Navigating the Path to group Practice: Questions and Considerations

Navigating Group Practice: Essential Questions and Considerations for Therapists

Choosing the path of a group practice offers therapists a unique opportunity for collaboration, growth, and community service. Whether you're a seasoned clinician or a recent graduate stepping into this dynamic realm, it's essential to embark on this journey equipped with insights to aid your decision-making process. To guide you through this pivotal exploration, here's a collection of questions and considerations drawn from fellow professionals who are working or who have worked in a group practice. Explore these insights as you prepare for your interview and reflect on your next steps:

Essential Questions for Group Practice Interviews:

​Client Selection and Autonomy:

• What level of autonomy do clinicians have in selecting their preferred client demographics or specialties?
• Can therapists influence the composition of their caseload?
• What is the expected caseload for clinicians?
• Will therapists be inundated with clients to compensate for potential cancellations?
• Do therapists have input into structuring their workday, including breaks between sessions?

Compensation Structure and Benefits:
• How is compensation structured within the practice? Is it a percentage-based model or a flat rate?
• Are benefits linked to performance metrics?
• Is there a qualifying period for Continuing Education Units (CEUs)?
• Are clinicians compensated for administrative tasks, particularly time-consuming processes like intakes?
• Will therapists be classified as W2 or W9 employees?
• Is supervision provided onsite, or is there a stipend for external supervision?
• What is the policy regarding liability insurance?
• How are hours tracked if not on salary?
• What is the payroll frequency—bi-weekly or monthly?
• When can therapists expect potential pay increases, and is there a structured plan for salary growth?
• For pre-licensed therapists, is there a plan for a salary raise upon obtaining licensure?
• What happens if they are is a billing issue/delay with an insurance company (like the recent Change Healthcare issue Feb 2024), will I still get paid for my work during this time or will I be expected to continue working without pay until the payments get caught up?

Support and Consultation:

• What avenues exist for clinical support and consultation within the practice?
• Is there a designated point of contact for urgent consultation needs?

Administrative Processes and Schedule Flexibility:

• How are schedules determined? Is there flexibility in scheduling and taking time off?
• What administrative tasks are expected outside of client hours?
• Are there team meetings I am expected to attend? What do those entail?

Client Intake Procedures and Documentation:

• Is there a standardized process for client consultations and intake?
• Who is responsible for intake procedures and diagnostic assessments?
• What documentation requirements are in place, and how much time is allocated for completing progress notes, treatment plans, and assessments?

Caseload Management and Self-Promotion Support:

• What is the typical caseload capacity within the practice?
• Does the practice support therapists in promoting their services, such as covering costs for listings on psychology-related websites?

Supervision and Professional Development Opportunities:

• Is in-house supervision provided, and is group supervision available?
• Does the practice offer opportunities for continued education, and are these costs covered?
• If internal supervision is available, how frequently do clinicians meet with their supervisor?  For pre-licensed individuals, will the supervisor be authorized to sign off on licensure hours required for licensure?

Technological Infrastructure and Team Dynamics:

• What billing software is utilized within the practice?
• How cohesive is the team, and what level of interaction occurs among colleagues?
• Which Electronic Health Record (EHR) system does the practice use, and does it offer any automation features?
• Does the practice handle scheduling and billing?
• Are there collaborative team activities?

​Alignment with Practice Values and Affirmation:

• What are the core values of the practice, and how do they resonate with your own?
• For individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, how does the practice demonstrate affirmation and support for these identities?
• Can the practice provide concrete examples of how they embody their stated values?
• How does the practice affirm and support marginalized identities?
• What accommodations are in place for neurodivergent clinicians, and how does the practice demonstrate this support?
• For disabled clinicians, what provisions are made to accommodate their needs, such as consistent scheduling, breaks, and workspace preferences?

Insights and Recommendations from Practitioners:

• Embrace the benefits of autonomy and independence within group practice settings, where clinicians can shape their professional identities and practices.
• Exercise caution when evaluating compensation structures, ensuring transparency and fairness in remuneration for all tasks and responsibilities.
• Consider the holistic work environment, including factors like team dynamics, administrative support, and opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.

A heartfelt thank you to all the therapists who generously shared their insights and experiences, enriching this guide with invaluable perspectives. Your contributions are deeply appreciated and serve as a beacon of guidance for fellow therapists navigating their career paths within group practice settings.
I highly value your input! If there are any additional insights or considerations you believe should be included, please share them in the comments section below. This document is a collaborative effort aimed at assisting fellow therapists in making informed decisions. Your contributions will enrich this resource and benefit our community. Thank you for your input!

​In conclusion, selecting the right group practice is a pivotal step in a therapist's career journey. By asking pertinent questions and evaluating key considerations, clinicians can make informed decisions that align with their professional goals, values, and well-being. Remember, the ideal group practice should foster growth, collaboration, and fulfillment, setting the stage for a rewarding and enriching career experience.