10 Reasons Paperwork Doesn't Suck

We've all complained about paperwork... and we all know deep down that we need paperwork. However, many counselors still resent it. Sometimes we just need a friendly reminder of why we do certain things and how they matter. Well, I've got you covered! Here are 10 reasons that paperwork doesn't suck:

1. Notes provide you reminders about what your clients have accomplished.

2. Electronic records make paperwork kind of cool; you can feel "techy" and professional and you only need to know how to enter a login and password. 

3. Once you get the hang of it, notes really only take 5-10 minutes to write.

4. Intake paperwork backs you up when there is confusion about policies.

5. Credit card authorization forms get you paid when your client doesn't show!

6. Templates can make notes easier and faster to write.

7. There's nothing like a progress note to memorialize those priceless client quotes in a HIPAA-compliant fashion.

8. Treatment plans help you think more objectively about your clients and their progress.

9. HIPAA may seem scary, but it protects all of us, not just our clients... and that means it gives you access to your own medical records whenever you want (within reason, of course). 

10. At the end of treatment, your client's file provides the story of their journey with you.

See... paperwork isn't all bad! It does serve a purpose and it doesn't have to be painful. Did you think of other reasons that I didn't list here (yes, there are lots more reasons paperwork doesn't suck!)? I believe in the power of positive thinking and putting yourself in a good space before starting your documentation. So leave a comment below with just one reason paperwork isn't so bad. Happy writing!