No-Shows, Discharge Policies, and Disaster Plans in Private Practice
Setting Boundaries Around No-Show Clients in Private Practice
The processes (or lack thereof) in your private practice around no-shows, late cancellations, discharges, and disasters impact your relationship with clients and your level of preparedness for everything from small inconveniences to big emergencies.
Learning how to establish a process for no-show clients will help you honor and protect your valuable time as a therapist. It will also help your clients prioritize their time with you.
When it comes to discharging clients, there’s an ethical obligation as a therapist to know when a client isn’t a good fit and referring that client to another therapist. That’s in the best interest of you both.
Should You Charge for No-Shows/Late Policies as a Therapist?
While the details of this policy will vary according to the therapist, charging for no-shows and having a late policy is a great idea to put into place. This protects your time and energy and ensures you’re working with clients that respect your boundaries. It’s also important for your clients too as they know to prioritize their time with you.
No-Show/Late Policy/Discharge Clients Therapist Podcast Episode
In this episode of Starting a Private Practice, Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer answer your questions about charging for no-shows/late cancellations and setting up policies and plans around both client discharges and unexpected disasters.
While this may not be the “sexiest” topic — as we mention in the episode — it’s certainly not one you want to overlook. This is your opportunity to build a therapy business that allows for long-term growth AND sustained well-being and resilience for both you and your clients.
Check out No-Shows, Discharge Policies, and Disaster Plans in Private Practice now to start setting up your processes in private practice!
No-Shows, Discharges, and Disaster Plans Resources Discussed
Do you charge for no-shows or late cancellations as a therapist?
The equitability of allowing clients to reschedule.
Do you need to have a discharge policy in private practice?
What do abandonment and ethical obligation really mean as a therapist?
Do you need a disaster plan to prepare in advance as a private practice owner?
