2010 FAMFT CONFERENCE
DEERFIELD BEACH, FLORIDA

MIAMI-DADE CHAPTER TABLE

Michael J. Alicea, MS, MSW, (Ed.D. Candidate)



LETTER TO MEMBERSHIP:

When I awoke this morning there were dark purple clouds hanging over the Redland's Country Community where I live. It reminded me that the presence of summer and its seasonal rainy weather was here. Personally, I like weather of any kind. I feel exhilarated by the onset of summer and the new beginnings that, for me, always seem to accompany it. This is the time of year when I find myself making plans and resolutions, much more so than in January.

I wear two hats in this chapter, that of the organizer and that of the pro temp newsletter editor and publisher. I enjoy the challenge, and know that it is a vital organ of communication for the chapter.

When I accepted the challenge of re-organizing the Miami-Dade Chapter, I promised myself that part of Miami-Dade’s eventually success would be linked to our ability to forge ahead in facilitating our goal for activism and volunteerism within the chapter. Volunteerism is what will make the Miami-Dade Chapter, and it has its own rewards. We who work together enjoy the camaraderie of new friendships and the knowledge that our service is eventually fruitful.

We are a community of professionals in the business of helping others but we may forget that we are also here to support each other. I invite you to consider joining the evolving Executive Board or volunteering a few hours a month to our chapter’s success. We have plenty of openings that would not require a huge commitment. The more people we have, the more we can divide jobs into smaller chunks and share the work. And be sure to check our website frequently for any updates. Please contact me if you could give a few hours here and there.

Come join us.

Michael J. Alicea, MS, MSW, (Ed.D Candidate)

Miami-Dade Organizer

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NEWSLETTER UPDATE:

We’ve launched a new newsletter and we want to keep you up-to-date as well as ask for your input in determining if you would be interested in either receiving the newsletter by email attachment, or from our website, or if you would prefer to receive it by regular mail. I’m excited about expanding the newsletter and with plans to include new columns such as therapist spotlight of the month, books, articles and research reviews. Please contact me with any ideas you have or articles you would like to offer for inclusion in future issues. This is your newsletter. In the near future, we plan to incorporate ads or flyers to help support this important form of communication in our therapeutic community.

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HOW DO YOU AVOID BURNOUT?

As therapists we are more susceptible to burnout as are the other helping professions such as doctors, nurses, teachers, etc. We want to help. We care and sometimes we can care too much. We work hard, often long hours and way past our billable hours. We often work in isolation and we may slide too far down on our sliding scale. As a result, we may start to feel fatigued, irritable, unappreciated, even angry or resentful.

We may have frequent headaches, stomach upset or other general aches and pains. We may experience low productivity, forgetfulness, concentration difficulties or a profound dread of going to work. All of this may also lead to feelings of guilt and depression. We may feel disillusioned and helpless. The light has gone out.

As a therapist I focus on three key ways to avoid burnout.

1. Do what you love.

Many therapists fall into the trap of working in the area where there is the greatest need. This often translates into “taking what’s left”. I often caution people about taking the leftovers. Why do you want the leftovers? Don't take the leftovers. Leave those for therapists who see them as jewels, who love that kind of work. You go after what kind of work you love. That’s what you’re good at and that’s what will give you energy and will ignite your passion and creativity.

2. Create balance in your life.

When you set up your practice or work in an agency, be sure you are working the hours that you want to work while leaving adequate time for family, social activities, physical health and spiritual renewal. Not all of us work evenings. Some therapists work weekends. You have 24/7 to choose from but be sure to be honest about the times and the amount of time you want to be working.

3. Be sure you are charging fees that support you.

This can be hard and draining work. If you are then also worried about paying bills and can’t afford a simple vacation, you’ll burnout very quickly. When you start your practice there are undoubtedly sacrifices you will have to make but, unless therapy is a hobby, there comes a time when your practice has to give back and begin supporting you. Are you valuing yourself enough to charge a fair fee?

4. Join a group.

Talk things over. Not just your clinical questions and challenges but also your business questions and challenges. If there is not a group available, start one. Brainstorm solutions with your group. All of you together create practices that energize and support you in doing this important and challenging work.

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NEXT MEETING:

Our next meeting is scheduled for Sat., June 26 @ 10:00 am

1000 Ponce de Leon Blvd

Conference Room

Coral Gables, Florida 33134

RSVP: 786.222.7671