How To Become A Successful Therapist With A Thriving Practice

 Meet Dr. John Riolo, The Vice-President of Psychjourney

 Who am I? Over thirty years ago, I entered the helping professions as an advocate for the homeless. I soon moved on to clinical practice, obtaining a PhD and to higher education with a hand in research. I have worked for psychiatric hospitals, HMOs clinics, colleges and in private practice But wherever I worked and whatever the specific responsibilities I have always combined clinical practice with advocacy in one way or another. I happen to believe that good clinical practice and advocacy can and in fact must go together. I believe that to be helpful one must address someone's private troubles, however every private trouble is also an example of a public issue. Doing one without the other is only half the job.

Over the years I have been both an advocate for my colleagues and consumers exposing abuses of managed care as well abuses by professionals in the mental health field. In short I call it like I see it.  

I've come to understand that to be a successful therapist, that is one who not only helps his/her patients/clients but in addition makes a comfortable living several ingredients are necessary. Of course clinical skills are important as well as the ability to develop relationships, but there are many therapists who are skilled and empathetic yet are having a difficult time building their practice to the point where it is self sustaining.

Building a successful practice involves  possessing more than clinical skills, empathy and the ability to develop relationships. Many therapists have these abilities and yet they are struggling in this competitive environment.  The successful practitioner must also have  sound  business skills,  marketing abilities, knowledge of applicable  federal and state laws, ethical codes and  professional standards of practice.  All of the above are necessary. And not coincidentally  those same qualities or abilities  are what consumers should look for in a therapist if it is to be a win, win situation i.e. the consumer is satisfied and the professional is fairly compensated for his or her efforts.

On The Successful Therapist,  Deborah Harper, President of  Psychjourney and I will strive to provide you with the tools to build a private practice that is both rewarding and lucrative.

Visit my websites,  The Insider and  Your Advocate Online.