Post Traumatic Development Disorder

I am coining a new disorder. It is one that I have seen over and over again, but have never found a name for. Clients with PTDD start our meetings with the phrase 'well, our first architect told us' or 'last time we went down this road' or 'we've heard that before'. They can be characterized by grim looks, suspicious comments, and little or no enthusiasm about their project. Most often they lean way back in conference room armchairs so as to keep a safe distance - we designers bite and spit poison you know.

Part of me wonders who and where these sly, money-hungry development consultants are. Are they sitting on a yacht somewhere drinking martinis and chuckling to themselves as they recall that non-profit that they sucked dry with addenda? Are they happily sitting on their mid-recession cloud of extra fees and over-charged reimburseables? I bet they have secret societies and special training camps where they talk about how to sneak around from client to client keeping their reputation solid through payoffs and settled lawsuits. Wherever you are, (you sorry, overpriced, profession ruiners) I am looking for you.

To the sufferers to PTDD, know that your best recovery program begins with a big T for Trust. Find a new consultant, a better consultant. Don't be swayed by fancy websites, textured letterhead paper, or interestingly shaped business cards. Find someone you relate to and treat them like family. Know that a good outcome and partnership is something that you both desire. Be clear about your expectations and concerns. While those shifty, shady kinds are out there; most of us are just doing what we love - not because it will make us the next private island owner - but because we have a true passion for making beautiful, workable spaces.