When work causes suffering

Work can be a place of recognition, connection and self-fulfilment. But it can also become a place of constant tension, conflict, loss of meaning or exhaustion. Excessive workload, lack of recognition, difficult management, contradictory demands, isolation, harassment, successive reorganisations: the sources of distress are many, and they are not a matter of individual fragility.

Their effects often spill beyond work: sleep problems, Sunday-evening dread, irritability at home, loss of pleasure, a feeling of incompetence. Working in a foreign language or adapting to a French workplace culture can add a further layer of strain. It is worth seeking help before the situation becomes unbearable.

Distress at work

Chronic stress, conflict with a manager or colleagues, a sense of injustice, a clash between your values and what you have to do, workplace bullying: support helps you understand what is happening, step back, regain room to manoeuvre and consider the options available. To find out more: work stress and distress at work.

Burnout and occupational exhaustion

Burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to excessive work demands. It develops gradually, often in highly committed people, and can end in sudden collapse. Recovery takes time and appropriate support, from sick leave through to returning to work. To find out more: burnout and occupational exhaustion.

Career transitions and career changes

Loss of meaning, wanting to change careers, redundancy, returning after long leave, retirement, expatriation: career transitions shake up your identity and bring doubts and worries. Psychological support helps clarify what you are looking for, get through uncertainty and dare to change. To find out more: career change and professional development.

A perspective informed by experience of the working world

Before becoming a clinical psychologist, I trained as an engineer and economist and had a first career. I have therefore been through a career change myself, and I know from the inside the demands, codes and tensions of the working world. This experience informs my understanding of the situations you face.

How I can help

Work psychology and occupational psychopathology study the links between how work is organised and mental health. I draw on these fields and on an integrative approach (find out more): practical tools to manage stress and set limits, a systemic view of the relationships and organisation you work within, and a space to reflect on the meaning you give to your working life.

When the situation requires it, I encourage you to also rely on your GP and, if you work in France, the occupational health doctor (médecin du travail), who can in particular issue sick leave or prepare an adapted return to work. Sessions last about 50 minutes, at the Brotteaux practice, 134 rue de Sèze in Lyon 6th, or by video, which makes things easier with a busy work schedule. Appointments are available in the early evening and on Saturdays (see opening hours).

Frequently asked questions

Will my employer know I am seeing a psychologist?

No. Consultations are covered by professional confidentiality, and nothing is passed on to your employer. You book appointments yourself, entirely outside any work framework.

Do I need to be on sick leave to seek help?

No. Many people come while they are still working, precisely to stop the situation from getting worse. Others come during sick leave or to prepare their return.

How many sessions should I expect?

It depends on your situation. A few sessions may be enough to step back from a specific difficulty; established exhaustion or a deep questioning generally calls for longer support. We review progress together regularly.

Useful resources