Therapy Practice Solutions

https://therapypracticesolutions.blogspot.com/2023/05/how-mental-health-virtual-assistants.html

How Mental Health Virtual Assistants Can Help Your Mental Health

Written by Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, TPS Virtual Assistant


Therapists everywhere are celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month in May - we’re attending networking events, advertising, making blog posts, you name it! However, it seems therapists are honoring Mental Health Awareness Month every month. We’re always stressing the importance of mental health through teaching our clients boundaries, communication skills, ways to connect to others in a more fulfilling way, and more.

Therapists are experts on mental health for others. But - what about mental health for therapists?
While it’s seen as best practice to have your own personal therapist as well as supervision and consultation with others, many folx don’t talk about the daily mental health needs of therapists running their own private practices. Clinicians who are also business owners may experience:
  • Emotional exhaustion: Juggling multiple roles of both therapists and business owner can lead to emotional exhaustion, as they may find it challenging to strike a balance between their professional and personal lives.
  • Difficulty managing workload: Responsibilities beyond client sessions - such as scheduling appointments, handling billing and insurance, maintaining records, marketing their services, and keeping up with professional development - are difficult to balance with providing high-quality client care.
  • Isolation and lack of support: Running a solo therapy practice can often be a solitary experience, especially if therapists work in a private office without colleagues or staff members. This isolation can contribute to burnout as therapists may lack regular opportunities for professional collaboration, feedback, or emotional support. 

So, how can mental health therapists who run their own private practice care for their mental health? They can hire a Virtual Assistant! Keep reading for three ways Mental Health Virtual Assistants can combat burnout and decreased mental wellness in clinicians, courtesy of the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions.

Reduced Administrative Burden 

Admin tasks, such as answering emails, managing calendars, organizing documents, and handling phone calls, can be time-consuming and mentally draining. Delegating these tasks to a Mental Health Virtual Assistant frees up your mental energy, enabling you to focus on your primary role and professional expertise. By offloading these administrative responsibilities, you can experience reduced stress, improved productivity, and a greater sense of control over your workload.

Enhanced Work-Life Balance

Juggling multiple responsibilities, including administrative duties, can blur the boundaries between work and personal life. This imbalance can lead to increased stress, burnout, and a negative impact on mental well-being. By hiring a Mental Health Virtual Assistant, you can delegate time-consuming tasks, allowing you to regain control over your schedule and create a healthier work-life balance. Having more time for self-care, leisure activities, and personal relationships can significantly contribute to improved mental health and overall life satisfaction.

Increased Support

A Mental Health Virtual Assistant can provide valuable support and contribute to increased efficiency in your work. They can streamline processes, help with organizing and prioritizing tasks, and provide assistance during busy periods or when you're feeling overwhelmed. Having someone to share the workload and provide support can alleviate stress, prevent feelings of being overwhelmed, and enhance your overall mental well-being. This support system can create a more positive work environment, fostering a sense of collaboration and reducing feelings of isolation or burden.

Everyone deserves support in keeping their mental health in check - especially therapists! If you’d like to offload tasks to make time for providing great care to your clients, reach out to us today. The pros at Therapy Practice Solutions would love to help you help others. We look forward to hearing from you!

Mental Health Awareness Month: Low-Cost Therapy Resources You Can Refer To


Mental Health Awareness Month: Low-Cost Therapy Resources You Can Refer To


Written by Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, Therapy Practice Solutions Virtual Assistant

If you’ve owned your private practice for awhile, chances are you’ve had an inquiry who either 1) had an insurance plan you didn’t accept, or 2) reported they could not afford your out of pocket rate. Many times, it's both! You can proceed in one of two ways: offer a sliding scale, or offer a referral.

Let’s say you don’t offer a sliding scale. Now what?

You’re in luck - the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions are here to proceed low-cost therapy resources you can refer clients to who cannot or do not want to utilize your private pay fee! Keep reading for some resources you can utilize for clients that may fit in their budget.

Low Cost Counseling:

1. Open Path Collective: This is a nonprofit organization that offers low-cost counseling services with licensed mental health professionals. Their mission is to make therapy accessible to everyone. Clients can pay a one-time membership fee of $59 and then access counseling sessions for between $30 and $80 per session. You can find a therapist near you by visiting their website at https://openpathcollective.org/.

2. 7 Cups: This is a free online counseling platform that offers emotional support and counseling services. They have trained volunteers who offer online chat and messaging services to clients in need of support. You can learn more by visiting their website at https://www.7cups.com/.

3. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): This is a nonprofit organization that provides free resources and support for individuals and families affected by mental illness. They offer free mental health education and support programs, as well as a helpline that provides information, referrals, and support. You can find out more by visiting their website at https://www.nami.org/.

4. Mental Health America: This is a nonprofit organization that provides mental health resources and support to individuals and communities nationwide. They offer free mental health screening tools, as well as information and resources on a wide range of mental health topics. You can learn more by visiting their website at https://www.mhanational.org/.

If you’re passionate about helping establish affordable, quality care for all, please consider supporting these organizations that are looking to eliminate funds as a barrier to mental healthcare:

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): This is a federal agency that offers grants to support mental health and substance abuse treatment programs across the country. Their grant programs include funding for behavioral health services, substance abuse prevention, and mental health workforce development. You can learn more about their grant programs by visiting their website at https://www.samhsa.gov/grants.

2. The American Counseling Association (ACA) Foundation: This foundation offers grants to support counseling research, education, and service initiatives. Their grant programs include funding for graduate counseling students, research on counseling topics, and community service projects. You can find out more about their grant programs by visiting their website at https://www.acafoundation.org/grants.

3. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): This is a federal agency that supports research on mental health and mental illness. They offer grants to support research on a wide range of mental health topics, including the effectiveness of counseling and psychotherapy. You can learn more about their grant programs by visiting their website at https://www.nimh.nih.gov/funding/index.shtml.

4. The Mental Health Association (MHA): This is a nonprofit organization that offers grants to support mental health initiatives in local communities across the country. Their grant programs include funding for mental health education and awareness campaigns, as well as programs that provide counseling services to underserved populations. You can find out more about their grant programs by visiting their website at https://mhanational.org/grants.

We firmly believe everyone deserves quality mental health counseling. If you’d like to offload tasks to make time for providing that great care, reach out to us today. The pros at Therapy Practice Solutions would love to help you help others. We look forward to hearing from you!

Counseling Awareness Month: Essential Skills for the Modern Mental Health Therapist

 Written by Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, Therapy Practice Solutions Virtual Assistant


Counseling Awareness Month takes place every April in the United States. The origins of this month can be traced back to the 1970s when the American Counseling Association (ACA) began promoting the idea of a national counseling week. The first National Counseling Week was held in 1974, and it was later expanded to become Counseling Awareness Month in 2002. The purpose of having a Counseling Awareness Month is to increase public awareness about the importance of counseling and to recognize the contributions of counselors to mental health and well-being. 

What makes counseling so effective, though? It’s no secret - studies show the therapeutic relationship between a client and therapist is the key to producing change and healing work. But what skills can a therapist use to create that strong bond? In other words, what makes a great therapist, and what makes great therapy?

Today, the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions would like to do a deep dive on essential skills for modern mental health therapists and how they create lasting change. Keep reading for more!

Active Listening

Active listening involves paying close attention to what the client is saying, both verbally and non-verbally. It helps the client feel heard and understood, which can build trust and rapport. Active listening involves not only hearing what the client is saying but also paying close attention to their nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. Therapists who practice active listening should strive to be fully present in the moment, avoiding distractions and interruptions, and providing the client with their full attention. By actively listening to their clients, therapists can better understand their needs and concerns, which can help build trust and create a safe and supportive environment.

Empathy

Empathy is another essential element in building a strong therapeutic relationship. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, and it is essential for therapists to demonstrate empathy towards their clients. Therapists who can put themselves in their client's shoes, and validate their experiences and emotions, can help clients feel understood and accepted. When therapists demonstrate empathy, clients are more likely to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings, which can lead to greater insight and growth.

Honoring Autonomy

Respect for autonomy is a fundamental value (and an ACA ethic) that is crucial in any therapeutic relationship. Respect for autonomy involves honoring the client's beliefs and values, and providing a safe and non-judgmental space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings. Therapists who respect their clients' boundaries, opinions, and experiences can help create a trusting and collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to make positive changes. Additionally, therapists who respect their clients are more likely to establish strong rapport and trust, which can lead to greater therapeutic outcomes. By prioritizing respect in their therapeutic practice, therapists can help clients achieve their goals and promote positive change.

How Can I Improve?

Looking to improve your skills? Here are three resources that may help with developing your clinical skills:

1. Therapy in a Nutshell - This YouTube channel provides helpful insights and practical tips for both clients and therapists. It covers a range of topics, including anxiety, trauma, relationships, and self-improvement.


2. Doctor Ali Mattu - Dr. Ali Mattu's YouTube channel, "The Psych Show," explores a variety of psychology topics. Dr. Mattu has several videos covering developing your skills as a therapist.


3. Therapist Uncensored - this podcast discusses the science behind what actually sparks change in our lives, relationships, and thoughts.


We hope this blog post helped inform you about essential therapy skills and gave you a few resources to help develop them! If you’re looking to offboard some administrative tasks so you can focus on providing really good therapy, hire a Virtual Assistant. If you’d like help with administrative tasks, the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions would love to help you. Reach out today to be paired with someone who can take your administrative tasks, marketing, social media creation, and more off your hands! We look forward to hearing from you.

Three MBSR-Inspired Exercises to Help Clients (and Clinicians) Reduce Stress

 Three MBSR-Inspired Exercises to Help Clients (and Clinicians) Reduce Stress

Written by Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, Therapy Practice Solutions Virtual Assistant

April is Stress Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of stress on our lives and how we can manage it. Stress is a natural response to challenging situations, but when it becomes chronic, it can have serious negative effects on our physical and mental health. Unfortunately, many mental health therapists experience chronic stress without realizing it, which can lead to burnout, anxiety, depression, and other health problems. We can become so involved in trying to heal others that we may neglect ourselves in the process!

One of the best ways to combat stress is Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a program that helps people manage stress and improve their overall well-being. It was developed in the 1970s by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. The program combines mindfulness meditation, body awareness, and yoga to help individuals become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. MBSR has been found to be effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improving mood and overall quality of life. Research has also shown that MBSR can have positive effects on physical health, such as reducing chronic pain, improving immune function, and lowering blood pressure.

Today, the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions would like to introduce three MBSR-inspired exercises to help both you and your clients reduce stress this month - and every month! Keep reading to learn more.

The Body Scan
A “body scan” is a fundamental MBSR exercise used to notice how we’re feeling, which improves both our mindfulness skills and our interoception skills. Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down, and bring your attention to your body. Begin to scan your body from your toes all the way up to the top of your head, paying attention to any physical sensations or areas of tension that you notice along the way. As you scan each part of your body, try to simply observe and accept any sensations that arise without judgment or trying to change them. If you notice any areas of tension, see if you can consciously relax those muscles by breathing deeply and allowing the tension to release. You can use this exercise as a way to become more aware of physical sensations and help release tension from the body, ultimately reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

If you prefer an audio version, here is a guided, ten-minute body scan meditation.

Mindful Breathing
Another exercise inspired by MBSR to reduce stress is mindful breathing. Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit, and bring your attention to your breath. Begin to take slow, deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of the air entering and leaving your body. If your mind wanders, simply notice the distraction and gently guide your attention back to your breath. You can also try counting your breaths, inhaling for a count of four, holding for a count of four, and exhaling for a count of four. As you continue to breathe mindfully, you may begin to notice a sense of calm and relaxation wash over you, helping to reduce stress and promote a greater sense of well-being. This exercise can be done anywhere, at any time, and can be particularly helpful during moments of high stress or anxiety.


Mindful Walking
Mindful walking is an exercise that involves bringing your attention to the sensations of walking, which can help you become more grounded and centered. Find a quiet and safe place to walk, such as a park or a quiet street. As you walk, bring your attention to the sensation of your feet touching the ground. Notice how your body feels as you move, and try to stay present in the moment, observing your surroundings without judgment. If your mind wanders, simply notice the distraction and gently guide your attention back to the sensations of walking. This exercise can help reduce stress by bringing you into the present moment, away from worries about the future or regrets about the past. It can also help you get some gentle exercise and fresh air, which can further promote relaxation and reduce stress.

If you prefer an audio version, here is a ten-minute guided walking meditation.

We hope this blog post provided three valuable MBSR exercises to help you and your clients reduce stress! Another great way to reduce stress as a private practice mental health clinician is to hire a Virtual Assistant. If you’d like help with administrative tasks, the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions would love to help you. Reach out today to be paired with someone who can take your administrative tasks, marketing, social media creation, and more off your hands! We look forward to hearing from you.

Wait .. What "Awareness Month" Is It?!

 Wait .. What "Awareness Month" Is It?!

Written by Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, Therapy Practice Solutions Virtual Assistant

March - when you think of March, you likely don’t picture a mental awareness theme. However, March has several different “awareness” titles! For example, March is Self Harm Awareness Month, which focuses on awareness surrounding Non-Suicidal Self Injury (NSSI). March is also National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month which exists to inform folx about the inequality those with developmental disabilities still face. Finally, the first week in March is Sleep Awareness Week as designated by the National Sleep Foundation. PHEW!

With all the “awareness” themes in March, it may be difficult to consider - how are you supporting clients who engage in self-harm behavior? What about your clients with developmental disabilities? And we all sleep - how are you addressing it in a therapy session?

The good news is - the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions have tips for all of these and more! Read on to discover ways to support your clients as mental health clinicians in the month of March.

Considerations for Self-Harm

When working with clients who self-harm, mental health clinicians should keep in mind the importance of developing a non-judgmental, compassionate, and trusting therapeutic relationship. It is crucial to understand the underlying reasons for the behavior and to work collaboratively with clients to develop effective coping strategies. 

Clinicians should also be aware of potential ethical and legal considerations, such as the duty to report if a client is at imminent risk of harm. Additionally, it is essential to recognize that self-harm can be a symptom of a broader mental health issue and to address any underlying conditions with evidence-based treatments. By providing comprehensive support and guidance, mental health clinicians can help clients overcome self-harm behaviors and achieve long-term wellness.

Some treatment modalities you may want to consider for self-harm include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT)

Considerations for Development Disabilities

When working with clients with developmental disabilities, mental health clinicians should keep in mind the importance of individualized care and a person-centered approach. It is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the client's unique needs and abilities, as well as any environmental and social factors that may impact their mental health. Clinicians should also be aware of potential communication barriers and adjust their communication style accordingly, using simple language and visual aids if necessary. 

Additionally, it is important to recognize the potential for co-occurring mental health conditions and to incorporate appropriate interventions. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, mental health clinicians can help clients with developmental disabilities achieve optimal mental health and wellbeing.

Some modalities that have been effective when used with folx with developmental disabilities include behavioral therapy, social skills training, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Considerations for Sleep

As a therapist, there are several ways you can address sleep problems in the therapy room. First, you can explore the client's sleep habits and patterns and identify any factors that may be contributing to their sleep difficulties. This may include discussing their sleep hygiene practices, such as their sleep environment, bedtime routine, and use of electronics before bedtime.

You can also teach relaxation and mindfulness techniques to help clients manage stress and anxiety that may be interfering with their sleep. Additionally, you can help clients identify and challenge any negative thoughts or beliefs about sleep, such as worries about not being able to fall asleep or concerns about the consequences of poor sleep.

Finally, you can collaborate with the client's primary care provider to ensure that any underlying medical or psychiatric conditions that may be contributing to their sleep problems are properly diagnosed and treated. By addressing sleep problems in therapy, you can help clients achieve better quality sleep and improve their overall mental health and wellbeing.

We hope this blog post helped you learn a little more about considerations when working with self-harm, developmental disabilities, and sleep concerns - which are all highlighted in March! If you want more support in running your private practice, the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions are here to help. Reach out today to be paired with someone who can take your administrative tasks, marketing, social media creation, and more off your hands! We look forward to hearing from you.


Tax Time & the Mental Health Therapist

 

Tax season can be a stressful time for many of us, but for mental health therapists, the anxiety can be even worse. While therapists are often focused on helping their clients navigate mental health challenges, they also need to attend to the financial side of their practices. Come tax season, therapists may feel nervous about navigating the complex and ever-changing tax code, ensuring they have accurate records and receipts, and avoiding costly mistakes. The pressure to manage their finances can be overwhelming, especially when coupled with the demands of their work with clients. In this blog post, we explore some common sources of stress for mental health therapists during tax season and offer tips for how to manage them.

What are some important considerations for tax time - aside from our simple advice of pay your taxes? Don’t worry - the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions have your back! Keep reading this blog post for three common mistakes clinicians make during tax time, and how to prevent them from happening.

Keeping Accurate Records

One common mistake mental health therapists make when preparing and filing their taxes is failing to keep accurate records of their business expenses. Without detailed records, it can be difficult to determine which expenses are tax-deductible, and you may miss out on valuable deductions. Additionally, therapists who are self-employed may not be aware of all the deductions available to them, such as home office expenses and health insurance premiums. Another common mistake is underreporting income, which can result in penalties and fines from the IRS. To avoid these errors, it's crucial to maintain thorough records of your business expenses and consult with a tax professional if you're unsure about any aspect of your tax return. Here are some resources to help you stay on top of your tax obligations as a mental health therapist:

Making Quarterly Payments

A third common mistake that mental health therapists make during tax season is failing to plan ahead for estimated taxes. As self-employed individuals, therapists are responsible for paying estimated taxes quarterly throughout the year. Failing to make these payments on time can result in penalties and interest charges. Additionally, therapists may not be aware of tax credits and deductions that can help reduce their tax liability. To avoid these issues, it's important to plan ahead and work with a qualified tax professional to understand your estimated tax obligations and identify opportunities to reduce your tax bill. Here are some resources to help you with estimated taxes.

Classifying Workers (and Therefore Tax Requirements) In Your Group Practice:

Another common mistake mental health therapists make is incorrectly classifying their employees or independent contractors. If you have staff working for you, it's important to understand the difference between employees and independent contractors and correctly classify them in your tax filings. Misclassifying workers can result in penalties and back taxes owed to the IRS. Additionally, therapists who provide services across state lines may need to navigate complex tax laws in different jurisdictions. To avoid these issues, it's crucial to stay informed about tax laws and regulations that apply to your practice. Here are some resources to help you navigate these challenges:


We hope this blog post helps you to identify three common tax time mistakes, and how to prevent them! If you’d like help with bookkeeping or other administrative tasks, the pros at Therapy Practice Solutions would love to help you. Reach out today to be paired with someone who can take your administrative tasks, marketing, social media creation, and more off your hands! We look forward to hearing from you.