A new mental health wellbeing counselling service for legal professionals has been unveiled, providing expert, confidential assistance for the myriad of challenges facing lawyers.
Support for Lawyers.com was launched last week at Clarence House in Sydney to coincide with World Day for Safety and Health at Work.
Founded by lawyer Marguerite Picard, a Melbourne-based collaborative family lawyer, the service is a national effort that also provides a “unique ‘after-care’ service via tips, techniques, podcasts”, among other resources.
It was borne out of a need for specialized and confidential support services dedicated to the legal profession, Ms. Picard said.
“Having worked as a lawyer for over 30 years, I have seen the distress and unique issues surrounding the profession. Quite often these are not talked about, in fact in many places these issues can be judged,” she explained.
“We hope Support for Lawyers will not only help lawyers and those working in the legal profession to increase their wellbeing and support their mental health, but also help retain people within the profession. Support For Lawyers understands the stressors involved in working in a law firm, and honestly, we know there are huge problems.”
“The opportunities to debrief and work through difficulties at work and at home are critical to optimize the wellness of lawyers, and to maintain the high standards of performance demanded by the legal profession.” shares Dr. Tina Sinclair, collaborative psychologist specializing in high conflict relationships.
Dr. Tina Sinclair, the founder of Peacemakers for Families in Calgary, AB. heads up the group of participating psychologists, offering support for lawyers in a confidential and discreet manner, through www.supportforlawyers.com
If you are a lawyer that would like more information on stress management and the supports that are available contact, Dr. Tina, today.
