⚖️Should you make a Professional Will?

The conversation on professional wills can be traced back to 2002. In the aftermath of sudden deaths of several psychologists in San Diego, their family and colleagues did not have adequate access to records to be able to notify the clients. The issue came to forefront once again during the unpredictability of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In group practices, colleagues will typically have access to client records in the event of a therapist’s sudden death or illness. This is not the case for therapists in private practice and hence something we need to plan for. This can be an uncomfortable or unsettling topic to think about and may require you to reflect on your feelings about death.

A professional will is a document that assigns an executor, typically a mental health professional you trust, to close your practice on your behalf. It outlines detailed instructions on how the executor will-

• Notify clients and where to find information for the same.

• Store or dispose client records while ensuring confidentiality and continuity of care.

• Manage referrals for clients who wish to continue treatment

Here is a sample from APA-

Until next week,
Suvrita

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