8 Lessons I learned during my first year in Private Practice
I’ve been a social worker/therapist for over 8 years and have learned quite a bit from my experiences working for other people, non-profit organizations and governments. While the lessons I’ve learned throughout the years have taught me so much, I’d like to take some time to share what a whole year in private practice has taught me.
1. Having a support system is KEY
As a therapist who works from home, it can be so isolating at times. While it’s been a privilege to work from home and make my own schedule, I really miss the face-to-face interactions with my colleagues. Connecting with others makes me a better therapist and that’s why it’s been so important for me to connect with other therapists, talk with my close friends and spend time with people who make me feel good and support me in my purpose.
2. Scarcity mindset can creep in
In general, I would say I have learned to have an abundance mindset towards my life as a whole. Although, I would be lying if I said that the scarcity mindset didn’t creep in every once in a while. In a world where we have so much access to other people’s success, it can be easy to fall into the trap of feeling limited in my creativity, not making enough money or just feeling bad about not having a full caseload at all times. I’ve worked really hard to acknowledge when I’m experiencing a scarcity mindset and reminding myself that creativity, money, clients and opportunities are always accessible to me. *Abundaaaaance*
3. Being ghosted kinda hurts
As a therapist who now works with adults, I never thought I would be left hanging by my clients. I’ve had people completely ghost me out of nowhere like I’m some random fling on Hinge. This has definitely brought up thoughts about not being good enough, “did they not like me or did I say something wrong?” Despite having these thoughts, I try not to take the “ghosting” personally and remind myself it probably has nothing to do with me and even if it does, it’s okay…although it still makes me kinda sad because I'm a sensitive girly.
4. There's more than one way to do things
I’ve been learning not all therapists will run their business the same and it’s ok to be different and do things my own way. I’ve had to constantly remind myself just because other people are doing things a certain way it doesn’t mean it will work best for me.
5. Lean into discomfort
This lesson is one I’ve been working through for a while and will probably continue to work through. I don’t have all the answers and won’t always know what to do but I’m building my tolerance of feeling uncomfortable and choosing to move and grow through it. This is the kind of thing I’ll say to my clients but that’s challenging for me to put into practice in my own life.
6. Creating my own schedule means I get to have slow mornings
Not having to rush through my day has been such a blessing! I used to think I thrived under pressure and in fast-paced environments, turns out I was just really good at adapting to my environment. This past year I’ve been able to nurture my nervous system and move at a pace that feels good for me while taking the mornings to care for myself.
7. I won't be seen unless I put myself out there
This lesson is always going head-to-head with my anxiety. I know that if I want to grow my business and serve more people, I have to show up in ways I never have before. Clients won’t just magically show up at my doorstep and know how to find me. This means I may have to write blogs or articles that speak to my clients, or I might have to show my face and use my voice on social media. This is sooo scary and intimidating at times but I’m learning to accept the possibilities of being seen.
8. Celebrate all the things
This is the MOST important lesson because if I don’t celebrate, most likely, no one else will. Being in a solo Private Practice is challenging and a bit risky. There is no manager, supervisor or boss who’s going to celebrate my hard work and accomplishments or tell me I’m doing a great job. It’s just me. So, I’ve decided to celebrate anything from completing a training, to gaining a new client, to doing my business accounting, to making it through my first year in business. This practice of celebration helps to keep my imposter syndrome in check and the confidence to keep going!
Hopefully my thoughts on these lessons I’ve learned in the past year have been helpful to read. If you’re a therapist in private practice or a small business owner, I’d love to hear about what lessons you’ve learned.
