Private Practice / Psychotherapy
Best Practices
In Brief
Professionals take 100% responsibility for their actions and their work.
Quotes
Schedule “everything.”
“Dress for success.” ~ Executive recruiters
Invest in a great website.
When in doubt, refer.
Boundaries
In Brief
Healthy professional boundaries require clear internal boundaries.
Quotes
“A lack of boundaries invites lack of respect.” ~ Anonymous
“You get what you tolerate.” ~ F. Cloud
Offering to be available by phone creates a 24/7 therapist.
Therapist: “Okay, I’ll see you next week. If you need to contact me, here is my email address.”
Expectations
In Brief
While realistic expectations can be helpful, expectations can also be premeditated resentments.
Quotes
Agenda-setting (collaborative): “Allows therapist and client to be on the same page and generates alternatives.”
“There are two ways to be happy, improve your reality or lower your expectations.” ~ J. Picoult
“Expectations were like fine pottery. The harder you held them, the more likely they were to crack.” ~ B. Sanderson
Employee / Employer
Employee:
“You’re firing me?”
Employer:
“No, you fired yourself.” ~ M. Hefty
Payment
In Brief
Respect your worth: “My fee is…
Quotes
“You don’t get paid for the hour. You get paid for the value you bring to the hour.” ~ J. Rohn
Create a structured fee schedule and stick with it.
Telephone call intrusion: “I need to put on my therapist hat now.” = “The meter is running.”
Client / Therapist
Client:
“You’re just in this for the money.”
Therapist:
“My caring is always free. My time isn’t.”
Marketing
In Brief
Network assiduously. Social proof/testimonials. Availability (online, evenings, weekends) Accept marginal insurance. Group therapy.
Quotes
“Entrepreneurship is living a few years of your life like most people won’t so you can spend the rest of your life like most people can’t.” ~ Anonymous
“The best marketing strategy ever: CARE.” ~ G. Vaynerchuk
Tips
It’s always about networking: Chamber of Commerce, Charities, City Council Meetings, PTA…as well as social media.
Successful professionals ask for referrals: Your doctor, your yoga instructor, your hairdresser…or barber.
Find a niche. Be a resource.