The Essential (But Hopefully Unused) Items for Your Private Practice Survival Kit

So, you’ve finally taken the plunge and opened your private practice. Congratulations! You’re now the proud owner of an office space that’s equal parts sanctuary and battlefield. As you settle into your new venture, there are a few essential items you’ll need—items that, let’s be honest, you hope you never have to use. But hey, better safe than sorry, right? Here’s a humorous yet informative look at the must-haves for your practice that might just collect a little dust!

Substance Abuse Referral Advocate: Your Safety Net

First up on the list is your trusty Substance Abuse Referral Advocate. Think of them as your superhero sidekick, swooping in when a client’s substance use issues hit a critical point. Ideally, you’ll have a few go-to contacts in your back pocket. Why? Because when you’re sitting in your office listening to a client confess their sixth “just one more drink” of the week, you’ll want to have a plan ready. And trust me, you don’t want to be fumbling around trying to Google “how to help a client with substance abuse” mid-session. 

Pink Papers: The “Just in Case” Document

Ah, the infamous pink papers! No, they aren’t for your new art project; they’re for those moments when you need to assess whether a client poses a danger to themselves or others. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to refer someone for an involuntary hold—let’s hope that’s a rare occurrence!—you’ll want to have those pink papers handy. They’re like the emergency parachute of your practice; you hope you never need to deploy them, but if you do, you’re glad you have them!

Extra Office Key: The Backup Plan

You’ve got your office locked up tight, but what happens when you accidentally lock yourself out? Cue the dramatic music! An extra office key is an absolute must-have. Keep it hidden in a secret spot—or give it to your trusty office neighbor—so that you can avoid the awkward situation of having to call a locksmith while your clients watch you from the waiting room. Nothing says “professional” like frantically trying to explain to them why you’re standing outside in your pajamas!

Fire Extinguisher: The Unseen Hero

While you may think a fire extinguisher is an unnecessary addition to your practice, it’s always better to have one than to be caught in a blazing inferno of paperwork! (Okay, maybe not literally, but you get the idea.) Whether it’s from a malfunctioning coffee maker or an overzealous incense burner, fires can happen when you least expect it. And the last thing you want is to be the therapist who’s remembered for their epic office fire. 

Plunger: The Unsung Champion of Office Maintenance

Let’s talk about the plunger—every therapist’s best-kept secret. You might think it’s an odd addition to your practice, but trust me, when the bathroom is out of commission during a busy day, you’ll be eternally grateful for this little tool. It’s like the superhero of the restroom, ready to save the day when disaster strikes. And let’s be real, nothing kills a therapeutic vibe quicker than a bathroom emergency!

Emergency Snacks: The True Lifesaver

Okay, this one might not be as critical as the others, but let’s be honest: a stash of emergency snacks is a must. Whether it’s a granola bar for yourself or a bowl of mints for clients, having something to munch on can save you from those moments when hunger strikes mid-session. Plus, nothing helps build rapport quite like offering a client a snack while they’re sharing their deepest fears. “Here, have a cookie while I help you unpack that trauma!”

The Bottom Line

In summary, while you hope to never need most of these items, having them on hand can provide peace of mind as you navigate the unpredictable world of private practice. From your substance abuse referral advocate to the trusty plunger, these essentials are like the safety net that allows you to focus on what really matters: helping your clients heal. So go ahead, stock up on these items, and embrace the chaos that is private practice—you’ve got this! 

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.