In law school, we are trained to think differently, to “think like a lawyer.” While this enhances our understanding of the legal system that governs the society in which we live, we will never be able to return to our pre-legal education outlook and experience, for better or for worse.

Lawyers are uniquely trained to advocate on behalf of their clients zealously and assertively. Due to the adversarial system in our country, this can quickly become exhausting resulting in depression, burnout, and substance abuse. “Lawyers have been identified as a professional group that uses alcohol and other drugs more than other occupations.” (Source)

The constant connectivity that is required, endless hours preparing, and the culture of how lawyers usually socialize can overtime erode our sense of well-being and diminish overall health. It is no surprise that lawyers are struggling and suffering, silently, because the legal profession has traditionally not been involved nor concerned about the health and wellbeing of its very members.

AER Counseling welcomes lawyers who seek therapy due to anxiety and stress or who simply need a space for themselves to explore the direction of their life and their career. I am a firm believer that we each have inner resilience and, from time to time, we might need a little more attention and care to tap into it.