This topic can be reviewed in a number of different ways but the initial underlying question that needs to be asked is why did you get into this field in the first place. For many of us the motives were altruistic especially if we were in recovery ourselves. Some may have thought this could be an extension of our own recovery by being of service to others in need. Admittedly I thought I had something to offer that would benefit both the patient’s and my own program of recovery. Sounds like a win-win situation, right!  Mistakenly, no, it doesn’t necessarily hold water if you are a substance abuse counselor and in fact can be dangerous to your recovery if you continue to maintain that mindset.

One of the fundamental things I had to do as a counselor was establish boundaries. Boundaries between myself and my patients, boundaries between my job and my recovery and boundaries between my job and my personal life. Failure to establish these boundaries is tantamount to a sure and inevitable burnout or worse, relapse. Scary when you think of it in those terms but ever so rewarding for those of us who can.

I love my job. In fact I don’t even look at it as a job and that is a powerful motivator to becoming the best I can be at what I do. And just what is it I do? I view my role in the recovery process as the bearer of the lantern that illuminates the path of recovery. Keep in mind that path has many branches that can steer you in the wrong direction. If I can remain genuine in my unconditional love of my patients and respectful that any decisions to be made are theirs alone, as long as I have empowered them with everything I have to offer through my experience, strength and hope, then I have done my job. Confident in my resolve to perform with this attitude and outlook, irrespective of the patients ultimate outcome, I am not in fear of burnout or personal relapse.