Frequently Asked Questions - Consulting 

What is unique about Lanstat consulting services?

We have been in the behavioral health profession for over thirty years, working in a variety of treatment settings. Sherry is a seasoned CARF surveyor and trainer and Landon brings his business experience technological knowledge to find solutions for you. Our co-authored textbook is used in colleges throughout the country. Few consultant organizations have our breadth and depth of knowledge. Send us an email, ask a question and see for yourself. Serving our customers well is our first priority!

Do I have to do a lot of “busywork” to get and stay accredited?

Accreditation standards require an information loop, as well as various systems that support sound business practices. Does this mean more paperwork? It can, and the payoff - if the systems and reporting are set up correctly - is more effective and efficient operations.

What kinds of things do consultants do?

A consultant may serve as an advisor, a coach or a mentor, depending on your needs. It's good to have an unbiased pair of eyes and ears when you're in the midst of the daily issues you face managing a behavioral health organization. You may like the idea of working with someone with different skills, a different point of view or a different thought process. Consultants like us have faced many of the same problems that you face, day to day, and have come up with solutions that work! If you're considering accreditation, we have the perspective to assist you in setting up systems to make that process happen with less stress and strain. Using our assistance will give you more confidence in the outcome.

How can hiring a consultant help me and my organization?

One way to think of a consultant is as a change agent. The change that you want to come about may include obtaining accreditation, developing more effective treatment strategies, increasing your market share, improving your work environment or increasing the professionalism of your organization. To assist in this the consultant will support you in planning for the change, help you identify resources, train staff as appropriate and as you implement the new strategies lend a hand in fine tuning the outcome. Using a consultant who has a different perspective to coach team members through changes can help defuse some of the unintended consequences of change, e.g. staff resistance, concerns and fears. Perhaps above all, management has a confidential "sounding board" and access to real life solutions. After 20 years as direct service providers, we listen!

Is it important to hire a consultant that has worked in my field?

 It depends on what you need the consultant to do. For matters having to do with marketing your program, upgrading clinical operations, gaining accreditation or providing a solid, healthy structure for your organization, we believe using a consultant who has had hands on experience in the behavioral health field is more likely to meet your needs. If it's information about how to set up a fiscal system, or buy insurance, or do organizational planning, then a generalist consultant may work just fine.

How do I get started working with a consultant?

Define the “problem” or task that needs to be addressed. A good consultant will know what questions to ask to determine if he or she can be of service to you. We offer a complimentary half hour phone consultation to discuss your needs. Does the consultant have to make trips to my organization? Many of the consulting clients that we serve have never met us in person. Depending on the task(s) that they need help with, we may visit once or more if the process is a long term or particularly urgent one. Costs are always agreed upon prior to any on or off site work. Our customers appreciate our attention to their budgetary constraints. We never charge for unnecessary work or expenses.