Have you tried getting a shared office space somewhere? Maybe even where other programmers sit as well? I share an office and see people that way. If you share office with people in the same business you can also easily discuss any problems that occur and maybe get help?
My name is Anton Sten and I'm a UI/UX designer with 15 years of experience. I'm no stranger to work in unsexy spaces (have experience from working with pension plans to anti depressives).
I have a portfolio at www.lepetitgarcon.com but would really like to discuss this opportunity with you in order to better understand how I can be of service.
Looking forward to hearing back from you - feel free to email me ([email protected]) and we can setup a Skype call. I'm based in Sweden but do a lot of work for US-based companies.