Paperwork

It's getting close to the end of the month and time to complete paperwork. This is my least favorite part of the job (except for having to make those dreaded "abuse" calls). Of course, I do a little bit of paperwork, throughout the month, so I don't get too bogged down at the end. Sadly, the majority of my paperwork is during "crunch time" -- by the first of the following month.

I have been working at agencies for several years, but it has taken me a while to get the time-management thing down, especially with paperwork. But now, I'm taking less Medicaid cases because I have to write a note for each session with them.

I learned that there are other client funding sources that therapists can use that only require notes once a month. Huge difference in time savings! Even registered interns can take these cases, as they are not from private insurance sources. Each state probably has its own, so I won't go into specific names. Ask your agency supervisor for the ones in your state.

It sounds as if I am more interested in making money than seeing clients. First of all, we do have to make a living, so I'm not ashamed to earn money doing what I love and where my gifts lie. I will not be unethical in my notes or use people in order to make money. But the way I look at this is: the less paperwork I have, the more time I have to spend with my clients. I also value my down time. It keeps me emotionally healthy, so I can be a better therapist for my clients.