As hybrid working becomes more common across the healthcare landscape, mental health professionals are increasingly splitting their time between clinical sites and home-based settings. While this flexible model offers greater autonomy and work-life balance, it also presents unique challenges – especially for therapists and clinicians whose work is emotionally demanding.
So what does successful hybrid working look like in a mental health setting? And how can locum professionals maintain their wellbeing while navigating two distinct environments?
The Benefits of Hybrid Working for Mental Health Professionals
Many therapists welcome the shift toward hybrid models. Benefits include:
- Greater flexibility: The option to work from home some days can help reduce commute-related stress and allow for more efficient scheduling.
- Improved focus: Remote working can offer quieter, uninterrupted spaces for admin, planning, or even therapy sessions (depending on client needs).
- Autonomy: Having more control over your working environment can boost job satisfaction and professional confidence.
For locums in particular, hybrid roles allow for broader geographic choices and the ability to take on more diverse caseloads without being tied to a single location.
The Pitfalls: Boundaries, Burnout and Balance
That said, hybrid working isn’t without its difficulties – especially in a mental health context. Common challenges include:
- Blurring of personal and professional spaces: Without clear boundaries, it can be hard to switch off from emotionally taxing work.
- Lack of physical cues: Moving between different settings can interrupt routines and make it harder to maintain a consistent rhythm.
- Tech fatigue: Relying on multiple systems for communication, documentation and therapy delivery can be draining – particularly when tech support is lacking.
Best Practices: Staying Grounded in a Hybrid Role
1. Set Clear Boundaries
Create physical separation between your work zone and relaxation space at home. Even if it’s just a dedicated desk or chair, make the distinction.
2. Curate Your Environment
Whether on-site or remote, your workspace should be calm, functional, and free of distractions. Natural light, plants, and comfortable seating all make a difference.
3. Stick to Structured Schedules
Keep a predictable routine that includes breaks, movement, and regular finishing times – just as you would in a traditional setting.
4. Stay Connected
Hybrid working can be isolating. Prioritise regular check-ins with colleagues, supervisors, or peer support groups.
How Employers and Recruiters Can Support Hybrid Therapists
The key to successful hybrid working is not just personal discipline – it’s institutional support. Employers and locum agencies have a responsibility to:
- Provide flexible but well-defined contracts that outline expectations for remote vs. on-site work.
- Offer robust tech support, including access to secure systems and troubleshooting help.
- Ensure access to on-site facilities for days when therapists are physically present, such as private rooms, quiet areas, and reliable internet.
Supporting Hybrid Locums Across the UK
At Hunter Gatherer Mental Health, we understand the evolving needs of today’s mental health workforce. Whether you’re a therapist seeking greater flexibility, or a service needing confident professionals for hybrid roles, we can help.
We specialise in placing psychologists, CBT therapists, mental health nurses and other allied professionals into impactful locum roles across the UK. Our support doesn’t stop at placement – we’re here to ensure every clinician thrives, wherever they work.
Ready to find a hybrid role that works for you?