I have been in practice for over 20 years with some diversity of experience ranging from full-time faculty appointments to full-time private practice. I have practiced in areas with few psychologists (Saskatchewan) and many (South Florida). I have been a union representative for psychologists (Saskatchewan) and active in my State Psychological Association (Florida). Currently, I am co-owner of a medium sized group private practice providing a full spectrum of psychological services to populations from 2-102.
My involvement in Division 42 service began in 1997 as chair of the Hospitality Suite program for 1998. Following these well attended sessions, I worked with the Division leaders as Program Chair, Chair of the State Linkage Task Force, Representative to the State Leadership Conference, Cluster Representative to the APA Convention, and currently as CE Chair.
My most relevant experience has been my involvement with the Florida Psychological Association (FPA) and my local chapter in Broward County (BCPA). My 14 year involvement on the BCPA board has included serving as CE chair and a stint as President. I served on the board of FPA for 10 years with responsibilities including Convention Chair and member of the By-laws revision committee. I have worked as a Key Psychologist establishing liaison with a state legislator for 11 years. Additionally, I have been voted a Distinguished Psychologist in Florida.
Judging from the posts on the Division 42 listserv, it appears that independent practitioners are concerned with developing and maintaining their practices and conducting them in an ethical and professional manner, while still making a decent living. Anything that impinges on their ability to do this can become a critical issue – whether it comes from managed care companies trying to lower fees or deny payments, to masters level mental health practitioners trying to do testing. We want to solidify our professional identity with the general public as well as legislators. We want to expand our scope of practice through prescription privileges. I believe that what is most critical is our ability to work in unity to both protect and advance our profession and our practice.
Division 42 and its board have been working diligently to stay on top of and address the issues that are important to independent practitioners; I look forward to the privilege of working with the board to continue this mission. I see my effort channeled into 2 main areas – both drawing on my previous experiences. Firstly, I would like to foster additional activities with the SPA’s. Our organizations deal with very similar issues and I believe we can enhance our effectiveness by working together and sharing resources. Secondly, I would like to continue developing programs and products geared toward the business and practical aspects of independent practice. Our experienced and established members have a wealth of knowledge in this area – I’d like to help them share that with our next generation of Independent Practitioners.
