In this episode, host Whitney Owens and therapist Carrie Haynes Haynes discuss the challenges and benefits of building a private healthcare practice. They delve into the practical aspect of managing paperwork, credentialing, and insurance procedures, while also emphasizing the importance of delivering excellent care to clients. A key focus of the conversation is the power of group therapy, especially in creating supportive communities. Carrie shares her guidance on how to run groups effectively, emphasizing the importance of consistency and persistence. They also discuss the structure of payment for these groups, touching on both insurance and private payment situations. Additionally, Haynes shares about the 'Circle Work'- a psycho-spiritual group work practice that she organizes twice a year.

In this episode of the Wise Practice podcast, the host interviews Carrie Haynes, an expert in group therapy. The discussion revolves around the challenges and myths associated with group therapy in private practice, the benefits of group therapy, and how to effectively integrate it into a practice.

Key Points Discussed:

• Client Hesitancy Toward Group Therapy: The conversation touches on why clients might be hesitant to participate in group therapy, including concerns about confidentiality and not wanting to share or hear other people's problems.

• Therapist Beliefs Impacting Group Participation: Research suggests that the number one reason clients don't participate in groups is due to the beliefs of clinicians and staff about group therapy.

• Education and Experience in Group Therapy: Both the host and Carrie discuss their educational experiences with group therapy and how it has influenced their practices.

• Myths About Group Therapy: Carrie addresses common myths about group therapy, such as the belief that clients do not want group therapy and the importance of educating clients about its benefits.

• Pricing for Group Sessions: The episode covers how to price group sessions, with suggestions to look at the local market rates or consider charging half the individual session rate.

• Persistence with Clients: Carrie emphasizes the need for persistence when suggesting group therapy to clients, advocating for a long-term approach, and not being deterred by initial hesitation.

• Insurance and Group Therapy: The discussion includes how insurance can be used for group therapy, how to make group sessions lucrative, and the benefits for both clients and therapists.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Visit Whitney Owens' website for networking and marketing resources.

• Consider the benefits of group therapy and how to communicate them to clients.

• Look into local market rates to set appropriate pricing for group sessions.

• Be persistent and educate clients about the value of group therapy.

• Explore insurance options for group therapy to make it a viable part of your practice.

Show Sponsor

• Alma - Your private practice support system

Links and Resources

• Art of Groups on Facebook

• Art of Groups Web Page: Carrie has 2 spots available in my November Cohort for Group Practice Owners who want to add groups to their practice, and 3 spots left in my November Circle Facilitators Retreat.

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Instagram

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com

Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.