Exploring Self-Compassion and Job Satisfaction Among School Counselors

Abstract

This qualitative study represents an exploratory effort to understand the role self-compassion has in counselor well-being at work using the Theory of Work Adjustment (TWA) as a framework. Data was analyzed using the 20 TWA work reinforcers and corresponding six value dimensions (achievement, autonomy, status, altruism, comfort, safety) in order to explain how these reinforcers and values may impact self-compassion and the workplace wellness of counselors. Seven school counselors participated in semi-structured interviews surrounding their self-care at work and self-compassionate behaviors. The study found 19 of the 20 TWA reinforcers that are attributable to significant satisfaction at work were discussed throughout the seven participant interviews. In addition, the findings supported how constructs related to the practice of self-compassion such as mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindness are evident within the six corresponding work values in TWA and play an integral role in describing ways in which school counselors conceptualize wellness at work. Implications for school counselors will be discussed.