The Maple Leaf Gazette

October, 2000                                                                                                                    Vol 4 Number 4

Another Successful Seminar, No 12

Reading the evaluations by participants, the seminar with Dr. Kathleen C. Faller was considered to be very helpful. Social Workers came from  the Upper Peninsula and as far away as Grosse Pointe Park. Judge Philip Rodgers, Jr. opened the morning session and Prosecutor Charles Koop, from Antrim County, opened the afternoon session. A strong emphasis was made about preparation for testifying in the Court setting and the rules that pertain to it. Specifically, direct and cross-examination, and the difference between appearing as an expert or as a therapist was discussed. Even with utmost confidence in their assessments,  Social Workers need to expect to be challenged on a variety of points, the aim of which is to discredit their testimony. It is hard not to take this personally; but it is all part of the strategy used in Court to influence the outcome. Well prepared testimony and repeated experience in Court settings will make Social Workers more effective. It is important for Social Workers to gain the experience and confidence which comes from helping the Court in it's work.

Local Advisory Board Appointed

In order to be responsive to community needs, The Maple Clinic has appointed an Advisory Board made up of people from various parts of our community. We have a representative from the Health Department, from the School District, from the Clergy, from the Department of Corrections, from law enforcement, a family law attorney, from Munson Medical Center, Blue Care Network and local business community. We are hoping to add a family care physician to this Board in the future.

 The first meeting was held on September 20th and a review of the clinic's service program was begun. After the review is completed, recommendations for additional services may be made to address local needs in the community. The Board will meet at least four times a year and more often if necessary. Anyone interested in contacting the Advisory Board may do so by mailing their inquiry to: The Advisory Board of The Maple Clinic, Inc., 525 South Union Street, Traverse City, Michigan 49684.

The Maple Clinic is an accredited outpatient facility.

Outpatient Psychiatric   Clinic

The Maple Clinic, Inc. has officially begun operation in Traverse City. This is one of the oldest private OPCs in the State of Michigan; its contract with BCBSM dates back to August, 1973. From this Clinic sprang several other clinics....The Maple Clinic of Traverse City, Inc. being one. For the moment The Maple Clinic will operate out of the same office complex as does The  Maple Clinic of Traverse City. But plans are being considered for changing it's name and relocating it within the Traverse City area. More about that later.

School employees with   MESSA insurance, others employees  with  Community Blue, Blue Choice, Blue Care Network,  State of Michigan employees as well as current or retired automotive employees with Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance can have services at the Maple Clinic reimbursed. Referrals can be made by calling (231) 946-9575. We, of course, will check the patient's insurance before beginning to provide services. Check our Web-site for more details: <www.mapleclinic.com>.