Therapists’ Lived Experience of Empathic Fatigue and Professional Identity

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to explore the lived experiences of empathic fatigue and its impact on professional identity among therapists in Kenya. Methods and Materials: This qualitative research employed a phenomenological approach to understand the emotional and professional implications of empathic fatigue. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 therapists from Kenya who had varying levels of experience in mental health practice. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis with NVivo software to identify emerging themes and subthemes, with theoretical saturation guiding the conclusion of data collection. Findings: The findings revealed three main themes: emotional impact of empathic fatigue, struggles and resilience in professional identity, and coping strategies and professional growth. Participants reported experiencing emotional exhaustion, emotional contagion, and sleep disturbances. These were accompanied by identity-related challenges, including role confusion, identity fragmentation, and loss of professional meaning. Despite these challenges, therapists demonstrated resilience through client impact and professional growth. Key coping strategies included peer support, supervision, personal therapy, and self-care practices. Conclusion: This study highlights the complex interplay between empathic fatigue and professional identity among therapists in Kenya. While empathic fatigue poses significant emotional and professional challenges, therapists also exhibit adaptive responses that foster resilience and renewal. The findings suggest the need for institutional support systems and self-care practices to mitigate the impact of empathic fatigue.