How to Leave a Private Practice the Right Way is a big decision—one that impacts clients, colleagues, and the practice as a whole. In situations and work environments that are toxic or unhealthy, it may be tempting to leave the wrong way. A well-handled transition isn’t just about professionalism; it’s about integrity, responsibility, and care. Here’s how to make it a win-win-win for everyone involved.

Keep Client Care First

Clients should never feel abandoned or left in the dark. Opening up with a therapist is no easy feat. Keep in mind that clients may hold mixed thoughts and feelings about their therapist leaving a practice. They may shut down, feel scared, or feel as though time in therapy is coming to a full close. In the event the client would benefit from continued treatment, a thoughtful transition ensures they continue receiving the support they need. That means:

  • Inform the practice first, so a plan is in place before clients find out.
  • Give clients ample notice and lots of reminders.
  • Offer clear next steps—referrals, handoffs, or other support.

Communicate Early and Often

There’s no such thing as over-communicating when it comes to resignations. A well-timed and well-communicated departure reduces stress for all parties involved. The main parties here are the employer/director/owner, the clinician and the client(s). Keep in mind the clinician is the main player in this situation. Key points to keep in mind so all are on the same page:

  • Give ample notice—ideally 2-3 months—to allow for a smooth transition.
  • Inform your boss first, before telling clients or colleagues.
  • Stay in touch through multiple channels (email, calls, texts) to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings.
  • Be transparent about expectations and any necessary steps for a clean handoff.

Collaborate on a Transition Plan

A resignation should never be a one-sided decision. Instead, it should be a collaborative process between the clinician and the practice to ensure everyone’s needs are considered. Best practices include:

  • Remain engaged and professional throughout the notice period—avoid “quiet quitting” or disengaging too soon.
  • Agreeing on a final work date that balances the clinician’s needs with the practice’s ability to transition clients.
  • Developing a case-by-case transition plan for each client, ensuring continuity of care.
  • Discussing logistics such as outstanding notes, billing concerns, and communication strategies.

Stay Professional

It can be hard to stay professional when others around you are not being. If you find yourself in a tough or unhealthy work environment, or at the tail end of burnout, your resignation is likely met with feelings of relief. While you may be tempted to flip the bird on your way out, it’s important to stay professional. Your reputation will follow you and the name you have made for yourself is important.

Be sure to stay committed to your ethics and professionalism all the way to the very last day. Be sure to follow all contractual agreements about client transitions, record-keeping, and practice policies. If you plan to go to another practice or start your own, avoid soliciting clients or engaging in conflicts of interest that could damage trust. And of course, ensure proper documentation and handoff procedures are completed before you leave.

A graceful exit benefits everyone—clients, the practice, and you. When done with care, professionalism, and collaboration, it ensures a transition that honors both the work you’ve done and the people you’ve served.