Therapy for Educators: Supporting Teachers in the Classroom and Beyond

"I don't have enough hours in the day to help all my kids." "I can't seem to get parents to even meet me in the middle." "It just hasn't been the same since COVID." "My paycheck just isn't cutting it." "I don't know what I can and can't teach anymore and I'm afraid and frustrated." 

Maybe you've heard, felt, or even said the same things. As caretakers, educators, and leaders for our children, teachers play a vital role in shaping the future of our society, but they are also often faced with some of the greatest stresses. As a therapist who has the pleasure of working with educators, I've seen how something that was once a dream job can turn lives into a living nightmare. 

The Struggles of Being a Teacher

While noble, teaching comes with its own special set of difficulties that can impact mental well-being and job satisfaction. Let’s face it, teacher burnout certainly isn't unheard of in this day and age. If we want to preserve our educator's mental health, and thus the mental health and success of our children, we need to recognize these struggles. 

Let's delve into some of the pressing issues that teachers grapple with daily.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the demands of teaching? Facing stress or burnout?

1. Financial Constraints

The average salary of a teacher simply isn't enough to cover the cost of living in many areas. According to a national survey of teachers, 82% said they were currently or had previously worked multiple jobs to stay afloat. Many teachers also supply their own classrooms, buying essential materials that enrich students' learning. It's no wonder that when teachers don't get paid enough to cover their own living costs or supply their classroom, they feel undervalued and taken advantage of. 

2. Challenging Student Behavior

It seems to be the new norm. Student behavior is getting worse. Whether it's the shift in societal dynamics, the fallout from the pandemic, or something in the air, behavioral challenges in classrooms have resulted in more time trying to regain peace in the classroom and less time learning.

3. Broken Administrative Channels

Teachers also struggle with making decisions about who to go to when trouble starts. Administration may not be fully supportive, or even able to support, due to low staffing or concerns over backlash. Teachers may find themselves stuck, afraid of criticism, and unable to help themselves or their students. The lack of communication only leads to more difficulties down the road and resentment.  

4. Disengaged Parents

Teachers know that parental involvement is crucial for a child's success in academics and overall well-being. That's why it's especially disheartening when parents are not as engaged as one would hope. When more and more parents are unable, or unwilling to take part in their child's academic success, it's draining for teachers who may be expected to pick up the slack.  

5. Changing Regulations

In today's rapidly changing world, keeping up with ever-evolving regulations and sensitivities, particularly around racial and LGBTQIA+ issues, can be daunting. Teachers find themselves having to constantly monitor themselves (and their bookshelves.) This stress challenges even the most resilient of teachers. 

6. Connecting with All Students

Post-COVID, many students are still struggling to adjust and attain "appropriate" academic levels. In an effort to help all students, many teachers are still finding themselves teaching at different levels in one classroom. Not only is this difficult, but it's also hard to connect with each student when so many have such varying levels of learning. 

Teachers Want To Be Teachers

Ultimately, teachers just want to be just that, teachers. They want to be there for their students and provide a safe and brave place for them to fall if they need to. However, when teachers are also struggling mentally (overworked), emotionally (undervalued), and physically (underpaid,) they can't be the people they want to be, at work or at home.

Teachers are human beings with lives outside the classroom. And you, as a teacher, should have the space and ability to be able to enjoy that life outside the classroom. 

Therapy for Teachers in Charlotte, NC

As a therapist who has worked with many educators, my goal is to honor and support teachers in becoming their best selves, both at home and in the classroom. I can help you establish boundaries and prioritize self-care. I can help you find the space to engage in hobbies, find social support, and pursue mindfulness practices that can help manage stress and maintain your overall well-being. 

Teachers can only play a significant role in shaping the lives of their students when they have the space and ability to prioritize their own well-being. We need to help teachers navigate the challenges they face so they can create a positive, nurturing environment for both themselves and their students.

Remember, you are not alone, and there is always help available to support you on this journey. Let's work together to make a difference in your life and those of your students.

Take care,

Cheryl D. Perry MA LCMHCA NCC

I would like to be clear that this blog post is not intended to substitute for professional counseling. If you are in need of support, please consider speaking to a professional counselor.