Written by Karlissa Wise, Clinical Social Worker
Dr. Karlissa Wise is a Clinical Social Worker who works with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Congratulations! You are a therapist in private practice! Whether you have been in private practice for 3 months or 10 years, being a business owner is an amazing accomplishment. There are benefits of being a therapist in private practice. For instance, creating your own schedule, having the ability to be creative, and forming your own work environment. On the other hand, as a therapist in a solo private practice, you have many obligations. You are the therapist, biller, scheduler, promoter of your business, and more. With many responsibilities, it is important to take care of yourself. Here are a few ways to maintain balance while being a therapist in a solo private practice.
Complete consultations & refer
One way to maintain self-care is to complete consultations before the initial intake session. Consultations give you the ability to assess if the client would benefit from the approach you utilize in your practice. It is okay to refer clients to other providers. Refrain from accepting clients that may be struggling with trauma you are also dealing with. If you are aware that a particular subject is triggering, it is best to refer the client to another professional. This can be decided during a consultation with a client after obtaining background information. Keeping that client may trigger your own feelings. In that case, it would be unhealthy for you and the client.
Create a schedule that works for you
It is okay to reduce the number of clients you are meeting with. If you realize you are not able to stay present or find you are tired after meeting with 8 clients, take a break in between sessions. Breaks are needed to help you reset before meeting with the next client. If a break is not enough, consider reducing the number of sessions you have per day. Some therapists see up to 6 or more clients a day. It is okay if you find that you can stay present during each session with the clients you are meeting with. However, if you find that after a few sessions your mind starts to wander, it may be time to change your schedule.
Create a support system as a therapist
Since you are a therapist in a solo private practice, you no longer have colleagues to speak with when you have challenging cases or need ideas. You may find this overwhelming and difficult at times. Creating a support system that consists of other solo therapists will be beneficial in those moments. Additionally, creating this support system also creates a social group that is usually obtained in a workplace. You can connect with other solo therapists through trainings, on social media, and during networking events.
Take the advice you give your clients
We empower our clients to take care of themselves. We encourage them to set boundaries, communicate their needs, and even utilize affirmations. We should also set boundaries, communicate our needs, and utilize affirmations. Taking care of ourselves is essential because ensuring you are okay, ensures that you are present for your clients. Create your own goals, rest, spend time with friends, refrain from isolating yourself, and take care of your medical needs. Creating a routine to take care of yourself guarantees that you can manage stress effectively, decrease burnout, improve your mood, and improve your physical health.
Read more from Karlissa Wise
Karlissa Wise, Clinical Social Worker
Dr. Karlissa Wise is a Clinical Social Worker who works with individuals and couples in therapy. Dr. Wise is the founder of Wise Counseling & Consultation, LLC. Wise Counseling & Consultation focuses on providing clients with coping strategies to manage stress and different life challenges. Her goal is to continue helping others in need of mental health services.
