If you’re a therapist who has decided to give private practice a shot, one of the first major decisions you’ll face is whether to start part-time or full-time. It’s easy to get caught up in the stories of those who threw caution to the wind and jumped into private practice full-time, but the reality is a bit more balanced.
For every therapist who dives headfirst into private practice full-time, there are many more who choose to ease in part-time, gradually building their client load before making the switch to full-time when they feel ready. The path you choose should reflect your personality, temperament, goals, and risk tolerance.
Why full-time sounds tempting
Starting a private practice full-time can be incredibly exciting. The appeal of dedicating yourself completely to your own business, being your own boss, and controlling your schedule is powerful. These stories often get attention and seem heroic: jumping into the unknown, overcoming fear, and seeing success come out of sheer grit.
However, the reality of starting full-time may also involve higher risks—financial strain, the pressure to quickly build a client base, and the stress of managing everything at once. Full-time may work well for those who thrive under pressure and can handle uncertainty without it negatively affecting their well-being.
The benefits of starting part-time
On the flip side, starting part-time offers a lot of benefits. You can still maintain the stability of your current job while testing the waters of private practice. You’ll have time to build your client base slowly and adjust to the demands of running a business without the financial pressure of relying entirely on it for income.
It also gives you the opportunity to refine your business practices, understand the logistics, and even learn how to market yourself—all at a more comfortable pace. Over time, as your client load grows and you become more confident in managing your practice, you can transition to full-time with much less risk.
This article provides a few more good reasons for preferring part-time first.
Which option is right for you?
There’s no right or wrong answer—it’s all about what feels best for you. Consider your goals: Are you okay with a slower, more gradual transition, or do you want to go all in from day one? Think about your financial situation: Can you afford to take the leap full-time, or would it be smarter to keep another source of income for now? And finally, reflect on your temperament: Do you thrive under risk and uncertainty, or do you prefer a more stable, methodical approach?
We generally believe that starting part-time is a great option because it lowers the risk while giving you time to grow at a sustainable pace. You can always move into full-time practice when the time is right. After all, you’re not losing anything by starting part-time—it’s your journey, and you get to decide the pace.
Whether you start part-time or full-time, what matters most is that you’re taking steps to create the practice you’ve always dreamed of. So take a breath, weigh your options, and choose the path that feels right for you.