Lone Working as a Therapist in Private Practice

Private practice has its challenges but also offers flexibility .

As a therapist in private practice, I spend a great deal of my working day alone. While I am engaged and connected with my clients throughout the day, it isn't the same as having work colleagues to catch up with, exchange ideas, or simply share a moment with another like-minded soul.

In the office where I work, there are other people milling around. As I pop to fill the kettle or collect my mail, I may see another person and offer a quick hello. There are other therapists working in their offices, doing similar things to me, but we don’t have time to chat nor do we have a common space to meet. We are all independently working with clients and, in the quiet moments, we are writing notes, sending emails, or catching up with other tasks that keep our practices running smoothly.

The Challenges of Lone Working

Lone working can present unique challenges. The lack of regular interaction with colleagues can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation. Unlike a traditional office environment where spontaneous conversations and collaborations can occur, working alone means missing out on these opportunities. This can be particularly challenging for those of us who thrive on social interaction and the exchange of ideas.

Finding Connection in a Solo Practice

Despite these challenges, there are ways to find connection and support even when working alone. Here are a few strategies that have worked for me:

Scheduled Check-Ins: Setting up regular check-ins with fellow therapists or colleagues can provide a sense of community. These can be informal chats over coffee or more structured meetings to discuss cases and share insights.
Professional Networks: Joining professional organisations or online forums can offer opportunities to connect with other therapists. These networks can be a valuable resource for support, advice, and professional development.
Shared Spaces: If possible, finding a co-working space or a shared office with other therapists can create opportunities for interaction. Even if it's just a shared kitchen or lounge area, having a common space can facilitate those much-needed social interactions.
Self-Care: Taking time for self-care is crucial. Whether it's a walk outside, a hobby, or simply taking a break to relax, self-care can help mitigate the effects of working alone.

Embracing Solitude

There is still the understanding that I am alone in my work and alone in my office. I chat with people online or by text, and my assistant is at the other end of a video call or text, but we are both busy working in our own individual spaces.

I have started to spend some time in meditation, kicking off my shoes, lighting some incense, and using the quiet moments to reconnect with myself and gain clarity about my clients, myself, and my space. It feels like a luxury to have this time, and it has helped me to quiet the many thoughts that might come in as the day progresses. When you work with many people in a therapeutic way throughout the day, taking a moment to centre yourself, ground your body, and shake off unwanted energy is essential.

I treasure the opportunity to have a brief interaction with another person, but I also appreciate that working alone offers me something special—an opportunity to connect with myself while connecting with others. As we celebrate World Corporate Health Day and the hustle and bustle of a busy, vibrant office, it is easy to forget how alone one can feel among a busy workspace.

The Power of Genuine Connection

Finding a moment to connect with another member of your team can transform their day in ways you couldn't imagine. Therapeutic moments can happen at any time if we just take a moment to genuinely connect with someone. Instead of just saying, "Hi, how are you?" and walking away, wait for that person to respond and spend a moment to be emotionally available for that person. The response may then be more authentic and less generic because they know that you genuinely care.

Conclusion

While lone working as a therapist in private practice has its challenges, it also offers the flexibility and autonomy that many of us value. By finding ways to connect with others and taking care of ourselves, we can create a fulfilling and balanced work life. Private practice can be a lonely journey, but it also provides unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.

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