PsyCare Spotlight: Desiree Farragher, MSW, LISW-S
Desiree Farragher, MSW, LISW-S
Clinical Social Worker & Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant, Liberty Office
How did you get your start with PsyCare?
I started working for PsyCare in May 2006 (14 years!) as a secretary when I was completing my undergrad in psychology. I continued to work for PsyCare while I got my MSW, and became a therapist in 2010 when I graduated. I was also a case manager for PsyCare in between being a secretary and therapist.
Tell us about the challenge of working from home.
The challenge of working from home is having young children. We are supposed to be “staying at home” with our own immediate household members, however, my husband is still working also, so I have no choice but to let others into my home to watch my children so I can work.
Engaging in an Ethics Training with Karen Vadino from the comfort of my couch and warmth of my burrito blanket.
How has life changed for you (personally and/or professionally) since the Covid-19 threat?
My life has changed both personally and professionally since the Covid-19 pandemic. Personally, it changes the way I think every time I plan to leave the house. I have to be able to go alone (i.e., my husband has to be home or we have to have a babysitter), I need to go during a “non-busy” time, need to have my mask with me, remember to use my hand sanitizer often, not get too close to people even if I see someone I know and want to say ‘hi.’ I also need more time to do things, since less people are allowed in stores and lines are longer because people are spread apart.
Wearing my mask at Giant Eagle.
Professionally, my life has changed because I am getting to see things in my clients that I haven’t before. I’m getting to see more of their home life. They’ve been able to show me things they talk about that I haven’t gotten to physically see, like a project they completed or their pets.
What message or suggestion do you want to give people during this stressful time?
A message for others during this time of uncertainty is to embrace the ability to spend quality time with others, compete a project that has been put off, enjoy nature, or use creative ways to adjust to the “new normal.” Use this as an opportunity to learn or do something new or out of your comfort zone. All of these things will help take your mind off the uncertainty and stress, and you might find joy or relief in something you don’t normally do.
To learn about Desiree’s Professional History, Theoretical Orientation, Professional Objectives, and Specialties, see her Staff Bio.