The weeks are passing us by as we remain at home – virtually working, wrangling children and pets, looking longingly out windows, taking classes online, game nights via zoom – and the Midwest clinicians are still here with you. We continue to refine our own routines, make adjustments as needed, and connect with one another here at Midwest. We wanted to share with you more about how our clinicians are coping with this unanticipated transition that everyone is making together.

Dr. Joy Ryba is finding ways to stay connected to her Midwest Counseling colleagues and friends each day (virtually). She also created two playlists on Spotify – one is a soundtrack for “Transition to work” and another “Transition to home.” Dr. Ryba says this “helps my brain move from work mode to home mode.” You need to calm down by Taylor Swift and Beautiful day by U2 are some songs for the transition to home.

Tracy Durkan sets intentions for what to do when the work day is over. Tracy states, “Without a commute, this helps create some space between myself and my work.” Tracy also gives herself permission to have whatever emotions come up around working from home, practicing gratitude, and limits social media.

Rachel Brennan finds ways to move differently everyday, such as a walk, some simple yoga, or an online yoga class with other people

Joanie Kinzler is catching up on reading, doing lots if zen-like knitting, staying in touch with sober peers, zooming with her family, and expressing gratitude out loud.

Dr. Alana Kingsley is taking different virtual exercise classes. Also, while working, every few hours she will alternate which room she is working in.

Sarah Hill says she is enjoying virtual on-demand exercise classes with her same instructors she has in person. “I think it’s something I will continue doing,” she says.

Amy Joslin shares that she makes sure to get outside (observing social distancing) everyday, no matter what the weather. “I also have been more conscious than usual of creating boundaries around work time vs. non-work time,” she states.

Rose Metivier states that she is maintaining transitions in the day to signal moving from one ‘world’ to another. “I get dressed for work like I normally would and trek off on my harrowing commute down the stairs with my coffee.” Other things Rose is doing include cooking, game nights, and lunch dates with others using zoom.

Amy Klimek shares that setting an intentional work space is important – “separate from my living, resting or nourishing space.” Movement and connection have been essential for her well-being, from yoga, to walks in the neighborhood, to dance parties in the living room.

Follow our blog and connect with us on our Facebook or Instagram page to keep up to date on Midwest happenings and our clinicians. If you need support, contact our Intake Director, Rose Metivier at Rose@https://midwestcounseling.com/. She will be happy to connect you with a therapist. If you are curious about online therapy sessions, check out Making the Most of Online Therapy Sessions to find ways to make them work for you while at home. We’re here to help.