Burnout Prevention: Creating Sustainable Boundaries in Clinical Work

therapistBoundariesactive self care
Written By Roxane Robotham

Burnout prevention is more than self-care—it requires clear, sustainable boundaries that protect your time, energy, and emotional well-being.

Why Boundaries Matter
Boundaries define where your responsibility ends and your client’s begins. Without them, compassion fatigue and burnout become almost inevitable.

Practical Boundary Strategies

  • Limit sessions per day and avoid back-to-back bookings

  • Set clear communication expectations with clients (response times, availability)

  • Use contracts and informed consent to clarify roles

  • Schedule regular breaks and self-care activities

  • Reflect on personal triggers and limits

How Supervision Supports Boundaries
Supervision helps identify boundary challenges, provides support, and models healthy boundary-setting.


Healthy boundaries protect your passion and longevity in clinical work. If you’re struggling with this, supervision and therapy can help you find balance.

References:

  • Maslach, C. (2017). Burnout and Health

  • Zur, O. (2007). Boundaries in Psychotherapy

  • Pearlman, L.A., & Saakvitne, K.W. (1995). Trauma and the Therapist

Roxane Robotham
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