Articles & Trainings

Shifting Your Mindset into the New Year

As the new year unfolds, it’s a golden opportunity to examine and redefine how we speak to ourselves. Shaking off the old patterns and stepping into a new frame of thought can truly set the tone for the months ahead. This shift isn’t just about making resolutions but fundamentally changing how we talk to ourselves.

The power of self-talk can’t be overstated – it’s the inner voice that guides our decisions, influences our confidence, and shapes our perspective on life’s challenges and opportunities. It’s about replacing self-doubt with self-belief and creating a mental environment where we can flourish.

Here are examples of mindset shifts that can positively impact your private practice, your confidence, and even the world.


I failed vs. I learn from my mistakes. When we change the narrative from failure to growth, we’re more receptive to learning from our mistakes rather than fearing making them in the first place.

I can do it alone vs. I ask for help when I need it. There is a difference between independence and being self-sufficient and knowing when you need support. The key is learning when and to whom you should ask for help.

I’m not as good/successful/purposeful as they are vs. I focus on my own progress. Comparison has its place, but it can also be very dangerous to your mental health and your personal growth. When you focus on your progress, you learn more about yourself and what you need and want in your journey.

I’m not smart enough for that vs. I can do hard things. Strong, confident, and mentally healthy people know that a challenge can be a good thing. When you overcome difficult situations, you become more confident and resilient—and ready for the next challenge.

I’ll never understand it vs. I haven’t figured it out yet. When we have limiting thoughts, we are indeed limiting ourselves. It’s okay if something is taking you time to figure out or work through. Life is full of those situations! Giving yourself the empathy and understanding that certain things take time to work through will be beneficial in your growth.

I’m just not meant for this vs. I am on the right track. When you focus on yourself, learn from mistakes, and give yourself time to work through things, you’ll come to know yourself better on a deeper level. Your intuition is powerful and can guide you through many of life’s uncertainties especially if you’re equipped to learn to listen to it. It’s just as important to realize when you’re not on the right track and to change course until you know that you are.

As we move into this new year, let’s make a collective commitment to be champions of our own stories, prioritizing self-dialogue that uplifts and supports us in every step of our journey—both personally and professionally. By speaking to ourselves with warmth and kindness, we can transform not just our mindset but our reality. Here’s to fostering an inner voice that’s our biggest ally in the adventure ahead!

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Posted on by Author Rachael Severancein Categories WellnessTagged , ,

When is the Best Time to Year to Start My Private Practice?

It goes without saying: starting or returning to private practice in the behavioral health space is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. One of the big questions you may be asking yourself is, “When do I start?” Though not make or break, time of year can play a role in your practice’s success. Let’s explore specific considerations for each season of the year, hopefully uncovering the right time for you.

Winter: The Holiday Season

This season is typically characterized by three words: busy, busy, busy. In your personal life, you may be battling long to-do lists and a full social calendar. Professionally, many clients are seeking help as they navigate the stress of the holidays, complicated family dynamics, anxiety over the coming year, or maybe even post-holidays blues. It can be hard to establish your practice amongst this busyness—though there is certainly a lot of need.

After the holidays pass and as we enter the new year, many people feel the sense of a clean slate. The quieter, reflective nature of winter can be a strategic time to lay the groundwork for your private practice. Many recommend using this time for planning, professional development, and refining your practice’s mission and goals. This positions you for a strong start.

Spring: A Season for Renewal and Growth

As nature awakens, spring is marked by rejuvenation and new beginnings. Starting a private practice during the spring season may allow you to align your professional growth with the spirit of renewal that permeates this time of year. The longer days and increased sunlight can uplift spirits and provide a positive environment for building your practice.

Summer: The Summer Slump

Summer is known for being a slow period as clients and clinicians alike take vacations and deviate from their typical routines. Though this may sound like a drawback, some clinicians see this as a great opportunity to build their caseload! While many other therapists take a step back, you can step up and take on clients seeking services during this time. The slowness of summer may also allow you to ease into this big transition.

Fall: Harnessing the Back-to-School Momentum

As the academic year begins, many of us return to routine. The fall months can provide a structured and focused environment to engage with clients and establish your practice. The fall season can also symbolize a fresh start and an opportunity to channel the momentum of learning and growth into your private practice endeavors.

Each season offers a host of unique considerations. Ultimately, it is up to your goals and your internal readiness. Embarking on this path with thoughtful consideration will set the stage for a fulfilling and successful practice.

As always, if you have any questions about entering or re-entering private practice, we would be delighted to speak with you. Health Affiliates Maine partners with hundreds of clinicians to help them build strong, autonomous private practices. By handling your billing, credentialing, and other administrative tasks, you can focus on what matters most—your clients. Learn more about our Affiliate Program.

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Posted on by Author Rachael Severancein Categories Advice for AffiliatesTagged

Embracing Telehealth in Your Practice with Health Affiliates Maine

Over the years, telehealth has emerged as a crucial service model, transforming the way we think about and deliver mental health and substance use services. It offers unparalleled access, privacy, and convenience to clients who need it or may otherwise go without care. Its rise in popularity and necessity, especially highlighted during the pandemic, has made clear its value in our healthcare system.

For these reasons and more, Health Affiliates Maine (HAM) is committed to supporting private practice clinicians in all settings—including those who serve clients virtually. We fully embrace telehealth as a vital and effective mode of service delivery.

Supporting Quality Care in Virtual Settings

As clinicians’ support network, we’re not just here to embrace telehealth, but to make it feasible! Our services are designed to meet your needs and enable you to provide quality care to those you serve.

Here are a few tips to ensure your telehealth services remain effective and impactful, as well as how we play a role:

  • Ensure Privacy and Confidentiality: Use secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms for your sessions and seek out a trusted, robust EHR system. Knowing just how crucial EHR systems are in your daily work, the team at HAM has performed extensive research so that we can offer a state-of-the-art EHR system that leaves affiliate’s feeling comfortable and confident. Remember, privacy and confidentially also apply to your physical environment. When providing telehealth services, you should be in a private space and be cognizant of your surroundings. Check your background and consider what clients will be able to see. You want to ensure that they feel safe and protected—just as they would if they were in an office with you. We also encourage you to provide clients with guidance on how to set up a private space for their appointments.
  • Build a Strong Therapeutic Relationship: While telehealth can feel different than in-person sessions, the core of effective therapy remains the same. Spend time building rapport with your clients and employ strategies to make each session feel personal and engaging.
  • Stay Informed on Best Practices: Telehealth is an area of rapid growth and change. Stay updated on the latest in telehealth delivery, including advancements in technology and shifts in ethical guidelines. We stay connected with industry leaders to bring you news and timely trainings. Just last month, we held an Ethics training titled, “Who’s in the Room: You, Your Client, and AI in 2024.”
  • Understand the Differences in Billing and Credentialing: Telehealth services often have specific billing codes and credentialing requirements. Rather than bog yourself down in these nuances, we stay on top billing and credentialing for you. This means less time spent on administrative tasks and more time doing what you love—helping clients.

The integration of telehealth into mental health and substance use services represents a significant step forward in creating more accessible, convenient, and effective care. It’s a privilege to work alongside clinicians in Maine, and those licensed to serve in Maine, to build healthier communities.

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Posted on by Author Kayla Quesnelin Categories Advice for Affiliates, Private Practice

Navigating Liability Insurance in Private Practice

Running a private practice as a clinician can be an exciting and fulfilling venture. It allows you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of your clients while experiencing freedom and autonomy. However, with being a private practice owner comes risk. Enter: liability insurance.

Liability insurance is an important investment in the longevity and security of your private practice. It serves as a safeguard to protect you from unexpected liabilities and potential legal repercussions. At Health Affiliates Maine, we recognize its importance and, therefore, require all affiliates to have it. Insurance companies also require liability insurance for credentialling and billing.

In this blog, we cover the basics of liability insurance. We strongly advise all private practice clinicians to consult an insurance expert to determine your insurance needs. We happily facilitate those connections for affiliates, if desired.

What is Liability Insurance?

Liability insurance is a specialized form of coverage that provides financial protection in the event of a lawsuit or claim resulting from errors, omissions, negligence, or other unforeseen incidents that may occur within your private practice. As a behavioral health provider, you understand that even the most diligent professionals can face legal challenges and unforeseen circumstances that could jeopardize their practice.

Why is Liability Insurance Important?

Having the proper coverage in place allows you to navigate potential risks with greater ease, in turn allowing you to focus on providing excellent care to your clients. In that sense, liability insurance offers you peace of mind, and so much more:

  1. Financial Protection: In the field of behavioral health, clinicians are susceptible to malpractice lawsuits and claims of negligence. Without liability insurance, the financial burden of defending against such claims and potential settlements could be devastating to your practice and personal finances.
  2. Professional Reputation: Being adequately insured can also enhance your professional reputation. Clients may feel more secure knowing that you are covered by liability insurance, which can contribute to building trust and credibility in the therapeutic relationship.
  3. Legal Safeguard: Liability insurance offers some protection from legal repercussions. Though Maine does not require liability insurance, it’s important to note that liability insurance may be a mandatory requirement in some states, depending on licensing. Failing to comply with these regulations could result in professional consequences and legal penalties.
  4. Credentialling and Billing: All insurance companies require liability insurance in order to credential with and bill them.

How to Pick Liability Insurance

When considering liability insurance for your private practice, it is essential to connect with insurance professionals who are familiar with the behavioral health field. They can assess your unique risks and develop comprehensive coverage tailored to your specific needs. These insurance experts will guide you through the process and ensure you have the appropriate coverage limits and types of insurance required to safeguard your practice effectively.

Remember, starting a private practice is a significant accomplishment, but it also brings some inherent risks. Securing liability insurance is a proactive step towards protecting your practice, your reputation, and your financial stability. By prioritizing this essential aspect, you can focus on what matters the most – providing exceptional care to your clients – without the constant worry of unforeseen liabilities derailing your progress.

While we, as a behavioral health agency, acknowledge the importance of liability insurance for our affiliates, it is crucial to emphasize that we are not experts in this field. We strongly encourage all clinicians to seek guidance from a professional liability insurance provider or legal advisor to ensure you have the appropriate coverage tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. We can facilitate those connections for affiliates, if desired.

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Posted on by Author Rachael Severancein Categories Advice for AffiliatesTagged , , ,

John Yasenchak, Ed.D., LCPC, LADC

Who’s in the Room? You, Your Client, and AI in 2024Virtual Training

Presented By: John Yasenchak, Ed.D., LCPC, LADC

Friday, September 13, 2024

8:30am – 3:30pm EDT

Presentation Information:

This will be a six-hour presentation in which participants will explore how technological advances in artificial intelligence, algorithmic programming, apps, and robotics will have an impact on how we practice helping in the future. Since the introduction of ChatGPT in 2022, news about AI and its many applications have exploded in the media and in our profession. Participants have already been introduced to this culture changing phenomenon. This workshop will be an in-depth follow up to a shorter presentation you may have attended during the past year. In this workshop, participants will further discuss some of the most recent trends, standards, and norms that are being discussed regarding the ethical application of AI in mental health and substance use treatment. Participants will also review the history and philosophy behind the development of AI while keeping in mind a central question: “What does it mean to be a person?” Finally, Participants will reflect on our current relationship with digital technology and imagine what that relationship might look like as AI permeates our field as ethical standards of practice begin to emerge.

This training is worth six (6) continuing education hours (inclusive of six hours of ethics).

Training hours have been approved for six (6) continuing education hours by the Maine Board of Alcohol and Drug Counselors.

Agenda for the Day:

8:30am to 10:15am – Welcome, Housekeeping, Introductions and Training

10:15pm to 10:30am – Morning Break

10:30am to 12:00pm – Training Continues

12:00pm to 12:30pm – Lunch Break

12:30pm to 1:45pm – Training Continues

1:45pm to 2:00pm – Afternoon Break

2:00pm to 3:30pm – Training Continues, Open Discussion, and Wrap-Up

About the presenter:

John Yasenchak, Ed.D., LCPC, LADC is currently a contributing faculty in the School of Counseling, Walden University. Previously, he served as Assistant Professor for Graduate Counseling, Husson University. Prior to that, he taught for many years in the Graduate Counselling program at the University of Maine, Orono. John has served as President of the Maine Counseling Association, Chair of the North Atlantic Region American Counseling Association, and as Board Member, Co-occurring Collaborative Serving Maine. He currently sits on the Maine State Substance Use Commission and is active on the editorial board of Counseling and Values. John began his teaching career as a philosophy instructor with a specialty in ethics. His has presented on digital ethics, post-humanism, spiritual/religious issues in the practice of counseling. John has been a student and teacher of yoga for over twenty-five years.

Register Here

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Posted on by Author Michelle Nadeauin Categories Events

The Top Tech Items to Purchase for Your Private Practice

Running a private practice in 2024 demands leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency, organization, and client care. Embracing the latest tech tools ensures your practice stays ahead of the curve, providing seamless and modern services. Here are some essential tech items to consider for your private practice:

A Reliable Laptop

A dependable laptop is indispensable for any private practice. It serves multiple functions, from scheduling appointments to managing patient records. By acting as a central hub, a laptop helps keep your practice organized without the clutter of physical paperwork. Additionally, cloud storage solutions enable you to securely store and access data from anywhere, ensuring your information is safe and easily retrievable even if something happens to your computer.

Key Features to Look For:

  • High processing power for multitasking
  • Long battery life for uninterrupted use
  • Robust security features to protect sensitive information
  • Ample storage space, complemented by cloud storage options

A Smartphone

A smartphone is a versatile companion to your laptop, streamlining various aspects of running a practice. For example, texting appointment reminders can be an excellent tool to encourage fewer no-shows. There are now many HIPAA-compliant text applications available to ensure privacy and anonymity. Additionally, telehealth capabilities on your phone allow you to conduct virtual sessions, offering flexibility for both you and your clients. The built-in timer function can help you manage session durations effectively.

Benefits:

  • Facilitates immediate communication with clients
  • Enables telehealth consultations on the go
  • Helps manage appointments and reminders
  • Provides a portable alternative to your laptop

Teletherapy Platforms

Incorporating teletherapy platforms into your practice allows you to expand your reach and provide care to clients who cannot visit the office. These platforms offer secure video calling, ensuring privacy and compliance with healthcare regulations. They are especially useful in maintaining continuity of care during unforeseen circumstances that prevent in-person visits.

Advantages:

  • Extends your service reach beyond geographical limitations
  • Ensures client privacy with encrypted communication
  • Supports flexible scheduling and remote care

White Noise Machine

Enhancing the confidentiality of client sessions is crucial, and a white noise machine can help achieve this. By masking conversations, it prevents those in the waiting area or passing by from overhearing sensitive discussions. This fosters a more relaxed and secure environment, reassuring clients that their privacy is protected.

Key Points:

  • Provides auditory privacy in your office
  • Creates a calm and soothing atmosphere
  • Available in various models to suit your office decor

Secure Communication Tools

Maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive client information is paramount. Employing HIPAA-compliant secure communication tools ensures that all messages and data exchanged are encrypted, protecting against unauthorized access and data breaches. These tools help you adhere to regulatory requirements and uphold the highest standards of privacy.

Features to Consider:

  • End-to-end encryption for all communications
  • User-friendly interfaces for easy adoption
  • Regular updates and support for ongoing security

Integrating these tech tools into your private practice can revolutionize how you manage and deliver care. By staying organized, maintaining flexibility, and prioritizing client confidentiality, you can provide a superior service that meets the demands of modern-day behavioral health care.

Remember that with all technologies, there are risks and benefits, including ethical dilemmas that might arise. For more information on navigating these dilemmas, Health Affiliates Maine is offering an ethics training titled, “Who’s in the Room? You, Your Client, and AI in 2024.“ To learn more about this training taking place on September 13, 2024, click here. 

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Posted on by Author Kayla Quesnelin Categories Advice for Affiliates

Considerations for Your Transition to Private Practice

When thinking about starting your own private practice, moments of excitement and eagerness may quickly be followed by clouds of doubt. You’re not alone in feeling a bit confused or on edge about this big move! Transitioning from a structured work environment to the freedom (and responsibility) of your own practice is no small decision. However, with the right preparation and a fair amount of reflection, it could turn into the most fulfilling venture of your career.

As you prepare for the transition, or even just ponder what life would be like as a private practice clinician, here are a few things to consider.

Embrace Your Inner Entrepreneur

Stepping into private practice means you’re not just a clinician anymore; you’re a business owner too! Think of it as learning a new skill set. From managing finances to marketing your services, these are all aspects that, with time and experience, you can master just as well as any therapy technique.

Check Your Financial Pulse

Shifting from a regular salary to what might initially be an unpredictable income is scary. However, with some careful planning, like setting up a budget, understanding start-up costs, and saving for initial lean times, you can set yourself up for success. If you are not quite ready to jump all the way in, keep in mind that many of our affiliates hold part-time or full-time employment while engaging in private practice on the side. This can be a good way to ease into the transition and see if private practice is the right choice for you.

And though it’s important to market your own practice and grow your clientele, affiliates can breathe a little easier knowing our well-established referral network also draws in new clients to help grow affiliates’ caseloads and contribute towards a steadier stream of income. We also offer advanced payment for MaineCare and Medicare/MaineCare so you can receive timely and weekly payments for your services.

Create Your Unique Brand

What makes your practice special? Building a personal brand and establishing an online presence can help attract the kind of clients who will benefit most from your unique approach. Choosing a catchy name and designing a welcoming website are just the beginnings of creating your professional identity. You can learn more about marketing your private practice here .

Get the Legal Ducks in a Row

It’s crucial to tackle legal requirements head-on. From sorting out insurance to staying in compliance with ever-changing healthcare laws, make sure everything is buttoned up and you are following all guidelines. A chat with a legal expert is a great investment. We also provide affiliates with updates on the latest healthcare policies and regulations so you can stay in the know.

Though some clinicians choose to become incorporated or an LLC based on their business needs, this is not a requirement to affiliate with Health Affiliates Maine. Before making this decision, we highly encourage you to consult a legal or tax advisor. (We also encourage affiliates to speak to an expert in liability insurance!)

Surround Yourself with Supporters

Starting out on your own might feel lonely at times, especially if you’re accustomed to a bustling team environment. Cultivate a supportive circle of fellow clinicians, mentors, and advisors. Whether it’s bouncing off ideas, venting on tough days, or just sharing a coffee, having people you can rely on makes all the difference. If you’re looking for community, our network of affiliated clinicians provides a ready-made group of like-minded professionals.

Remember that as a business owner, you’ll need support beyond the clinical world. Having a network of business professionals, such as an accountant, lawyer, or expert on liability insurance is a great place to start.

With Freedom Comes Responsibility

You’re about to step into a world with more freedom and autonomy—but that comes with a great deal of responsibility. Without the frame of a 9-to-5 job or a boss to direct the show, are you prepared to steer your own ship? Managing your time effectively, holding yourself accountable, and embracing the full spectrum of running your practice can be empowering yet challenging. Think about how you’ll approach self-discipline, setting your schedule, and shouldering the exciting responsibility that comes with calling the shots.

Reconnect with Your “Why”

In the midst of all this planning and deliberating, take a moment to remember why you considered private practice in the first place. Whether it’s the desire for autonomy, the flexibility to balance work and life, or the passion to create a therapeutic environment that aligns with your philosophy, keeping your motivation in sight can guide you through
challenges and towards success. Would engaging in private practice get you closer to your “Why”?

Feeling nervous about stepping into this new role is completely normal, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to deliver care on your own terms. And remember, though you’re working alone, you don’t have to do it alone.

Learn how Health Affiliates Maine supports clinicians in building strong, independent and autonomous practices.

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Posted on by Author Kayla Quesnelin Categories Advice for Affiliates

Stepping Away Without Stepping Back: A Guide for Preparing for Out-of-Office Time

As a behavioral health professional, just the idea of taking time off may elevate your heart rate. Whether it’s concerns about client care continuity or ensuring the administrative aspects remain in order, it can be hard to press pause on your private practice. However, prioritizing your well-being is crucial—not just for your own health but for the quality of care you provide. 

Preparation and communication are key to enjoying a guilt-free break. Here are a few things to consider as you prepare for your out-of-office time, ensuring peace of mind for both you and your clients.

Communicating Your Absence

Start Early. As soon as you have your vacation dates settled, begin to let your clients know. This gives them time to process the information and plan accordingly. It’s also a respectful way to acknowledge the importance of their treatment process.

Be Clear and Concise. Whether it’s verbally in session, through a written notice, or both, ensure your message about being out of the office is clear. Provide the exact dates you’ll be unavailable and mention when you’ll be returning. Keep the tone professional yet empathetic, recognizing that this break might impact them.

Set Boundaries. Make it clear if you will be completely inaccessible or if there will be limited circumstances under which you can be reached. Setting these expectations early helps manage any potential anxieties your clients might have about your absence.

Prepare Your Clients. Discuss with your clients what they can do if they find themselves struggling during your absence. This might involve creating a plan that includes coping strategies you’ve worked on together. For some clients, it might be beneficial to increase sessions leading up to your departure or schedule a check-in immediately upon your return.

Preparing Your Practice

Plan for Coverage. If possible, arrange for a trusted colleague to be available to your clients in case of emergencies. This is particularly important for clients who are at a higher risk or in the midst of a more intense phase of treatment. Ensure you have a clear agreement on what constitutes an emergency and the process for contact. We have a network of statewide clinicians and case managers to help form those trusted connections.

Administrative Duties. Ensure all paperwork, billing, and communication with third parties (including with us if you’re a HAM affiliate!) are up to date. This way, we can continue serving you even while you’re away. Set up an automated email response that reiterates your absence and provides information on who to contact in case of an emergency. If you have a practice website or online booking system, update your availability there as well.

Secure Client Information. Ensure all client files and information are securely stored and that only authorized personnel have access to them. 

Returning to Work

Upon your return, take the time to reconnect with clients and catch up on their progress or challenges during your time away. 

Taking time off is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity for your mental and physical health, reducing the risk of burnout and ensuring you can provide the best care for your clients. With thoughtful preparation and clear communication, you can create a system that supports both you and your clients, making your time away from the office a restorative pause that benefits everyone involved. Remember, stepping away doesn’t mean stepping back from your commitment to your clients—it means stepping back stronger, recharged, and ready to engage fully in the therapeutic process.

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Posted on by Author Kayla Quesnelin Categories Advice for Affiliates

Time Management Mastery: Essential Strategies for Private Therapy Practice Owners

Feeling submerged under an ever-growing pile of administrative tasks, client sessions, and the constant pressure to balance work with personal life? You’re not alone. Running a private therapy practice brings with it a unique set of challenges that can make even the most seasoned professionals feel overwhelmed. Having worked with hundreds of affiliated clinicians over the years, we at HAM have learned that amidst these challenges lies an opportunity to redefine the way we view and manage our time. We want to explore practical, effective time management techniques specifically tailored for private therapy practice owners to help you reduce the overwhelm and find more joy in your work.

Understanding the Value of Your Time

The first step in mastering time management is recognizing that your time is incredibly valuable—especially in a profession built upon the premise of offering your time and presence to others. Each minute spent on less critical tasks is a minute taken away from your core mission: to heal and nurture.

Techniques to Reclaim Your Time

Prioritize and Plan

Start by distinguishing between what’s urgent and what’s important. Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks and focus on what truly moves the needle for your practice (what’s important, what’s urgent, what’s not urgent, what you can delegate, and what you can delete). Daily planning can also be transformative—spend the first few minutes of each day or the last few minutes of the previous day making a to-do list organized by priority.

Embrace Technology

Leveraging technology can significantly reduce time spent on administrative tasks. A robust electronic health record (EHR) is essential to streamlining operations. For current affiliates using our EHR, be sure to take advantage of its many features and use it to its full capacity. (If you’re unsure how, we’d love to show you!)

Set Boundaries and Learn to Delegate

We see so many therapists falling into one common trap: believing they need to do everything themselves. We encourage you to Identify tasks that can be delegated or outsourced. For example, this might mean hiring a virtual assistant to manage emails and calls. It can even mean affiliating with us. After all, this was the foundation on which HAM was born. We offer administrative and billing support so you can spend more time with clients, doing the work you set out to do. Please, lean on us! It’s what we’re here for.

Setting clear boundaries around work hours and communication can also prevent work from spilling over into personal time.

Batch Tasks and Block Time

Group similar tasks together to reduce the mental load and increase efficiency. Schedule these batches during periods of the day when you’re naturally more productive. Time blocking can also be a game-changer. Allocate specific blocks of time for client sessions, administrative work, and importantly, breaks and personal time.

Reflect and Adjust

Regularly take stock of how you’re spending your time. Are there tasks that take longer than they should? Are you, perhaps, spending too much time on non-essential activities? Use these insights to adjust your approach, experimenting with different techniques to find what works best for you.

Implement a Self-Care Routine

Remember, time management isn’t just about squeezing every drop of productivity out of your day; it’s about creating spaces for rejuvenation and self-care. This is especially critical in a caregiving profession like therapy. Ensure you’re setting aside time for activities that nourish your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, even if it’s only 10 minutes a day.

The Road Ahead

Transforming the way we approach time management doesn’t happen overnight. It requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to experiment with new strategies. But by implementing these techniques, you’ll not only lessen that overwhelming feeling but also free up valuable time to focus on what matters most: providing quality care to your clients and leading a balanced, fulfilling life.

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Posted on by Author Rachael Severancein Categories NewsTagged ,

Cultivating Connection: Questions Every Therapist Should Address in Their Online Profile

Many behavioral health professionals are so focused on caring for their clients that they don’t even consider creating a professional profile. They often don’t realize that it’s an important tool for growing their practice. We get it. After all, you have deep experience and expertise in behavioral health, not necessarily in marketing yourself or your practice online. At Health Affiliates Maine (HAM), we encourage affiliates to consider their professional profiles not as a superficial sales and marketing tactic or a job resume but as a space to build connections with best fit clients, foster understanding, and inspire confidence. That is why we feature affiliates’ professional profiles on our website free of charge (just one of the many perks of affiliating with us!)

When it comes time to create these professional profiles, our affiliated clinicians often ask us for advice on how best to craft their professional profiles. They want to know what’s important to include and how it should be written. 

This might seem challenging, but by answering a set of key questions, behavioral health professionals can create an engaging and empowering profile. In this blog, we explore what these questions are and why they’re important for shaping your online narrative.

Who are you beyond your qualifications?

Of course, a brief introduction with your qualifications and professional background is necessary. Yet, remember, therapy is built on human connections. So, delve a little further. Talk about your beliefs, your passions, perhaps even mention how you find solace in the calm of nature or find inspiration in the strokes of a paintbrush. Show that you, too, are human.

What are your areas of expertise, and what is your approach to treatment?

Share your areas of proficiency–whether it is cognitive behavioral therapy, Family Systems Therapy, child and adolescent psychology or anything else. Yet, remember to also discuss your approach to these treatments. Your philosophy and methodology provide a glimpse into your practice and its uniqueness.

What are some of your experiences?

Share experiences that shaped you as a therapist. Talk about the resilience you have seen, the journeys you’ve borne witness to. This is about normalizing the ups and downs of behavioral health care and portraying yourself as a compassionate companion on this journey.

Why have you chosen this path?

State why you decided to delve into this field. Perhaps, a personal encounter sparked your journey, or maybe you’ve always felt an innate calling to help others navigate their mental and emotional landscapes. These insights make you relatable and trustworthy.

How do you nurture resilience and empowerment in your clients?

Including empowering language in your profile portrays positive outcomes and encourages those seeking help. So, as an advocate, supporter, and guide, how do you encourage individual growth and resilience? What specific strategies and interventions do you use to help clients discover and bolster their strengths?

How can someone reach out to you?

Make it clear how individuals can contact you for a consultation or further queries. Normalize this process by encouraging individuals to take this step, reassuring them courageously and compassionately.

Getting Started

Once you have written your profile, put it out to the online world! We encourage all affiliated clinicians to start by crafting their professional profiles with us at HAM. Affiliates can have their professional profiles featured on the HAM website free of charge one of the many benefits of affiliating with HAM!  Other organizations, such as psychologytoday.com, will also post online profiles for a fee. 

Creating an online professional profile is about breaking down the walls and extending a hand to those seeking help. Let your profile reflect that, let it echo your dedication, let it speak in a voice that grounds, heals, and believes.

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Posted on by Author Kayla Quesnelin Categories Advice for Affiliates, Private Practice

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