Comments on: Are You an Idealist, Hobbyest, Traditionalist or Innovator?

By: Kathy Morelli

Kathy Morelli — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 12:39:51 +0000

Love this post! Wow, it really hit home…yes the old model is a dying model and I dont believe it will last for long…I think ppl need Skype and phone sessions just to keep going in their lives…and this can be fee-for-service and it can be less than the traditional charges….interesting concept. I also think cash is better and can be less than the traditional charges…
hmm, love these ideas!

By: Susan

Susan — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 14:51:26 +0000

Anne, thanks for helping Amy!
Amy, Anne’s feedback is spot on. Specialize and your practice will be more client and referral attractive.
And relationships are the name of the game when it comes to getting referrals. Stay in touch with everyone you meet on your journey toward degree/licsensure/practice. Then, when you finally are ready to go out on your own, you can let everyone know you are “open for business” and referrals will come!

By: Anne Pratt

Anne Pratt — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 23:36:55 +0000

Amy, I’m not Susan, but I have an idea or two. Don’t be afraid to specialize (see Susan’s answer to Elyse above). Always return calls and build relationships with other professionals; when you go out on your own, those people will be your best referral sources. When you collaborate with others, including other mental health professionals, attorneys, physicians, school personnel – anyone – treat those people as great contacts for the future. Keep a file with all their contact info, so you can notify them when you begin your private practice. Start building that contact list now with your classmates, professors, practicum supervisors and colleagues. You’ll have a terrific head start!

By: Amy Marko

Amy Marko — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 06:07:28 +0000

Hi Susan!
I have 8 years of experience in mental health and I am graduating with my MSW in 6 months (..finally!). In 2 years I plan to take the LICSW so that I can start my own clinical practice. Like many others, I am scared to specialize b/c I question how busy I will be…however, my interest primarily lies in working with couples/relationships. Is this too narrow of a focus? Also, what would you recommend that I do in the next 2 years to prepare myself for beginning my own private practice? Thank you for your help! I am so glad I found your website!

By: Susan Giurleo

Susan Giurleo — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:26:19 +0000

Allen, ideas and idealism is where we all start. When I feel overwhelmed with all the possibility out there, I choose just *one* thing to do and try to block out the rest until that one goal is accomplished. Dreamers are the ones who change the world–just one step at a time.
Keep doing good work,
Susan

By: Allen Riggs

Allen Riggs — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 05:48:45 +0000

I am an idealhobbyiest. I read your entry with much interest and find myself almost burdened with new ideas only to feel like I am just a dreamer who thinks I could succeed in reaching more people if the right opportunity would land in my lap. I have been half pursuing my ideas for a long time and I think it is time to change that. Thank you, http://www.counsel4change.com

By: Susan Giurleo

Susan Giurleo — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:32:58 +0000

Elyse, don’t worry about niching at the beginning of your practice. Having a specialty is the easiest and fastest way to fill your practice! It allows you to get known as an expert in your community and is the only way to focus your marketing efforts. I suggest people always niche in the area where they are best trained and have the most interest. So if you have worked with adolescents and their families I would look to specialize there.
We can talk more if you want. Just drop me an email or call.
Susan

By: Elyse

Elyse — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 02:02:07 +0000

Hi Susan! I love your blog! I am an LPC just starting the process of creating a private practice. There is so much to consider and to do! I have worked primarily with adolescents and their famililes in the past and am having a hard time narrowing down a niche to market myself. I also would like to work with adult individuals. I’m finding that I am fearful of being so narrow just starting out and I keep blocking my progress. Any ideas?

By: Susan Giurleo

Susan Giurleo — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:41:51 +0000

Aimee, You can do it! I checked out your website–very innovative! Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment.
Susan

By: Aimee

Aimee — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:35:12 +0000

I want to be an innovator!! I am determined to thrive in this industry. Thank you so much for your blog. Just recently found it.