Why Counsellors Need a Wellbeing Manifesto
Because caring for others shouldn’t mean forgetting ourselves
Dear wonderful counsellors,
You might be wondering, ‘What exactly does T-pot mean by a manifesto?’ Well, let us explain…
At its simplest, we believe every counsellor deserves their own personal wellbeing policy: a living, breathing guide for looking after themselves in this work. Some of you may already have our free guide on creating a wellbeing policy for your counselling practice or role (and if not, you can get yours [here — link to subscribe]).
But beyond the personal, what we’re talking about is a shift, perhaps even a gentle uprising, in how we see ourselves as counsellors, and how the world sees us too.
The truth is that counsellor wellbeing isn’t just a nice extra: it’s foundational. We believe that it’s time that was more widely understood: within training, within our workplaces, and within the profession as a whole.
A Missing Piece in Our Training
We often hear from counsellors, especially those just starting out, that they feel uncertain about how to look after themselves in this work. And it’s no wonder — in a poll we ran in the Counsellors Therapy Pot Facebook group last year, 56% of respondents said they hadn’t received adequate guidance on wellbeing during their training.
We understand that training programmes rightly prioritise the needs of the client, but surely, part of that equation is supporting the wellbeing of the person holding space. You.
Because how can we sustainably hold others in their pain, their messiness, their humanity — if we haven’t been taught how to hold ourselves?
It’s Not Just Personal — It’s Systemic
Of course, it’s easy to say: ‘Well, counsellors are responsible for looking after themselves.’ To a degree that is true.
But there are good reasons why that isn’t always enough:
The work is demanding. Counselling can stretch us in ways we never imagined. It can be extremely difficult to ‘figure it out’ as we go.
Many of us are wounded healers. The patterns that brought us to this work (perfectionism, people-pleasing, going it alone) can quietly resurface in private practice due to the complexity of the work and the pull to help people.
Community is vital. We all have different needs, but that doesn’t mean we should reinvent the wellbeing wheel alone. Learning from each other matters.
And then there’s the wider context including the cultural and structural pressures we’re navigating:
The private practice landscape is shifting. The cost-of-living crisis, changes in how people seek help, and an oversupply of underpaid labour all impact how we work.
Many salaried roles are underpaid and overstretched. This not only affects those in post but also sets a precedent for what’s considered ‘acceptable.’
Women (who make up a large proportion of the profession) are still socialised to care for others first — often at their own expense.
We live in a culture where rest is radical, and where productivity is still prized over presence.
A Tea-Based Revolution?
At T-pot, we’re not claiming to have all the answers. But we do believe in the power of small revolutions. It might be the kind of revolution that starts in the therapy room, over a cup of tea, or in the quiet act of saying: ‘my wellbeing matters too’.
We are proud to offer affordable counselling for counsellors. And we’re very excited about our upcoming Nurtured Counsellor CPD Programme which will be a warm and reflective journey through the cornerstones of wellbeing and the quicksands of self. (We do love a metaphor!)
The Nurtured Counsellor Programme isn’t about polished CPD hours or tick-box training. It’s about honest reflection, cultural context, and real-life support for the hearts and nervous systems behind the work.
If you’ve received our Wellbeing Workbook, you’ve had a small taste. If not — we’d love for you to have it. [Link again here.
Before I Go…
If you’re feeling weary right now — if you’re holding a lot — please know this:
You are doing a great job.
You are not alone.
We are here with you, walking a similar path, and we’ll put the kettle on!
With warmth,
T-pot x