A colleague asked about hiring an LMSW, and I offer some thoughts about it. From the administrative 'kabuki' of payment flows to the choice between 1099s and W-2s, here is at least the start of an overview of what's involved in bringing someone on.
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Most therapists approach referrals with mystical thinking, hoping clinical excellence somehow generates business. I've learned to think systematically about the practical mechanisms: throw lots of spaghetti at the wall, focus on wholesale rather than retail channels, and use authentic self-representation as both attraction and filter.
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You're already doing lots of networking, but probably don't even notice it.
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When I get a referral, I handle it quickly. I almost NEVER make anyone wait more than 24 hours. Usually, I get back much more quickly than that.
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Making referrals is the best way to get referrals.
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Should therapists write support letters for their patients? I don't do so, generally.
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In which I try, differently, to summarize my takeaways from - and my struggle with - Solms.
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I watched Mark Solms present on his "revision of drive theory." It was powerful, and compelling.
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I have an unusual preference, when it comes to payment by my patients: I prefer to be paid a flat fee, monthly, regardless of how many sessions take place.
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I don't like informed consent forms.