Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers started as a free resource for lawyers battling substance abuse and has evolved over the years into a multifaceted service agency that provides free and confidential support groups, clinical evaluations, clinical groups, clinical consultations, referrals to therapeutic services in the community, law office management consultations, support with handling disciplinary issues, and several other services. When I first joined the LCL clinical team a few months ago, I was impressed at the organization’s mission, structure, and flexibility. One of my first thoughts was, “This is a great organization. Why isn’t every lawyer in Massachusetts lining up to take advantage of this resource?” Well, obviously there are many reasons why a valuable, free resource would not be used (e.g., people are busy, they might have other resources meeting their needs, there might be stigma associated with getting help with an issue, etc.). However, one of the most important factors in promoting a helpful resource or product is personal recommendation. There is no better advertising than a personal endorsement.
This is the reason why at the recent LCL Annual Dinner, Executive Director Rodney Dowell made a challenge to those who have been helped by the services of LCL to take up the flag, so to speak, and be “a Champion of LCL”. There have been many Champions of LCL over the years, those who have been helped by the services at LCL, those who have volunteered their time and energy helping others, and those who have seen the value in helping lawyers manage the unique stresses of a life in the law. Now, for the impact of LCL to continue and expand, I extend Rodney Dowell’s challenge to all of you. Become a Champion of LCL. Tell your story. Encourage others to use the services provided at LCL. Mentor those who can learn from your experience. Personally invite a friend or colleague to find out more about Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers. There is no better enticement than a personal invitation.
Shawn Healy, PhD
