Therapist, Networking Really Works!
Therapist networking is something that I think a lot of clinicians shy away from. It feels old-fashioned, where social media, blogs, and YouTube videos are sexy, fresh, and new. But having worked for a large group practice, I can tell you that even with up to ten therapists all taking on 15-25 clients a week, I send probably three to four referrals a week. And when I say referrals, I mean lists of referrals. I like to send multiple, just in case the client is a little picky. Which means if I know you, you’re probably being recommended to three or four new leads a week, easily.
Now you’re seeing how powerful networking can be, right?
How to network with therapists
This can be as easy or as hard as you want it to be. I usually suggest doing the following:
1. Look for therapists: You’ll want to find therapists who serve similar populations, specialize in similar concerns, and bonus points if they use the same modalities as you. It helps if they’re at a larger practice, or own their own practice, but that’s not necessary. The most important thing is that you genuinely want to get to know them and learn from them.
2. Reach out: This is the hard part. Once you find 3-4 therapists that fit the bill, find their contact info and reach out! Here’s a script you can use:
“Hi (name),
I’m a counselor in (area) and I really admire the work you do with (talk about their clients, modalities, or whatever sticks out to you). I also (work with similar clients, do CBT, etc. Tie it back to what you previously mentioned,) and I’m looking to build up a list of referrals to send new leads when I’m fully booked. I was wondering if I could buy you a coffee sometime and get to know you a little better?”
Buying someone a coffee is the easiest way to get an in, truly. You don’t even need to trip over yourself to make an insanely good impression, because the simple fact that you are forward, honest, and happy to do something nice will already put you in your peer’s good graces.
3. Repeat: The more therapists you get to know, the better. You could even suggest putting together an impromptu networking lunch and get to know that therapist’s current go-to referrals. In my experience, the people I refer to the most are usually booked themselves, so they may be happy to have someone new to send leads to.
Other methods for therapist networking
If buying someone a coffee or inviting them to lunch is a little forward for you, consider some of these options instead:
Networking Programs: Your Chamber of Commerce may have events set up already to help professionals network. Just Google “(Your city) Therapist Networking” and you may be surprised at how much you find. This has the added bonus of letting you meet non-therapist health professionals who may also refer to you, like doctors, nurses, and psychiatrists.
Organize Luncheons: I talked on this above, but if you have therapist friends already, organizing a networking lunch where everyone invites one new person can create a ton of new connections at once.
In-person trainings and events: You will find that these are a great way to create relationships with therapists because they’ll already have at least one similar interest to you. This is one of my favorite ways to make friends and business connections.
Peer supervision: Peer supervision is a great way to meet other therapists and have a genuine connection. There are peer consultation groups you can join to both meet other therapists and get feedback on your work with clients. I would always recommend joining one if it’s available to you.
Some Tips for Therapist Networking
Be a good listener
Networking is not just about promoting yourself, it’s about building and fostering relationships with other clinicians in your field. Practice your elevator pitch all you want, but the best way to make a good impression is to be kind and interested in the other person.
Take notes
If you’re meeting with several people, having a place to jot down contact info, specialties, etc can be really helpful. My partner is often seen bringing clipboards to meetings with pretty much everyone, and although some people find it odd at first, he is constantly asked to share any notes he took after the fact. Being that person will only help you foster those relationships more.
Stay engaged and follow up
After you meet with someone, take some time to send them an email thanking them for their time. If you’re feeling extra confident, consider scheduling periodic catch-up meetings to nurture the relationship even more.
Word of mouth is still king
I have read so many accounts from therapists who swear by word of mouth. It seems to fill caseloads more than even internet searches sometimes. If you feel like you’re spending a ton of time on your internet presence and still not getting results, networking might be a worthwhile option for you.
Make sure you’re also tracking your referral sources! That way if someone you don’t know well refers a client to you, you can return the favor down the road. Or at least send them a thank-you card.
And if all of this combined with seeing clients, maintaining your social media, and running your private practice is feeling like too much, reach out! My goal as a designer is to optimize your business so that you can focus on doing what you love– helping people. I’m always happy to chat about ways you can make your content creation run smoother or help you do a full rebrand.