Choosing the Right Private Practice Clinic: A Guide for New Contractual Therapists and Counselors

Congratulations to all the new therapists and counselors who have recently graduated from school! As you embark on your journey to find a new therapist position, you’ll soon discover that you have two main options: government-funded mental health clinics and private practice clinics.

Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to carefully consider your needs, values, and career goals before making a decision. In this article, we’ll focus on private practice clinics and what you need to look for when applying to these types of organizations.

Choosing a Private Practice Clinic: What to Look For

Strong Clinic Operations:

One of the most important things to look for when applying to a private practice clinic is a strong operational structure. You want to make sure that the clinic has established processes in place for managing patients, billing, and other administrative tasks. You can ask the managing partners about their systems for scheduling, charting, and insurance claims to get a sense of how well the clinic is run.

Understanding of Business and Numbers:

Since private practice jobs are mostly based on billable time, it’s critical to have managing partners who understand the business side of things. You want to make sure they have a good handle on the financials and are able to run a profitable operation. Ask the managing partners about their financial goals and how they track their progress.

The Practice Reputation:

The reputation of the clinic is also an important consideration. You want to work for a clinic that is well-respected in the community and has a good track record of helping patients. Ask the managing partners about the clinic’s history and how they maintain a positive image in the community.

Local Marketing:

Marketing is another important factor to consider when choosing a private practice clinic. You want to work for a clinic that has a strong marketing strategy and is able to attract new patients on a regular basis. Ask the managing partners about their marketing efforts and how they measure their success.

Work Ethic:

Finally, it’s important to have a good work ethic when working in a private practice clinic. You need to be professional, dedicated, and willing to put in the time and effort required to help your patients. Ask the managing partners about their expectations for therapists and how they support their staff in their professional development.

Questions to Ask the Private Practice Managing Partners 

1. Can you tell me about the clinic’s operations and how you manage patients and billing?
2. What are your financial goals for the clinic and how do you track your progress?
3. How does the clinic maintain its reputation in the community?
4. Can you describe your marketing strategy and how you measure its success?
5. What are your expectations for therapists and how do you support their professional development?

In conclusion, private practice clinics can be a great option for new therapists and counselors who are looking to start their careers. By carefully considering the factors listed above and asking the right questions, you can ensure that you find a clinic that is a good fit for your needs and values. Good luck in your search!