Private practice isn’t a “reward” for years of struggling. Being an associate in private practice is an attainable goal for new therapists. So why don’t we learn more about this career path in grad school?
We’ve all heard a fellow therapist say, “They didn’t teach us this in grad school!” And it’s true. Graduate programs for MFTs (or any clinical license) focus on making you a good therapist, NOT a good business owner. Why don’t they throw this in? Because running your own practice isn’t for everyone, and when you look around at fellow cohort mates only a few will end up being successful business owners.
Key Topics
Finding Purpose
If you are a “baby therapist” just learning the skills needed to be effective in the therapy room, it may feel intimidating to think about being completely solo in a private practice setting. This is a valid concern, which is why it is so important to get into that space while you still have the luxuries of supervision and mentorship. Finding your purpose for being in this mental health setting will be core to your work and business. Being an associate in private practice means being able to learn from a seasoned therapist, gain more experience working with aligned clients, and build your brand from day one.
Networking
Getting to know colleagues and peers may seem like an obvious skill needed to be successful in a business, but it is even more important for new therapists. Networking won’t just get you your first clients, but it will get you your first job. There is no private practice as an associate (at least in California) without a supervisor who is willing to hire and train you. Networking prior to the transcript being finalized or the associate number coming in the mail means more likelihood of hitting the ground running when you are able to start seeing that first client.
Business Finances
A huge part of a successful business is actually keeping your finances “in the black”. Associates in private practice often have little control over the cash flow they experience, but once you get that certificate of licensure that may change quickly. Setting yourself up with a plan to make ends meet, as well as a plan to save for that initial transition can make the process of becoming a successful business owner that much easier.
Time Management
When deciding to go into private practice as an associate, you have to consider the time commitment you are making. Collecting hours towards licensure is often the only thing on a new associate’s mind, but being in private practice can make this process quicker or much longer depending on your time management skills. Learning how to set up a schedule that fosters growth and supports your goals, as well as having an employer who supports your goals is critical.
Marketing
You learn ZERO helpful things about marketing in grad school, but if you know anything about running a business, you know that marketing is at the center of bringing in paying customers. As a therapist marketing looks a little different from the traditional business model, so having support with learning which marketing strategy is going to produce a steady stream of referrals for your business is essential.
If you are still pumped about starting your own practice and know you have what it takes to be a successful CEO, take the leap. Get started today to find the key components of your journey to private practitioner. All of these points are highlighted and taught in depth in the “Associates in Private Practice” course being held this summer. Sign up below to get a head start on the skills you need to make a dream a reality!
Associates in Private Practice
This group cohort class teaches the fundamentals of getting a head start on your ideal practice, while still collecting hours as an associate therapist. Sign up now!
