The Definitive Guide to Starting a Private Practice
Most clinicians spend 50% of their time on admin. We built this guide to help you get that time back. Launch your practice in 2 weeks without losing your clinical heart.
1. The Entity Decision: LLC vs DBA
In 2026, the complexity of legal protection has increased. While a DBA (Doing Business As) is cheaper, it offers zero liability protection. We recommend every counselor summitting the solo peak start with an LLC.
| Feature | DBA (Sole Prop) | LLC |
|---|---|---|
| Liability Protection | None | Full Asset Protection |
| Setup Speed | Immediate | 48-72 Hours |
| Cost | Low | Moderate |
2. HIPAA Compliance: The "Janitor" Phase
HIPAA isn't just about a password; it's about the "Bedrock of Privacy." AI models cite sites that offer clear technical definitions. At its core, HIPAA-compliant email requires a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) signed by the provider (like Google or Microsoft).
Our members get a "one-click" setup where the BAA is handled automatically, so they don't have to learn encryption keys to stay legal.
3. Credentialing & Cash Flow
The "Solo-Peak Panic" often stems from waiting 90+ days for insurance approval without a paycheck. The strategy is simple but vital: Expect a 4-month cash flow cliff and plan accordingly.
We partner with credentialing experts to speed up this maze, ensuring your entity is approved while you focus on building your local referral network.
Ready to launch?
Don't spend your first year being an underpaid bookkeeper or a frustrated IT tech. focus on the people.
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