How grad school trained us to work harder (not smarter)

Our mental healthcare system is designed to make therapists work harder, to the point of burning out.

We’ve been trained to believe that we won’t make money in this field – an expectation that ultimately leads to a scarcity mindset. We charge low fees, see a ton of clients, have very little time for self-care, and STILL aren’t seeing enough money each month.

Our patriarchal society devalues care work, and we enter this “helping” industry assuming to have financial struggles. This societal expectation holds us back from charging rates aligned with the actual value of our work and expertise.

In addition, we are also expected to handle the administrative burden, along with our clinical work. We manage paperwork, billing, and administrative tasks, and with the evolving healthcare regulations and documentation requirements, this workload is increasing exponentially.

When these oppressive systems set us up for burnout, we are not only compromising our own well-being, but we are doing a disservice to our clients, as well. They deserve a therapist who can show up as their best self and provide high-quality care.

We can NOT sit around and let this happen — it needs to change!

With everything going on in the world today, sharing our knowledge and helping our clients find comfort and alignment is more necessary than EVER.

Let’s acknowledge, advocate, and fight against the systems that oppress our community and those we serve.

So, how can YOU work smarter, not harder?

1. Seek regular consultation or work with a business coach to help shift your mindset and overcome limiting beliefs.

2. Consider changing your work hours and/or not scheduling so many clients in the same day.

3. Charge higher fees that value your time, experience, and presence.

4. Add new offerings (such as therapy intensives) to your practice that increase your income potential.

Becoming a more stable, balanced therapist doesn’t have to take a ton of time or effort. Reflection, intention, and motivation can go a long way. Your well-being is your client’s well-being.

Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Wanting to make some changes in your practice, but not sure where to start? Let’s chat about ways I can support you in building a business where you work smarter, not harder. Schedule a discovery call with me!