2018 Checklist for Clinicians

KRISTIE OVERSTREET PH.D., LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CST

You have chosen a career path that will change your life. Being a clinician can take its emotional toll but can also be the most rewarding job in the world. There are no words to describe the feeling when you see a client experience personal growth. From thousands of hours of sessions to a mountain of paperwork, you have achieved a lot over the past twelve months.

You have made it to the end of the year. Looking back, you realize just how hard you have worked. You have improved your clinical skills, grown as a professional, and are ready to enjoy the holiday season. Now it’s time to reflect on this past year and prepare for the coming year. Here is your complete clinician’s checklist.

___ Attended a workshop of interest

___ Learned one new clinical skill

___ Practiced weekly self-care

___ Felt proud of an accomplishment

___ Sought supervision or guidance from a mentor

___ Learned new technology

___ Created or adopted a new system to improve time management

___ Improved my relationships

___ Read a book

___ Took a vacation or scheduled time off of work

___ Experienced personal growth

___ Volunteered

___ Increased my physical activity or regular workout schedule

___ Gained awareness into a new clinical theory or process

___ Improved my relationships with others

___ Completed routine medical/dental/vision appointments

___ Assessed own need for therapy

___ Felt more confident

___ Created or launched a new service

___ Added a new license or certification

___ Taught a workshop or led a training

___ Began a new hobby or interest

___ Improved my understanding of finances

___ Reviewed my 2017 goals

___ Created my 2019 goals

___ Other:

There are many things that you have accomplished through this year so be sure you give yourself credit for them. You will continue to grow as you reflect on your growth and plan for the new year. Take a breath, pat yourself on the back, and enjoy some much deserved time off during the holidays.