Starting Private Practice as a Therapist: Mindset & Habits to Support Your Growth
Insights from a Therapist in Private Practice
Starting a private practice as a therapist can feel overwhelming—there’s no doubt about it. While I don’t consider myself an “expert entrepreneur,” my journey into private practice has taught me valuable lessons about mindset, habits, and growth that I believe are crucial for any therapist stepping into this new role.
I’ve long been passionate about mental health and helping others through one-on-one therapy. When I decided to transition into private practice, it wasn’t because I felt 100% ready—but because I trusted my clinical skills and wanted to focus my energy on building the business side with confidence.
This post is not about the technical details of starting a private practice but instead explores the mindset shifts and habits that have supported my success as a therapist in private practice.
The Mindset and Habits That Helped Me Build a Thriving Private Practice
1. Abundance Mindset
Your mindset truly shapes your reality. As a therapist, I’ve learned that believing in abundance—not scarcity—is key to thriving in private practice. An abundance mindset means trusting there are enough clients, resources, and opportunities available. When I shifted from worrying about not having enough clients to believing there were plenty of people in Texas who needed my services, my energy and focus transformed. This mindset fuels empowerment and resourcefulness, essential traits for any therapist starting their own practice.
2. Authenticity Is Your Superpower
Being authentic as a therapist in private practice has been a game changer. Your unique identity and voice attract the clients and colleagues who are the right fit for you. Trying to be everything to everyone only drains your energy. Embracing authenticity means building relationships, marketing your practice, and offering services that align with your true self. Authenticity breeds confidence and clarity in your professional path.
3. Set Attainable Goals and Systems
Goal-setting isn’t about overwhelming yourself with a long to-do list. It’s about creating realistic, specific, and attainable goals that you can consistently work toward. For example, reaching out to a mentor or reading articles on business growth can be excellent starting points. I recommend designing systems that support your goals—like removing distractions (e.g., putting your phone in another room) and being intentional about your daily habits.
4. Prioritize Growth and Learning
To expand as a therapist, continual learning is essential. Whether it’s reading books, listening to podcasts, or attending workshops, growth helps you avoid feeling stuck.
5. Build Your Support System and Community
Connections matter. Surround yourself with mentors, colleagues, and friends who inspire and support you. This network can offer guidance, encouragement, and accountability—helping you navigate the challenges of private practice. For therapists, community can be a lifeline that reduces isolation and increases motivation.
6. Be Intentional with Your Time
Remember your “why.” Why did you become a therapist? Why did you choose private practice? Revisiting these questions helps you stay focused and intentional. Stay connected to something meaningful, whether that’s self-care, professional growth, or client care.
7. Lean Into Discomfort
Growth often requires stepping into discomfort. Making mistakes or facing rejection isn’t failure—it’s progress. Leaning into these moments builds resilience, humility, and emotional intelligence—qualities every therapist in private practice benefits from.
8. Take Care of Yourself
Running a private practice requires stamina. Self-care—whether through therapy, sleep, meditation, or social time—is non-negotiable. Taking care of yourself ensures you can show up fully for your clients and your business.
Looking for therapy?
If you’re a therapist looking for support with anxiety, work stress, or the challenges of running a private practice, I’m happy to help. As a therapist in private practice, I offer a modern, compassionate approach tailored to your unique needs.
You can book a free 15-minute consultation with me here.
