Thinking about expanding from a solo private practice to a group practice, but not sure if now is the right time? You’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Many therapists reach a pivotal moment where they start to wonder: Is It Time to Grow Into a Group Practice? How do I know?
Let’s walk through three key signs that you may be ready to step into group practice—and some honest considerations to make before you take the leap.
1. Your Solo Practice Is Stable and Successful
Before expanding, take an honest inventory of your current practice. Are you consistently full with a solid caseload? Do you have steady, reliable revenue each month? Are clients giving positive feedback, referring others, and staying engaged in the work? Do you have a good work flow?
These are signs that you’ve built a strong foundation—and strong foundations make for stronger group practices.
On the flip side, if you’re struggling to keep your caseload full, dealing with inconsistent revenue, or constantly worrying about how to stay open, it might not be the right time. Think of it like a relationship: just like getting married won’t fix a broken dating relationship, starting a group practice won’t fix a struggling solo one. Build a strong foundation first—then grow.
2. You’re Ready to Lead Others—Not Just See Clients
Running a group practice means stepping fully into leadership and management. Yes, you’ll have help—but the responsibility still lands on you. You’re not just managing your own schedule and overseeing just your clients anymore. Now you’re making sure everyone’s doing their part. Notes are done on time, follow-ups are happening, consultations and attention to crisis is being stafffed and the quality of care stays consistent across your team.
Are you prepared to mentor others, provide feedback, and model the values of your practice—even on the hard days? You’ll need time management skills, emotional resilience, and a commitment to growing people, not just systems. That’s no small role.
3. You’re In It for the Long Haul
Moving from solo to group is not an overnight fix—it’s a long game. Some assume that hiring others will bring immediate relief to their overwhelmed schedule. But in truth, building a group practice is a marathon, not a sprint.
You’ll need to grow your systems, develop your leadership, create manuals, fine-tune your hiring process, and work toward sustainable revenue growth. It takes time, intention, and a willingness to stay the course even when growth feels slow.
If you’re hoping this transition will be a quick solution to burnout or financial stress, pause first. Group practice can be beautiful and freeing—but only if you’re prepared to run the long race.
Need Help Figuring This Out?
If you’re dreaming of growing into a group practice but not quite sure you’re ready—or don’t have all the systems in place—we can help. Inside The Group Practice E-Course Bundle, we walk through everything from foundation to hiring to leadership, so you can build a thriving group practice without burnout or confusion.
Let’s build it well—together.