Stemming from my early experience as a school psychologist engaged in organizational development to school districts, I continue to provide on-site consultation to schools, government agencies, non-profit organizations, private companies, and family owned businesses.
While the specific issues addressed in consultation to organizations vary, the overall process is consistent, systematic, and includes the following phases: (1) assessment, (2) intervention, and (3) evaluation/follow-up.
The overall purpose of the assessment phase is to develop a descriptive model of the organization. The accuracy and comprehensiveness of this model are critical as they will be used to guide the intervention and follow-up phases of the consultation process. Some of the more specific goals of the assessment phase include:
-to describe the systemic processes and relationships within the business
-to determine what processes facilitate and/or retard business growth
-to determine whether the nature of the problem within the business is systemic or individual in nature
-to understand what type of interventions are most likely to provide the changes necessary for effective business operation
The assessment is generally multi-level (different levels and subsystems of the organization are assessed) and multi-method (the assessment often includes observational, interview, and written methods). The overriding goal of the assessment phase is to gather all relevant information which can be used to formulate an action plan.
The implementation of this action plan is the intervention phase. Interventions are varied and multi-faceted, but often include social skill training, team building, conflict resolution, management training, and creating new boundries, structure, and policies. Interventions are collaboratively designed (between me and relevant personnel within the organization) and mutually agreed upon.
Evaluation and follow-up is the final stage of the consultaion process. The purpose of this phase is to determine the efficacy of the intervention(s) and the extent to which the goals of the consultation are met. Intervention follow-up data are used to further refine and customize the interventions to make them more relevant and effective. Like the intervention phase, the criteria for success and a time table for follow-up evaluation are planned collaboratively between the consultant and relevant personnel.
A few words about working with family owned businesses – As a therapist having worked successfully with families for over two decades, I believe I offer a unique body of knowledge, set of skills, and a systematic process to help families in business achieve a healthy banlance between home and work. A core belief underpinning my work is that achieving financial success, while maintaining family harmony is a conscious, ongoing process requiring an appropriate balance of business interests with family loyalties and obligations.
A SAMPLING OF PAST CONSULTATION CLIENTS
Government/Non-Profit:
Perry Marine Institute
American Lung Association, Palm Beach Chapter
Palm Beach County Department of Airports
Palm Beach County Department of Risk Management
Palm Beach County Department of Planning and Zoning
Palm Beach County School System
Private Companies:
A-1 Roof Trusses
Grayhills Dental of Wellington
Harmsco Filtration
Marine Exhaust Systems
Palm Beach Trim
S V Microwave
The Nassau Guardian
FEEDBACK FROM CLIENTS
“Good identification of problems, sensitivity to all concerned, and candor in the final analysis”
“I appreciate your honesty. When you felt that nothing else could be done and someone had to make a decision, you were very up front about that and I think we all really appreciated it. I have, and will continue to, recommend you to others. Thank you.”
“Of most significance was the fact that the consultant stated conclusions and actions to be taken at the end of all the sessions. Most consultants tend to be vague concerning this but this consultant was direct.”
“The negative working environment has changed for the better, and all staff members have made an introspective review and assessment of their treatment of other staff.”
“Positive results are now being obtained in the work being done. Office atmosphere is more relaxed and pleasant.”
“Extremely effective mediator. You kept the situation controlled. Your listening skills are amazing.”
“I entered into this consultation with the feeling that it was another waste of time. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this whole process was actually going to help improve our working environment.”
“You are truly a professional at what you do. I felt that you were very fair and impartial. Thank you for all your help.”
“You were able to see where the problems were and able to confront them in a professional manner.”
“You exhibited very helpful skills at mediation, reconciliation and building rapport among the staff.”