Does it get better?

Hello everyone! I’m a licensed drug and alcohol counselor (associate) in the state of massachusetts with about 6 more months left until I reach independent licensure.

I’ve been really struggling lately because at every job I’ve worked at thus far (community health, methadone clinic, and currently at a PHP & intensive outpatient) I’ve been burdened by extremely high case loads, large groups (sometimes 25-30 patients), lots of documentation, little PTO, and very low pay.

I want to be able to provide high quality care for my patients, as well as prioritize my self-care, personal relationships, and life outside of my work… but it doesn’t all seem possible right now. I see two different therapists myself, a psychiatrist, exercise, eat healthy, focus on my nutrition, and I’m very conscious of my work/life boundaries.

With all that being said, it just feels like the system isn’t set up for sustainability for providers. Every time I talk with my supervisors they respond with something along the lines of “this is just how it is”… which is very discouraging.

I was curious if it gets any better once I become independent. My goal is to start a private practice with several colleagues that are also independent. I want to work, and I want to work hard.. but I can’t help but feel I am being taken advantage of. It’s hard not to feel like my soul is getting drained from my work.

Thank you in advance for reading and providing feedback.