Before I became a therapist, I spent many years working in the International Aid and Development (Humanitarian) sector. I loved making connections across cultures and having my perspective challenged. And, if I’m honest, loved the adventure too.

It was a privilege and was personally transformative. I wasn’t prepared though, for the impact working in such a frenetic sector would have on my physical and mental health.

The urgent nature of the work and experiencing vicarious trauma I wasn’t initially equipped to handle, often left me feeling overwhelmed. It was a steep learning curve to acknowledge my limitations and address burnout and saviourism. Savourism that was still in me from decades of church ministry and my belief that I had to save the world.

I couldn’t fix it all and rather than trying to, my role should always have been to accompany people on their own journey towards a meaningful life. Supporting them towards their own solutions.