Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeanne Russell.
Jeanne, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have been a Physician Assistant for 24+ years and was part of a general pediatric practice in East Texas. I always enjoyed the psychiatric part of my practice more than anything. That included treating children and adolescents for ADHD, depression and autistic behaviors. I was always learning as much as I could thru reading, attending conferences and I developed a close relationship with a number of psychiatrists in the area. It was very fulfilling to be able to help a child and see how the family dynamics improved.
One of the psychiatrists that I consulted, knowing how much I loved that part of my practice, offered to support me by collaborating with me to open my own practice. I decided to open the practice in the Clear Lake area to be closer to one of my daughters and her family. Knowing pretty much nothing about opening and running my own practice, I have had to learn as I go. I always go back to my reasons WHY I’m doing this when things get hard. It helps me get clarity and overcome any fears I may have. I have made plenty of mistakes, but have also done a lot of things right.
Has it been a smooth road?
The hardest part was establishing a practice where I have no reputation. I had no connections to the community in general, and especially the medical community. I have had to go out and network to meet people. For most people this is an area that involves a lot of fear, and I have had to overcome that! It has been an area of my life that has been enriched tremendously. I have met so many wonderful people that are supportive and encouraging.
Another major struggle has been figuring out the business side of things. I had always taken that side of things for granted, and now I see how essential that is to allow me to do what I do best. The learning curve has been steep! The hardest part was learning the lingo…OMG…every area has its own language. I’m sure that’s how others feel when they try to understand the medicine side of things. It has given me such an appreciation for every aspect of having a business.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Clear Lake Kids Psychiatry story. Tell us more about the business.
I provide psychiatry services for children and adolescents and their families. I listen to their stories and determine the best treatment plan for them, whether it’s medication, counseling or any other services that would help them thrive individually, and as a family.
I love talking to my patients and I put a lot of careful thought into what would be the most beneficial treatment plan. I pride myself in being easily accessible and I think my genuine love of what I do comes through! I never want them to feel rushed, or that I don’t have time for them. I am very aware how just ONE word can change a person’s life; many times by giving them a more positive perspective.
Being in health care can be very difficult these days, but I am determined to make a difference in people’s lives.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
WOW!! Health care is evolving so much lately, and not necessarily for the better. It’s easy to get caught up in all the negative talk about all the rules and regulations. I choose not to let that discourage me.
I am staying open to new ways to help my patients, but it usually comes down to the basics. Our needs haven’t changed and we still need the human connection.
Contact Info:
- Address: 17226 Mercury Drive, Suite 100
77058 - Website: clearlakekidspsychiatry.com
- Phone: 281-975-0600
- Email: clearlakekidspsychiatry@outlook.com
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