From the desk of My Collaborative Team President, Edward S. Sachs, CPA
The Collaborative Process is ever-changing, growing, and improving. This past week on the Happy Hour call I asked Mark Sobaslai, a Collaborative attorney from Connecticut who is taking the MCT sponsored Introductory Interdisciplinary training why he is retaking the basic training and what he had learned. His simple response not only answered both questions but really tells how the process is constantly improving and changing. Most importantly, it shows the importance of taking the basic training multiple times and getting as much advanced training as possible.
In just the first two sessions of the training Mark had learned the concept of the neutrals doing a bunch of work before the first team meeting was ever held. In his community they were still utilizing the first team meeting solely for the purpose of signing the Participation Agreement and all other documents to start the process. They then talk about goals and give out homework, including the gathering of all needed financial records. Through this second training he learned how now the financial neutral often gets much of the financial records and begins preparing initial schedules to bring to the first meeting. The coach/facilitator/mhp have already met the parties and begun the framework of a parenting plan. It makes the process much more efficient.
The point of my story comes back to the importance of training. Once you have your basic training it is incumbent upon all Collaborative professionals to continue advanced training. Attend a statewide conference, not only for the great training but for the professional development. My Collaborative Team is excited to be a sponsor of Collaborative Practice Washington’s upcoming conference. We also will be sponsoring the California state conference. And now, with most conferences being virtual, anyone can attend these great sessions. We encourage you to register and attend.
If you are a My Collaborative Team member, send us proof of your registration at a state conference other than the one in which you practice, and we will send you a $50 rebate. At My Collaborative Team, we believe that the best way to make Collaborative cases is to become a more competent and more confident professional.
