Many beginning psychotherapists are exposed to messages of fear and doubt about their professional future, especially during these hard economic times. It is not uncommon for interns, newly licensed clinicians, and those new to private practice to feel discouraged, as if their dreams for a successful private practice are unrealistic. Often it is these self-limiting beliefs that get in the way of manifesting and actualizing those dreams.

I discovered this for myself when, as an intern starting towards building my private practice, I was so overcome by fears, doubts and insecurities, I felt almost paralyzed. However, less than a year into being licensed and having my own practice, I am proud to report that I have a thriving, full, fee-for-service practice, and that every day I see the clients I want to see and do the work I am most deeply passionate about.

Along the way, I learned that even in the early stages of private practice - even while we intern, we can lay down the groundwork for success and fulfillment.

1. Get clear on what you want to achieve. How many clients do you want to see and by when? How much do you need to make to even out your costs? Whatever your goals are, set them in a realistic time frame. If they seem daunting, “break them down” to more manageable, incremental goals. Who are your ideal clients? What is an ideal day or week like for you? Write your vision down on a piece of paper, and tell at least one friend or colleague what it is you want to achieve, and by what time. Keep updating your goals and intentions as you build your confidence and stamina. Be as specific and as honest as you can be with yourself about what it is you truly want.
2. Find your comfort zone, then expand it. There are many different actions you can take to build your practice. From taking colleagues, former teachers and supervisors out to lunch, to offering free workshops in your community, to advertising online - there are so many things you can do. Start with working on the activities you are most comfortable with, and gradually & gently expand your comfort zone.

1. Advertise on free or low cost directories: Advertising online is, by far, the most affordable and effective way to start drawing clients to your practice. Plan to invest regularly in your marketing; the income you earn from just one new client will easily cover your advertising costs for a long, long time. Many online directories are free or charge a low monthly fee. Look for directories that your potential clients will be looking at, and create a unique, specific and specialized profile to draw the clients you want to see.
2. Create Your Own Website: there are many affordable, user-friendly templates that can help you create a website on a budget. With a website, you can tell clients how you understand their problems, and what it is that you uniquely have to offer. Those clients who are drawn to you can get a good sense of who you are, and what it is like to work with you, just from reading your website. Give yourself time and be patient with yourself while building your website. Know that you can always come back to it and continue to work on it. Let go of perfectionism, and allow yourself to be on a learning curve.
3. Optimize Your Website: While your website might be beautiful and articulate, it must appear on the first page of search engine listings so that your potential clients will actually see it. Optimizing is the key, and is not as hard as many therapists think. You can learn to do most of it yourself and make use of affordable help as needed. Optimizing your website will help the right clients find you and feel a sense of rapport with you, so they'll call for that first appointment.

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