To care for and to be cared for are experiences that are vital to our human existence.

Healthcare is an issue that factors into our sense of well being. I have found myself with tremendous amounts of life experience in all of the roles that healthcare encompasses. I have spent considerable amounts of time being the practitioner, patient, caregiver for loved ones and advocate. Being in, and living all of the roles has opened my eyes to the major challenges that await everyone involved. It is easy to be consumed by anger and frustration due to a deeply broken medical system. Often dealing with the system is more difficult than dealing with the illness that brought us there.  Something I need to remind myself of often is that the “system” and those who use it, is full of people just like you and me.

Mindfulness practices along with supportive counseling and guidance can be incredibly helpful to healthcare practitioners who are short on time and burdened with responsibility. They can ease the frustration of patients looking for a practitioner who will look them in the eyes, be present and offer compassionate care. Also, for caregivers and advocates, mindfulness practices and appropriate support can rejuvenate the spirit and give them the capacity to keep going.

I have worked closely supporting doctors, physicians assistants, nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, counselors, midwives, general practitioners, specialists and clerical staff. To be in the healthcare profession is a deep act of kindness. When we are able to get back to the core of that truth, everything softens and opens up.

A large part of my counseling practice has been working with clients and their loved ones, who are facing serious medical conditions, terminal illness, death, and everything that comes with these life changing experiences. There are so many deep felt emotions and challenges that infuse the lives of someone dealing with a major health challenge. These include pain management, family dynamics, endless appointments, logistics, anger, loss, grief, isolation and fear. Working with our minds and having really solid support in these situations is crucial. This will help us find moments of peace in the midst of extremely difficult times.

devonmind4humanity@gmail.com