FAQ

What makes SOS Mary different from a professional organizer?

• I am a project manager and designer, trained as an architect, mediator, and life coach. I assess your house and organizational infrastructure to see how it all adds up to best serve your dreams, habits, and belongings – and where it doesn’t.  When your house works well, you work less. 

• We operate in quantum leaps for immediate results – on a big scale. We get it done fast so our clients can live the way they want to now, not someday.

• We work on multiple areas at once – from the inside out – and disrupt old patterns of disorganization. 

• We are thorough and complete where ever possible so our clients don’t face the same issues again.

What’s it like to work with you?

• Each project is unique. Some clients want guidance and coaching; others need help in one or two areas; and many require full-on action and assistance. 

• We start with a virtual or on-site Home Audit to explore constraints, priorities, what’s working, and what’s not working; then, we make a comprehensive game plan, to get you the most value from your next steps. 

• Either I or an SOS project leader works closely with the client, while other team members act on the client’s decisions. My clients are consistently amazed at how much is accomplished in a short period of time. We can work with your designer, handyman, contractor, or find the right person for the job.

• While some clients sign on to get the work done and move on, I’ve supported many clients over time through diverse and challenging life transitions. Several have become dear friends.

Do you work with people in hoarding situations?

• All people deserve dignity, support, and sensitivity, and we support our clients attentively. Most clutter results from delayed decisions, not hoarding; people simply have more things than they need. 

• For individuals with a true hoarding disorder, making decisions can be traumatic; therefore, a team of specialists is needed to safely navigate the process. We are not a good fit for these clients. Our clients are motivated and ready for transformative action.

• The Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD) provides an informative Clutter-Hoarding Scale. 

• The International OCD Foundation has more information on hoarding disorders and resources.

Can I hire you to organize someone else?

• Needs often differ in a shared household and we approach this in a sensitive and generous way based on mediation techniques in service to domestic harmony and well-being. 

• If you want to support grown children, parents, or friends who are overwhelmed by home responsibilities, we can work directly with them and circumvent common, familial stress-triggers. 

• Clients have reported that the gift of SOS Mary services and the lasting results have been more impactful than a two-week family vacation. Since those are rare these days, it’s something to consider!

Can we work virtually if I’m not ready to have people in my home while sheltering in place?

• Yes! We can get you prepared to act so you’re ready when you feel it’s safe to do so. 

• Working virtually is a great option for clients outside the Atlanta area.

What kind of pandemic protocol do you follow to protect me and your team?

• We are committed to keeping each other safe. We wear clean masks; sanitize hands when we arrive, leave, drink/eat; keep 6 feet apart whenever we can, and stay home if exposed or possibly symptomatic.

What if I’m embarrassed and reluctant to let someone see the state of my home and my mess?

• We’re your support team, the ones who’ll make you look good to the rest of the world. We’re nonjudgmental, neutral, confidential, and follow a Code of Ethics.

• While we’ve “seen it all,” our attention is on how it looks and works in the future, and on seeing you thrive.