Transitioning to a Group Practice
Independent Mental Health practices are increasing in number as many Clinicians are tired of working for low wages, high caseloads, and increased responsibilities in different settings within the mental health field. As an advocate for independent mental health practice, this increased number is exciting! There are so many people who would benefits from counseling and mental health services.
What happens when an Independent Clinician reaches a maximum number of families in their practice and continues to receive referrals? Well, this Clinician can refer out these additional cases OR think about transitioning to a Group Practice!
A group practice is made up of a group of mental health clinicians who are interesting in seeing clients for individual, family, and/or group counseling services. A group practice has many benefits from a network of highly trained clinicians to cross refer when needed, a safe place for families to be serviced at the same location, and the ability for the Group Practice Owner to reach more families than he would with a solo practice.
A Group Practice is not for every Clinician. This takes a lot of work to make the transition, but first you need to evaluate with some basic questions:
- What is your vision for your Group Practice?
- Many large do you want your practice?
- Do you have the resources right now or will you need to seek them out?
- Why do you want to make the transition?
- Why now?
Talking to a Private Practice Coach who specializes in Group Practice Management can be a invaluable resource to helping you build your Group Practice. After evaluating your answers to the above questions, you may want to explore this idea further or understand this transition may not be the right fit for you. For more information, visit www.StokesConsultingServices.com