Private Practice Checklist

Starting a private practice can be daunting, read about the logistical steps to starting your own business successfully.

There are many things to consider when starting a private practice, but starting with the essentials is key. Going through a checklist can be helpful to keep all the steps in mind.

Your Business Name

First things first. Decide on your business name. Your name can be what draws in your client so it’s important to think about. It can be easy to just name your business your legal name, but a more specific business name can work well with SEO and a keyword google search. You can search the Secretary of State’s website to see what names are already in use to help you decide.

Decide on Location

Where do you want to have your private practice? Do you want in person sessions at an office? Or do sessions strictly through telehealth? This question is important because to register a business and obtain a business bank account, you need a physical business address. If you are strictly doing telehealth, consider renting an address. Some businesses offer virtual business addresses for rent.

HIPAA-Compliant Communication

Get a HIPAA-compliant business phone number and email. There are different platforms that provide these services. The easiest include obtaining a phone number that can be linked to your personal cell phone.

Decide Your Legal Structure

What type of business structure do you want? Depending on the structure, personal assets can be protected and tax burden can be lessened. Business structures can be LLC/PLCC, S-Corp, partnership, or sole proprietorship.

Register Your Business

Once you decide on a name you need to register it with your city and state. Start with the county your business will be located in. Visit your local county’s website to do so.

Business License

Obtain a business license by registering through the Secretary of State Office.

Get Professional Liability Insurance

Be sure to get insurance to protect yourself. Professional liability insurance protects businesses by covering costs of client lawsuits such as lawyer fees and judgments.

Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number/tax ID)

You can easily get this through the IRS website. It is used to identify a business entity, used for tax purposes and is needed for Superbills and opening a bank account.

Set Up a Business Bank Account

Setting up a bank account makes it easier to track your income and expenses, and will be helpful when tax time rolls around. Having a business bank account legitimizes your business and makes it look more professional.

Get a Website

A website is important for marketing to allow clients to see what services you are offering, your location, hours of operation, how you work as a therapist and more information about you. Developing a website can help clients find you and potentially draw them to your practice.

Decide on Electronic Health Records Platform

Keeping accurate and up to date records are essential and seeing what platform meets your needs is also important. Do you need a platform solely for progress notes and paperwork or need to also incorporate telehealth video sessions? EHR platforms are usually fully equipped with scheduling, billing, and client portals. Some also offer telehealth video sessions built into the platform.

Starting a private practice doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Following tasks step by step can ease you into the process gently.