Supporting Attorneys
and other legal professionals
To say that being a lawyer is hard is an understatement. The pressures to perform, work 60-80+ hour work weeks and to make a name for yourself are stifling. In 2016, The American Bar Association and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation issued a joint study on the "Prevalence of Substance Use and Other Mental Health Concerns Among American Attorneys." Over 13,000 attorneys were surveyed and the findings were alarming:
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28% of participants reported experiencing depression
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19% of participants reported symptoms of anxiety
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23% of participants reported high levels of stress
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20% of participants reported problematic drinking (which is over twice the percentage of the general adult population)
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11.5% of participants reported suicidal thoughts at some point in their career (1% reporting at least 1 prior suicide attempt)
Attorneys are experiencing problematic drinking and drug use at significantly higher rates than other professional populations. We know that there is a great need for attorney specific prevention and treatment interventions but attorneys are not seeking help. The two most common self-reported barriers are:
I don't want anyone to know that I need help.
I am concerned about my privacy and confidentiality.
Let me help.
In addition to being a mental health counselor, I have 10+ years of experience working in the legal field. I know the stressors you are dealing with. You won't have to fill me in on the aspects of your professional culture because I already know what it is like.
As a legal professional, you know all about attorney-client privilege. Similarly, as a counselor, I am also bound by confidentiality ethics and laws. Know that your privacy will be strictly maintained so you can seek treatment confidently and safely.
Together, we can help you find healing and get the support you need.