How Counselling Low-Income Clients Shapes Counsellors' Experiences

Despite the growing recognition of the impact of socioeconomic factors on mental health, the specific ways in which counsellors’ experiences with low-income clients affect their broader professional and personal lives remain largely unexplored. This study investigated how counsellors’ experiences working with low-income clients influence their professional and personal lives. The research addressed the question: "How does your experience supporting low-income clients impact your work outside the counselling space?" Using concept mapping methodology, 28 counsellors sorted 85 statements from interviews into nine key themes: social justice advocacy, professional learning, community education, accessibility, shift in perspective, professional challenges, policy and system advocacy, Indigenous/ community engagement and political perspectives. Findings reveal that counsellors develop increased empathy, personal growth, and mindfulness, while also facing challenges such as burnout and conflicts in professional relationships. The intersection of systemic barriers and individual advocacy highlighted the necessity for cultural humility, community engagement, and policy action. The study concluded with recommendations for training programs aimed at equipping counsellors to navigate systemic inequities while prioritizing their well-being.