Step-by-Step Guide to Planning a Successful Private Psychology Practice

When we talk to clinicians at Disco Rodeo Consulting, we often hear:“I started this practice because I wanted to do meaningful work, but now I’m buried in decisions and logistics.”

Sound familiar?

Starting a private practice is like standing at the base of a mountain you’re determined to climb. You feel the excitement. You know your purpose. But there’s still that voice whispering, “Where do I even begin?”

The truth is: your practice isn’t just about seeing clients or earning a living. It’s about creating something that aligns with who you are — something sustainable, intentional and values-led.

A clear business plan won’t box you in. It frees you to work in a way that reflects your purpose and builds a practice you’re proud of.

This guide will walk you through how to create a practical, personalised, and purposeful business plan for your private psychology practice.

Step 1: Define Your Services

🧭 The Heart of Your Practice

This isn’t just a list of offerings. It’s a reflection of what lights you up.

For many psychologists and therapists, 1:1 sessions are the core, and that’s not only okay, it’s essential. But building in room for growth can help you future-proof your practice.

→ What do I love most about the work I do?

→ Do I enjoy 1:1 sessions, group work, psychoeducation, or something else?

→ What do my clients need most, and how does that align with my strengths?

One of our clients recently said:“Writing out my services not only clarified what I offer, but reminded me why I love this work.”

Let this step ground you in your why.

Step 2: Choose Your Business Model

🏡 Your Practice, Your Way

The right business model will support both your vision and your lifestyle. Think about how and where you want to work, alongside what energises you.

→ What kind of environment helps me do my best work?

→ Do I want the flexibility of online work, the structure of in-person, or a hybrid model?

Business Model Options:

→ In-Person: Great for those who value deep connection and consistent routine

→ Online: Ideal if flexibility, accessibility, or geography matter

→ Hybrid: Offers the best of both, as long as systems are solid

You don’t have to choose what everyone else is doing. Choose what’s right for you.

Step 3: Know Your Ideal Client

🎯 Go Beyond Demographics

Understanding your ideal client is key to creating services and messaging that actually connect.

We’re not just talking about age and location. We’re talking about who they are as people — what they care about, what they need, and what they’re struggling with.

→ Who do I see thriving in my practice?

→ What keeps them stuck and how does my approach help?

→ What do they value most in a therapist or psychologist?

Get specific. When your messaging feels personal, your marketing becomes magnetic.

Step 4: Expand Your Revenue Streams

💡 Without Losing Your Focus

Yes, 1:1 sessions are your foundation. But they don’t have to be your only income stream.

Exploring aligned offerings can create more freedom, sustainability, and variety in your practice, without stretching you too thin.

→ Could I run a small group or workshop for clients who share similar goals?

→ Would a digital download or evergreen course help me reach more people?

→ What partnerships, settings, or audiences feel aligned with my purpose?

Thoughtful diversification isn’t about doing more.It’s about doing what feels right, and sustainable, in your next season.

Step 5: Set SMART (and Inspiring) Goals

📈 Let Strategy Support Your Vision

Goals don’t need to feel heavy. They’re just a map - a structure to help you move from idea to action.

Using the SMART framework keeps your goals focused and trackable.

SMART Goals Are:

→ Specific: “Launch a 4-week workshop for overwhelmed women” instead of “Run something new”

→ Measurable: Set targets for enrolments, income or impact

→ Achievable: Stretch yourself, but keep it realistic

→ Relevant: Align goals with your current needs and priorities

→ Time-bound: Deadlines drive momentum

Example:“By 30 November, I’ll design and promote a 4-week workshop series for early-career school teachers, with a goal of enrolling 10 participants and generating $2,000 in revenue.”

Bonus: Use Our Free Goal-Setting Worksheet

🗂️ Your Secret Weapon

We’ve created a free downloadable Goal-Setting Worksheet to help psychologists create clear, aligned goals for their practice.

It’s designed to guide you through:

→ Defining your offers

→ Mapping your income streams

→ Clarifying your audience

→ Tracking meaningful progress

📥 [Download the worksheet here] and start making moves.

💬 Final Thoughts

Creating a business plan isn’t just a box to tick. It’s an act of leadership and a way of saying, “I’m not just running a practice. I’m building something that matters.”

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to restructure, these five steps will help you create a practice that feels clear, intentional, and aligned.

Your purpose deserves a plan that supports it, and we’re here to help you build it.

Ready to get started? 

→ Download the free worksheet 

→ Or reach out for personalised support through our strategy sessions or group programs

You don’t have to build your practice alone.