Taking the step to reenter the workforce after a career break- whether due to parenting, caregiving, illness, or other life transitions- can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Many individuals face questions about how their skills measure up in today’s job market, how to explain gaps in their resumes, and whether they are truly ready- emotionally and professionally- to dive back in. That is where career counseling, especially when rooted in mental health support, plays a powerful role. It is not just about polishing a resume; it is about rebuilding confidence, clarifying goals, and creating a plan that honors both your professional aspirations and personal well-being. For more information, check out our blog “The Ultimate Guide to Building Self-Confidence.”
At Anchor Therapy, our career counselors understand that returning to work is not just a career decision- it is a life transition. Research indicates that 74% of individuals who take a career break end up rejoining the workforce. Our career counseling services are designed to help you navigate this journey with clarity and resilience. Whether you are exploring a new path or returning to a familiar field, we provide guidance that integrates practical job-search strategies with emotional support, helping you reenter the workforce on your own terms.
Anchor Therapy is a counseling center in Hoboken, NJ with mental health therapists specialized in helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, and more. Anchor Therapy is accepting new clients and is now providing in-person sessions and teletherapy sessions to residents of New Jersey, New York, and Florida.
How long is too long for a career break?
Taking time away from the workforce is more common than ever, yet it can still feel isolating when you are navigating the decision to return. Whether your break lasted a few months or several years, the reasons behind it are often deeply personal. Some people step away to raise children or support a family member through illness. Others may take time to focus on their own mental or physical health, travel, pursue a degree, or reflect on what they really want from their careers. These are not just gaps- they are life experiences that shape your perspective, priorities, and resilience.
Why do people take a break from the workforce?
Raising children or caring for family members
Health-related reasons (Physical or mental health recovery)
Pursuing further education
Personal development or travel
Burnout or job dissatisfaction (Read our blog “When Is It Time To Quit A Job?”)
Volunteering or engaging in community service
Starting a business or entrepreneurial ventures
Caring for aging parents or relatives
Job market instability or economic factors (e.g., layoffs, limited opportunities in a given field, etc.)
Reevaluating one’s career direction (Check out our blog “Career Counseling: Protect Your Mental Health During A Job Change”)
There’s no one “right” way to take a career break, just as there is no single path back. What is right for one person may feel completely wrong for another. That is why comparing yourself to others- whether peers, former colleagues, or online success stories- can be discouraging and unhelpful. The truth is, returning to work is a highly individual process, and your reasons for stepping away (and what you learned in the meantime) are just as valid as the professional experience you bring to the table!
It is important to remember that time away does not erase your skills or potential. However, it is normal to feel some uncertainty or self-doubt, especially if you are reentering a rapidly changing industry or feel out of touch with the latest tools and trends. This is where career counseling becomes incredibly valuable. A trained career counselor at Anchor Therapy can help you take stock of your strengths, clarify your goals, and develop a practical strategy for reentry- one that aligns with your personal values and current life stage.
Career counseling also provides space to work through emotional barriers that often accompany a return to work. Many people experience anxiety around whether employers will see their time off as a weakness, or feel pressure to justify every gap on their resume. Others may struggle with imposter syndrome or worry about balancing work with ongoing personal responsibilities. A counselor can help you reframe your narrative, build confidence, and practice communicating your story in a way that feels honest and empowering. Read our blog “5 Ways to Build Self-Confidence.”
Additionally, counselors can guide you in identifying what has changed in your field and how to close any skill gaps through short courses, certifications, volunteering, or returnship programs. They can also help you explore new paths if your time away has inspired a career pivot or a shift in priorities. Rather than simply “going back,” many returners are looking to move forward into roles that feel more meaningful, flexible, or aligned with their values and career counseling can support that transition with intention and structure.
No matter how long you have been out of the workforce or why you stepped away, you do not have to figure it all out alone. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, and that is a good thing. Your journey back to work should reflect who you are today, not just who you were when you left. With the right support, tools, and mindset, it is entirely possible to turn a career break into a powerful stepping stone toward a fulfilling and sustainable future.
How do I go back to work after not working for years?
Returning to work after a long break can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it is entirely possible to successfully reenter the workforce. Whether your time away was due to raising children, taking care of a family member, health reasons, or pursuing personal development, getting back into the workforce is a process.
Here's how you can make the transition easier and regain confidence in your professional journey:
Assess Your Skills and Interests
The first step is to reflect on your break and assess how it has shaped your skills, values, and goals. Think about what you have learned during your time away, even if those lessons were more personal than professional. Identify transferable skills like time management, communication, or problem-solving that you developed in other areas of your life. Additionally, take this time to reevaluate your career interests. Are you still passionate about your previous field? Have you developed new interests that may lead you in a different direction? Understanding your current strengths and interests is crucial as you plan your next steps.
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Next, it is time to update your resume and LinkedIn profile! Do not be discouraged by the career break- include any relevant activities, such as freelance work, volunteer positions, or personal projects that demonstrate how you stayed productive. Focus on the value you bring to a new employer by highlighting your accomplishments and transferable skills. For example, instead of just listing job titles, emphasize what you have learned and how those lessons will apply to your next role.
Address the Gap in Your Resume
When discussing your career gap, honesty is key. Employers will appreciate transparency, so frame the break in a positive light. Explain the reasons behind your time away, such as family care, personal growth, or skill development, and highlight any relevant activities you engaged in during that time. It is important to stay confident when addressing the gap- focus on what you have gained during the break, such as personal development or new perspectives, rather than seeing it as a setback.
Upskill and Get Certified
If you feel that your skills need updating, take advantage of online courses and certifications to refresh your knowledge and stay competitive. There are numerous platforms available where you can find courses that fit your schedule and career goals. Additionally, many companies offer "returnship" programs designed specifically for people returning to the workforce after a break. These programs offer a great opportunity to rebuild your skills in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
Network and Reconnect with Former Colleagues
Networking is an essential part of returning to work. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, or industry peers to learn about job openings or trends in your field. Attending industry events, webinars, or conferences (whether virtual or in-person) can also help you reconnect with your professional network and stay updated on developments in your industry. Rebuilding your network is an important step in making your return to work smoother and finding opportunities that match your skills.
Consider Part-Time or Temporary Work
If you are feeling hesitant about jumping into a full-time position right away, part-time, temporary, or freelance work can be a great way to ease back into the workforce. These roles offer flexibility, allowing you to rebuild your confidence, adjust to a work schedule, and gain recent experience. Additionally, temporary roles can often lead to permanent positions once you have proven your skills and fit within the company.
Prepare for Interviews
Once you start applying for positions, it is essential to prepare for interviews. Be ready to explain your career break in a positive and confident way, focusing on how it has prepared you for this next step. Practice common interview questions, like "Why are you looking to return to work now?" or "How do you plan to transition back into a full-time role?" Practicing these responses will help you feel more comfortable and articulate during the interview process.
Stay Positive and Be Patient
It is important to stay patient with yourself during the transition. Returning to work may take time, and you may need to adjust your expectations, especially if you are starting lower than where you left off. But remember that this is not a setback- it is a chance to rebuild your career on your own terms. Stay positive, keep an open mind, and trust that your experience and skills are still valuable. Our blog “The Best Ways to Cope with Life Transitions” is a must-read.
Focus on Mental Health and Well-Being
The transition back into the workforce can be stressful, so it is essential to prioritize your mental health and well-being. Take time for self-care and set boundaries to avoid burnout. Returning to work after a long break can feel daunting, but with a positive mindset and a clear focus on your goals, you will be able to navigate this change with confidence. For support, check out our blogs “The 8 Forms of Self-Care and How You Can Practice Them” and “6 Ways to Set Boundaries and Enforce Them.”
Consider Career Counseling
If you are feeling uncertain about your next steps, career counseling can be incredibly helpful. An executive career coach at Anchor Therapy can provide clarity on your goals, help you improve your resume, prepare for interviews, and guide you through the return-to-work process. A counselor can also help you explore new career paths or industries if you are considering a change and they can offer valuable support throughout your journey.
Returning to work after a long break is a journey, but it is entirely achievable with the right mindset, preparation, and support. By staying proactive, updating your skills, and confidently addressing your career gap, you can find a fulfilling role that aligns with your current goals. Patience and persistence are key, and with time, you will successfully reenter the workforce and thrive in your new career chapter!
Returning to work? Here is how career counseling can ease the transition
Returning to work after a career break can bring up a mix of emotions- excitement, uncertainty, and even self-doubt. Whether you have been away for a few months or several years, the transition back into the workforce often comes with questions: Am I still qualified? How do I explain the gap? What if the job market has changed? Career counseling offers a supportive space to work through these concerns. A counselor can help you identify your strengths, clarify your goals, and build a plan that aligns with both your professional aspirations and your current life situation.
What are the benefits of career counseling for a return to the workforce?
Clarity and goal setting
Identifying transferable skills
Resume and interview preparation
Building confidence
Exploring new career paths
Staying current and competitive
Emotional and practical support
More than just resume help, career counseling focuses on the whole person. It can guide you in refreshing your skills, exploring new career paths, or even rebuilding confidence after time away. Whether you are returning to a familiar field or considering a pivot, a career counselor can help you navigate the job search process, prepare for interviews, and develop strategies to position yourself as a strong candidate. With personalized support, you will be better equipped to return to work with clarity and confidence!
Victoria Scala
is the Social Media Manager, Intake Coordinator, and Community Engagement Director at Anchor Therapy in Hoboken, New Jersey. She is a graduate of the Honors College of Rutgers University-Newark and is currently studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the graduate level. In her roles, Victoria is committed to managing the office’s social media/community presence and prioritizing clients' needs.
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