Starting A Private Practice
It is a new, exciting, and scary adventure to start a private practice as a mental health counselor. Here are a few things to consider before launching your practice.
Before launching your practice:
Start a saving or emergency fund
It may take six months or a year to establish a private practice fully. If you are thinking of starting a private practice, find ways to start saving during the launching months. You can find part-time jobs that can support you before launching. I began teaching at a university in Oklahoma when I was a community mental health counselor and site director to earn additional income. The adjunct work allowed me to develop the experience and earn extra income that benefited me years later.
Find your niche
I spoke to a good friend of mine who has a very successful private practice. His no. 1 advice is to know your specialty and target population. Before you launch your practice, this is an excellent time to earn additional certification or continuing education to reach your potential clients. Take the time to understand the needs of your community.
Business first
Remember this is a business. Follow legal and tax laws. Make sure you have the required clinical documents. Set up an LLC or S-Corp suitable to your business needs and tax situation. Seek professional consultation before you start your practice.
Launching Your Practice
Use a Practice Management System
Several companies are offering this service. I use Simple Practice, and it is very user-friendly. I can manage my schedule, maintain a client’s portal and paperwork, and complete my billing with self-paying and insured clients. Practice management was my biggest worry and using Simple Practice has helped me build my practice.
Build a referral network.
Think of ways to build your clientele. Use social media and professional networking sites to promote your private practice. Consider usingt Facebook, Linkedin, and Psychology Today. Such marketing is a great way to promote your practice and reach your potential clients. Budget some funds monthly to promote your business through Google Ads. The reality to having a successful practice is to have a strong network of referrals.
Self Care and Boundaries
Practice self-care and set proper boundaries as you start your practice. Dr. Kelly James shares that setting hours that are respectful and kind to you as the clinician is a vital self-care practice. Seek to find a work-life balance early in your career.