2021

Another Step Forward

2021 has been another wild ride of a year. Many of us has been hopeful that 2020 would be the end the misery and that 2021 would being a fresh sense of normalcy. This has not been the case for many of as we are seeking a new sense of what is “normal.” The pandemic did not end. People did not stop dying. We were not all able to return to our jobs in the way we wanted. Many of us rightfully chose not to return to our jobs. And, we are beginning to see the effects of the pandemic on our physical and mental well-being. Mental health providers are not immune to these effects. It is now more than ever I believe in the Foundations’ philosophy of promoting provider care and self empowerment first and foremost. While doctors and nurses have been on the front lines, we are now about to join them. Take care of yourselves. Honor your experiences of vicarious trauma. Seek support. We need each other now more than ever.

New Growth

Foundations’ Garland

We are so proud of having put together our largest project to date: The Foundations’ Garland Offices. It has been a goal since the beginning to find ways to de-centralize mental and behavioral healthcare in ways that smaller offices could be offered in more communities. This office opened Summer of 2021 and offers ten cozy offices and a sunny play room for folks located on the Norther/central areas of Spokane. Melissa Rockwell has been incredible in stepping up to support this team and to make this practice a supportive and affirming place to come as a client as well as to work. Thank you Melissa!

The Oh-So-Many Changes

If there is a constant in this field, it is that every changes constantly. In the Spring of 2021, we made the terrifying choice to bring insurance billing in-house. As with all financially-related choices, my biggest worry is in maintaining our providers’ livelihoods without delay or impact on compensating their heroic work. I was nervous that there would be delays as we changed over or that it would all completely collapse. This could not have been further from reality. The process was seamless and rewarding. This change has allowed us to save money to pass on to providers as well as saving us time and effort in the billing process. We are eternally grateful for Lilc City Billing Services LLC for all that they have done to help get us to where we are today. I am so grateful for the relationships we have been able to cultivate as well. And I am incredibly grateful to Jarrod for taking this project on with grace and hard work. THANK YOU!

The Numbers

Compared to last year, Foundations has seen more than a 100% increase in fiscal revenue. In total, we have processed more than $1.2 million with more than $800,000 being paid out to our providers. Twenty-five partners provided services to more than 1,100 different clients in our communities.

Coming in 2022

An unmet goal from 2021 still needs to be realized: The opening of offices in Sarasota Florida with the project led by Jennifer Anderson, LMHC. This is now a priority for myself to begin the opening this Spring. I am truly grateful for Jennifer's patience with me as I am working to balance rapid growth with provider and consumer safety and contentment.

As we continue our growth, it is becoming increasing important to hire an assistant to support with managing phone calls, faxes, billing, and client scheduling. I am excited to offer a part-time position that will be work-from-home and will offer a living wage.

Additionally, as we have come to the realization that an independent contractor model is not sustainable in operating a business in Washington State, we are excited to begin looking at transitioning our contractors over to W2 Employees to offer similar compensation as well as added benefits (PTO, Sick Leave, Holidays, etc). So far, those who have transitioned over are very happy with how this has rolled out. As nervous as I had been about this transition, I am confident that this is the better way to go as well. Eventually, we will be able to offer medical benefits and retirement benefits as well!

Happy New Year!

Thank you to all that you do in our communities and for your dedication to Foundations. I want to reiterate that this is a difficult time for those around us and that we directly and vicariously experience the impacts of the hurting as well. This is going to get harder before it gets better. Please. Reach out for support. I am always here to talk. Reach out to get counseling as well. Take care of you— you matter.