The Unique Needs Of Lawyers In Counseling And Therapy In Divorce

It would seem logical that men and women who have successfully completed college and then graduate school earning an advanced degree in law, accounting or medicine, would be immune from the pressure of their chosen careers. Research reveals a very different conclusion.

Working and building a career in these highly competitive professions often results in people feeling immense pressure to succeed at all costs. For medical professionals, graduating at the top of their classes in order to land the best residencies and hospital assignments is a significant factor in their self-imposed pressure. CPAs and Attorneys who work for large firms face the endless requirement to cultivate new and bigger clients for the firm so that they can one day become a partner in the firm is a 24-7 marathon. For dentists, working in isolation, in confined spaces and with little to no room for error can lead to depression.

In addition to anxiety and depression, use of external stimuli by professionals is growing day-by-day. Whether you are using them to increase your energy and stamina to complete your workload, or to cope with your anxiety or stress, it is often the case that such use begins innocently enough, but quickly spirals out-of-control and ruins many lives.

The biggest challenge for professionals receiving the mental health help that they need is their reluctance to ask for help. Professionals who are licensed by their State's Board are often afraid to acknowledge any mental health issues for fear of the negative impact it could have on their license's status. Similarly, those in work for large firms or organizations are often afraid to let higher management know that they may need help for fear of appearing "weak," "unsuccessful" or a "drain" on the firm or organization. It's very common and makes sense in context for a lawyer or CPA to withhold their mental health issue when they have already worked so hard to make partner or complete their partnership track.

As an Attorney practicing law for 25+ years, I inherently know the challenges, pressure and impact that being a professional can have on one's mental health. By combining that background and experience with being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I understand the impact your mental health has not only on you, but on your entire family system.

Working with a mental health professional who understands your lifestyle, your pressures, and your "world" without explanation is invaluable. Regardless of the extent of your concerns, I work with professionals like you in a collaborative manner, without judgment. I utilize various interventions and techniques, such as mindfulness, CBT, and experiential therapy to help you manage, reduce or eliminate these issues and problems from impacting your daily professional and personal life.