Psychotherapists spend countless hours sitting, listening, attuning, and holding space for others, yet the cumulative physical demands of clinical work often receive little attention. Whether practicing in person or via telehealth, therapists frequently maintain prolonged static postures, engage in repetitive movements, and prioritize client needs while overlooking signals from their own bodies. Over time, these patterns can contribute to neck, shoulder, back, and wrist discomfort, physical fatigue, reduced energy, and challenges that may affect both well-being and professional sustainability.    

While the mental and emotional demands of psychotherapy are widely recognized, the physical demands of the profession are rarely addressed in graduate training, clinical supervision, or continuing education. As a result, many therapists develop habits that place unnecessary strain on their bodies without fully recognizing the long-term impact on comfort, health, and capacity for sustained presence with clients.      

Drawing on principles from physical therapy, ergonomics, movement science, and occupational health, this workshop explores the physical challenges associated with psychotherapy practice. Participants will examine how work habits, workspace design, posture, and movement patterns influence comfort and performance throughout the clinical day, and will learn practical strategies for reducing physical strain in both office-based and telehealth settings. 

Attendees will be guided through simple, evidence-informed movement practices that can be integrated before, during, and between sessions without disrupting clinical flow. They will also learn practical approaches to optimizing their work environment, recognizing early signs of physical strain, and developing sustainable habits that support career longevity. 

This interactive workshop is designed for therapists who want to care for the body that supports their clinical work. Participants will leave with increased awareness of the physical demands of psychotherapy, practical tools to reduce discomfort and fatigue, and an individualized plan for integrating movement and ergonomic strategies into their professional lives. By attending to their own physical well-being, therapists can enhance comfort, resilience, and capacity for sustained presence in the therapeutic relationship.