Winter 2022 | Volume 72 | Number 1
NJ PSYCHOLOGIST The Professional Journal of the New Jersey Psychological Association
Special Issue: Are You Prepared?
In this issue: CE ARTICLES Transitioning to Retirement: The Emotional, Social, and Identity Components (1 CE) Legal Issues of Psychologists Considering Retirement (1 CE)
Ethical Considerations: Taking Good Care of Your Clients/Preparing for the Unexpected When Is It Time to Give Up the Keys?
On the Lighter Side: Retirement: An Open Highway Are Psychotherapists the Great Oz? Metaphors for Psychotherapy How to Retire: The Logistics/Taking Care of Business 50 Ways to Leave Your Office Book Review: When Your Child has a Chronic Medical Illness: A Guide for the Parenting Journey ...and more!
Contents Executive Board President: Peter DeNigris, PsyD President-Elect: TBD Past-President: Daniel Lee, PsyD Secretary: Alexandra Miller, PsyD Treasurer: Marc Gironda, PhD Parliamentarian: Bonnie Markham, PhD Members-At-Large: Elio Arrechea, PhD Dan DaSilva, PhD Alex Gil, PsyD Sara Tedrick Parikh, PhD Aileen Torres, PhD Deirdre Waters, PsyD
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President's Message: A Year of Transitions
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Three Sessions
Special Section
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Introduction: Are You Prepared?
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Legal Issues of Psychologists Considering Retirement (1 CE) Transitioning to Retirement: The Emotional, Social, and Identity Components (1 CE)
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On the Lighter Side 1 6 Are Psychotherapists the Great Oz? Metaphors for Psychotherapy
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Retirement: An Open Highway
APA Council Representative: Rhonda Allen, PhD Special Representatives: ECP Chair: Anna Urbaniak, PhD NJPAGS Chair: Kristin Parente Affiliate Caucus Chair: Phyllis Bolling, PhD CODI Co-Chairs: Alexandra Miller, PsyD and TBD Executive Director: Justin Karmann Director of Professional Affairs: Susan C. McGroarty, PhD Affiliate Organization Representatives: Northeast Counties Association of Psychologists: Nansie Ross, PsyD Essex/Union County Association of Psychologists: Sara Tedrick Parikh, PhD Mercer County Psychological Association: Loraine Washton, PhD Middlesex County Association of Psychologists: Tammy Dorff, PsyD Monmouth/Ocean County Psychological Association: Deirdre Waters, PsyD Morris County Psychological Association: Sarah Dougherty, PsyD Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren County Psychological Association: Janie Feldman, PsyD South Jersey Psychological Association: TBD Editorial Board: Editor: Aaron Gubi, PhD Homestudy CE Article Editor: Dennis Finger, EdD Editorial Board Members: Anthony Tasso, PhD Nathan McClelland, PhD Eric Herschman, PsyD Ashley Gorman, PhD Staff Liaison: Christine Gurriere
Ethical Considerations
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Taking Good Care of Your Clients/Preparing for the Unexpected
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When is it Time to Give Up the Keys?
Retirement
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How to Retire: The Logistics/Taking Care of Business
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50 Ways to Leave Your Office
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Practice Resources
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Book Review: When Your Child Has a Chronic Illness: A Guide for the Parenting Journey
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Classified Ad: Office Space
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APA Council of Representatives Report Member News
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Join the NJPA Referral Network!
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2021 Foundation Donations
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2021 PAC Contributions
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Welcome New Members!
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NJPA Career Center
NJ Psychologist
Winter 2022
A Year of Transitions
By Peter DeNigris, PsyD NJPA President amending the training requirements for New Jersey I hope that each of you had a healthy and happy holiday
psychologists. This legislation allowed early career psychologists, who had already received 3,000 hours of
season! As I am sure you know, 2021 was an eventful year at NJPA filled with many transitions. Several
supervised clinical training, to be licensed sooner. Governor Murphy signed this into law during Dr.
exemplary people have moved on to other roles. I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge them and a portion of their contributions to NJPA.
Takagi’s presidency. As a result of Dr. Takagi’s outstanding work as president of NJPA, she was presented with a proclamation from NJPA and was the
First, NJPA’s 2021 past president, Dr. Lucy Takagi, who
recipient of the 2021 Outstanding Psychologist Award in a State, Provincial, or Territorial Psychological Association by Division 31 of the American Psychological
led NJPA during the inception of the pandemic, has fulfilled her leadership term with the Executive Board. True to her character, Dr. Takagi strove to meet the challenges posed by the pandemic with grace, thoughtfulness, and perseverance. Without much time
Association (APA).
to prepare, Dr. Takagi was charged with the task of advocating to the New Jersey legislature for ways to address the new pandemic-related needs of New Jersey psychologists and the people whom they serve. She targeted issues pertaining to inconsistencies with insurance reimbursement and coding, the need for reimbursement of audio-only psychotherapy sessions, and interjurisdictional challenges. She advocated strongly for members of marginalized groups. Dr. Takagi testified at the Senate Health Committee meeting concerning how state law could be restructured to allow for the permanent expansion of telehealth services that can directly benefit the underserved by allowing greater access to care. Furthermore, Dr. Takagi testified in front of the New Jersey Assembly Health Subcommittee highlighting the importance of having New Jersey enter into the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PsyPact). Governor Philip Murphy signed this into law in November 2021. Also, Dr. Takagi testified before the Assembly Regulated Professions Committee to discuss
assuming the role of past-president in 2022. During his tenure as president, Dr. Lee guided NJPA through another year of the pandemic. He launched a podcast series, developed the Maternal Health Conference, and formulated ideas for a Pain Psychology Task Force with the Executive Board. Dr. Lee worked with Central Office staff to mobilize NJPA members to use Voter Voice to encourage legislators to pass the PsyPact and maiden name legislations, as well as to advocate for the permanent expansion of telehealth. He attended the APA Practice Leadership Conference and advocated for NJPA. He hosted the NJPA Spring and Fall virtual conferences and most NJPA continuing education events. Dr. Lee guided the Executive Board in formulating its next strategic plan. He organized a program on prescription privileges and plans to continue working with NJPA members to further examine this issue in 2022. We are grateful to Dr. Lee for his goal-oriented approach, efficiency, and wonderful sense of humor in leading NJPA in 2021.
Second, NJPA’s 2021 president, Dr. Daniel Lee, will be
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further advance the mission of the association.
In addition, NJPA said goodbye to Ana DeMeo in 2021. Though having several responsibilities, Ana was most well-known for assisting NJPA’s Council on Continuing
During this past year, on the Executive Board, I spent a lot of time listening to and learning from my colleagues. I am in awe of the work my predecessors have done and I am eager to continue pursuing initiatives relevant to the main pillars of the association. In particular, I will be working with the Executive Board to finalize the strategic plan that will guide the association for the next five years. I am also highly motivated to grow NJPA’s membership. Memberships in state associations have decreased across the country. I would like to see NJPA reverse this trend. If each current member of NJPA invites JUST ONE new person to join, our membership would double. In that vein, I challenge each of you to begin that outreach and encourage just one colleague to join NJPA during the coming year. This is critical for the longevity of the association, as a means of enhancing its diversity, as well as preventing burnout of current leaders and members. In addition, as I write this, the COVID variants are surging and the number of new cases continues to rise. Much uncertainty remains, our communities continue to struggle, and the demands for our services are only increasing. The need for access to quality mental healthcare has never been greater, as many are describing the mental health crisis that has erupted as “the second pandemic.” I will continue to work with NJPA’s Committee on Legislative Affairs (COLA) to ensure that our legislators are aware of the mental health needs of our communities and how psychologists are poised to meet them. Moreover, at no time is the need for integrated healthcare more pronounced than now. Working in an interdisciplinary manner and collaboratively with other healthcare professionals is paramount and can elevate our profession. I have already begun to explore possible collaborations with other organizations that promote this type of interdisciplinary education and care. I look forward to advancing that work during my presidential year.
Education Affairs (CoCEA) with the development and production of continuing education programs.This was no small task, as NJPA pivoted to virtual programming during the early stages of the pandemic. While Ana will definitely be missed, NJPA was excited to welcome Kaleigh White into the Events and Association Project Manager position in November 2021. Kaleigh is in the process of completing a PhD program in Developmental Psychology at Liberty University. She will be working full-time with CoCEA and with other projects as needed. Lastly, but certainly not least, in December 2021, NJPA bid farewell to its Executive Director, Keira BoertzelSmith, who had been with NJPA for 10 years. Some of her NJPA highlights include: (1) receiving the 2021 APA’s Division 31 Outstanding Achievement by a Psychological Association Staff Member award; (2) being the chairperson of the 2019 APA Council of Executives of State and Provincial Psychological Associations (CESPPA); (3) supporting new diversity and inclusion initiatives across NJPA; and (4) overseeing and implementing a robust continuing education policy and process to provide psychologists with quality programming to satisfy their mandatory continuing education requirements. She also assisted NJPA with enhancing its advocacy presence during the pandemic. Not surprisingly, Keira was instrumental in facilitating a smooth transition for NJPA’s new Executive Director, Justin Karmann. Justin comes to NJPA with a Masters of Divinity in Religious Studies from Princeton and an undergraduate degree in philosophy. He is an experienced leader at coordinating structural and organizational changes by way of collaboration, adaptation, teamwork, and communication. His professional achievements included mobilizing the community to unite behind important initiatives, such as rallying against racial injustice, offering asylum to immigrants, and fundraising to renovate facilities. While we are indebted to Keira for her invaluable contributions to NJPA, we are excited to begin working with Justin to
In short, I am excited to work with our new executive director, our Central Office staff, and the 2022 Executive Board to further promote NJPA’s mission and the needs of our profession. I also look forward to working with each of you to ensure that NJPA remains a premiere psychological association.
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Three Sessions
By Justin Karmann, MDiv Executive Director
Three sessions: that was my self-assigned rule in my former position as a clergy member when providing counseling for young adults, congregants, and community members. Having an advanced degree and a high EQ offered me the ability to care, but it certainly gave me no room for authority in the world of therapy. For that reason, I always expected that from my three sessions, they would seek therapy with a professional. To this day, I think it is one of the best rules I ever set for myself and it comes as no irony that I am now the executive director of this esteemed organization that offers support and advocacy for psychologist professionals throughout the state.
everything shut down and isolation began, what was left was those who care. The helpers. Virtual therapy became a life saving tool for countless individuals, those who had nowhere else to turn, without an opportunity to have their voice heard, or to experience healing through professional psychologists. You all, through your work and dedication, kept people alive and well. You kept your communities, this state, and even our country going. And, you will never be thanked enough for that. The nature of your work means you are expected to be a listening ear for others while not necessarily having a listening ear for yourself. I want to thank you for your dedication and commitment to saving lives through the act of therapeutic healing. This doesn’t mean every case or client is a success story. But it does mean that I and so many others know what you are doing and what you have accomplished.
The best part about the three sessions rule was interacting with those who had begun therapy and witnessing their transformation. In sitting down with a young person for coffee, I would hear how his or her therapist would listen within the module of talk therapy or how his or her professional would challenge in ways I couldn’t without jeopardizing my opened-armed, judgement free relationship. A professional could be direct and say the things I only wish I could say. And the result: growth. True and meaningful changes in the lives of young and the not so young.
Thank you for saving the world. You don’t know me yet, so you may think this is pandering, but I sincerely hope you don’t. These words are genuine. Your profession ranks among the highest in lifesaving work. I hope in the coming months that this organization can continue to support you throughout your journey and profession of providing lifesaving work. We are in active conversation regarding retreats and community networking with the intentions of uplifting and supporting you all as you support so many others. In the meantime, please reach out at njpajk@psychologynj.org if you would like to meet in person or virtually for coffee or lunch.
For my own journey, therapy has been integral to my development and growth and, because of my endless support of everyone seeking therapy regardless of the issue, big or small, I have seen the most stubborn, complacent individuals give therapy a try and experience renewal. Why am I saying all of this? Because therapists need encouragement, too.
Thank you for all that you do!
I know firsthand what this pandemic has been like for those of us being the last line of defense. When
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Introduction to the Special Issue: Are You Prepared? retirement plan that specifies important tasks for retiring psychologists, such as lining up potential referrals for clients and notifying our office landlord and selected colleagues. She advises us that when we leave our office for the last time, we recall all the ups and downs of our psychological practice and our gratifying career. But what is the process for retiring? Is there a suggested timeline? Blakeslee guides us to follow specific steps beginning one year before the retirement date. She helps us by laying out a step-by-step procedure from twelve months down to two to three months before fully retiring. Her guide is a valuable tool for any psychologist.
By Dennis Finger, EdD Continuing Education Editor
The question, “Are You Prepared?” captures our attention, raises our awareness, and beckons for a call to action. Many psychologists may not be ready for dealing with a disruption in their psychological services due to different factors such as illness, relocation, or retirement. Although this journal issue focuses primarily on end-of-career issues and retirement, various topics discussed are important for psychologists at any professional stage, such as formulating a “Professional Directive,” also called a “Professional Will.” This special issue aims to look at the emotional, social, identity, ethical, legal, and practical issues associated with the process of closing a practice, retirement, and our next life chapter.
A considerable number of psychologists have never heard the term “Professional Directive,” and few seem to have prepared one. Mary Blakeslee and Jane Simon discuss the ethical considerations in retiring and especially the value of developing a Professional Directive. They recommend that psychologists devise a Professional Directive especially for the welfare of their clients. They define a Professional Directive as “a document that basically describes what to do if you cannot attend to the responsibilities of your work, either temporarily or permanently.” They acknowledge that forming the Professional Directive may be uncomfortable and anxietyproducing, but stress the importance of a directive if something unexpected should happen.
Before delving into the articles, we would like to thank Mary Blakeslee for her many significant contributions to this special issue. Mary’s sustained efforts made this special issue possible.
What is it like to retire? Abisola Gallagher takes us on her personal journey from working full-time as a director of a university counseling center to taking time off from any work to reflect, adjust, and transition to post retirement life. She shares with us going through an unexpected “dark period,” and, by utilizing the wisdom of a dear colleague, emerges with new acceptance, living more in the moment and fully enjoying life. She advises us to be patient with ourselves and be open to the wonderful surprises that may await us in our next life chapter.
Mary Blakeslee asks, “When is it time to give up the keys?” She reminds us to continue to develop and maintain our competence, stay in touch with colleagues, be mindful of the quality of our professional functioning, and practice self-care. Surrendering the keys to our office is not easy, but eventually the time comes to retire. We mourn the loss of our work life, but we can also focus on healing and developing other parts of ourselves. During the process of mourning, Blakeslee helps us to resolve our feelings and moves us to consider life with greater lightness as she concludes with “Perhaps a few less keys in our pocket can be a good thing.”
The two continuing education articles cover valuable aspects of the retirement process. Barry Mitchell examines the emotional, social, and identity issues associated with retirement. He advises us that retirement may be
How can we leave our office? Blakeslee, with a spin on a popular Paul Simon song, points out that there may be 50 ways to leave our office. She talks about the value of a 5
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especially challenging for psychologists who have emphasized their professional identity in life and may need to develop and strengthen their personal identity as they move through the retirement process. Perhaps it would be healthier to better balance our professional and personal identities earlier in our career thereby laying the groundwork for a smoother and more satisfying transition to retirement. What are the relevant legal issues? James Wulach presents and discusses an array of the major legal issues that psychologists need to consider during and after the retirement process. Wulach gives a full description of the contents of a “Professional Will.” It is important to attend to the critical legal issues discussed for helping our clients and protecting ourselves. As a whole group, these manuscripts aim to help psychologists be better prepared for end-of-career issues and retirement. Retirement may be viewed not as a single point in time, but as its own developmental stage giving us the opportunity for self-discovery, self-renewal, and new adventures. About the Author Dennis R. Finger, EdD is a licensed psychologist in private practice, and a retired professor of psychology and graduate program coordinator at Kean University. He is co-chair of the NJPA Homestudy Committee and a former Director of Academic Affairs. He currently serves as continuing education editor of the NJ Psychologist.
Continuing Education FAQs How Many Continuing Education Credits Must I Complete? For each biennial license renewal, a licensee must have completed 40 credits of continuing education related to the practice of psychology. These 40 credits must include at least 4 credits in topics related to domestic violence education and 1 credit in Opioid education (abuse, addiction, and diversion). How do I know if a continuing education activity will be applicable to the NJ requirement? All continuing education courses must be approved by one of the four organizations listed below, or by a provider approved by one of the four organizations listed below (i.e. NJPA is approved through APA. NJPA is now recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for NY licensed psychologists). Approved Sponsors of CE: 1. American Psychological Association; 2. National Register of Health Service Psychologists; 3. Association of State and Provincial Psychology Board; or 4. American Medical Association (ACCME is the facilitator of AMA approved content). What types of activities qualify for continuing education? At least 20 of the 40 credits, if not all, must be completed by attending continuing education courses, in-person, on-line, or through reading and examination. Of the 40 credits, at least 10 credits shall be in approved courses or programs where there is opportunity for live interaction with the continuing education instructor. If you are taking an online course and have the ability to interact with the presenter, that is considered "live interaction."
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Continuing Education Homestudy Section The content of continuing education is the crucial component intended to maintain, develop, and increase conceptual and applied competencies that are relevant to psychological practice, education, and science.
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Legal Issues of Psychologists Considering Retirement (1 CE)
years, some very risk-averse psychologists may consider if they want to maintain their records indefinitely, in the unlikely event that they are sued for some alleged malpractice from the distant past. With
By James Wulach, PhD, JD
the advent of paperless offices and electronic medical records, indefinite record storage is becoming less and less of a physical space issue.
One of the most important decisions psychologists make in their professional career is how and when to retire from professional practice. Psychologists need to have a
The question arises whether the clinician would handle such matters himself or herself or arrange to have this
clear and organized plan for satisfying the legal obligations involved in retirement. This article covers
managed by someone else who has the training and
the major issues that need to be addressed for retirement including record keeping, local publications notice, special considerations for patients, types of
skill set to properly make such decisions, perhaps in consultation with an informed professional. Some people make reciprocal arrangements with a colleague
retirement, implications for malpractice insurance, and the tasks and materials necessary for the creation of a “professional will.”
to handle each other’s records in the event of retirement, death, or disability. The details of developing such plans, including where and how to access records and fees for any specialized services, are
Record keeping The administrative regulations of the NJ State Board of Psychological Examiners are the first legal hurdles to contemplate when preparing for retirement, even if the actual announcement is years down the road. The psychologist must have procedures in place to keep records confidential, but also available for authorized requests for copies of them (N.J. Admin. Code §13:42-8.1). Normal New Jersey record retention requirements, before shredding, remain at seven years after the last professional contact for most files (N.J. Admin. Code §13:42-8.5), but it is recommended that records be kept for 10 years for Medicare and Medicaid cases as they may have lingering legal implications. In addition, records of a minor must now be kept for at least seven years from the date of the most recent entry, or until the child turns 25, whichever is longer (N.J. Admin. Code §13:42-8.1(g)).
best formalized in a so-called Professional Will, which I understand will be the subject of a separate article in this issue of the NJ Psychologist. Nevertheless, the psychologist, or the estate, bears some legal responsibility and liability risk to ensure that the records are disposed in a professional manner. Local Publication Notice In addition, no matter how arcane, notice must be published for three months after retirement (typically in the notices section) of an area newspaper that both officially informs the public, but also describes procedures for retrieving records, such as a name and address, and where a written request may be mailed. Consideration must be given to whether one would want to use their home address, if privacy issues are involved, rent a post office box, or arrange with a colleague to receive mail (N.J. Admin. Code §13:42-8.1). Finally, the psychologist is obligated to attempt to directly notify any client serviced during the six months prior to the retirement date, providing information
Finally, with greatly extended statutes of limitation for certain types of sexual abuse and malpractice in recent
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concerning the procedure for retrieval of records (N.J. Admin. Code §13:42-8.1).
their psychological activities. They therefore remain officially as active and can decide to resume their practice at any time, perhaps with more flexibility than previously with a full client load. In that case, they would be free to perform an occasional psychological consultation, see a particular person in brief therapy,
Particular attention should be focused on current clients with diverse backgrounds, as it might be more difficult for them to find and/or afford new therapists who are sensitive to diversity and cultural issues. In addition, retiring psychologists may need additional efforts in reaching out to past diverse clients who may have less access to retirement announcements and plans. Finally, in making arrangements for others to manage records
develop a different type of less-stressful psychological service, or do occasional volunteer work as a psychologist, after transferring their previous clients.
after a practice is closed, attention should be paid to ensuring that any individual managing information and
psychological services to anyone, even pro-bono, or occasionally, may choose the option of making their
records requests be aware of possible diversity concerns and respond in a sensitive, appropriate, and helpful manner.
license inactive at the next licensure renewal period (N.J. Admin. Code §13:42-10.17). This is an intermediate path, in which the psychologist still has a license
Special Considerations for Patients
though not practicing nor paying a renewal fee; but with the permission of the Board, they may activate
Special consideration must be given to help patients determine whether they will be transferred to another
their licensure again in the future without considerable effort, except for making up all the continuing
therapist or terminated. If a psychologist should abruptly move to another state without informing a client or otherwise handle a termination
education credits they would have needed to complete, if they were active, and subject to the review of the Board. Nevertheless, inactive psychologists are still
unprofessionally, the client might have a legitimate malpractice suit for abandonment, or to report the
subject to allegations of professional misconduct from the public and Board discipline.
psychologist to the Board for professional misconduct. Clients should be given adequate time, based upon the
The ultimate retirement step with the New Jersey
nature of the relationship, for an appropriate termination process when possible. Thus, long-term intensive treatment may properly require several
Board, is simply not to renew one’s license when it comes up for renewal every two years, or to surrender the license before then. If psychologists wanted to
months of working through, whereas a brief therapy may only need two to four additional sessions to process the impending separation. Everyone should be asked whether they want a referral, and if so, be given a list of three places. However, as the referred therapist may not be in the patient’s insurance network or otherwise affordable or available, one or two low-cost agencies with liberal admissions policies should be considered. The referral information should be included in a letter to the patient, kept in the patient’s file, and referred to in the progress notes, as an appropriate risk management strategy to avoid legal claims of abandonment.
change their minds and resume practicing after that, they would have to start from scratch, as if they were applying for licensure for the first time. Such a step has the advantage of making it far less likely that the Board would handle a consumer complaint in such cases, as the person is no longer a licensed psychologist. However, for all practical purposes, there would be no looking back for practicing psychology in New Jersey.
Other psychologists, who really do not wish to offer any
Implications for Malpractice Insurance Next, it is necessary to consider what the ramifications are regarding malpractice insurance, in the event psychologists are sued after retirement, for actions during or after their active practice, including the proper handling of practice closure, and of records after the practice is ended. In that situation, it is highly recommended, although not legally required, to purchase a malpractice “tail,” that covers any malpractice claims following retirement. Many
Types of Retirement The next question to consider is whether retirement will be minimal, partial, or complete, in the eyes of the State Board. Some people, who may be trying out retirement for size, may choose to keep their licensure active, though they send out notices and stop most of
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malpractice insurance companies offer free tails upon retirement if one has been a customer of theirs for a number of years. It is best to find out the details from each insurance policy to determine whether such a “tail” would be offered if one becomes inactive, and based on each person’s individual profile with the company, or if a charge is required.
Access to storage of relevant computer & electronic files Location of office keys, filing cabinets, and storage units Location and access instructions for any other practice information Instructions for notifying current and past clients Referral plan process for current patients Ongoing management, storage, and transfer of client records as needed Written authorization before transferring records Payment arrangements for professional executor services
Another issue requires attention if a psychologist practiced under the umbrella of an LLC or PC. Such professional entities require licensure, so psychologists may need to retire from such organizations and close them, as well as to avoid annual filings and fees, or transfer their share of ownership to remaining qualified professionals, in conjunction with the advice of an attorney. Malpractice coverage “tails” might also be necessary to protect against lawsuits against the entity, in various situations. If one is practicing within a group with existing contracts, or any other agency or organization with contracts in place, it would be prudent to consider the ramifications of ending a relationship with such entities, and whether and what type of notice may be necessary.
An excellent set of practice resources for helping a psychologist walk through the necessary steps, including a model professional will, may be found on the New Jersey Psychological Association website, where one may click on the Members menu button then navigate to Practice Resources, and Retirement. (https://njpa.memberclicks.net/practice-resources). Conclusion In conclusion, a well-planned retirement, professionally and legally conducted, is in the best interests of psychologists, their colleagues, and their clients. In order to be successful, in addition to clinical and emotional considerations, issues that must be considered carefully for legal implications include the development of post-retirement records maintenance and handling, proper notification of patients during the retirement, transition, and termination phase of treatment, arranging for the appropriate legal status with the State Board, malpractice and “tail” issues regarding protection against lawsuits and other legal actions following retirement, a professional will, and taking appropriate actions if one is practicing within the legal structure of an LLC or PC.
Professional Wills An essential part of any psychologist career plan, both before retirement and after, in case of disability or death, should be to develop a “professional will.” The main purpose of the “professional will” is to have a colleague ready to step in quickly to manage all aspects of notifying recent and current patients, referral sources, and colleagues, and to maintain and manage client files during the seven years or longer that they remain active until they are shredded. Some of the specific tasks and materials that must be gathered for the creation of this document and the necessary arrangements include (APA, 2013: Are you prepared for the unexpected?) : Name & contact information of your professional executor Statement giving authority to your professional executor List of your consultants and support services Name & contact information for the executor of your personal will Location and access information of your office Updated list of all current and recent patients with their contact information Current client contacts before next scheduled appointment
References Additional References available upon request. About the Author James Wulach is professor of psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY. He is in part-time private practice of psychology and of law in Edison, NJ. Earn 1 CE credit when you read this article and successfully complete the post-test. Purchase this CE activity here.
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Transitioning to Retirement: The Emotional, Social, and Identity Components (1 CE)
By Barry Mitchell, PsyD
Deciding to retire is a complex, unfolding process with many emotional twists and turns. Retirement is a process and not a solitary moment in time as Bleidorn and Schwaba (2018) and Wang et al. (2014) have pointed out. While there are those that struggle when they approach retirement, there are also those who approach retirement without much conflict or stress and move easily into new activities and endeavors (Chamberlin, 2014; Delamontagne, 2010). Fehr (2012) also highlights that while he agrees that retirement can be stressful for many, he also emphasizes that for others retirement provides new found energy that is satisfying. At the same time, others may choose to never retire and instead greatly reduce their practice size.
thinking about retirement. These emotions can feel confusing and overwhelming at times and make it difficult to think through the decision and the steps that follow. As we start this process, we are typically still engaged in our practices. The many practical aspects of retiring can be distracting and time consuming and closing a private practice can be anxiety provoking when you start thinking of all the tasks that need to be accomplished. Fortunately, there is a body of literature that helps us think through all the details and provides direction during a time when we may feel unsettled and adrift in this new territory. Practical suggestions on how to approach the pragmatic aspects of closing a practice include the following: clinical considerations of when and how to inform patients, how to provide continuity of care through referrals, administrative issues concerning the clinical record, informing the various services you utilize to assist in the management of the practice such as business liability insurances, answering services, how to manage your voice mail, whether or not to retain your license to practice and your malpractice coverage, and many more issues specific to your individual situation that arise ( Blakeslee, 2019; O’Leary, 2018; Scroppo, 2020). Reviewing APA’s Ethical principles of psychologists and Code of Conduct (2017a) and the NJ Board of Psychological Examiners Rules and Regulations (latest revision, Nov 2021) are also important resources that guide us through the process.
This article focuses on the emotional and social components of the retirement process, the role of loss, and the impact of retirement on one’s identity. There is a particular emphasis on high achieving individuals, as high achievement needs are characteristic of many psychologists (Potash, 1981). The Decision to Retire Some may resonate with what I have to say on this topic and others may not because it is such an individual process. We all need to listen to our own inner voice as there are many factors that lead to the decision to retire and how to retire. There is no right way to approach this transition in our lives. How you approach retirement is very dependent on your personal life experiences and your perception of them and when they occurred at different points in your own life. We all, as psychologists, as persons, are unique and will respond differently to the process.
It is understandable that you may feel anxious and sometimes ruminate about all of the details that need to be tended to during this phase. Having a mentor, reading articles that provide practical guidance, talking to a colleague, friend, or family member can all help to
There is a range of emotions that can surface as we start
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ground and center you during what can be a tumultuous time.
anxious and depressed at times (Delamontagne, 2011). These individuals often don’t talk about their pain and conflict as they feel shame and embarrassment because the general belief about retirement is that it is supposed to be a fun point in life filled with freedom. Schlossberg (2009) also writes that the transition to retirement can be experienced as a loss for those that link their professional life to their self-esteem. The feelings of loss take many forms and are important to acknowledge. For example, there is the loss of seeing patients with whom you enjoy working with and the knowledge that it won’t be you helping them work through their issues, the loss of collegial contact if you share office space with others, and loss of your own office space.
All of the above involve thinking ahead and, in advance, as you move toward retirement. Emotional Aspects of Retirement Chamberlin (2014) points out that while some think in advance about the emotional and social aspects of retirement, too many don’t reflect on the changes that occur. Schlossberg (2009), who refers to Gilbert’s (2006) work notes, states that looking ahead itself can trigger anxiety because none of us knows what is next. This anxiety could deter us from engaging in reflection about retirement decisions, but at a cost. Schlossberg (2009) suggests that there are benefits to looking ahead as one thinks about retirement. Given that, it is very useful to begin thinking way in advance about retirement giving yourself the time to process this new direction that helps to decrease the chances of making impulsive or misguided decisions.
Giving up your office can be a real loss for some and is not to be minimized. Many of us invest much thought and effort creating a comfortable, safe consultation space for our patients and ourselves. Taking your nameplate off your desk, your office door and your building, packing all your books and art objects, and moving your furniture can all trigger feelings of loss, as well as identity issues that I will address later in the article. Schlossberg (2009) makes a valuable point by emphasizing the importance of time as we transition to retirement. We need to say goodbye and grieve our professional life, particularly if we decide to retire entirely. We need to give ourselves the gift of time allowing ourselves to grieve, as doing this makes it possible for us to move forward and prepare for whatever is next.
There may be a generational component to how we approach retirement (Guy et al., 1987). That is, those that practice longer may, in fact, have already reduced the size of their practice and receive a high level of satisfaction and gratification from helping others. They postpone or never retire because being in the role of therapist is important to their essential identity. On the other hand, there are those who do choose to fully retire who are very tied to their work and experience feelings of loss and emotional pain, feeling
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Dimension of Time Wang et al., (2011) discuss an important point when they draw attention to the impact that retirement has on individuals and how it varies from person to person, but add that there is also a dimension of time that needs to be considered. That is, the impact of retirement on any one individual may also change for this individual over the passage of time. Wang et al. (2011) propose an integrated approach to understanding the transition to retirement that is a valuable perspective. While beyond the scope of this article to address in depth, they discuss that the impact of retirement on any given individual is a function of a range of resources available to that individual at any given moment in time. The resources they discuss include the physical, cognitive, motivational, financial, social, and emotional resources available to the individual, again at any given moment over the course of one’s retirement. These factors taken together affect the individual’s perception of how they are transitioning during and throughout retirement. A thorough reading of their article offers a deeper perspective on retirement that will enhance your thinking about retirement.
you were involved in your busy professional career. Schlossberg (2009) continues to say that friends help us to become acquainted with aspects of ourselves not yet known. Meeting new people and deepening our relationships with people with whom we already are connected are exciting opportunities to become acquainted with unknown parts of ourselves.
Social Components of Retirement One of the resources, Wang et al., (2011), that I want to highlight discusses the impact retirement has on the social component of our life. As our professional life changes our level of connection to others can change. Schlossberg (2009) points out that when working as a psychologist, whatever the setting, you are also often interacting with individuals other than the patient. These connections help to mediate aloneness and provide a sense of belonging.
My professional identity has been central to the way I think about myself and has been a primary way of feeling good about myself. Intellectually, I know there are many other components to my life that are major parts of my sense of self and that I value highly but my professional identity has been central throughout my career. It is important to understand all of the emotions that surface during the retirement process in the context of identity. When transitioning to retirement, we are at a point in life when we are reshaping and broadening our identity in some ways.
Impact of Retirement on Identity The last aspect I want to address concerns the impact that retirement has on identity. While I understood this on an intellectual level, I didn’t immediately acknowledge to myself that this was a core issue until I shared my feelings during one of my regular peer consultation meetings. During this meeting, I talked about transitioning to retirement discussing some of my anxieties, fears, and concerns. My colleague and friend of many years immediately framed what I was experiencing as related to identity and she was absolutely right (M. Brunell, personal communication, April 23, 2021). The central issue I needed to explore and understand was the impact retirement would have on my identity.
Upon retirement, those connections, at times, inevitably change. Schlossberg (2009) points out that it is useful to have a variety of communities of people that you participate with knowing that some may be ongoing and others may be more infrequent. Staying connected in a variety of ways becomes critical to our wellbeing and nurtures us on many levels. Reaching out and being attuned to opportunities to connect with others helps us to manage the changes that occur when retiring. For some, that may be continuing with a peer consultation group during the retirement process, for others it may be reconnecting with your professional organization or other organizations you didn’t have time to pursue when
Earlier in this article, we discussed the anxiety triggered by the practical aspects of retiring; another way to understand these emotions is to look at the concept of identity. Erickson (1963) talked about Identity vs Role confusion as the critical psychosocial stage during adolescence with the major question to be answered being “who am I?” It is plausible to think that this question resurfaces at various points in life, and particularly during this transition to retirement. As Wang et al., (2014, p.20) suggest, being in a retirement phase of life is a good place to explore the question of “who am I?”
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Broadening the Bases of our Self-Esteem Potash’s (1981) earlier work adds to the discussion of how self-esteem is often linked to achievement in the development of many mental health professionals. As we step back from our professional roles, we need to think about broadening our self-esteem so that it is based on more than achievement. Retirement is a chance to expand who we are, reflect on the different possibilities that make up who we are, and to be more open to change as a way of broadening who we are and how we feel about ourselves (Schlossberg, 2009). The process of asking ourselves once again, “who am I," can be anxiety provoking, stimulate fear, and increase our sense of vulnerability making us feel lost and ungrounded. Achievement, in and of itself, is not negative, but it is important to see ourselves as more than just achievement. Wang et al., (2014) point out that retirement is a chance to reframe how we think about the source of our self-esteem. This connects well with Potash’s (1981) idea discussed earlier that achievement is the main basis for many mental health professionals’ self-esteem. Viewing retirement as a process of thinking differently and broadly about ourselves opens up possibilities (Wang et al., 2014).
significance and whether or not we view ourselves as having value and significance. Schlossberg’s (2009) view is that our professional life can be, for some, the primary source of helping ourselves feel we matter. This aspect of mattering seems aligned with Potash’s (1981) idea that achievement is often our primary way we feel good about ourselves. Schlossberg (2009) points out that we need to broaden the ways we matter or said another way, broaden the way we feel about and define ourselves. There are many ways to do this and the paths we pursue to find this and the exact ways we arrive at it will be different for each of us. An Experimental Approach to Retirement Several years later, Wang et al., (2014) introduced the idea that taking an experimental approach to retirement has value. Trying to pursue various interests and activities that present themselves help us to know ourselves more deeply and even broaden and strengthen our sense of self. We can then learn to value ourselves even more deeply than by achievement in our careers alone. Given we have spent most of our academic and professional careers focused on achievement (work) as a way to feel good about ourselves, this requires a shift in the way we perceive ourselves. Potash gives us encouragement and hope in being able to broaden our way of thinking about ourselves when he states that “Through our will we are truly recreating ourselves” (Potash, 2005, p. 333).
Our self-esteem can be broadened so that we have multiple paths to feeling good about ourselves. While we may continue to feel good about our achievements, we can also feel good about relationships we value with family and friends and other dimensions of our life that we develop (volunteer opportunities, becoming involved in community projects).
Transitioning to retirement is a unique process for each of us requiring that we listen to our inner voice. How you approach retirement is very personality dependent, as well as dependent on the range of factors that have been discussed earlier. While the literature is helpful and provides information to stimulate our thinking about the future there is no right way to approach this transition. Patience with ourselves as this process unfolds is needed, as is being open to possibilities and opportunities as they present themselves. As Bleidorn and Schwaba (2018) discuss, we need to be flexible during this process. It is valuable to allow ourselves to shift gears, change directions, and experiment with new things we haven’t tried before. Allowing ourselves to feel and experience all the emotions that surface, while painful at times, does in fact make it more possible to move through them.
Some of us are further along than others in how much we link our self-esteem to achievement versus other areas of our life (Potash, 1981). For some of us, the question of “who am I?” resurfaces more intensely during the process of transitioning to retirement. This is often unexpected. The concept of mattering provides another pathway to think about identity issues. Rosenberg, (as cited in Schlossberg, 2009) is the sociologist who introduced the concept he called "mattering." Schlossberg then further developed this concept of mattering, defining mattering as having several aspects, but the one I want to focus on is importance (Schlossberg, 2009, p. 24-27). My understanding of what Schlossberg is referring to is whether or not others view us as having value and
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As we move through the process, it is important to allow ourselves to have space and stillness; this is often harder than you think when life has always been active and busy. Giving ourselves the freedom of time and space allows other opportunities to present themselves.
we will find additional ways of experiencing and enjoying ourselves because even in the midst of change we continue to grow. In closing, Tomasulo (2021) offers a useful way of thinking about the future when he says that hope is about a shift in perception. If we can challenge the perceptions of our early experiences that led us to feel valued and that we matter based solely on achievement (Potash, 1981; 2005; Schlossberg, 2009), then we can begin to see other ways we can feel good about who we are. While our professional identification and our professional work may continue in some shape or form, whether through volunteer work or more formal professional activity, it will continue to serve as a strong basis for defining who we are. However, we can also perceive other activities that present themselves as opportunities to broaden the base of how we define ourselves. Whether we have based our sense of self primarily on our professional identity or are closer to having a broader sense of self, making space and being open to potentially new experiences that have meaning to us, however we define that, is the path to healthfully and meaningfully navigating this transition to a new place filled with possibilities in our life.
Leaving options open is valuable. Some may continue to maintain their license to practice and malpractice insurance not knowing exactly what the options are that may present themselves. Doing this may help you feel more secure as you move through the transitioning process that can help to manage the anxiety about the unknown future. Conclusion We all need ways to help us think through and process the retirement experience. The literature, as discussed, offers a variety of approaches to help us process this time in our lives and integrate the retirement experience into our understanding of ourselves. Various authors use different conceptual models and different phrasings of the language when talking about the retirement experience that is useful, as from each of them we gather different pieces of information helping us to move further along in our process of understanding (Schlossberg, 2009; Wang et al., 2014). In different ways, the authors, referred to in this article, have discussed that we need to listen to our inner voice, be open to opportunities that present themselves, and even though we may feel unsettled at times, trust that
References Furnished Upon Request. About the Author Dr. Barry Mitchell is past-president of NJPA.
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On the lighter side...
NJ Psychologist
Winter 2022
Are Psychotherapists the Great Oz? Metaphors for Psychotherapy friends, and physicians) to set the person on the path to get the desired help, which can be fraught with challenges along the way. The metaphoric Good Witch and the Wicked Witch also exist in our lives to both help and challenge us in our daily living. The Great Oz, however, turned out to be a terrible disappointment to Dorothy and her friends when her dog, Toto, pulled the curtain open exposing the wouldbe wizard. The Great Oz was not all-knowing and allpowerful as they had hoped and envisioned. Or was he?
By John Diepold, Jr, PhD
Guardian of the Emerald City Gates: “Orders are nobody can see the Great Oz! Not nobody, not no how!”
Back to the quote from the Guardian of the Emerald City, “Orders are nobody can see the Great Oz! Not nobody, not no how!” The reason nobody can see the Great Oz is because there is no Great Oz to be seen outside of oneself. The skillful wizard helped Dorothy learn that she could return home with him, only to find out that was not to be as his hot air balloon unexpectedly launched without her, forcing her to use other resources. The carnival barker wizard helped the Lion to recognize the courage within himself. He helped the Scarecrow discover his brain and intellect. And, he helped the Tin Man discover his heart. Everything they sought was already within each of them. By virtue of his role as a wizard, he helped them access these inner resources. The wizard also provided transitional objects as anchors to forever signify evidence of courage, intellect, and heart.
A small sign featuring the above quote from the classic movie, The Wizard of Oz, has hung on my office door for many years. Many who enter are oblivious to the quote, while few inquire and make comments about the movie. When there are comments and inquiries, I take the time to invite them to wonder why I have it there. Psychotherapy can mean many things to many people, including those who facilitate psychotherapy. Psychological treatment is sought for countless reasons to acquire assistance, guidance, understanding, skills, and other forms of “help” and emotional healing. Societal expectations are such that it is the psychotherapist who has the learning, wisdom, and power to make this happen.
Some takeaways from The Wizard of Oz as a metaphor for psychotherapy:
As the movie eventually portrays, Dorothy, along with her new-found friends (Lion, Scarecrow, and Tin Man), followed the Yellow Brick Road in search of the Great Oz. They were told it would be the Great Oz who would help Dorothy get home, help the Lion find courage, give the Scarecrow a brain, and the Tin Man a heart.
1. Metaphors for psychotherapy are everywhere, if we choose to notice, and can serve as topics for personal exploration and reframes. 2. The general public may see psychotherapists to be more than what they are. 3. Caution is warranted when psychotherapists portray to be the equivalent of the Great Oz, with all the smoke, mirrors, and bravado who know-it-all, because they become at risk of being exposed and disappointing those who seek their assistance.
The search for our personal “home” (with loving family, friends, and acceptance), “courage” (to do, become, and grow as a person), “brain” (intellect, knowledge, and learning), and “heart” (ability to love and to be loved, to feel) are universal human aspirations. The Yellow Brick Road may be the advice offered by others (family,
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4. Be careful when psychotherapists tell people what to do, even when the person wants to be told. As Dorothy learned, it does not necessarily work out that way because the hot air balloon left without her. She ultimately needed to draw on her own resources and that of others to find her way home. 5. The notion of “home” is likely a fluid concept and a topic of exploration in therapy. While Dorothy “returned home,” others may need to “find home.” Home can signify a place of love, acceptance, and safety, which some have and others never had. The person will need to teach the therapist the “home” they seek, and what needs to be done to get there. 6. When psychotherapists are seen as wizards (we cannot control how another may view us), then such wizardly skills ought to be used in concert with the person’s unique needs and experiences involving thoughts, feelings, sensations, and behavior. The resources sought by the Lion, Scarecrow, and Tin Man provide avenues for exploration and personal growth using our clinical skills. 7. Toto, Dorothy’s loyal dog, suggests the value of a person’s unconscious resources to discover truths and shift perceptions when needed. 8. The story also provided hope, even in the face of frightening and traumatic experiences, that “home” can be reached, and life lived more comfortably. There are many more metaphors embedded within The Wizard of Oz, as there are in many classic stories and movies. The fun is finding them and using the variable meanings to assist our patients. About the Author John is a practicing psychologist, in Moorestown, NJ, with 40+ years of clinical experience. He has presented nationally and internationally on his areas of interest and research, and has taught many workshops on Heart Assisted Therapy (HAT) in the USA, Canada, Belgium, and Holland. John is the author or co-author of 12 professional publications including Evolving Thought Field Therapy (2004) and Heart Assisted Therapy (2018). He has been a Member of NJPA since 1978 and APA since 1981.
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On the lighter side...
NJ Psychologist
Winter 2022
Retirement: An Open Highway Retirement is not the end of the road. It is the beginning of the open highway. -Unknown
On January 1, 2021, I retired from my full-time position as Director of a Counseling & Wellness Center at a university. I planned to retire while I was physically healthy, financially secure, and still enjoyed the work. And so, it was. Also, instinctively it felt like the right time to retire.
By Abisola Gallagher, EdD
I began transitioning from my full-time position a year before retirement: organizing and clearing out my papers and computer files, bringing home books, etc. Notably, some of my colleagues who had previously retired suggested that I take a year off before making decisions about what I was going to do after retirement. As a result, a few months prior to retiring, I informed the professional organizations that I was an active member of that I
was going to maintain my membership, but I would become an inactive member for a year. The timeout was a great decision. However, I maintained my part-time private practice because I knew I was not ready for full retirement. Retirement was not what I expected. I am a workaholic and I did not anticipate the challenge of transitioning from the intensity of my former life to a significantly less active and structured one. I experienced mixed feelings: excitement and joy, but many times listlessness and despondency. During the first couple of months, there were days that I was quite productive: I decluttered my closets and organized things in my home. Yet, other days, I binge watched television, slept a lot, read mystery novels and played word game challenges and painting games on my cell phone. I criticized myself for the times I engaged in “unproductive” activities, even as I continued to indulge myself. This dark period was totally unexpected. At the end of February, I received a text message from a dear friend with whom I had been communicating and it totally changed my perspective. The text contained a quote from Nakeia Homer that read: “You are not lazy, unmotivated, or stuck. After years of living your life in survival mode, you are exhausted. There is a difference.” This quote resonated with me. I stopped judging myself. I became accepting of my experiences, began living more in the moment and fully enjoying my life. Over time, I found myself rethinking my life and considering activities and directions previously I had not given much thought: I am not acting on them for now, just working to stay present and to find joy in each moment. Additionally, I receive great support from the NJPA Retirement Support Group, friends, colleagues, and my church community. I can truly say that retirement is a wonderful experience. For those considering retirement, know that the retirement process is different for each person. Give yourself time to transition. Stay present and enjoy each moment of this new chapter in your life. You might be wonderfully surprised, just as I have been, where you find yourself.
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Ethical Considerations
NJ Psychologist
Winter 2022
Taking Good Care of Your Clients/ Preparing for the Unexpected unavailability, relocation, or retirement…” Code 6.02, Maintenance, Dissemination, and Disposal of Confidential Records of Professional and Scientific Work, clearly states our ethical responsibility to “make plans in advance to facilitate the appropriate transfer and to protect the Mary Blakeslee, PhD Retired, Guest Editor
confidentiality of records and to protect data in the event of psychologists’ withdrawals from positions or practice.” Finally, Code 10.09, Interruption of Therapy, instructs that
Jane Simon, PhD Ethics Chair
Most psychologists believe they take good care of their
“psychologists make reasonable efforts to provide for orderly and appropriate resolution of responsibility for client/patient care in the event that the employment or
clients.
contractual relationship ends, with paramount
Prepare for the session - √ Participate in supervision or peer groups - √
consideration given to the welfare of the client/patient.” Clearly, it is our ethical obligation to create a Professional Directive as one of the ways we can take good care of our
Keep up to date with Continuing Education - √ Consult for difficult issues - √ Request Ethics consultations - √
clients.
Request consultations with the DPA - √ Keep good records - √ Keep current with billing - √
Professional Will, though nothing is bequeathed) is a document that basically describes what to do, if you
A Professional Directive (sometimes referred to as a
cannot attend to the responsibilities of your work, either temporarily or permanently.
Maintain Professional Directives - ???? In all likelihood, many of you who are reading this do not have a Professional Directive. If you fall within this group, then you actually aren’t taking the best care of your clients.
While we don’t like to think about it, a family emergency, a medical crisis, or death can befall any one at any age. Consider what would happen to your clients if something happened to you. Who has the keys to your office? Who knows how to access your client records (paper or digital)? How would someone collect your voicemail or text messages? How could your clients be reached?
Within the Ethical Principles of the American Psychological Association, Code 3.04, Avoiding Harm, instructs us to take reasonable steps to avoid harming clients/patients, students, supervisees, research participants, organizational clients, and others… and to minimize harm where it is foreseeable and unavoidable.” Code 3.12, Interruptions of Psychological Services, specifically addresses this topic: “Unless otherwise covered by contract, psychologists make reasonable efforts to plan for facilitating services in the event that psychological services are interrupted by factors such as the psychologist’s illness, death,
Many psychologists avoid thinking about the possibility of needing a Professional Directive because it’s simply too painful or anxiety-provoking. Some assume that once deceased, it’ll be someone else’s problem. Others simply deny that they could have an accident or medical crisis. Not only does this avoidance leave your patients in an unnecessarily vulnerable position, but it also creates great difficulty for family and/or colleagues who are left to deal with your practice without essential information and
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guidance. Some psychologists assume their relatives (who may also be mental health professionals) will take over these responsibilities. If you have a medical crisis or if you die unexpectedly, are your loved ones going to want to handle such tasks? They will be in crisis mode, shock, or grieving and in no condition to take care of
The document should include information about locating passcodes, keys, a list of clients and how to contact them, insurance, and business details. You can also include a list of client concerns, your more vulnerable or fragile clients, those with special needs, or long-term clients along with specific suggestions about their care. You may want to
your clients. They may well need to be taken care of themselves. If something happens to you and you don’t have anyone assigned to take care of your responsibilities the
specify your wishes about your funeral service (e.g. private, or clients can be invited). Directions for the executors may also be helpful, stating how much they should be reimbursed and whether they can refer your clients to themselves.
consequences could, well, be messy! Years ago, a psychologist died and there was nothing indicating how
Review your Professional Directive every year and make
his practice should be handled. When his wife prepared to sell the house, she put all his client records in the trash. The bags ripped, it was windy, and client records
appropriate changes. January is a good time to review all your documents: client authorizations, insurance information, signatures on file, and your Professional
were strewn about the neighborhood. Someone reported this to the Board of Psychological Examiners.
Directive.
While the deceased psychologist could no longer be reprimanded, the Board presented this as a cautionary
Yes, this is uncomfortable! No one likes to think about becoming debilitated, incapacitated, or dying (when my
tale. Another psychologist suddenly became ill and was
lawyer completed my personal will and Advanced Directive, I read them, put it down and didn’t look at it for another year!), but it is important that we have a plan in
hospitalized with a terminal illness. Two psychologist friends from another state ran to her aid. They went to
place should it become necessary. Think of a Professional Directive as an insurance policy: something we should
her office, searching for client phone numbers and her schedule. They canceled appointments and arranged
have, but hope never to use. It is an important, caring, and considerate act that ensures your clients, family, and
for referrals. It took days to rummage through the office hunting client records and sorting through the information to determine who needed what.
colleagues are cared for, even when you cannot care for them directly. Find a template for your Professional Will in the Retirement section of Practice Resources, found in the Members Only section of our website www.psychologynj.org. This is an exclusive resource for NJPA members (log in required).
Fortunately, creating a Professional Directive is quick and easy; simply find two colleagues who would be willing to carry out your wishes and be responsible for your clients. Consider making this arrangement reciprocal, recognizing that changes must be made if something happens to one of you.
Reference American Psychological Association (2017). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. 3.04, 3.12, 6.02, 10.09 Retrieved from: http.www.apa.org/ethicscode-2017.pdf
A Professional Directive provides your trusted colleagues with important information to help them take good care of your clients when you no longer can. It usually lists two professionals, an executor and an alternate, who are to take charge of things should you no longer be capable of doing so. Mention the names of your personal attorney and the executor of your personal will.
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When Is It Time to Give Up the Keys? Ethical Considerations
By Mary Blakeslee, PhD Retired, Guest Editor
Driving licenses and psychology licenses are issued by the state and we have to renew them every two or four years. That process can go on for a long time. We covet them because of what they give us: independence, freedom to do things, go places, help in crises, allow for fun, and work. Both are a big responsibility. Lives are at stake and mistakes can be costly. No one drives or practices psychology perfectly. We have all had some fender-benders and accidents; we have broken the law, sometimes unwittingly, sometimes through carelessness, sometimes as a result of misguided choices or impulsivity. Sometimes we have gotten caught and have been made accountable. Most of the time, most of us stay out of trouble, the result of prudence and good luck. angst? Then the day for the orals, where it is harder to Both licenses have contributed to our livelihood and, therefore, are very important to us. We don’t think
hide the anxiety when there are only three of you in the room? Then there was waiting for those results.
about licenses often, usually not until someone asks for it, or it is time to renew it. We take them for granted, assuming we will always have them.
Eventually the good news comes in the mail, no matter how many tries it took. We now have the coveted license. And after a search for the right size frame, we
Who taught you how to drive? What was it like the first
hang it up in our office. Then, there was the first official check we received for our services as a licensed psychologist.
time you were behind the wheel? Did you pass your driver’s test on the first try? Or did it take a few tries? Remember when you actually got your driver’s license? How cool it was to be able to drive? I loved holding on to my keys; I thought they made me important. I was willing to run any and all errands, just so I could drive. I remember my first trip down the shore on the Parkway feeling scared, but unwilling to show fear. It was truly my first “white knuckle” drive.
Our driver’s license resides in our wallet and our psychology license hangs on our wall. For the most part we don’t think of them. I had an aunt who, when I was growing up, drove a convertible! She was one of the first women I knew who drove a car. She chauffeured her sisters, her kids, and nieces and nephews around the city of Elizabeth. She drove well into her 80s. Once she was stopped by the police for driving in the wrong lane on the highway. She apologized to the officer and promised not to do it again. Not long after, she hit a few parked cars, and her children paid for the damage, bypassing the insurance company and the police! I am not sure when she finally stopped driving. Maybe she didn’t until she died at 86.
Remember studying for the licensing exam? Perhaps a study group? How intimidating the room and the examiners were? Jeanette Balber? The relief when it was over? Then waiting for the results to come in the mail? Excitement or disappointment meant waiting for either another six months to retake the exam or gearing up for the oral case presentation equaled more
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Clearly, my Aunt Rita should not have been driving. Luckily no one was hurt by any of her mishaps. When we had to tell my mother-in-law that she shouldn’t be driving, she willingly gave us her keys. She had some dementia, and a third set of keys. We were dumbfounded, when at our next visit, the car was not in the garage where we left it, but on the street. She had forgotten that she shouldn’t be driving! Then we took the extra keys and the car!
nothing? What are the consequences of practicing when we no longer have enough skills to conduct therapy responsibly? While we are not going to cause a major highway crash, we can harm patients in many ways: misdiagnosis, inconsistent treatment, etc. The Ethical Principles of Psychologists in Principle A: Beneficence and Nonmaleficence states that we must do no harm, and even if an aging psychologist is lucky and does no harm, it is not ethical to provide substandard treatment.
While my Aunt Rita had some close calls, her children were reluctant to have the "conversation." Whether it
The Psychologists’ Code of Conduct Standard 2.03 Maintaining Competence requires us to develop and maintain our competence. Many psychologists wind down their practices. They cut back on days and then hours. They become more selective in accepting the types of cases they treat. They look at not being able to do what they used to do in the same way and at the same speed. Aging includes accepting the limitations of mind and body. However, just as some drivers ignore or deny their limitations, some psychologists are reluctant to face some of the changes that occur as they age.
was due to their own denial, their reluctance to confront her, or their own selfishness because her not driving meant more work for them, they took a big chance and they, and other folks on the road, were lucky. We had been assessing my mother-in-law’s driving ability for a while. We thought we handled it well, until we saw the car parked on the street! Many older drivers, on their own, decide not to drive to new places at night, and eventually eliminate all night driving. Next, they decline driving on large highways
I don’t think I would want a 90-year-old surgeon operating on me! What about a 90-year-old therapist? I once heard a therapist say that his therapist used to fall asleep in sessions, but it was okay because she had so much to offer. Really? At $175 an hour, when is it ok to fall asleep on the job? What about the aging, sleepy therapist seeing a court-ordered, acting out teen? Or suicidal borderline patient? Or an anxious dependent domestic violence victim?
and finally reduce their driving expeditions to their local neighborhood. That driver’s license is our ticket to freedom, independence, fun, and competence. To lose it will be a big loss. At that point, for most of us, it means we are not moving in a good direction: we will be losing our ability to go places, to do things on our own, we won’t be as spontaneous, and we will be held captive. I know I am not going to like it. I envision my family prying the keys from my hand. Actually, I hope I live long enough to stop driving and that I stop willingly and with understanding, if not graciously. If they take the keys, they will have to let me cry!
At least with surgeons, and other medical doctors, there are others watching. For the most part, the only ones watching us are our clients, most of who are not in a position to confront us. They may withdraw from treatment without telling us why.
What about our psychology license? How do we know when it’s time to give up the keys to our office? Sometimes it’s a choice; sometimes it is the result of illness or family circumstances that push us to retire. But what happens when someone should retire and doesn’t? Like my aunt, do they have some close calls, but get lucky? Do they have family and colleagues who are in denial or are fearful of upsetting them and do
They may stay because they don’t know any better or they feel they need to take care of us. Some of our peers may pick up on some clues of decline, but like my aunt’s children, they could deny or dismiss what they see, or be reluctant to confront us. Some older psychologists may be revered within the psychology community because of their roles as educators,
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supervisors, mentors, and therapists to many of us. It may be hard for us to consider their decline, let alone confront it.
Ideally, we would like every psychologist to be aware of when it is time to stop practicing. However, it may be time to intervene when we have concerns about a
So, what are we to do? There are no easy answers here, but we do know that, ethically, we must not treat people when we are not competent. We have a responsibility to our clients. If we realize a colleague is
colleague who is still seeing patients despite some evidence of decline. This is not an easy task. In the same way it is difficult to view the decline of a parent, it is hard to see the decline of a beloved mentor. But, it is time to have the conversation. It should probably be
no longer competent, we are ethically obligated to discuss it with the colleague, (Standard1.04) and perhaps report them to the Board, if the situation is egregious (Standard 1.05).
similar to one you have when it is time to take the car keys away. It should be honest, direct, and done with loving concern. You may want to have two colleagues speak with the
The solutions center around prevention (selfawareness, self-care, staying connected, and remaining open) and intervention (approaching, confronting,
psychologist, or have family members or even a personal physician involved. You may well meet with resistance, but give it time and remember that a
evaluating, and perhaps reporting).
person’s first reaction is not their only reaction. If there
As psychologists we should maintain a level of awareness about how we are functioning. How do we
is severe cognitive impairment, you may meet with resistance and be unable to reason with the psychologist. In the worst-case scenarios, you may
feel after a session? Do we think we did a good job? How do we think our client felt? Are we accurately assessing feedback? How tired are we? Is it getting
have to contact the BoPE and report the situation. Sometimes, just explaining that to the psychologist may yield compliance.
harder to maintain focus during a session? Are we often confused? Do we have a good balance in our caseload?
Surrendering the keys is rarely easy, whether it is the
Are we up to date in our paperwork? Are we being honest with ourselves?
keys to our car or our office. It is a big loss that most of us must come to terms with. In our lives we have
Self-care should be practiced throughout our careers; as we get older, self-care should be fine-tuned. As we
taught others how to accept life with its ups and downs, how to cope with loss, acceptance, mindfulness, and change. Many of us have our identity as
age, we need to recognize that we can’t do things the way we used to. (The older I get, the less likely it is that I will walk into a cold ocean; it was sad the day I finally came to terms with this!) We need to be mindful of, and respect, the changes that occur as we age, and this includes any decline that impacts our ability to practice.
psychologists. So, perhaps giving up our keys and taking down our shingle may be a loss of identity, but hopefully there are other parts of ourselves that we can attend to as we mourn the loss of our working life. We would nudge our clients to mourn and then heal. We should do the same for ourselves. Sometimes one or two fewer keys make the keyring a little lighter and maybe we don’t have to carry one at all.
In addition, we should connect with colleagues regularly and discuss cases, perhaps get some supervision, even after having been a supervisor. We need to have someone look at our work, someone who is objective and willing to give us feedback. Finally, we need to be open to that feedback, and accept that it might be time for us to give up the keys to our office.
References American Psychological Association (2002). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.
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How to Retire: The Logistics/Taking Care of Business By Mary Blakeslee, PhD Retired, Guest Editor
The decision to retire is not to be taken lightly, and hopefully it is well thought out and not forced on us due to poor health or a family crisis. It requires a good
leaving. Others may be more comfortable leaving most things as they are, and only remove items in drawers or behind doors, so it looks like nothing has changed.
look at our personal, professional, and financial needs. Personally, we must prepare for our losses and begin
Retirement To-do List
the transition to another identity and lifestyle. Professionally, there is a lot of work to do, a kind of “taking care of business,” where we have to prepare our
Twelve Months: - Stop taking new clients (unless short term).
clients, get our paperwork in order, deal with insurance companies, landlords, and colleagues. Financially, I refer you to your accountant because finances are
- Start to cut back your hours if you haven’t already done so. - Let yourself start to get used to the idea of not
outside my scope of practice.
working.
Upon retirement, we lose our professional identity and we lose a number of people for whom we have cared.
- Muse about what you might do and what you will enjoy. - Be aware of the impact of the impending loss.
We are technically no longer helpers and we now relate to people differently. This is a loss and we must acknowledge it. You are going to miss your clients, even
Nine Months: - Set a timeline for telling clients.
though you might feel a sense of relief at no longer being responsible for them. Every time you terminate
APA Ethical Principals Standard 10.10 (c) Terminating Therapy - Inform any clients in crisis as soon as
with a client there may be a sense of loss and you may miss hearing about what happens to them. Retirement means many terminations and those clients are not
possible so they can decide to continue with you or work through the crisis with someone else. (Even if you’re sure they will stay with you, they will appreciate
being replaced by another person who needs you. Before you tell your clients about your retirement, it’s important to address these losses and come to terms with the fact that you will be letting some people down and you will no longer be a therapist. Finding your own therapist or peer consultation group can be helpful with this.
being given the choice). - Consider at least six months for long-term clients. - Let others know at least three or four months ahead of time. Six Months: - Get your files in order and destroy those you are no longer required to maintain. (Do not leave this until the last day!). - Start processing with your colleagues, therapist, or supervisor your own feelings about telling your clients and the accompanying loss. - Talk to your long-term clients. - Plan for what you think they might need, for examplereassurance. - Be prepared for a variety of reactions.
Pick your retirement date; I suggest a full year, though other timelines work. Plan to see your last client at least one week before you close your office. There are lots of things to do after your last client walks out your door. You will still have billing to finish and the last of your things to clean up. Some people may want to take down pictures and remove items from their office. This may help you and your clients come to terms with your
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Remember that their first reaction might not be their only reaction.
- Referrals. - A way for them to contact you should they need their records. Your sentiments about leaving your practice and a personalized statement about your work with them (perhaps artfully vague, not revealing particulars). - Keep a copy of the letter in their files. - Be prepared for your own emotions about leaving each client. - Be present and genuine to the experience. - Have a good good-bye. - Write a letter to the colleagues to whom you have made referrals, letting them know how to reach you should they need information from you. - Include a copy of your “Release of Information” form so you can more easily get your client’s authorization.
Four Months: - Begin to inform the rest of your clients about your plans. (This way all your clients will have had at least three months’ notice). - Be prepared for clients who will: Jump ship Get angry Cry Ask questions Tell you they are happy for you Do something unexpected Three Months: - Send a letter about your retirement to former clients who have terminated within the last two or three years and include a list of possible referrals or mention the NJPA website. This gives them the opportunity to contact you about a referral or to say good-bye. - Send a letter to psychiatrists and other collaborating professionals. - Send letters to relevant colleagues who may need to know about your retirement.
Administrative Issues: - Follow the Board of Psychological Examiners Regulations for retiring/closing your practice. - Notify the Board of Psychological Examiners of your change of address. - Secure all client paper and electronic records. - Ensure the continuity of care for your clients. - Put a notice in the local paper once a month for the first three months after you closed your practice, announcing the closing of your practice, stating how clients can obtain their records. (The Star Ledger has a Legal Notices section. Email legalads@starledger.com with a sample notice. They will email you upon receipt of your email and give a phone number for follow-up and price. After the third notice they will send an you an affidavit.) - Notify your bank, insurance carriers, APA, NJPA, and other organizations of your change of address. - Update your Professional Directives. - Make appropriate changes to your malpractice insurance. - Update all business listings (Yelp, Google Business)
Two Months: - Line up referrals. - Discuss options and preferences with your clients. - Plan for transitions. It may be helpful with more fragile clients for you and the new therapist to overlap for a few weeks. Consider a joint session with you, the new therapist, and the client. - Notify your landlord. (check your lease, most require 30-60 days’ notice) Four to Six Weeks: - Remind clients that time is limited and ask how they are feeling. Those in denial will need the reminder. It may help you, as well. This doesn’t mean that you won’t be discussing other issues, but it may shape how the issues are addressed. - Plan what you will do with your furniture. - Pack whatever you are comfortable packing. - Notify utility companies, paid advertising companies, insurance panels, etc.
After you have said good-bye to your last client and have taken down your sign, say thank you to your successful and rewarding career. Bid farewell to the office that housed you and your work and holds the secrets of those you helped. Close the door with a tear or a smile, maybe both, and walk into the start of the next stage of life. Reference:
Two to Three Weeks: - Prepare a letter to give to each client including:
www.njconsumeraffairs.gov Board of Psychological Examiners Chapter 42, p.34, Last Revision Date 2021.
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50 Ways to Leave Your Office By Mary Blakeslee, PhD Retired, Guest Editor
Most likely there really aren’t 50 ways to leave your office, but there is more than just one way. And there isn’t just one right way. I believe it is important to listen to yourself in deciding which way is best for you, slowly, gradually, a little bit at a time or all at once. Whatever way you decide, you should have a plan.
I think it’s important to set some timelines even when you gradually retire. Your plan can be something like: Retire in five years, spend a year at four days a week, two years at three days a week, a year at two days a week and one year at one day a week. This doesn’t have to be rigid, but it’s helpful to have some markers for you to assess your progress in meeting your goal. If you find yourself way off target you need to figure out what’s going on. Again, go back to listening to yourself. Maybe you have trouble saying no, maybe you don’t want to retire because you don’t know what you’ll do with yourself. It’s important to figure out and address the resistance.
Unfortunately, sometimes a crisis precipitates retirement. Such a crisis may be one’s health or the health of a family member, and this often precludes planning, as does the sudden death of the therapist. This is where a Professional Directive comes in. It should include an organized set of procedures your executor should follow for caring for your patients and closing your practice.
It’s also possible that retiring seems overwhelming. What should I do with all my books? What about testing materials? Who might want my office furniture? I have years of client records to organize or destroy. How am I going to take care of all of this? I’ll think about it tomorrow…
Barring such crises, your retirement plan might be to gradually decrease the number of clients in your caseload, or to decrease the number of days per week that you work. The danger here is that this can go on forever, or your days or number of clients can gradually increase because you have a hard time saying “no.” Or, you have been inundated with requests for treatment related to the many issues of the pandemic. It is easy to get intrigued by an interesting case or get convinced to help a long-time referral source with just one more client.
If you do feel overwhelmed when you think about retiring, even if you’re just musing about it, break things down into manageable tasks. No matter what stage you’re in, first get your records in order. File them chronologically in years, then within each year,
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alphabetize them. Then start culling your books and your testing materials. Set aside time each week and set goals by time (e.g. work on this for one hour every Friday afternoon) or task, (e.g. put 10 files in order).
NJPA Practice Resources for Retirement We are committed to providing our members with the most comprehensive list of resources to assist you as you approach retirement and in your professional roles and practices. These resources are constantly monitored for updates and additions. These resources are easily accessed in the Members Only section of the NJPA website under the heading Practice Resources found at www.psychologynj.org (log in required)
Many therapists have full-time practices and decide it is time to retire. They, too, need to have a timeline. A yearlong plan or timeline makes some sense, though six months could work for some therapists. The most important date to consider is when to tell your clients about your retirement. For me, it was important that my clients hear about my retirement from me, so, within three or four weeks, I had seen all my clients and shared with them my plan. This left us about three months to process my leaving. In retrospect, I would have left more time for processing this. I did tell a few long-term clients earlier than others, but I’m not sure it was enough time for them.
The articles, resources, and forms found on the NJPA website are not intended as legal advice. Practice issues are complex and highly fact-specific and require legal expertise that will not be provided by such generalized articles or forms. The information should not be used as a substitute for obtaining personal legal advice and consultation prior to making decisions regarding individual circumstances.
While it is most important to have a plan for clients, including lining up potential referrals, there are many details that need attention. These include notifying your landlord, various insurance companies, colleagues with whom you share clients, and the post office. You will need to find a new home for your office furniture and books, a way to dispose of testing materials, and a place to store your records. These details may be easier for some than others depending on many factors, but they all need attention.
If you cannot locate an answer, you may call Central Office and speak with Executive Director, Justin Karmann or our Director of Professional Affairs, Susan McGroarty, PhD, Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 973-243-9800. Are You Prepared for the Unexpected? Closing Your Practice and Retirement Closing a Practice Due to Death or Retirement Closing Your Practice Checklist
As a psychologist you need to retire in a way that makes sense for you. What’s important is that you listen to yourself to see what fits and then plan. Make sure you don’t overstay your welcome just because you can’t bring yourself to leave. There is no retirement age for psychologists and there is no one watching us when we are working. Start early to nurture a life outside of work so the decision to leave your office isn’t so hard.
Other documents available for download found in the Members Only section under the heading Practice Resources include (log in required): Guidelines for a Professional Executor Medicare Record keeping Guidelines Professional Will Template Retirement: Making a Successful Transition
As you leave your office for the last time and take your name plate off the door, say goodbye to what has been a gratifying career. Recall some of the anxiety producing moments, the frustrating ones, and the ones that gave you a sense of satisfaction.You may feel sad, relieved, happy or all three. Honor your feelings and then look ahead for whatever is next for you and be pleased that you are able to do so.
Would you like to connect with fellow members who have already retired or are considering retirement? Join the conversation by joining our Retirement Group E-List! Contact Jennifer for more details.
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Book Review: When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness: A Guide for the Parenting Journey Sileo, F.J. & Potter, C.S. (2021). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness is authored by Frank Sileo, PhD, a psychologist, and Carol Potter, a marriage and family therapist. Each author brings unique and complementary experiences to this project. Sileo leans on his lengthy career treating children and families, which resulted in a dozen child psychology books. Potter brings more than 20 years of clinical work and teaching to the table, both of which help shape her contribution to this work. Incidentally, the name Carol Potter may spark an awareness for some, as she is the actress who played Cindy Walsh on the 1990s teen drama Beverly Hills 90210, the sage mother of Brenda and Brandon and TV marital counterpart to husband Jim Walsh.
Reviewed by Anthony F. Tasso, PhD Fairleigh Dickinson University Professor & Deputy Director School of Psychology & Counseling
Nothing evokes more angst than the prospect of a medically ill child. This sentiment affects all parents whether the sickness is mild or severe, transient or chronic. The unfortunate reality is that children do get sick, and often gravely so. When it happens, few, if any, family members are prepared for the ensuing emotional onslaught. In such situations, parents immediately throw themselves into researching the medical
When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness explores the emotions likely experienced by parents learning that their child is ill. Fear, guilt, anger, sadness, denial, depression, and self-flagellation are commonplace, all of which can manifest in both obvious and subtle ways. The text provides a guidepost for distinguishing between manageable reactions and unhealthy responses. The authors highlight the distinctions between dealing and dwelling, seeking social support and self-isolation, and attending to personal responsibilities and shutting down. This discussion helps delineate the fine line between allowing oneself to experience the range of emotional reactions that occur upon learning that a child is chronically ill, while remaining mindful of potential troubling experiences.
condition and investigating medical treatment providers while being forced to come to terms with their child’s illness. Furthermore, these responsibilities do not absolve one from other parental tasks, including attending to other children in the household, fulfilling the requirements of jobs held outside of the home, and meeting overall life needs. Parents need to bracket-off (without dismissing) their fear while absorbing feedback from medical providers and protecting their developmentally vulnerable child may feel like a herculean task, even for the most psychologically grounded parents. Precarious situations require resources. Thankfully, the American Psychological Association provides a lifeline for parents whose child’s life is on the line. When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness: A Guide for the Parenting Journey (2021) is an invaluable tool for parents and close family and friends dealing with the daunting situation of supporting an infirmed child.
The topic of parental emotions segues to the indispensable need for parents to be proactive with their personal health and wellness. Sileo and Potter postulate conscious (e.g., stressed, limited time) and unconscious (e.g., guilt, anger, depression) factors
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leading to failures in sustaining one’s own health. When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness underscores crucial activities such as exercise, therapy, spirituality,
for parents to be loving partners. The authors underscore the need for a pathway to maintaining marital health that relies on what they call the “Three Ts:” talk, touch, and time together. Sileo and Potter also hone in on the impact an ill child has on siblings and extended family. Parents’ understandably depleted resources, coupled with the proximity of the sibling(s) to the sick child, results in brothers and sisters who are often embarrassed by their sibling. In addition, they commonly experience jealously and subsequent resentment borne out of the familial and nonfamilial attention given to the sick child, as well as compensatory pressure to be the ‘easy’ kid in the
and laughter; rightly denoting their collective abilities to buttress parents’ much-needed resiliency in addition to modeling proactive behaviors for all family members. The text importantly highlights when professional intervention may be warranted, touching on when one should consider psychotherapy and/or support groups. The book discusses the process of adapting to the reality of caring for a medically ill child. Following the immediate experience of shock, parents may benefit from the support of family and friends. When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness outlines the process
house. When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness presents useful ways by which parents can open lines of communication with non-ill children, as well as other family members. One particular chapter highlights the benefits of fostering family cohesion while maintaining a family-focused, rather than illness-focused, ethos.
of instilling and sustaining healthy boundaries with relatives and those outside the family, which is complicated under typical circumstances and is particularly challenging when one has a sick child. The authors include useful tips for managing the wellintended people who are inadvertently prone to perpetrate such boundaries, as well as those with more voyeuristic intentions. They identify ways to govern the
When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness aids in dealing directly with medical and educational teams. The authors provide useful ways to sift through oftdense medical terminology coupled with an easy-to-
amount of information offered about the ill child without offending those seeking a larger role in the child’s life.
follow table explaining each type of healthcare specialist. Sileo and Potter also examine the
The text also covers the delicate process of talking with one’s child about their medical condition. Guided by frequent questions asked by the medically
emotionally draining situation of child hospitalization. Procedures like MRIs and overnight stays evoke fear in adults, and are exponentially worse for children. The authors encourage parents to inquire about the specifics of the child’s upcoming stay (e.g., surgery, investigative) and advise them to offer the child as much age-appropriate information as necessary. They also highlight the value of touring the hospital beforehand and enlisting the aid of a certified child life specialist to be with the minor when the parents cannot. In terms of schooling, the text examines a child’s individualized educational programs (IEP). Balancing in-school, virtual, and, if needed, homeschooling is addressed, as are ways to identify the potential for under-the-radar signs of school refusal (e.g., somatic complaints, sleep disturbances). The authors emphasize the importance of the child shouldering age-appropriate responsibilities when interacting with both medical and educational personnel.
compromised child (e.g., “Will it hurt?” “Can I still play?”), the authors delve into how much information to provide and how the amount of information shared should vary as a function of age and comprehension. Irrespective of the child’s cognitive development, the authors emphasize the need for simple, straightforward language. They recommend conveying to the child that although a parent cannot eliminate the problem, they will always be there to listen, support, and love. Attending to a sick child does not occur in a vacuum. The book expounds on how parents dealing with a medically ill child is fertile ground for relational conflict given their heightened duress, which frequently results in displacement of stress and anger, as well as projection of guilt. Sileo and Potter highlight the need
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Sileo and Potter devote an entire chapter to the dreadful experience of a dying child; the ultimate betrayal of the circle of life. The book covers brutal decisions ranging from alternative and experimental to discontinuing treatments, in addition to the
On a personal level, as a teenager of the 1990s, I find it comforting knowing that one of the book’s voices is none other than Ms. Cindy Walsh. ‘Hearing’ the quintessential TV mom of my adolescence, while reading this book, facilitated a pleasant regression in the service of the ego, allowing me to experience her support and guidance today, just as she did to the 90210 crew (and me vicariously) in the past. Meanwhile, Frank Sileo, though no Jim Walsh (no offense to him), incorporates the skills gained throughout his lengthy career as a psychologist to create an excellent book covering topics that are immensely supportive.
prospect of palliative care or hospice. When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness offers guidance on having these tough conversations with the dying child along with the family at large. This difficult chapter closes by identifying realistic glimmers of hope, in that as devastating as it is to bear witness to the death of a child, parents can indeed come to terms with this loss while posthumously holding on to the love of the child.
Levity aside, although this is a self-help book, a guide for parents attempting to navigate the daunting world of caring for a medically ill child, I would argue that it also behooves practicing clinicians to read this book. Sileo and Potter’s psychologically rich and decidedly practical text will aid the psychotherapist in the consulting room working with distressed parents of an
When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness fills a significant void in the literature by providing solid aid for parents attending to a sick child. Sileo and Potter tackle this most frightful topic with compassion and thoughtfulness, providing a book that is as readable as it is applicable. The authors offer optimism, without being Pollyannish, while not shying away from the dark, distressing side of having a child who is chronically ill; no easy accomplishment, but one they
ill child or treating a sick child directly. As such, When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness is a book mental health clinicians should consider having at their disposal.
do brilliantly. When Your Child Has a Chronic Medical Illness can help parents deal with the most awful of conditions. Sileo and Potter deliver sound guidance on how to sort through an array of oft-confusing information in concert with providing procedural guidance on attending to the child’s and parents’ emotional unrest.
About the Reviewer: Anthony F. Tasso, PhD, ABPP is a Professor of Psychology and Deputy Director of the School of Psychology & Counseling, Fairleigh Dickinson University. He also has a psychotherapy practice in Whippany (Hanover Township), Morris County, NJ.
Classified Ad Office Space: Waldwick, Bergen County Several offices available, both furnished and unfurnished, in relatively new construction therapist building (fully handicap accessible) with many recent upgrades in Waldwick, Bergen County. Safe location in residential area, abundance of off-street parking in large on-site parking lot, shared waiting room with kitchenette provided (full sized fridge, microwave, table for therapists private use). Easy access from Rt. 17, as well as local roads. Several therapists-tenants have been here for 14 years since the building was constructed and because they are very satisfied and have no reason to leave this very comfortable collegial environment with therapists frequently referring to each other in our little internal network. You are invited to become a potential future long term therapist-tenant-colleague (the landlord is also a psychologist with his practice at the location) as part of the premier professional office space for therapists not only in Waldwick, but throughout all of Bergen County! Please call or text for more information regarding specific offices and to arrange a visit: 973-669-0909.
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APA Council of Representatives Report
By Rhonda Allen, PhD Council of Representatives (NJ) (2019-24)
long considered such an apology, but failed to accept responsibility,” the resolution says. The Council also adopted two accompanying resolutions, one delineating APA’s and psychology’s role going forward in dismantling systemic racism and the other pledging to work to advance health equity in psychology. The former directs APA’s CEO to develop a long-term plan to prioritize, operationalize, and ensure accountability for achieving real action toward the goals identified in the resolutions. This plan is to be presented to the Council by its meeting in August 2022. The three resolutions were accompanied by a chronology of the
The Council of Representatives of the American Psychological Association met in a hybrid format of inperson and virtually on October 29th and 30th, 2021.
long history of psychology’s and APA’s harms to
This was the first hybrid council meeting, but is likely to be the norm going forward.
communities of color, which served as a resource to inform APA’s work on the apology and the path forward. These resolutions also build on Harnessing Psychology
The following is a summary of the major decisions and votes at this meeting. Some of what is reported below is
to Combat Racism: Adopting a Uniform Definition and Understanding (PDF, 95KB), passed by Council in February 2021.
excerpted from a meeting summary provided to council members from APA.
Receipt of the final report and summary of 2019-2021 activities by the Council Diversity Work Group
APA Apology for Longstanding Contributions to Systemic Racism
Council approved to receive the final report and summary 2019-2021 activities as presented by the Council Diversity Work Group. The Council Diversity Work Group (CDWG) began working on recommendations regarding Council issues related to diversity following the February 2016 meeting. Future recommendation would be an EDI Advisory Board to The Council Leadership Team. This motion passed by 98.8%.
The first order of business during this meeting marked a historic moment for the association and field of psychology when the Council passed resolutions apologizing for APA’s and psychology’s roles in contributing to systemic racism, committing to longterm efforts to dismantle racism, and advance health equity. The Council voted unanimously to adopt an apology for APA’s role, and the role of the discipline of psychology, in contributing to systemic racism. The apology acknowledges that APA “failed in its role leading the discipline of psychology, was complicit in contributing to systemic inequities, and hurt many through racism, racial discrimination, and denigration of people of color, thereby falling short on its mission to benefit society and improve lives.” The resolution also acknowledges that the association should have apologized sooner. “APA, and many in psychology, have
Ombuds Assigned to Council Council approved a measure (by a vote of 127-20, with one abstention) to appoint at least one, and up to three, ombuds to work with individuals and groups within Council to assist in resolving conflicts, problematic issues, or concerns. The ombud(s) shall be appointed for a three-year term by the Council Leadership Team chair, in consultation with CLT members. Much like the parliamentarian, the ombuds will not be members of Council.
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Lifetime Term Limits for APA Council of Representatives
Member News
Council approved amendments to the Association Rules to establish a twelve-year lifetime term limit for service on the Council of Representative by a vote of 100-64, with one abstention. An exemption may be requested by a Division, State/Provincial/Territorial Psychological Association or Ethnic Psychological Association when the entity is unable to find two candidates who do not exceed the twelve-year term limit requirement and will have only one seat on Council during the year in which the member would serve, if elected. The twelve-year term limit does not include service on the Board of Directors, nor does it extend term limits to service on APA boards and committees. This amendment does not affect the current requirement that a Council member who has six consecutive years shall not be eligible for a term on Council for a period of one year.
Peggy Rothbaum, PhD had an article posted on September 17, 2021. Changing Minds about nonhuman animal rights on the Non Human Rights Project website. On October 13, 2021, Dr. Rothbaum presented Women in Medicine Series Part 2: There was a Social Pact in Place at the Medical Society of New Jersey: Lawrenceville, NJ. In addition, Dr. Rothbaum, along with New Jersey Sews in Unity (an all volunteer, self funded mask sewing group), received the Founders Award for Community Engagement from the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless, December 2021. Chris Kotsen, PsyD contributed to the following: Banerjee SC, Staley JM, Howell F, Malling C, Moreno A, Kotsen C, Parikh D, Parker PA. Communicating Effectively via Teleoncology (Comskil TeleOnc): A Guide for Best Practices for Communication Skills in Virtual Cancer Care. J Cancer Educ. 2021 Feb 5:1–6. PMID: 33544315; PMCID: PMC7862043. Sheffer CE, Al-Zalabani A, Aubrey A, Bader R, Beltrez C, Bennett S, Carl E, Cranos C, Darville A, Greyber J, Karam-Hage M, Hawari F, Hutcheson T, Hynes V, Kotsen C, Leone F, McConaha J, McCary H, Meade C, Messick C, Morgan SK, Morris CW, Payne T, Retzlaff J, Santis W, Short E, Shumaker T, Steinberg M, Wendling A. The Emerging Tobacco Treatment Workforce: Characteristics of Tobacco Treatment Specialists trained in Council-Accredited Training Programs from 2017 to 2019. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Mar 2;18(5):2416. PMID: 33801227; PMCID: PMC7967787
New Task Force to Oversee Recommendations and Proposals of the Council Effectiveness Work Group Council also adopted a resolution to establish a task force to oversee recommendations and proposals related to the September 2021 Council Effectiveness Work Group Report, and a separate task force to evaluate the Council Leadership Team. The resolution is intended to advance the operating principles of APA’s strategic plan by helping to build a stronger association through greater collaboration and alignment of APA resources and increasing organizational effectiveness. Next steps involve a call for nominations for each of the task forces who will be selected by the APA president. The resolution passed by a vote of 140 to 15, with nine abstentions.
Salloum RG, Rojewski AM, Piper ME, Blalock JA, Borrelli B, Boyce LM, Minnix JA, Dogar O, Tomko RL, Jorenby DE, Kotsen C, Ostroff JS; Reporting Treatment Fidelity in Behavioral Tobacco Treatment Clinical Trials: Scoping Review and Measurement Recommendations. Nicotine Tob Res. 2021 Jul 1. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34197617 Kotsen C, Ostroff J, Carter-Harris L. e-Health Interventions for Tobacco Cessation. In: Psycho-Oncology, 4th edition. Breitbart WS, Butow PN, Jacobsen PB, Lam W, Lazenby M, and Loscalzo MJ (Eds). Oxford University Press, New York, NY, pp. 561-572, 2021.
Supporting CDC guidance
Cancer Center Cessation Initiative Telehealth Working Group: Rigotti, N.A, Taylor , K.L., Beneventi, D., King, A., Kotsen, C, Fleisher, L., Goldstein, A. O., Park, E. R., Sherman, S. E., Steinberg, M. B., Albert, D. A., Cox, L. S., Hayes, R. B., Hohl, S. D, E. Sheffer, Shoenbill, K. A., Simmons, V. N, Warren, G. W., Adsit, R., Minion, M., Pauk, D., Rolland, B. Telehealth Delivery of Tobacco Cessation Treatment in Cancer Care: An Ongoing Innovation Accelerated by the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Natl Compr Canc Netw. 2021 Nov;19(Suppl_1):S21-S24. PMID: 34872049
Council approved a motion to support the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s October 21, 2021, guidance to add “mental health conditions” to its list of “underlying medical conditions that are directly related to increased risk of severe illness or mortality from COVID-19.” The motion passed 160- 1. I look forward to representing NJPA at the next Council of Representatives meeting in February 2022 in Washington, DC. Until then I wish everyone good health and peace.
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The NJPA Foundation is most grateful to all of the following colleagues who have contributed so substantially to our efforts in 2021 (includes all contributions processed by December 31).
OUR HEARTFELT THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!
President, Mathias Hagovsky, PhD; Secretary, Toby Kaufman, PhD; Tresurer, Abigail Rosen; Trustees: Ann Stainton, PhD; Alyssa Austern, PsyD; Regina Budesa, PsyD; Richard Klein, EdD. E. Belvin Williams. PhD; Jonathan Wall, PsyD; Eileen Kohutis, PhD; Ex-Officio Trustee, Justin Karmann
Angel $1000 and over
Mathias Hagovsky, PhD Toby Kaufman, PhD John Lagos, PhD Isabel & David Mahalick Foundation
Sponsor $750 - $999 Rosalind Dorlen, PsyD Ann Stainton, PhD
Patron $500 - $749
Association of New Jersey Chiropractors (ANJC) Amy Boright Porchetta
Contributor $250 - $499 Randy Bressler, PsyD Rosemarie Ciccarello, PhD Stephanie Coyne, PhD Daniel DaSilva, PhD Edward Dougherty, EdD Peter Economou, PhD Susan Esquilin, PhD Marc Gironda, PsyD Eileen Kohutis, PhD Eileen Senior, PsyD Jonathan Wall, PsyD Mark Wendrychowicz
Supporter $100 - $249 Jeffrey Axelbank, PsyD Roderick Bennett, PhD Mary Blakeslee, PhD Megan Brown, PhD Monica Carsky, PhD Roger Colonna, EdD Mala Datta, PhD Richard Dauber, PhD Rochel David, PhD Peter DeNigris, PsyD Nick Economou, EdD Lynn Egan, PsyD Milton Fuentes, PsyD Kenneth Gates, PsyD Osna Haller, PhD Raymond Hanbury, PhD John Hennessy, PhD Nathan Hilton, PsyD Christine Hudson, PhD Deirdre Kramer, PhD Phyllis Lakin, PhD Daniel Lee, PsyD Ruth Lijtmaer, PhD Bonnie Lipeles, PsyD
Supporter (cont.)
Marilyn Lyga, PhD Bonnie Markham, PhD, PsyD Stanley Messer, PhD Leila Moore, EdD Daniel Moss, PhD Morgan Murray, PhD Hulon Newsome, PsyD Francesca Peckman, PsyD Lori Pine, PsyD Debra Roelke, PhD Elissa Rozov, PhD Doris Schueler, PhD Peggy Van Raalte, PsyD Aaron Welt, PhD James Wulach, JD, PhD Michael Zito, PhD
Friend up to $99
Amy Aho, PhD Derek Aita, PsyD Michelle Alberti, PhD Rhonda Allen, PhD Rika Alper, PhD Amy Altenhaus, PhD Barbara Alter, PhD Benjamin Alterman, PhD Janet Altman, PhD Toni Ann Amabile, PhD David Appelbaum, PsyD Annette Appleheimer, PsyD Elio Arrechea, PhD Alyssa Austern, PsyD John Aylward, EdD Kyle Barr IV, PsyD Elinor Bashe, PsyD Lara Baskin, PhD Theodore Batlas, PsyD Shari Becker, PhD, JD Amy Becker-Mattes, PhD Leslie Becker-Phelps, PhD Jeffrey Belgrave, PhD Rhea Bensman, PsyD Janet Berson, PhD Jeffrey Bessey, PhD Lale Bilginer, PhD Vanessa Bing, PhD Carol Blum, PsyD Monica Blum, PhD Phyllis Bolling, PhD Arlene Bonapace, PsyD Alice Bontempo, PsyD
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Friend (cont.)
Friend (cont.)
Gary Borer, PhD Dorothy A Borresen, PhD Thomas Boyle, PhD Isabel Brachfeld, EdD Joseph Braun, PhD Richard Brewster, PsyD Pamela Brodie, PhD Jill Brooks, PhD Merrilea Brunell, PhD Charles Buchbauer, PhD Regina Budesa, PsyD Linda Busch, PhD Diane Cabush, PsyD Dina Cagliostro, PhD John Caliso, PhD Melanie Callender, PhD Carolyn Carbone-Magnero, PhD Susanna Carew, PsyD Mark Cetta, PhD Michelle Chabbott, EdD Gary Chanowitz, PhD Veronica Christopoulo, PsyD Judy Clyman, PhD Sidney Cohen, PhD Barry Cohen, PhD Louise Conley, PhD Ralph Constantino, PhD Robin Cooper-Fleming, PsyD Sharon Craig, PhD Jamila Dakhari, PsyD Michelle Farber Daniel, PsyD Mala Datta, PhD Christian Davis, PhD Debra Davis, PhD Deborah Dawson, PsyD Marla Deibler, PsyD Laura DeMarzo, EdD Daniel Diamant, PhD Doreen DiDomenico, PhD Charles Dodgen, PhD Gerard Donohue, PhD Beth Dorogusker, PhD Sarah Dougherty, PsyD Patrice Judith Dow-Nelson, PhD Elyse Dub, PhD Adriana Dunn, PhD Frank Dyer, PhD Daniel Edelman, PsyD Donna English, PhD Lucille Esralew, PhD Roberta Fallig, PhD James Farmer, PsyD
Shapar Farzad, PhD Guity Fazelpoor, PsyD Janie Feldman, PsyD Michael Femenella, PhD Nancy Fiedler, PhD Dennis Finger, EdD Joshua Fink, PsyD Joan Fiorello, PhD Rachael Fite, PhD Pamela Foley, PhD Donald Franklin, PhD Sharon Freedman, PhD Elizabeth Frenkel, PhD Antonia Fried, PsyD Thomas Frio, PhD Vered Frumer, PsyD Lorraine Gahles-Kildow, PhD Abisola Gallagher, EdD Daniel Gallagher, PhD Jennifer Gallo, PhD Stephen Garbarini, PsyD James Garofallou, PhD Eliot Garson, PhD Juneau Gary, PsyD Kenneth Gates, PsyD David Gelber, PhD Jill Gentile, PhD John George, PhD Marie Geron, PhD Michael Gerson, PhD Nouriman Ghahary, PhD Leslie Gilbert, PhD Rodger Goddard, PhD Clair Goldberg, PsyD Elizabeth Goldberg, PhD Gary Goldberg, PhD Ruth Goldston, PhD Lydia Golub, PhD Maria Gonzalez, PhD Jamie Gordon-Karp, PsyD Bonnie Gorscak, PhD Ora Gourarie, PsyD Robert Grabelsky, PhD David Grandcolas, PhD Rhonda Greenberg, PsyD Kyna Griffith-Henry, PhD Ricardo Grippaldi, EdD Aaron Gubi, PhD Hadassah Gurfein, PhD Cynthia Haines, PsyD Angela Hall, PsyD Kathryn Hall, PhD
Friends (cont.) Lawrence Hall, PhD Diane Handlin, PhD Rob Happich, PsyD Jeffrey Harrison, PhD Nancy Harrison, PsyD Graham Hartke, PsyD Aynn Hartman, PhD Yolanda Hawkins-Rodgers, EdD Suzanne Hays, EdD David Helfgott, PsyD Susan Herman, PhD Judith Herschlag, PhD Susan Herschman, PsyD Marianne Herzog, PhD Doris Hiatt, PhD Nancy Hicks, PsyD Hayley Hirschmann, PhD Linda Hochman, PhD Michael Horowitz, PhD Ann Nikolai Houston, PhD Pei-Chen Hsu, PhD Maureen Hudak, PsyD Ellen Hulme, EdD Jodi Huntington, PhD Susan Huslage, PhD Monica Indart, PsyD William Ivory, PhD Jennifer L. Jackson, PhD Lisa Jacobs, PhD Jane Jacobus, PhD Elena Jeffries, PhD Alison Johnson, PsyD Thomas Johnson, EdD Arthur Joseph, EdD Kyung Sil Jung, PhD Masami Junod, PhD Heidi Kaduson, PhD Corrinne Kalafut, PsyD Robin Kanen, PsyD Deborah Kaplan, PsyD Elissa Kaplan, PhD Paula Kaplan-Reiss, PhD Sarah Karl, PhD Charles Katz, PhD Thomas Kavanagh, PsyD Alex Kehayan, EdD Randi Kell, PhD Mary Kelly, PhD Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD Diane Klein, PhD Joel Kleinman, PhD Linda Klempner, PhD Linda Knust, PsyD Laura Kogan, PsyD Todd Koser, Psyd Peter Krakoff, PhD Carissa Krapf, PsyD Debra Kress, PsyD Kenneth Kressel, PhD Stephen Kuwent, PsyD Dennis La Scala, PhD
Robin Lang, PsyD Miriam Latorre, PsyD Barbara Lauer-Listhaus, PsyD Danielle Lavelle, PhD Paul Lehrer, PhD Ilana Lev-El, PsyD Gerald Leventhal, PhD Robert Levine, PhD Linda Levy, PhD Deborah Libero, PhD Clarita Hipol Ligot, PhD Michael Likier, PhD Marc Lipkus, PsyD John LoConte, PhD Katharine Loeb, PhD Marc Lombardy, PsyD Wendy Loonin, PhD Mark Lowenthal, PsyD Konstantin Lukin, PhD Margaret Lundrigan, PsyD Lisa Lyons, PhD David MacIsaac, PhD Susan MacKinnon, PsyD William MacLaney, PsyD Heather MacLeod, EdD Donna Macri, PhD Cornelius Mahoney, PhD Daniel Mahoney, EdD Stanley Mandel, EdD Melissa Rivera Marano, PsyD Judith Margolin, PsyD Charles Mark, PsyD Donald Marks, PsyD Nicole Martell, PsyD Susan Marx, PsyD Maria Masciandaro, PsyD Neil Massoth, PhD Jim Mastrich, EdD Elizabeth Matheis, PhD Wendy Matthews, PhD Corrine McCarthy, PsyD Frank McElroy, PhD Robert McGrath, PhD Susan McGroarty, PhD Brendan McLoughlin, PhD Fawn McNeil-Haber, PhD Kenneth McNiel, PhD Kathleen McNulty, PhD Gail McVey, PsyD Lauren Meisels, PhD Samuel Menahem, PhD Tracy Menzie, PsyD Enmanuel Mercedes, PhD Wilda Mesias, PhD Rebecca Meyer, PhD Robert Miller II, PhD Barry Mitchell, PsyD Bea Landman Mittman, PhD Rachel Modiano, PsyD Norine Mohle, PsyD Lynn Mollick, PhD
Sharon Ryan Montgomery, PsyD Kelly Moore, PsyD Colleen Morgan, PsyD Joan Glass Morgan, PsyD Marsha Morris, PhD Rosemarie Moser, PhD Caroline Mossip, PsyD Morgan Murray, PhD Elizabeth Nadle, PsyD Sangeetha Nayak, PhD Susan Neigher, PhD Sallie Norquist, PhD Cheryl Notari, PhD Michael Nover, PhD Kathleen O'Brien-Sheber, PhD Timothy O'Connell, PhD Jennifer Oglesby, PhD Rose Oosting, PhD Susan Orshan, PsyD James Owen, PsyD Behnaz Pakizegi, PhD Sara Tedrick Parikh, PhD Robert Pasahow, PhD Jordan Pauker, PsyD Elizabeth Pearce, PsyD James Peluso, PhD Nicole Pensak, PhD Pilar Perez-Ortega, PsyD Sueli Petry, PhD Donna Phair, PhD Lauren Picciano, PsyD Vincenza Piscitelli, PsyD Lia Postorino, PsyD Sharon Press, PhD Adam Price, PhD Annamaria Pruscino, PhD Jan Simms Puig, EdD Rich Rapkin, PsyD Howard Rappaport, PsyD Sharon Rauschenberger, PhD Lori Rayner-Grossi, EdD Nancy Razza, PhD Steven Reed, PhD Richard Reichbart, PhD Jeryl Rempell, PhD AnnaMarie Resnikoff, PhD Laura Richardson, PhD Louis Richmond, PhD David Riley, PhD Deborah Riviere, EdD Alisa Robinson, PhD Lori Rockmore, PsyD Paul Rockwood, PhD Laura Rosen, PhD Barbara Rosenberg, PhD Francine Rosenberg, PsyD Karen Rosenberg, PhD Gianine Rosenblum, PhD Evelyn Rubin, PhD Anne Rybowski, PhD Nicole Safonte-Strumolo, PhD
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Debra Salzman, PhD Barbara Tocco, EdD George Sanders, PhD Daniel Tomasulo, PhD Letitia Sandrock, PsyD Mary Toolan, PsyD Carmela Sansone. PhD Aileen Torres, PhD Komal Saraf, PhD Carter Townsend, PsyD Jayne Schachter, PhD Carol Tracy, PhD Lynn Schiller, PhD Jasmine Ueng-McHale, PhD Louis Schlesinger, PhD Jennifer Vogel-Davis, PsyD Kenneth Schneider, PhD Larisa Wainer, PsyD Paul Schottland, PhD Richard Waldron, PhD Gail Schrimmer, PhD William Walsh, PhD Ellen Schwartz, PhD Melissa Warman, PhD Margot Schwartz, PsyD Arnold Washton, PhD Richard Schwartz, PsyD Virginia Waters, PhD Helene Schwartzbach, EdD Daniel Watter, EdD Francis Schwoeri, PhD Jennifer Weberman, PsyD Charlena Sears, PsyD Elaine Weinman, PhD Jeffrey Segal, PsyD Carol Wenzel-Rideout, PsyD Nancie Senet, PhD Mary Elizabeth Westhead, PsyD Dana Septimus, PhD Margaret White, PhD Neuza Serra, PsyD Mark White, PhD Laura Shack-Finger, EdD Alison Winston, PhD Arline Shaffer, PhD Philip Witt, PhD Dennis Shaning, PhD Melissa Woronoff, PsyD Kristin Sharma, PhD Maha Younes, PhD Maliha Sheikh, PsyD Grace Zambelli, PhD William Shinefield, PsyD Kelly Zanetich, PhD Jamie Siegel, PsyD Amanda Klein Zoneraich, PsyD Ronald Silikovitz, PhD Harold Zullow, PhD Sandra Ackerman Sinclair, PhD Alan Zwerdling, PhD Jeffrey Singer, PhD Leonard Sitrin, PhD Karen Skean, PsyD Laura Skivone, PhD Marjorie Slass, PsyD Shawn Marie Sobkowski, EdD Andrea Lynn Sollitto, EdD Milton Spett, PhD James Spitalny, EdD Henry Srednicki, PhD Patricia Steen, PhD Jakob Steinberg, PhD Lois Steinberg, PhD David Steinke, PhD Deana Stevens, PsyD Vincent Stranges, PhD Larry Straus, PhD Jennifer Strollo, PsyD Steven Sussman, PhD Ben Susswein, PhD Kelly Jeanne Symons Luciene Sant'Anna Takagi, PsyD Kathryn Talbot, PsyD Linda Tamm, PsyD Henry Augustus Taylor, PhD Jennifer Tedesco, PsyD Cydney Terreri, PhD Laurie Terres, PsyD Tamsen Thorpe, PhD Patricia Tistan, PhD Steven Tobias, PsyD
Thank you for your generous contributions in 2021! Your contributions support legislators and political committees in New Jersey who have demonstrated their interest in, and support of, psychology, without regard to party affiliation.
OUR HEARTFELT THANKS TO ALL OF YOU! 2021 NJP-PAC Officers: President, Barry Katz, PhD; Treasurer, Mark Singer, EdD Secretary, Ken Freundlich, PhD; Executive Director, Justin Karmann Government Affairs Agent, Jon Bombardieri
Leadership $1000 and over Platinum $750 - $999 Rosalind Dorlen, PsyD
Gold $500 - $749
Rosemarie Moser, PhD Leslie Gilbert, PhD
Silver $250 - $499
Randy Bressler, PsyD Rosemarie Ciccarello, PhD Stephanie Coyne, PhD Daniel DaSilva, PhD Tamara Sofair-Fisch, PhD Steven Sussman, PhD
Bronze $100 - $249
Jeffrey Axelbank, PsyD Beata Sylvia Beaudoin, PhD Roderick Bennett, PhD Todd Bennett, PsyD Rhea Bensman, PsyD Jeffrey Bessey, PhD Monica Blum, PhD Dorothy A Borresen, MSN, PhD Carolyn Carbone-Magnero, PhD Monica Carsky, PhD Marvin Chartoff, EdD William Coffey, PsyD Sidney Cohen, PhD Robin Cooper-Fleming, PsyD Michelle Farber Daniel, PsyD Richard Dauber, PhD Rochel David, PhD Laura DeMarzo, EdD Daniel Diamant, PhD Charles Dodgen, PhD Patrice Judith Dow-Nelson, PhD Peter Economou, PhD Lynn Egan, PsyD Sean Evers, PhD Pamela Foley, PhD Donald Franklin, PhD Kenneth Freundlich, PhD Thomas Frio, PhD Milton Fuentes, PsyD Kenneth Gates, PsyD Marc Gironda, PsyD Jane Glassman, PhD Gary Goldberg, PhD Ruth Goldston, PhD
Bronze (cont.)
Osna Haller, PhD Raymond Hanbury, PhD John Hennessy, PhD Lauraine Hollyer, PhD Christine Hudson, PhD Monica Indart, PsyD Charles Katz, PhD Diane Klein, PhD Deirdre Kramer, PhD Daniel Lee, PsyD Robert Levine, PhD Ruth Lijtmaer, PhD Bonnie Lipeles, PsyD Marc Lipkus, PsyD John LoConte, PhD Marilyn Lyga, PhD Lisa Lyons, PhD Vanessa Marcantuono, PhD Bonnie Markham, PhD, PsyD Maria Masciandaro, PsyD Robert McGrath, PhD Lynn Mollick, PhD Joan Glass Morgan, PsyD Daniel Moss, PhD Morgan Murray, PhD Hulon Newsome, PsyD Rose Oosting, PhD Susan Parente, PsyD Francesca Peckman, PsyD Lori Pine, PsyD Adam Price, PhD Rich Rapkin, PsyD Laura Richardson, PhD Alisa Robinson, PhD Bart Rossi, PhD Elissa Rozov, PhD Debra Salzman, PhD Louis Schlesinger, PhD Richard Schwartz, PsyD Eileen Senior, PsyD William Shinefield, PsyD Andrea Sollitto, EdD Milton Spett, PhD Deana Stevens, PsyD Ben Susswein, PhD Peggy Van Raalte, PsyD William Walsh, PhD Aaron Welt, PhD Carol Wenzel-Rideout, PsyD James S. Wulach, JD, PhD Michael Zito, PhD
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Copper up to $99
Copper (cont.)
Barbara Alter, PhD Toni Ann Amabile, PhD Kathryn Arcari, PsyD Kyle Barr IV, PsyD Karen Bekker, PhD Vanessa Bing, PhD Lynn Bisco, PsyD Phyllis Bolling, PhD Isabel Brachfeld, EdD Charles Buchbauer, PhD Jamila Dakhari, PsyD Christian Davis, PhD Deborah Dawson, PsyD Marla Deibler, PsyD Nancy Distel, PhD Guity Fazelpoor, PsyD Joan Fiorello, PhD Antonia Fried, PsyD Vered Frumer, PsyD Lorraine Gahles-Kildow, PhD Eliot Garson, PhD Jill Gentile, PhD Rodger Goddard, PhD Angela Hall, PsyD Jennifer Hanych, PhD Linda Hochman, PhD Ann Nikolai Houston, PhD Maureen Hudak, PsyD Susan Huslage, PhD Heidi Kaduson, PhD Deborah Kaplan, PsyD Elissa Kaplan, PhD Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD Joel Kleinman, PhD Linda Knust, PsyD Laura Kogan, PsyD Eileen Kohutis, PhD Peter Krakoff, PhD Stephen Kuwent, PsyD Phyllis Lakin, PhD Dennis La Scala, PhD Miriam Latorre, PsyD Ilana Lev-El, PsyD Linda Levy, PhD Deborah Libero, PhD Barbara Lino, PhD Katharine Loeb, PhD Mark Lowenthal, PsyD Susan MacKinnon, PsyD William MacLaney, PsyD Heather MacLeod, EdD Cornelius Mahoney, PhD
Margery Manheim, PhD Neil Massoth PhD Steven Master PhD Susan McGroarty PhD Gail McVey PsyD Lauren Meisels PhD Karen Mengden PhD Tracy Menzie, PsyD Norine Mohle, PhD Leila Moore, EdD Marsha Morris, PhD Caroline Mossip, PsyD Susan Neigher, PhD Jennifer Oglesby, PhD Susan Orshan, PsyD Pilar Perez-Ortega, PsyD Lauren Picciano, PsyD Vincenza Piscitelli, PsyD Alexandra Ranieri-Deniken, PsyD Sharon Rauschenberger, PhD Lori Rayner-Grossi, EdD Steven Reed, PhD Jeryl Rempell, PhD AnnaMarie Resnikoff, PhD Debra Roelke, PhD Amelia Romanowsky, PsyD Barbara Rosenberg, PhD Gianine Rosenblum, PhD Alice St Claire, PsyD George Sanders, PhD Carmela Sansone, PhD Komal Saraf, PhD Lynn Schiller, PhD Gail Schrimmer, PhD Doris Schueler, PhD Ellen Schwartz, PhD Nancie Senet, PhD Laura Shack-Finger, EdD Arline Shaffer, PhD Jeffrey Singer, PhD Patricia Steen, PhD Vincent Stranges, PhD Tamsen Thorpe, PhD Jonathan Wall, PsyD Virginia Walters, PsyD Jennifer Weberman, PsyD Kara Zlotnick PhD
Welcome New Members! Licensed 5+ years Richard Auletta, PhD Dana Barowsky, PsyD Sandra Carlisle, PsyD Donald Cassidy, PhD Carrie Ditzel, PhD Heidi Jacobsen, PhD Michael Keren, PsyD Shoshana Klein, PhD Ghislene Meance, PsyD Charissa Pizarro, PsyD John Quintana, PhD Abrah Sprung, PhD Elizabeth Stacom, PhD Angela WIlkos, PsyD Zachary Yeoman, PsyD
Licensed 2 - 5 years Romana Bresin, PhD LaShonda Green, PsyD Melissa McCausland, PsyD Jill O'Hare, PsyD Elana Rosencrantz, PsyD Lauren Strober, PsyD
1st year post-doctoral
Licensed < 2 years Sharon Artz, PsyD Bianca Coleman, PhD Joseph Conerty, PsyD Brian Eichert, PsyD Rachel Feldman, PhD Melissa Greenberg, PsyD Alexandra Grundleger, PhD Sharon Horowitz, PhD Nancy Miller, PsyD Priscilla Morrison, PsyD Megumi Omonishi, PhD William Skelton, PsyD Daisy Velez, PsyD
3rd year post-doctoral Natalie Woszczak, PsyD
2nd year post-doctoral Taylor Schnaper, PsyD
Non-licensed doctoral Elizabeth Seebode, PhD Melissa Starr, PsyD
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Cierah Greene, BS Krina Patel, PsyD Devora Scher, PsyD Jessica Weissman, PsyD
Non-Resident Fran Melendez, PhD Erin Von Zuben, PhD
Students Natalie Angelo, MA Allie Bond, MA Octavia Bradley, MA Justina Breen Nia Driver, MS Dana Ergas, MS Andrew Gonzalez, MS Saipriya Iyer, MA Rashi Jain, BA Hui Jiang, MA Oscar Kosecki, MA Tanya Lalwani, BA Mariah Laster, BA
Students (cont.) Da Sel Lee, MEd, MA Tatiana Mora, MA Kayleen Oliver, MA Katherine Phillips, MA Rachel Riedel, PhD Sally Sanchez, MA Isabelle Siegel, BA Victoria Taggart, MS Lee Weiss, BA