There is a lot going on in the world around us. I'm personally finding it hard to stay grounded and hopeful as the headlines are filled with stories where cruelty, ignorance and hate abounds. It's very disturbing.

Since the killing of Brian Thompson, UnitedHealthcare CEO, a lot more media attention has been focused on unethical practices of the health insurance industry. A few recent local news stories that caught my attention:

• Vermont regulators consider reforms to mental health licensure (WCAX) Feb 6, 2025
• Can’t find a therapist? NH clinicians say insurance companies are partly to blame (NHPR) Feb 5, 2025

And then some national stories:

• ‘Not medically necessary’: Inside the company helping America’s biggest health insurers deny coverage for care (CNN) November 7, 2024
• Finding a therapist who takes your insurance can be nearly impossible. Here's why. (NPR) Aug 25, 2024

And then consider the news articles about possible use of AI in mental healthcare. This recent article caught my attention:

• AI vs. Human Therapists: Study Finds ChatGPT Responses Rated Higher Than Those Written by Human Therapists. (Neuroscience News) Feb 12, 2025

Our profession is facing a tremendous number of pressures and stresses right now. Helping clients manage all of their increased stresses is leading to increased clinician burnout. 

Meanwhile, VTMHCA is facing its own crisis as we struggle to fill key volunteer leadership positions. The possibility of closing down VTMHCA or mothballing it is on the agenda for this week's board meeting. In this time of so much challenge, not having an organization in the state advocating for the LCMHC profession causes me further stress. And the same small group of leaders can't continue carrying the load of many. It's a tough time. Let's come together and help each other navigate these challenges.