Organize and More

Linda Richards, Professional Organizer, and A&E “Hoarders” Geralin Thomas are pictured at the 2010 NAPO conference in Columbus, Ohio

Geralin Thomas and I are both members of the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD). Geralin has been on the A&E “Hoarders” tv show, sharing her Professional Organizing services. It has been interesting for me to hear her (& other Professional Organizers who have worked on the show nationwide) share ‘behind the scenes’ experiences.

The organizers I have met who work in extreme hoarding environments are kind, compassionate and knowledgeable professionals. Since I prefer to work with hoarders who have ‘very mild to mild’ hoarding situations, I have a great respect for PO’s who work in environments that are in great decay, dangerous and unsafe for individuals and families to live in.

Which brings to mind a question that was asked during one of the sessions at the 2010 national conference for NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers), ‘Why are shows like “Hoarders” so popular?” and “Is it ‘good or bad’ to have shows like that?” I can personally say I almost never watch tv but do feel that if a show helps people know they are not the only ones with special needs and also educates them about resources available to help them change their lives, it can be a good thing, if it is done in a compassionate, professional manner. Many people are now learning about the help available for hoarders as a result of shows like “Hoarders” so I can say that is one benefit.

What do you think about shows like “Hoarders”?