How should an RBT react if they have personal stress impacting their work?

An RBT should seek support or supervision when personal stress is impacting their work. This response is crucial because personal stress can affect not only the individual's well-being but also the quality of care provided to clients. By seeking supervision, the RBT can access guidance, strategies for managing stress, and possible resources for coping. This helps ensure they remain effective in their role while taking care of their mental health.

Continuing to work without addressing personal issues could lead to burnout, diminished job performance, and potentially harm the clients due to decreased quality of interactions. Taking an extended leave of absence might be necessary in some cases, but it's not always the first step for dealing with stress and does not foster immediate resolution of the underlying issues. Ignoring the stress to focus solely on clients can lead to negative outcomes for both the RBT and their clients, as unresolved personal issues can hinder one's ability to provide effective support. Seeking supervision, therefore, is a proactive and responsible course of action that upholds professional standards and prioritizes the well-being of both the practitioner and their clients.