[humanser] The Endangered blind Psychotherapist

[Merry Schoch]

Thank you JD for sharing your knowledge and experience with us.  

I have been doing some research regarding Skype video conferencing.  I have
a LCSW across the hall and I know that she practices using this service.
However, she is licensed in two states and only practices in those two
states.  I will continue to research this and I am interested on the NASW's
stance on this subject matter.  I'll share this info when I find it
out...not sure timeframe on it so if someone finds out sooner please let us
all know.

Thanks!
Merry

-----Original Message-----
From: humanser [mailto:humanser-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of JD Townsend
Sent: Sunday, February 24, 2013 8:12 PM
To: 'Human Services Mailing List'
Subject: [humanser] The Endangered blind Psychotherapist





Hello,

Merry introduced the topic and I've taken a bit to respond.  How do we as
blind mental health professionals confront thee fears of agency/department
managers for our safety.

I found that on being denied access to a patient on an inpatient unit due to
using a dog guide that inviting the managers to a local NFB meeting by
letter was successful as they came in with apologies and promises of reform.

I have found that informing management of my ability and experience with
agressive patients has not been successful, but when they view my skills in
verbal de-escalation they respond positively.  It takes time to build their
trust.

I am currently in a new clinic and the staff call on security when they fear
for my safety with potentially violent patients.  They don't realize that
some of the most dangerous patients I have worked with are little elderly
patients who are not as innocent as they appear to them.  Much of this comes
from staff fears of the African-American male and is not directly blindness
related.  Unfortunately as blind folks we are in a position of percieved
vulnerability.  In over 30 years of working with mentally ill patients the
most violent act I have suffered is being spit on by a young man who was
reacting to transferencial flash-backs.

So it goes.  Our best practice is to be available.  I respond to almost all
calls for "staff assistance" our hospital's response to potentially violent
patient situations.  Mostly I am marginalized, but at times I am a central
respponder.




JD Townsend LCSW
Helping the light dependent to see.
Daytona Beach, Earth, Sol System 


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