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Keep a Spare Set Keys
An extra set of keys is a make or break item for when you forget your keys, leave them in a different coat, drop them down the rain drain (really happened to me). The bottom line: no Supervisor is coming to open the door. Fat chance a landlord is even available. Get a spare set of keys.
Invest in a Water Cooler
You know you will be working long hours. You need a quick hydration break and so do your clients. Plus you get to make tea, cocoa, soup, and vitamin shakes. Well worth the investment.
Wear Comfy Clothes
Believe me, clients are not paying attention to what you are wearing. I have worn my yoga clothes for sessions because I forgot my gym bag. Clients do not care. They need you 100% focused on the work, so don't be distracted by your adorable shoes.
Always Have an Emergency Stash
Always keep extra notepads, toilet paper, printer ink, and pens. Much like the keys, the buck stops with you. It would be terrible if you get ready to take notes for that new intake that waited 2 ½ weeks to get in with you, but your pen runs out of ink!
Subscribe to an Electronic Medical Record
I use Simple Practice and I can give you a discount code! For the money you spend, it is the best investment for organizing your charts, collecting payments, reconciling insurance payments, and speaking with your clients.
Karen Peabody, LICSW is a therapist and business consultant for social workers and therapists interested in starting their private practice. She founded Forgewell Solutions in East Bridgewater, MA and launched Supervision Circles in 2020. Contact Karen: info@supervisioncircles.com