An Exploratory Study of Emotional Labour Among Therapists and Counsellors in India

Abstract

Background

Emotional labour has been extensively investigated in the service sector, where employees manage their emotions to ensure a positive customer experience. However, there is a dearth of research into how therapists perform emotional labour during therapy sessions. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore psychotherapists' and counsellors' experiences of performing emotional labour in therapeutic settings.

Method

The study used a qualitative research design with an exploratory approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four clinical psychologists and four counsellors. The interviews were conducted via video call and lasted about 45–60 min. Thematic analysis was used to identify emerging themes.

Results

The analysis revealed that therapists experience an array of emotions during sessions. However, the expression of these emotions is guided by professional norms and emotional display rules. Participants disclosed that they use several techniques to manage their emotions both during and after sessions and that participating in emotional labour yielded both favourable and unfavourable outcomes for the therapists.

Conclusion

The findings presented in this study provide insight into emotional labour and inform professionals on how this can negatively impact them if not sufficiently addressed. The study highlights the need for further investigation. In the meantime, therapists and counsellors would benefit from integrating the study's findings into their respective practices.