Let’s face it: the mental health field can be exhausting. Between back-to-back sessions, endless paperwork (thanks, EHRs), and trying to squeeze in a lunch break that lasts longer than three minutes, it’s easy to get caught up in the grind. But here’s the thing—our work is all about making people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Whether it’s with clients, colleagues, or even yourself (yes, you matter too!), showing people they’re important doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes, the smallest gestures leave the biggest impact.
Here are 10 meaningful ways mental health professionals can remind others—whether it’s clients, coworkers, or collaborators—that they truly matter:
1. Hug It Out (Metaphorically or Literally)
Let’s get this out of the way—hugs with clients? Probably not happening (unless you’ve got a longstanding therapeutic relationship and clear boundaries). But with your colleagues or team? A well-timed hug can work wonders.
For clients, “hug it out” can be as simple as offering warmth through words:
“I see how hard you’ve been working on this.”
“You’ve come so far, and I’m proud of you.”
It’s like a verbal hug—minus the HR risks.
2. Listen Like You Charge By the Minute
We know this one’s in our job description, but let’s be real: active listening sometimes takes a backseat when we’re juggling a packed schedule. Make a conscious effort to show clients and colleagues that you’re fully present.
Maintain eye contact (even on telehealth sessions—don’t stare at yourself in the corner box).
Respond with genuine curiosity.
Take notes if needed, but don’t let your notepad steal all your focus.
For coworkers, put down your phone and resist the urge to multitask during conversations. Everyone deserves to feel heard—therapists included.
3. Celebrate Wins—How Professionals Show Clients They Matter
Progress in therapy isn’t always monumental—sometimes, it’s the little victories that deserve the loudest applause. Whether a client sets a long-overdue boundary, takes a step toward healing, or simply shows up on a tough day, acknowledging these moments is how professionals show clients they matter. A simple “I see the effort you’re putting in, and it’s paying off” can mean the world to someone working through challenges.
For colleagues, celebrating their achievements—like mastering a tricky case or surviving a mountain of paperwork—reinforces the same message: “Your hard work is seen, and it matters.”
4. Schedule One-on-One Check-Ins
Clients thrive when you give them your undivided attention during sessions, and colleagues are no different. Set aside time for one-on-one moments with coworkers or supervisees to connect on a deeper level.
Ideas:
Invite a colleague for a coffee break to talk shop—or just vent about paperwork woes.
Have a walking meeting (bonus points if it’s outside—it’s good for everyone’s mental health).
Schedule uninterrupted consultation time to support each other’s professional growth.
These small efforts strengthen connections and remind people they’re a priority.
5. Be Their Personal Cheerleader
Clients often need someone in their corner saying, “I believe in you.” Therapists, that’s your superpower! Keep reminding them of their strengths and what’s possible when they stay committed to their goals.
For coworkers? Be the hype person they didn’t know they needed:
“That was such a great point in the consultation. You’re a rock star at this.”
“You’re doing an amazing job balancing everything. Don’t forget to give yourself some credit!”
6. Offer Hope (Even on Hard Days)
Mental health work often means sitting with heavy emotions, but that doesn’t mean we can’t provide a spark of hope. Remind clients that change is possible, even if it’s slow and messy.
For colleagues, offering hope might look like a little encouragement on a tough day:
“It’s been a rough week, but you’re making such an impact—don’t forget that.”
Sometimes, hope is just about showing up with kindness and presence.
7. Send Encouraging Notes or Resources to Clients &
You’ve probably already got a stash of go-to resources for clients, so why not personalize them a bit? Share a motivational quote that ties into something you’ve been working on together or a resource that aligns with their goals.
For coworkers, consider dropping an unexpected email or sticky note:
“You crushed that presentation today—amazing work!”
“I found this article, and it reminded me of something we talked about. Thought you’d enjoy it!”
It’s a small gesture that can brighten someone’s day.
8. Respect Their Need for Space
We preach healthy boundaries to clients, but do we always practice what we preach? Sometimes, the best way to show care is by respecting someone’s need for space.
For clients, this means honoring their pace in therapy and not pushing too hard too soon. For colleagues, it’s about understanding when someone needs quiet time, fewer meetings, or just a little breathing room.
9. Acknowledge What They’ve Taught You
Your clients and colleagues are some of your greatest teachers—so tell them! Maybe a client helped you see resilience in a new way, or a colleague shared a brilliant strategy you’ve adopted.
Sharing this reinforces their value and creates a sense of mutual respect:
“You’ve shown me how brave people can be in the face of adversity.”
“I’ve started using your tip on time management—it’s been a game changer!”
10. Send Snail Mail (Because It’s Still Cool)
Yes, we live in the age of emails and DMs, but there’s something special about receiving a handwritten note. Send a card to a client celebrating their progress or a thank-you note to a colleague who’s gone above and beyond.
It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a few heartfelt words can make someone’s day.
Final Thoughts
As mental health professionals, we’re in the business of helping people feel seen, valued, and empowered. But this doesn’t just apply to clients—it’s just as important to show appreciation to colleagues and others in your professional circle.
By taking small but thoughtful steps to show others they matter, you’re not just strengthening your relationships—you’re also cultivating a healthier, more connected community.
And hey, don’t forget—you matter too. So maybe throw yourself a little celebration once in a while. (Go ahead, grab that fancy latte. You’ve earned it.)
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