Are You Ready to Fly Solo? Knowing When You’re Clinically Ready for Private Practice

So, you’ve spent years in school, racked up a mountain of student debt, and survived countless hours of internships. Now you’re thinking, “Hey, maybe I should start my own private practice!” But before you dive headfirst into the world of solo therapy, let’s take a moment to assess whether you’re actually ready to spread those wings—or if you might need a little more time in the nest.

The Reality Check: You’re 100% Responsible

First things first: when you open your own practice, you are taking on the full weight of responsibility. You are not just the therapist; you are the entire operation. That means you’re responsible for what happens in your office, your clients’ well-being, and ensuring the safety of everyone who walks through your door. No pressure, right? 

But fear not! Let’s break down some essential skills you’ll need to master before you embark on this adventure.

Handling Client Sectioning Like a Pro

Picture this: a client is having a crisis and needs to be sectioned for their safety. If that thought makes you sweaty-palmed, it’s a sign to get more experience. You should be able to assess when someone poses a danger to themselves or others and know how to navigate that process with both compassion and professionalism. Remember, this isn’t just a “call the authorities” situation; it’s about ensuring your client receives the care they need, while you maintain your cool like a seasoned therapist.

Reporting Potential Abuse or Neglect

When it comes to reporting potential abuse or neglect to Child and Family Services, you must be ready to act. This can be a heavy burden, but it’s part of your responsibility as a clinician. You need to be familiar with your local laws and feel confident that you can handle this sensitive situation. If the thought of making that phone call feels like preparing to jump out of an airplane without a parachute, you might want to gather more training and supervision before you take the leap into private practice.

Confronting Substance Abuse Issues

Let’s talk about that moment when you have to confront a client about their substance abuse. It’s like walking a tightrope while juggling flaming torches—challenging, right? You’ll need to approach this topic with empathy, clear boundaries, and a solid understanding of intervention techniques. If you’re not comfortable addressing these issues, it might be wise to gain more experience in a group setting before going solo.

Managing Escalating Clients

Dealing with clients who are becoming agitated or escalating can feel like trying to calm a tornado. You need to have a toolkit of de-escalation techniques ready, along with the confidence to implement them. If the thought of a client yelling at you makes you want to hide under your desk, consider gaining more experience in a structured environment first.

Documenting Clinical Encounters Properly

Let’s not forget the not-so-glamorous side of therapy: documentation. Keeping accurate records of clinical encounters is essential, and you need to be adept at this. Think of it as your therapy diary, but with much higher stakes. If you’re not confident in your documentation skills, you could be putting yourself at risk. Before you open your practice, ensure that you can document effectively, capturing all the necessary details without turning your notes into a novel.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, knowing when you are clinically ready to start your private practice is all about confidence in your skills and understanding the weight of responsibility you’ll bear. If you can tackle these challenges with poise, you may just be on your way to flying solo. But if you find yourself feeling uncertain about any of these areas, consider gathering more experience or seeking mentorship.

Interested in learning more about starting your own private therapy practice?

If you’re a friendly, professional clinician, ready to take the next steps toward private practice in the south shore, we would love to speak with you.

Please contact Karen Peabody: 774-222-3196 | Email: info@forgewellsolutions.com

Karen Peabody, LICSW is a therapist and business consultant for social workers and therapists interested in starting their private practice. She founded Forgewell Solutions in East Bridgewater, MA. Her office is a great place to start a private practice. Visit her FOR THERAPISTS page to learn more.