[libribook.com] Traumatic Scar Tissue Management 1st Edition

Box 10.3
A reflection on reasons for saying no (Mayo, 2013)
• Saying no isn’t selfish. Saying no to a new commitment is honoring your
existing obligations and can make certain that you can devote high
quality time to them. Quality of life is as important to the therapist’s
wellbeing as it is to the client.
• Always saying yes isn’t healthy. When you are overcommitted and under
a lot of stress, you may feel run-down which can contribute to getting
sick.
• Saying yes can cut others out. By saying no, you give the opportunity to
other therapists or care providers. This can build your and your client’s
interprofessional network.
Learning to say no appropriately is an important part of managing professional
boundaries and managing your stress-load. Take into account the following
guidelines when deciding what is best for you (Mayo Clinic 2013):
• Weigh your obligations and priorities before making any new commitments. If
the new client will benefit from your work, and your schedule will allow, then
schedule them in. If not, refer out.
• Weigh time commitment demands. Is the new client a short- or long-term
commitment? For example, if the healthcare team feels therapeutic scar
management is needed for 6 weeks, can you accommodate the client weekly
for that amount of time? If the client is long term – 6 months or more – can
you make arrangements for the amount of time to properly care for the client’s
needs? This includes any paperwork involved in the patient’s care. Don’t say
yes if it will mean months of burdensome stress. Your burnout serves no good
purpose.
• Guilt should not be part of the equation. Don’t agree to a take on a new client
out of guilt or obligation. Agreeing will likely lead to additional stress and