In this last post, I continue the Q & A series from students.
Question: How has your practice changed over the last 5 years?
Answer: I’m seeing a lot more couples close to divorcing. People seem to be waiting longer to get help. A few years ago, out of necessity, I became trained in Discernment Counseling, which is a method that supports a mixed-agenda couple (where one partner is seriously considering leaving the relationship). I’ve also recently become a trained Collaborative Divorce Facilitator.
Question: What is a typical work day like for you in regards to your practice?
Answer: I see a few clients in the morning, take a break mid-day, and then return in the evening. I never see more than 3 clients without a break. Clinicians are different, but I have noticed a degradation in my services when I book too many clients back-to-back.
Question: How is your personal life affected by having a private practice?
Answer: What personal life? Kidding. It isn’t really, but I think that’s because I have really good boundaries. I don’t overschedule myself and I turn my phone off at night and for most of the weekend. I make my friends and husband a priority!
Question: What do you do to take care of yourself?
Answer: I paint! I started taking oil painting lessons from a local artist about a year ago. Funny thing is she tends to have lots of therapists in her class! It seems I’m not the only one who thinks it’s a great way to unwind from the week and express my inner self by creating something physical.
I should also mention that I take care of myself physically, too, by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and eating nutritious organic food whenever possible. I also make sure to surround myself with positive people who will make me feel uplifted since I deal with so much negativity and pain with my clients.
Yours in the Joy of Knowledge,
Dr. Barbara LoFrisco
