Professional Presence is a concept similar to Parental Presence.  Like parental presence, it can be higher or lower and this is usually linked to stress levels at work.  In the caring professions, we always have to navigate our own emotional wellbeing because we use so much of our emotional energy in our daily work. In the public sector, there are have been sustained cuts to resources over many years (the austerity years) leading to increased need and poverty, high caseloads and long wait lists. The latter means that clients are often highly stressed and frustrated when they meet us and well as meeting us more often when in crisis.  And even in complex situations, we may have to 'ration' the number of sessions offered.  In a nutshell, we often have to juggle a 'balancing act' navigating resilience, on the one hand and potential burnout on the other.

 

To start, you may want to complete the professional presence questionnaire. This is a short 'litmus test' and can help to indicate where you are right now with regard to professional wellbeing.  Please note: if you answer 'always' to most or all of the questions, it will would be advised to see your GP without delay and arrange support via your employer or other means.  ​