3 Questions Should You Consider when Starting Your Private Practice?
Many therapists are keen to set up themselves in private practice. As professionals they want to be independent and carve their own niche which they can be proud of.
However, many are not sure where to actually start. A lot of mistakes are made in the first crucial months which can have a long term effect on the success of the practice.
To make sure you are starting off on the right foot ask yourself these three questions if you want to have a successful practice.
What Questions Should You Consider when Starting Your Private Practice?
1. What kind of a practice will you have?
Would you want to work with adults, children or community groups?
As well, while there might be hundreds of conditions which you are capable of treating in a particular target market, would it be wise to focus on just one in an area where it is prevalent?
Also, research the locale of where you want to work. Is there a specific mental health issue which would ensure you get more clients?
2. When do you plan to see your first patient?
This might sound a funny question, but consider that your first patient translates to your first income.
You are going to be out of pocket for many expenses, so the sooner you start seeing patients the better.
Set a reasonable timeline in which you can establish your practice, and start seeing clients.
Your Practice Should Be Established to Meet the Needs of Your Clients
3. Where should your practice be established?
While many therapists have a vision of a comfortable practice set in an idyllic suburb close to home, you may find that you need to establish your clinic where people are more likely to find you.
Keeping in mind what mode of transport your clientele are likely to use you might consider having a practice in a shopping center, near public transport or close to other medical facilities.
If you want a successful practice you will need to consider these questions seriously, and be flexible. All practices need clients.
You will need to meet their needs in their area to be a great success.
