How to start your own Private Practice | A Master Class on Your First Year of Private Practice

Are you a Social Worker, Counselor, Psychologist, or a Marriage and Family Therapist who currently hates their job? The endless paperwork, the intakes, the unnecessary screenings, and the constant feeling that you're doing everything but what you actually joined the field to do... help people? Are you looking to step out of your comfort zone, and start your own private practice, but struggle with the uncertainty of not knowing how that'll look. You ask yourself questions like: how will I get clients, what software can I use to operate my practice, how much money can I expect to make, and what do I charge? These are just some of the questions that this video aims to help you answer. I'll walk you through my first year of starting my private practice, you'll get a front row seat of the ups and downs of being a business owner, and the action needed to transition from agency work to running your own private practice.
Not my typical type of video, but a video I wish I had when I first started my own private practice. Someone showing me the ups and downs of their first year of Private Practicing. Showing me how they were able to take their practice from a side hustle to a financially sustainable business. In this video I aim to be your guide through the first year of your own practice, and I will do this by taking you through the first year of my own private practice. I will be going through each month and showing the work I did in order to make the leap from agency employee to business owner. I answer questions like how much money I make, how I get clients, the operating system I use to manage my caseload & business, and how I found my office to operate out of. So, sit back, relax, and learn how you can take your private practice from side hustle to standalone business.
P.S. I also selfishly made this video to look back and watch sometime in the future when I’m a world renown therapist, so I could look back at my humble beginnings.
Free Trial of Simple Practice Plus a $100 Credit: www.simplepractice.com/?p=312...
Time Stamps:
1:49 - How much I made in my first year of starting my Private Practice
3:06 - A Breakdown of how much My Private Practice Made in 2021
4:04 - Year 2020 Overview
5:32 - Starting a Therapy Practice during the Pandemic
7:32 - Why Therapist don’t charge their Worth
9:38 - How much My Private Practice Made in 2020
10:39 - Overview of the Month January (2021)
11:19 - How much My Private Practice Made in January
12:15 - Overview of the Month of February (2021)
13:06 - How much My Private Practice Made in February
14:01 - Overview of the Month of March (2021)
14:14 - How to find an office for your Private Therapy Practice
15:57 - How much My Private Practice Made in March
16:49 - Overview of the Month of April (2021)
20:18 - The Action needed to start your Private Practice
21:44 - How much My Private Practice Made in April
22:33 - May: Opening up my own Private Practice Office
23:00 - Setting your rate in Private Practice
24:16 - How much My Private Practice Made in May
25:20 - June: How to advertise your Private Practice with Psychology Today
26:29 - Simple Practice Review
27:46 - How much My Private Practice Made in June
28:50 - July: Dealing with Burnout
29:46 - Transition from agency work to private practice
31:29 - How much My Private Practice Made in July
33:18 - August: Transition from agency work to private practice
33:48 - How much My Private Practice Made in August
34:30 - Raising my Rates
34:59 - September: Quitting my Job to start doing Private Practice Therapy full-time
36:11 - How much My Private Practice Made in September
37:38 - October: The Hardest Parts of Starting a Private Practice
38:50 - How much My Private Practice Made in October
39:53 - November Overview
40:14 - How much My Private Practice Made in November
40:53 - December Overview
41:21 - How much My Private Practice Made in December
42:02 - Conclusion
Follow Me:
Instagram: / the.chocolate.therapist
Twitter: / johnny_therapy
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@the.chocolate...
Disclaimer: The Chocolate Therapist is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, and is not a substitute for treatment, diagnosis, or medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician, a mental health professional, or any qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
#PrivatePractice #SocialWork #Entrepreneur

[@Redblueflowers99]

"if you're like me you're cheap" I died laughing. The authenticity showing us your real numbers has been engaging and inspiring. Thank you.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad you liked it! I had to be real, I really wanted to show everybody that it's possible. You could start outside charging 10$ an hour, and end up in an office charging 130$. Glad it was helpful.

[@Redblueflowers99]

I know it's not your niche. But can you do a video about your EMR and KPIs? Newbies like me would be really interested.

[@Cadenza93]

I love that you mention your prayer sessions. Ive never been a religious man but have always been spiritual. Religious trauma led me to be bitter and reject anything christian. It was like that for a while. Almost finished my psych degree back in 2014, i was so passionate about it i was sure i would make a good therapist but life happened, things got tough and that passion died for a while. But things have changed in the last two years. My difficult battles in life have gotten me close to Jesus. I started praying to Jesus ,never asked for anything i would just start saying his name and an overwhelming peace would put me right to sleep. One night i just asked him to guide me and help me do something good in this world. And guess what man, everything fell right into place! A clear path has been set! Im currently back in school and will be finishing my degree in may. Im taking this all the way to my license. All those obstacles have been removed and i have all the tools to get it done! I believe god protects his soldiers and my faith has never been stonger

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Amen! This was such a beautiful read thanks for sharing. I’ve had a similar experience in my walk of building a relationship with God. It’s a beautiful thing, and amazing boost to our faith. Welcome to the team of mental health providers, can’t wait for you to build your own practice.

[@JewelPressedRecord]

This was really inspiring. I appreciate your acknowledgement of the incremental growth, because it’s so important for us all to see. Love to see it!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

I totally agree, you gotta be real about your journey and where you came from. Thanks for the positive feedback.

[@elijahirving4376]

I am an LPC in Pennsylvania and have been toying with the idea of starting my own practice. This was inspiring and I have made a goal to start my practice in January of 2024. Best of luck with everything bro! Us dreadheaded therapists are getting it in! Leggoo!!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Best of luck! I'm excited for you. It's worth it brotha. Dreadheaded therapist are starting to take over the therapy space!

[@stacyabrice1736]

I’m a LMSW working towards my LCSW and I work part time in a group practice. I absolutely love this video! Thanks for being so transparent. I didn’t think I would stay for the full 40+ mins but I’m glad I did. You are hilarious! I’m happy you are thriving in your business and I wish you much luck and success.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you for the support, and thanks for watching the whole video. I know it was a bit chunky, but I thought it was all useful information. Business is doing well, will post an update sometime this year.

[@thooker7252]

As a current student studying to get my LPC, this video was helpful, funny, insightful and inspiring. My ultimate goal is to have a private practice myself.

[@johnwest]

Love this! Inspiring as a therapist currently developing my private practice for 2024 - thank u sir 😂

[@TreSteger]

I'm proud of you! I'm a therapist as well licensed in many states. Keep growing Black Male Therapist. Keep Praying, keep serving, and keep growing. God is still delivering!!! Network. More in the 2024. I just love you, your energy and all of this. If you need anything colleague let me know! There are free CEU's too. Ok 😅😂

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you so much for the kind words! I might take your offer on those free CEU's!

[@MiraSthira]

Omg I love that you started off saying you’re a nosy person. Im also a therapist and starting my private practice soon.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Happy for you! It's such a rewarding journey, totally worth it.

[@tay2dalor]

Pursing my LAC in AZ right now with aspirations of opening up my own PP. This is so incredibly well done and helpful. Thank you for sharing!!!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad I could be helpful! Thanks for the kind words, and good luck 👍🏾

[@acmonty1]

I’ve been thinking/praying about starting a private practice. Your video was so transparent and helpful. I don’t need a fairy tale. I’m looking for real experiences of therapists who have taken the leap. Thank you!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Exactly what I was hoping to provide. Glad it was helpful. Good luck on your journey, it’s worth it.

[@mrphillipmartinez]

Great video! Very helpful, especially when it come to knowing your own value when it comes to setting your price. It may have been long but your relaxed and humorous approach made it hard to notice.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad it was helpful! And thanks for the kind words! knowing your worth is half the battle of being an entrepreneur.

[@mariawhite3437]

Slow & Steady… Love it ❤

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Only way to build something stable.

[@raeganmiddelthon4338]

About to start my LPC masters program in July, and I'm trying to get a realistic idea of what can be accomplished (over time) once I finish. This video was super helpful, entertaining, and answered a lot of the questions I've had. Thank you so much!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad it’s serving its purpose. Good luck with your master’s program, and welcome to the therapeutic family.

[@NoniIfe]

Seeing the growth is inspiring !!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad I could be helpful. I really need to post an update

[@Mmmmkaaay]

The name is a riot! Love love love

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks, I love it too

[@shaunhardie]

Watched the entire video. Appreciate your candid take. I'm thinking about starting a private practice. I'm waiting on getting my professional license in October. Stuck with associate until then. Thanks for taking the time to share your story.

[@stephenbonanno703]

Your commentary may have cured my depression. I therefore like you, very much. I stumbled upon your channel because I was looking up Ben&Jerry's Chocolate Therapy, ice cream. It has dark chocolate ice-cream with Dark Chocolate Pudding. It could be your first brand deal! I shall have a practice, myself, GOD-willing, as I graduated this past August. I pray a pleasant, peaceful Passover celebration for you. Again, you are indeed a comedic fellow, sir, and I will likely follow you strictly based on your witty banter.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Stephen your comment has given me so much joy. Thank you for leaving it. What I won’t thank you for is the pressure you have now placed on me to keep up the same level of humor I showed in this video. But a last I am a people pleaser, so I will try my best live up to your expectations, and continue to be the comedic force you witnessed in this video. P.s. I hope you found your chocolate therapy ice cream.

[@juanangelgutierrez1673]

Thanks for the inspiration brother. I’m about to take my test and hopefully get license. The private practice route is strong in my mind because I can’t stand the bureaucracy of working for public service agencies. Took great tips. Cheers

[@Mike_the_Therapist]

Just finished the other half of the video. The bloopers at the end was hilarious. Thanks for the video.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad it was helpful, and thanks for watching the whole thing.

[@thesterileguy]

Love this so much! Very proud of you for being brave and figuring it all out on your own. Also, super high quality videos my friend.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you so much! Appreciate the high quality video comment too.

[@leilag1076]

Thank you for this video! Yes, it was helpful to see how you excelled as you overcame fear and worked out the plan. Great job.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you!

[@GGFIERCE]

I enjoyed this video so much lol... ❤ graduating in Dec with my 2nd masters in CMHC

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Congratulations! Welcome to the mental health provider family. Glad you watched, and thank you for letting me know.

[@MilkTeaASMR]

You’re gonna be so successful. 🎉 Your authenticity shines through. I’m in school to be an LPC and i’m inspired already.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you. Glad I came through authentically. You'll love being a LPC, good luck!

[@Cris-oe6df]

Ok, this is PURE GOLD man. Slick, curated, detailed, heartfelt and authentic. Truly inspiring. From the bottom of a soon-to-be private practice counselor (hopefully) THANK YOU! You really deserve all the success that's coming your way. Keep up the good work (hope it's grammerly right 😆) Hugs from the other side of the planet, Milano Italy, ciao brother! 🧡 👏🏻

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks for the kind words Cris. It means a lot when people take the time and let me know how much the video has helped them. Perfect english. Good luck on opening your own practice.

[@Cris-oe6df]

@@TheChocolateTherapist Oh absolutely man. The tendency to comment out of frustration brings to much negativity to us all. I believe in spreading appreciation and positive energy. We need to feed on light. Stay strong, brother! 🧡

[@Caring_Therapist]

I agree! I recently started my private practice and this video saved me from so much anxiety.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

So, glad to hear this and congratulations on stepping out of your comfort zone and starting your own private practice!

[@stbrown08]

This is one of the most transparent, honest assessments I've seen for a business. Thank you. Also love the way you told the story, incorporating your wife- it's awesome!!!!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks you so much. I tried to give you guys some real transparency! It's what I wanted when first started.

[@FitNaturalBelle]

Thanks for sharing your process! Great info and very motivating.

[@yemaferreira2929]

This was really good, so validating. I recognise all the feelings, challenges, and the growth too - the inner growth required to grow and mature your private practice business. Thank you for making this video and good luck in your continued growth.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you!

[@kaytaylor6648]

Man I am glad I found you …you are funny and informative at the same time (one in a million) as a future LCSWA(graduating in May)…you given me lots of information to start thinking about.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Love the compliment! Glad the video was helpful and also enjoyable, that's exactly what I was hoping for. Here's an early congratulations to graduating. Welcome to the team!

[@jannahumar336]

Wow, this is great and so inspiring!! Congrats!!! I am a LCSW in NY, and I just submitted my PLLC paperwork 😬😬😬 I hope your growth continues and please know how helpful this was!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Good luck, and glad I could help!

[@livinglargecoachingcounseling]

Loved this video and all the breakdown of the numbers and the baby steps. I'm just getting started and this helps immensely. Love your style chocolate man. Hope you continue to grow.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad I could be helpful! The practice is doing good, will post an update sometime in the future. Good luck with your practice.

[@katylambert5533]

Thank you so much for this video. So helpful!

[@BlackPowderTherapist]

Love the format man, opening my practice next month. Gained a subscriber. Keep grinding

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

I appreciate the support brotha. Welcome to the family, and good luck with your practice.

[@christianparker3606]

First video I watched that gave me hope towards my path. You and I very similar (cholocate therapists) I appreciate the transparency you give throughout the process. God bless you brother.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Good to hear Christian. Glad the video was helpful. Step out in faith, do your best, and let God show that you can trust in him!. Good luck, and be blessed.

[@SD-kg2pq]

Love the transparency and the step-by-step process of your journey. Truly inspiring video.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks for the kind word, Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Plutogirl1111]

No time wasted! Thank you sooo much for this video, truly enlightening and great resources!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Truly appreciate it! Glad it was helpful

[@AnnaMarie92aj]

Thank you for your transparency 👏 Starting a private practice is so intimidating and this was really inspiring. Thank you for the work you’re doing and congrats on your success! 🎉

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

No problem Anna. It's intimidating, but so so worth it! Thanks for the comment

[@Mike_the_Therapist]

That's what's up. I'm trying to start my own practice as well. Currently working at a private practice and looking to branch out. I've been creating content on the side. Congratulations 🎉🎉

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

It’s worth it, and I’d imagine it would be a smoother transition since you’re already accustomed to private practice

[@Mike_the_Therapist]

@@TheChocolateTherapist man it's good to see our people in the field. Especially black males. We're a true minority in the field. I'm locked in now with you bro. Did you find that tic Tok was better for content pulling clients towards the practice or KZbin?

[@kathydoyel1582]

Really appreciate you sharing this information with us! I am a graduate student and trying to get the n the mindset of private practice when I’m at that point. See how you managed your career path is super helpful and inspiring!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad it was helpful! Get those hours, and join the private practice club. It's worth it.

[@davidbarnes5742]

Great video. I was fortunate enough to work for a small group practice and learn some of these effective tricks of the trade

[@daniellesmith2916]

I’m here because I’m working toward establishing myself as a health coach, wellness coach, and doula. I’m using my MPH for public health practice. My PhD will be for research. I’m fortunate enough to skip the licensing as I’m not providing medical advice or providing therapeutic services. This video was STILL so very helpful and I hope you’ll feel pride for that. I’m only 25; the world is still big and new. I appreciate your willingness to provide guidance, especially to/for people like me ❤️.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you Danielle for sharing this with me. I was targeting those in the therapy space, but thanks for letting me know that some of the information in this video was helpful outside my field. I respect your ambition, good luck on all you hope to achieve. And yes I feel a lot of pride!

[@breejuskowiak4557]

As a content creator, business owner, and future practice owner this video resonates on so many levels! I know the time and effort that goes into all of this and I thank you for your candor and openness. You are inspiring and entertaining! Thank you

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad the video resonated with you Bree. Thank you for leaving such a thoughtful comment. I really appreciate your kind words. Got some new content coming soon. Hope to keep entertaining and inspiring.

[@brittanieday760]

This is absolutely amazing and inspiring!! I just passed my LCSW exam and doing research on building a private practice, so this video is giving all it needs to give as far as preparing me for thing and challenges to expect moving forward.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

So happy to hear this. Exact what I was trying to achieve.

[@LocsforlifeLPCtherapist]

I too am looking to start a practice in 24 in Pennsylvania. This video helped me to see the actual struggles for LPCs who look like us go through. LOC’s for life…

[@mf5604]

This was so wonderful! Informational and very entertaining lol. I really hope your practice has grown to everything you want it to be!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

I’ve been killing it. Best decision I’ve ever made. Will make an update video eventually. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@jasonrobertson7373]

This really helped me a lot. Thank you for your candor.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad I could help Jason. Thanks for watching.

[@jenniferlee2607]

Thank you for this video, it is really inspiring. Love your energy. I'm just starting out, taken lots of notes and good ideas from here. Wish you lots of success.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

You are so welcome Jennifer. Glad I could help. Good luck.

[@validatingyourvoice]

Loved this video very much!!!!!!!! Thanks for sharing abouty your bizzness!

[@domingamckinney-cofield1456]

Awesome. I love setting and following your goals. Most importantly prayer!!! I am going to start with these two!!!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Amen! Great place to start. Good luck

[@MasterYourMoneyMindset]

That was a great video! Thank you.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

No problem, glad it was helpful!

[@breeannahorton2801]

I love your videos and it helps to your your process as I start my own business as an LCSW!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks for the feedback Breeanna, it's encouraging to know that my videos have been helpful. Good luck with starting your own business. You won't regret it, and it's totally worth it!

[@diaryofanie]

Thank you so much for this. I needed it ❤

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

No problem 😊

[@shakinanwalker]

I love your sense of humor.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Sounds like you have great taste in humor 😏. Thank you

[@Dani_13th]

Omg the most entertaining youtube video. So inspiring and vulnerable of you to share your experience in building your practice. I'm in toronto canada, just graduated with my masters, i am a (qualifying) registered psychotherapist and the board here in toronto does allow me to start a practice while still in the (qualifying) category! My current job has a drought in incoming clients so I decided to resign due to that. I am now deciding on whether I want to join another established clinic or start on my own! Your video has brought me some insight to the challenges and rewards I may experience. Like you I have began to pray for guidance and work ethic (lol) so that I can handle what God has planned for me! Wishing you the best and thank you for sharing your story with me!! I've subbed :)

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad I could help Dani. Good luck on becoming a qualified therapist. Thanks for the sub!

[@validatingyourvoice]

You said you were going to give the breakdown and boy…. did you! Slow and steady growth!!!!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Let ya'll all in my business!!! Wasn't trying to half ass it, wanted to really break it down in a way I would want to know and see if I was thinking about starting my own practice. Hoped it helped

[@kayshajones4328]

I love your editing skills and your channel. Very authentic and interesting story. I pray that God continues to bless you and increase you on your journey.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Amen Kaysha. I receive that! Thanks for the love and support!

[@LocsforlifeLPCtherapist]

I too am looking to start a practice in 2024 in Pennsylvania. This video helped me to see the actual struggles for LPCs who look like us go through. LOC’s for life…

[@damaraOC]

Honestly, i do not know how you dont have more subscribers. I also worked for the VA, transitioned to non profit to move up and do supervisory work since the VA had so much politics regarding moving up in responsiblity and in GS level. Now im just over it. I dont want to work for anyone anymore. Ive been in the field over 15 years and stopped wanting a boss about 10 years ago. Just started my PLLC and moving towards taking the leap and transition out of working for someone else. Love your video and the information that you provide. Keep it up my brother. New subscriber here !

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Appreciate the kind words Damara! I know that frustration with non-profits/VA/bosses all too well. I suspect I don’t have more followers because I don’t post consistently. Will be trying to change that in the new year. Good luck in starting your own practice. It’s amazing and you will not want to go back to the mess that is the mental career space/field.

[@damaraOC]

Thanks so much for the encouragement! In another video, can you talk a little more about some of the more basic things? Like, did you create a website? Did you take professional pictures? Are you doing any additional consultant work outside of just seeing clients? And did you create intake/assessment paperwork for clients? Do you complete treatment plans even though you are in private practice?

[@patricioarmbarian7265]

Keep up the great work.. Very inspirational for other therapists who are starting out.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you! Will do!

[@chanelblue702]

I am glad I ran across this video. Very inspiring and informative.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad is was helpful!

Congratulations and I really love your transparency. One true thing that you mentioned in your video is the opportunity that you have not been given while working for the VA brother I share the same misfortune.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

The benefits are great, but I don't know if it's worth all the shit I had to put up with. Glad you liked the video

[@Boho__therapy]

This was such great video, your personality is so cool! Keep going

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks, I really appreciate the feedback. Will keep going!

[@chesterjohnsonjr1384]

Appreciate the transparency!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

I got your back!

[@stephaniepeake8983]

Very authentic; very inspiring!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks!

[@onemoretime2]

This is great!! I just passed my MFT and currently in the process of setting up my own private practice... I love it!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Awesome!!! If you’re anything like me you’re probably feeling a mixture of being anxious, and excited. Coming up on a year of quitting my job and doing private practice full-time, and I’m having no regrets. It’s been life changing and I think it’s where the field is headed. Good luck and I hope for the best for you and your practice. P.S. congratulations on getting your MFT

[@onemoretime2]

@@TheChocolateTherapist Thank you! I that was my first try taking the MFT exam. I did a deep study dive for a few months and immersed myself in all of that material, reviewing, memorizing, and recalling so much info.....YIKES!! Anyway, thankfully, I passed that beast of an exam w/a pretty good %!! My partner, family, and friends barely saw me those months. I set my mind that I was NOT going to take the MFT exam a second time....and that ONE time was enough to pass ....LOL!! AND YESSSS, you are are right!! The process of setting up a private practice t is a "mixture of being anxious, and excited" at the same time ....AND I am still moving fwd w/it! Love the content of your videos and the way of delivering the info... Thank you again!

[@Dr.DwightD]

Thank you for the very uplifting, and humorous video. Very therapeutic 😌

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Got your back Dwight. Glad you liked it

[@cjwrightmusic]

This was awesome thanks so much for sharing!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

No problem, Glad you enjoyed it!

[@theoreotherapist4139]

Loved this video!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad you liked it!!

[@hasana9875]

Thank you so much for Sharing , a real eye opener, A lot of good strategies you had thanks a lot

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

No Problem, thanks for watching, and leaving the kind comment!

[@stacyabrice1736]

Oh and I love the editing of the video!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks! 😃

[@trishana15]

This was very helpful as I am launching my own practice!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad it was helpful! you got this

[@seseefun]

I love it bro keep it coming! I’m in LCP track

[@britt3517]

Hey thank you for sharing this! I work in a private practice full time and will start my journey of starting my own private practice at the top of next year (better yet now). This video was extremely helpful and its good to see an in deph video with real life examples instead of a check list. I know it took a lot of time to make this video.. Just know the honesty and transparency was refreshing and needed in a lot of our journeys. The length of the video was just fine for thise of of thats trying to get that knowledge lol. Would love to know if you do any networking here in Az as I am also in Az. Looking for other black clinicians to engage with and share this space with. Will be subscribing and supporting you moving forward. Keep doing ya thang!!🙌🏾

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Hey Britt. Thanks for the great feedback. I was hoping to provide a more practical video about the private practice start up experience. Networking is something that I'm working on currently, as it's something I've put off to focus on getting my business up and running. I now am trying to make more room for it. So it's something I'm open to. Thanks for subscribing and supporting. More content coming soon!

[@wellslife3686]

Dude you are awesome!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks brotha! Appreciate the positivity

[@stevecole-ip7ib]

Great video , extremely entertaining , your igniting ideas for many to follow . Well done

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you very much! Actually what I was trying to achieve.

[@lisettsanchez971]

This video is very well made, congrats on your success !

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you!

[@seannabowen1428]

Thank you for this! I'm an LPCA and I'm debating remaining in the agency after full licensure and starting my own PP on the side. So scared of the overhead but you make it look doable!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

That agency work beat the hell outta me after years of working it. The fact you're debating starting your own private practice tells me that with time you'll be making the transition. Glad the video showed that it's doable because it is! I think private practice is the future for a lot of mental health practitioners it has been life changing.

[@lesleyatcofo]

Are you a therapist or a comedian? Love it!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Professional therapist, aspiring comedian. Glad you enjoyed it

[@KristiWest57]

I am inspired and found this very helpful!!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TheMichelex20]

New subscriber here. I really enjoyed your video. I just started my private practice. It’s been slow because of working a full time job. I plan to focus more on my business very soon.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks for supporting the channel, and the kind words Mickey. I remember the slow start, and how frustrating it could be having to balance your time between work and your practice. Glad to hear you’ll be committing more towards your practice soon, it’ll be worth it. Good luck with everything!

[@Gbaby427]

Just discovering you. Told myself at the beginning there was no way i was staying for a 40 minute video , turns out I did. Absolutely love this, rare you see an entrepreneur being 100% transparent on their beginning, would love to see a year 2 update! I can’t wait to see how excited you’ll be when you hit six figs. Thanks for the openness and ability to take off a filter and be a real human, keep the content coming brother! Btw - 100% going to use your opening line in this video to my friends lol , also literally laughed out lot quite a few times throughout the video Out of curiosity, what was your retention rate of clients over the year? Also - I know nothing about PP Therapy and this might be too long of a question to answer , but why don’t you take insurances? Wouldn’t that boost your business?

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks for the feedback Graham. I know it's a long video, but I appreciate you for sticking around. I was making a bet that the video would be good enough for the select few who really wanted to see an in depth example of someone's first year of starting their practice. It's what I needed. Will be making a year two, I'm just so slow haha. Also glad some of the jokes hit with you and made you laugh. To answer your question about client retention it really depends. I have a stable slice of clients I 've seen for over a year on a weekly basis or once or twice a month, and then I have clients that come in very briefly 1-8 sessions. To answer your insurance question, I've never actually used insurance but heard that it's a hassle to deal with. It would fill up my caseload quicker, but it would be at a fraction of what I normally charge so I would be doing more work for less pay. I think a lot of people take insurance to fill up their caseload fast, but I'm in a position where I can suffer through the process of building up my caseload organically through word of mouth and advertising. Also with insurance I would get paid when the insurance processes the payment which can take weeks or months. It also cost a lot to money and time to get on insurance panels. I don't have time to deal with all that, and would much rather get paid at the time of service. Hope all that makes sense!

[@canaluncorazon]

Awesome video!!!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thanks for taking the time to let me know. I appreciate it!

[@bethanyjohnson3374]

Thank you for the inspiration!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

No problem

[@ebonytoilesechandler7679]

I have so many so many questions but this was such an interesting video

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

I'm going to make an update video. Ask me any questions, and I can try to put them in my next update.

[@emilyburt7835]

LOVE THE CONTENT

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

I LOVE YOU 😘

[@meganshepherd8711]

This is such an entertaining video and inspiring! I’m starting my own practice now(first session next week).

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Exciting! How'd the session go?

[@ladytube64]

Very good ...never had any idea what a therapist has to go through to set up their own practice.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

It's a journey. I'm not sure how others do it, but for some reason my journey seemed easier than what I suspect a lot of other therapist have to go through. It really helped that my wife was so supportive.

[@ojogomental]

Talking from 🇧🇷 you really inspired me to go on for my new purposes! Thank you

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad I could help!

[@thewealthyaunt]

Thank you great video!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

My pleasure auntie!

[@lapetrawhigham205]

Congratulations🎉 Bruh, this video is informative and hilarious at the same time 😂

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Infotainment. Tried to make it informative and funny. Glad I was able to achieve it. Thanks for the feedback!

[@shacheb]

Great video. Thank you for sharing

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment giving positive feedback. I appreciate it.

[@roserobinson3417]

I'm here you. Literally. I decided to pursue the Psy. D and in between that start a practice . I will take my test for Counseling this year

[@roserobinson3417]

I hear you. Dag on auto text. Lol Good job though

[@spirituallifeconsultant9951]

This was very helpful.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Glad I could help

[@lvhandyrepairllc7102]

Just found your channel truly appreciate your candor I am learning to assist my spouse in her journey as NP psych and mental health

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Shout out to the spouses that support their partners during the nerve wracking transition of stepping out on our own to start our own business. Couldn't haven't done all this without my wife's support. Thanks for leaving the comment, and glad my content was of value in some way to you!.

[@Yonnyshauna]

Opening my business next month. Great content.

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Good luck! super exciting and definitely worth it.

[@MultiCjrox]

this was such a good, informative, helpful video! thank you so much!

[@MultiCjrox]

side note, i just checked out the rest of your channel hoping to see more videos made for mental health professionals, but it seems like this was more of an outlier than the norm. i hope you consider making more content for us moving forward as there really aren't enough resources out there and you are so much fun to watch! i love your videos (the style, editing, lighting, it's all really well done!!!)

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Hit the nail on the head. Currently making some mental health content right now so I'll be releasing that soon. I'm in my third year of private practice now. This video recently 'took off' so it seems like there's an audience for it. I'll eventually make an update video in line with this one going over my finances for year two and three sometime in the future. Thanks for the kind words and compliments, I really appreciate your feedback and support.

[@lkadams1]

Amazing video 🎉🎉

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you for the nice comment. Hope it helped in some ways

[@nicoleonfeels]

Curious, did you ever feel weird about clients knowing where you live? Did they know your home was attached to your office?

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

I thought it would be weird at first, but now it’s my new normal. I’m. 6’2 black man tho, I can see how this would be weird for a woman. My office is set up in a way where it makes sense as soon as you walk in so a lot of my clients don’t question it. It’s also separate from my living quarters. Out of the 100s of clients I’ve seen, there was only one person that had a problem with it, but that was due to past trauma from gang violence.

[@joshkrolicki9631]

A tremendously inspiring story of entrepreneurship and hard work. Keep doing your thing!

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

Thank you, glad it resonated with you. Things are still going strong. Working on a year 2 update.

[@joshkrolicki9631]

@@TheChocolateTherapist in the video, you mentioned becoming part of a business's board of directors of some sort as a source of passive income. Can you explain how this is made possible as a therapist? Is it common to be asked to put one's name on the board of a company as a clinician/ambassador and get paid for it?

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

@@joshkrolicki9631 How it worked for me is that since I've started my practice I've had a few people who have been trying to start their own agency reach out to me. The people who approached me didn't have a clinical license, so they couldn't open up their own practice. They reached out to me and put my license on their books and also used my license to be placed on insurance panels. They pay me to be able to use my license.

[@joshkrolicki9631]

@@TheChocolateTherapist so their general business is starting an agency, hiring therapists to work under them, and then using a third party's license such as yourself?

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

@@joshkrolicki9631 Exactly

[@lynnvong429]

You're amazing. I loved your video ;-)

[@TheChocolateTherapist]

No you're amazing! Thanks for watching and leaving me this feedback. I really appreciate it.