Michigan’s Return to Work Plan and the LLPC
Before we get to deep into this - let’s just make sure we’re all on the same page. Professional Counselors have been working (overtime) throughout the pandemic. The state of Michigan’s plan for moving the state back to a more open economy (that looks closer to a pre-COVID world) is called “return to work” so I’m using that phrase for lack of a better term for the workplace shift that we’re all experiencing at the moment.
Throughout the COVID 19 pandemic, professional counselors have had to plan but be flexible, evolve but stay compliant with ever changing rules, and manage their own stress while supporting others with theirs. To say it’s been a challenging last year is an understatement. Nevertheless, here we are approaching summer 2021 and there appears to be light and positive change right ahead! The state of Michigan is in the process of a shift in expectations and requirements in the work place and as of May 24th, lots of things will start to look different in the world around you. Regardless of your political views or thoughts on the pandemic restrictions - these changes are happening - and you need to know how this impacts your ability to practice. How will the lifting of the emergency order impact our ability to provide therapy, supervision and other services virtually? Many states in the US relaxed their rules for practicing within the state without a state license - will new rules be put in place? Follow The Michigan Mental Health Counseling Association for the latest updates.
Rules and regulations will change, and with that will come different stressors for professional counselors. For me, the transition into a more virtual delivery of the services I provide to LLPCs brought about a lot of convenience but at the same time was really hard. As we enter yet another transition, it’s important for you as a helper to others, to take time to process what you’re going through and how you can support yourself.
Be honest with yourself. Take time to really process (write, talk it out, record a voice memo) the thoughts and feelings you have about this latest shift and be honest with yourself. If there is worry about judgement from others, you don’t have to share your inner workings with anyone else. Because we understand that the way we think and feel, even when not expressed, impacts our behavior GREATLY, it’s important that those thoughts/feelings have an outlet no matter how you view them (i.e - this is such a dramatic response, I shouldn’t be feeling this way). Just a side note, that if you’re feeling a certain way about this Return to Work plan, chances are there are other professional counselors that feel the same way.
Gradual Transition. As much as possible, consider aspects of the Return to Work plan that can be gradual. Often when new rules and regs are pushed out from the Michigan Board of Counseling we’re given an “effective as of…” date. Sometimes that date is….URGENT! TOMORROW! But most often that date is set pretty far out to give the opportunity for planning and adjustment. As office work expectations change over the next several weeks take time to consider how you can plan ahead and slowly shift.
Remember you can say no. Often when aspects of our work change, it can be easy to forget that we DO have the ability to say no (or is that just me?). Try not to get stuck in the false truth that you don’t have a choice, that you have to return to working a certain way if that truly isn’t what you want or what is healthy for you at this time. All of our choices (life wise) have consequences (good and bad) - but you do have the ability to say, no or to say not right now.
Stay plugged in and up to date. Keep up to date with any changing rules and regulations by maintaining regular supervision, joining the Michigan LPC Advocacy and Action Facebook Group and Follow The Michigan Mental Health Counseling Association for the latest updates.
