u/Doopdidoopdidoop

Hi all, I am a private tutor and I have a client who I just adore. I’ve been with her for a year and a half. In the last 6 months or so, it’s been a transition to only tutoring in her home instead of the library. Without getting into detail, I just don’t feel comfortable in the home. There’s some weird family dynamics and energy in the house.

I know this probably sounds vague and bizarre, but I’m not quite sure how to explain this. I love my client, but I am feeling a weird sense of being drained from being in their home 2 days a week. She recently went on vacation, so I had time away and this is when I realized that it felt something has lifted for me. I feel pretty guilty about this and I’m just curious if anyone has had a similar experience.

She is not being harmed, there is nothing reportable, and it’s also just tough to see the way they talk with her about things like her weight in front of me. I’m at a loss with what to say/do being that I’m in the role of being a tutor.

I am burnt to a crisp from working, practicum, and full time school. My mental health is not good. I graduate in June and should be applying for jobs soon, but I feel so overwhelmed. No jobs seem enticing to me and I feel exhausted just thinking about it right now. I’m telling myself I probably just need some time off before continuing and that I shouldn’t quit. I feel guilty, though, like I should jump right in. I worry if I don’t, I’ll never get started. Thanks for your time ❤️ Sending love to all you therapists.

UPDATE 5/8: Hi all you lovely people, just wanted to thank everyone for responding and sharing their experiences. I feel SO MUCH LESS ALONE in my experience. I’ve been feeling pulled to do other work (literally anything but therapy) and travel while I rest from burn out, and I now realize many people are doing this and it’s not such a crazy idea. I also loved hearing stories about people finding great therapy jobs once it was their time, because all the jobs I’ve come across just do not feel right for me. I’m impressed seeing how many different ways people have honored themselves and their needs, and am inspired to do the same.