens to reduce eye strain. Incorporate Phone or Audio-Only Sessions: When appropriate, consider some voice-only sessions to reduce screen exposure. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to relax your eyes.

Maintain a Sense of Connection

Engage with Peers and Supervisors: Schedule virtual meet ups or peer support groups to reduce isolation and process emotional challenges. Join Online Counselling Communities: Platforms like BACP, and online therapist forums provide networking and support.

Manage Emotional Load Effectively

Set Emotional Boundaries: Avoid carrying client issues into your personal time. Journaling or debriefing with a supervisor can help. Limit Back-to-Back Sessions: Spacing sessions allows time to reset emotionally. Practice Digital Detox: Designate screen-free time outside of work hours to reduce digital overload.

Prioritise Self-Care and Well-being

Engage in Mindfulness Practices: Meditation and breathing exercises can help manage stress. Incorporate Physical Activity: Stretch, walk, or do yoga to counteract prolonged sitting. Ensure Proper Nutrition and Hydration: Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals to maintain energy levels. Schedule Personal Therapy: If needed, seek support from another professional to process your emotions.

Working online can blur the lines between professional and personal life, making burnout more likely if not managed properly. By implementing these strategies, online counsellors can create a sustainable and healthy work routine that prioritises both client care and personal wellbeing.