Checklist To Starting An Amazing Private Counseling Practice | Episode 21

Welcome to A Counselors Journey To Private Practice. I'm your host, Juan.
In this episode, we cover 10 Checklist To Starting A Private Practice. Here are 10 key take-aways:

1. Mission. What is the mission of the business? What does your business look like in 6 months? Or in 10 years? Create a mission statement that connects to the foundation of the business.
2. Create a business plan. I like to think of a business plan similar to a treatment plan that is set for the client.
3. Insurance. Take time to get you and your practice covered with insurance that includes professional and general liability.
4. Time off. Self-care is vital and should not be on the back burner. Instead, I encourage business owners to build their practice around their self-care and not the other way around. Meaning that you are working to create the lifestyle you desire.
5. Bank account. Set up a separate account (business account) that is under your business name/practice group name and tax ID number. This account is used to receive and pay all business-related monies.
6. Set up a legal structure. Take time to meet with a CPA and/or business attorney to explore setting this up. Structures can range from LLC to Corporation. When deciding on the structure take time to think long term, explore how the structure impacts your taxes, and so forth.
7. Finding a location. You have options when it comes to how you want to set up shop. I’ll share the options below as they impact set up fees. Clinician Home-based therapy. This structure means that you operate your counseling practice out of your home. This can be done through face to face to telehealth. Client Home-based therapy. This structure means that you are going to the home of the client to provide services. Subleasing an office space from a large office. This structure means that you rent an office from a suite that is already being rented by another person.
   Renting an entire office. This structure means that you rent an entire office suite.
   Purchasing a commercial property. This structure means that you purchase a property. Very similar to purchasing a home versus renting a home.
8. Creating a website. Counselors in private practice should have a website. A place that potential visitors can learn more about the services that you are providing.
   Having a website can serve many purposes. Your website can be a place that gives you space to share your thoughts. Such as a blog all about your journey or how you help people with anxiety.
9. Accounting system. Take time to select an accounting system for your practice. The example includes QuickBooks.
10. General areas to explore. Take time to explore the following questions in an effort to solidify the foundation to your private practice: What is the process for paying bills associated with the practice? (such as paying for rent or insurance). What is the process for paying taxes?

Are you interested in receiving help with your counseling business?
CLICK HERE

Thank you for listening.
Please leave an awesome review and subscribe to the podcast so that you never miss an episode in your journey of private practice.
I'm always looking for awesome counselors that are ready to share their story. Visit the link below, let's connect.
Visit http://acounselorsjourney.com/be-a-guest/
Watch the episode on the YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/M2d0z5ziQaw
Visit