What are the Best Holiday Gifts for Counselors & Therapists You Know?
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Counseling and therapy are demanding professions, requiring individuals to listen, guide, and support others through life’s challenges. Consider offering a thoughtful gift as a token of appreciation for their dedication. Whether you are a client, friend, or family member, you can express gratitude for counselors and therapists’ invaluable contributions to mental health services.
Before shopping, remember that counselors and therapists often cannot accept gifts from clients or patients due to ethical considerations. The American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics discourages counselors from receiving gifts, and some states have mandated restrictions against receiving gifts.
Thankfully, there are other ways to express gratitude for their dedication and support. Instead of material gifts, consider these alternative ways to show appreciation to a counselor or therapist:
- A handwritten letter: Express your heartfelt thanks for their guidance and impact on your life.
- Give feedback to their supervisor: A verified positive review can go a long way in supporting a counselor’s or therapist’s career.
- Simply say thank you: A sincere expression of gratitude can be the most meaningful gift of all.
These options offer clients and patients the advantage of expressing gratitude without incurring monetary costs. By choosing one of these alternatives, you can convey your appreciation for the dedication and positive influence your counselor or therapist has had on you while adhering to ethical guidelines.
By contrast, counselors and therapists’ friends and family members can give gifts for special occasions, holidays, or whenever the time feels right. When selecting a gift, it is important to consider the counselor or therapist’s preferences and needs. Factors to contemplate include their work environment, lifestyle, and potential areas of interest. By thoughtfully choosing a gift, you can acknowledge and celebrate their commitment to their profession.
Here are 20 gift ideas for counselors and therapists under and over $50.
Best Gifts Under $50 for Counselors and Therapists
- Cozy blankets & pillows: A soft and comfy blanket or textured throw pillows can make any therapeutic space feel more inviting and relaxing.
- Personalized mugs: A custom mug with their name or a motivational quote can be a thoughtful and practical gift.
- Subscription boxes: Consider a subscription box filled with goodies like tea, coffee, or snacks to help them stay energized throughout the day.
- White noise machine: A white noise machine can help create a calming and focused environment for their clients. It can also be placed outside the therapy office to ensure privacy in crowded office spaces.
- Plants: A small, easy-to-care-for plant can add a touch of nature to the counselor’s or therapist’s office and help improve air quality. When choosing a plant, consider the plant’s daylight requirements and the counselor’s or therapist’s office setup.
- Essential oils and diffusers: Aromatherapy can be a great way to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
- Humidifiers: Air humidifiers can create a more comfortable and soothing environment in therapy offices, helping clients feel relaxed and at ease during their sessions.
- Gift cards: A gift card to their favorite bookstore, coffee shop, or lunch spot is a great way to let them treat themselves.
- Journaling supplies: A beautiful journal, a set of high-quality pens, and colorful markers or stickers can encourage self-reflection and stress relief.
- Subscription to audiobook or learning platforms: Monthly subscription gifts to platforms such as Audible or MasterClass offer counselors and therapists valuable resources to stay updated on their field’s latest techniques, research, and theories.
Best Gifts Over $50 for Counselors and Therapists
- Personalized day planner: A personalized journal or planner can help them stay organized, reflect on their work, and set goals for their professional development.
- Noise-canceling headphones: These can be a lifesaver for counselors who must focus on paperwork tasks in a noisy work environment.
- Subscription to a continuing education platform: This will help them stay current on the latest trends and research in their field.
- Professional massage: A relaxing massage or spa day can help them reduce stress and recharge.
- A donation to a cause they care about: Support a cause that is important to them and show your appreciation for their work.
- A high-quality desk lamp: A good desk lamp can help them see better and reduce eye strain.
- A piece of art: A piece of art, such as a meaningful print in a custom frame or a sculpture that reflects the essence of counseling and therapy work, can serve as a thought-provoking conversation starter and a tangible expression of appreciation for their dedication.
- Cozy & stylish sweaters: Cozy and stylish sweaters can help therapists feel comfortable and confident in their work environment while adding a personality touch.
- Jewelry & accessories: Unique earrings and colorful scarves can add a personal touch to a therapist’s outfit and help them express their unique style.
- Treat them to a nice meal: Inviting a family member or friend who is a counselor or therapist out for a meal to celebrate a professional achievement is a thoughtful way to show your support and appreciation. It can also be a valuable opportunity to connect personally and share in their success.
Remember, the best gift is one that shows you care. By selecting a thoughtful and meaningful gift, you can let your counselor or therapist know that you appreciate their hard work and dedication.
Rachel Drummond, MEd
WriterRachel Drummond has used her expertise in education and mindfulness to guide aspiring counselors since 2020. Her work emphasizes the importance of integrating reflective mindfulness into counseling techniques, helping readers understand how mental and physical well-being can enhance their professional practice and personal development in counseling.
Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.