One Door Closes

2005 went out with a sigh of relief.

My private practice tanked a couple of months ago. I could blame the Medicaid/Mainecare system and its defunct billing. I do blame the Governor for his defunct response. But, I also see the big picture. "Things happen for a reason," as "they" say. (Who are they anyway?)

What things?

In October, 2005, I met with some muckity mucks. It felt good. The room stormed with ideas. "Why not merge with our agency?" They wanted to expand their outpatient services and asked if I could assist with their in-home behavioral services. We came up with a game plan and shook hands. A position that combined outpatient services with in-home supervision of behavioral specialists. Over the next two months though, it became clear that management had no intention of seeing those plans through.

My office had two beautiful therapy offices and a grand, group therapy room that overlooked Wilson stream. It was clear that my work with kids was imbued in group therapy. We spoke about bringing on another therapist who might cofacilitate with me.

Upon agreement of employment, it was understood that continuity of care for my existing clientele was critical. Nonetheless, this agency placed their agenda for renovation ahead of client need. Imagine my confusion when workers showed up and told me I'd have to vacate that day. It felt nothing short of a hostile takeover of my practice that left me disoriented, my possessions in shambles and my clients tossed into oblivion. Ironically, now, more than six weeks later, there are still inadequate facilities to service clients.

To add injury to insult, I was informed the group room was carved up into an office and a waiting room and that I should not expect to have a designated office. I was to share one with other "floaters." Then, matters got even worse. The agency absorbed the clientele of another local agency that had gone under. Without discussion, after only 1 week of employment, I was assigned the task of opening 20 plus cases and taking on over 20 new employees to supervise. This not only negatively affected the quality of care for my outpatient clients, it all but ensured superficial interaction with the new home-health cases and a minimal level of supervision for the 20+ new employees who came on board.

What to do?

I gave notice. I am going to miss the terrific families with whom I have worked presently. Bringing closure will not be easy for anyone. But, I have to stay true to my ethical compass. I must retain my integrity, else how can I serve with integrity.

As one door closes, so another opens. Doors are opening and closing everyday. It's very distracting. It's sad sometimes. Today though, I feel good.