Have you considered what might happen to your clients and supervisees if anything happens to you? I hadn’t until a major life change caused me to think of my personal Will. Then recently I was approached by a therapist whose supervisor had gone ‘radio silent’. No information, no contact, and no knowledge of whether they were coming back. The lack of information and complete unknown left the therapist in the dark about whether to move on or wait a bit longer. After a period of waiting they decided they’d better make steps towards finding a new supervisor, they were inevitably left with some complex feelings. We wondered together about that person’s clients as well…
As therapists we are used to talking about difficult subjects. When asking around it surprised me a bit that few of those I asked had given much thought to what would happen in the event of their sudden illness or death. Others said they’d hope a colleague might step in but for those of us in private practice that don’t have a colleague who can step in…
When we dare to ‘go there’ and plan for such things we can achieve peace of mind for ourselves so that if and when the time comes we can concentrate on what feels important at the time in the knowledge that the business side of things is being taken care of by trusted professionals and in line with our wishes.
Illness or sudden death can render us unable to create the kind of closure we might like for those we are working with but if we plan for it, there’s no need for concern if it happens. Whilst within our human nature we might not like to consider a time when we are no longer able to work, it is important that we as professionals dare to ‘go there’ and subsequently plan ahead.
I have created a service that is run for counsellors and psychotherapists, by counsellors and psychotherapists for our peace of mind. Your clinical affairs will be handled by professionals you can trust, who understand the work we do, your privacy is respected and your client’s needs are prioritised. Any wishes that you have for them will be carried out confidentially, sensitively and professionally.
Not knowing what’s happened and simply not hearing from a therapist or supervisor can be very difficult for those we work with. Not to mention what it might be like for you if you are unable to provide the kind of ending that you know will be helpful to your clients. It can also be difficult for Next of Kin or Power of Attorney to know what to do when there are so many other concerns and emotions at that time. Creating a policy to take care of those you’re working with and ensuring a satisfactory ending that provides you with peace of mind is as important for them as it is for you.
We have bespoke and ready to go plans available, please email info@clinical-will.com
Dialogues 