In this episode of The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe dives into a timely topic for therapists: managing the reality of increased client cancellations during the holiday season. From early scheduling conversations to reinforcing cancellation policies and encouraging self-care, Jeanene shares practical strategies to prepare for and navigate the challenges this time of year brings.

Learn how to anticipate cancellations, adjust your workload, and use unexpected downtime effectively. Whether it's consolidating schedules, offering telehealth options, or setting boundaries, this episode provides invaluable insights to help therapists balance client needs with their own well-being. Remember, the holidays can be hectic, but with preparation and flexibility, they can also be an opportunity for growth and rest.

“Bring up scheduling early, proactively ask clients about their holiday plans and how they might impact their sessions. For example, you can say “The holidays are coming up and I know things get busy for many people. Let's look ahead and see if there are any sessions you might need to cancel or reschedule”. This gives clients an opportunity to make changes with plenty of notice.”

Key takeaways:

***Proactive Planning for Client Cancellations: Address holiday scheduling early with clients by discussing potential conflicts and rescheduling options. Reinforce cancellation policies while deciding whether to maintain flexibility during the season.

***Adjusting and Condensing Work Schedules: Anticipate lower caseloads by consolidating appointments into fewer days or offering telehealth options to accommodate clients’ travel and holiday commitments.

***Maximizing Downtime: Use any cancellations or lighter schedules productively by focusing on administrative tasks, professional development, practice growth, or personal care. This ensuring a refreshed start to the New Year.

***Encouraging Therapy as Self-Care: Highlight the importance of therapy during the holiday season, emphasizing its value in managing stress, complex family dynamics, and maintaining mental health amidst the busy time.

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