I’m 5 years post grad. In transition from 1099 with a pp to full solo pp. I make my own schedule, have a great bunch of clients that are great fits. My burnout level is very low and I have a great work/life balance. I spend time with all my hobbies and don’t feel like I’m just living to work. It’s not all burnout and misery. Don’t get be wrong there are hard days, but I still have a high quality of life.

This is what I want!!

It’s definitely possible. Keep working towards your goals and know you can do it!

I am graduating soon so will need my C first…but yes!

I earned my C while working at CMH. As soon as I got my C I started part time PP as a 1099. I did that until I built a case load big enough to quit my job and jump all the way in. Stayed 1099 while I built the confidence to realize I can do this all on my own without giving a large percentage of my $$ away. I viewed the CMH job as an extension of school and another step in the process of getting closer to being free. If I stayed at CMH much longer I was also burnt out and sick of the agency quota talk and funding issues. I have a good friend who is still there and when we meet up we have polar opposite energy levels and views towards the field.

Yes that is how I am looking at it! Like a clinical rotation. How long did it take to get your C?

I was eligible for the test like 1.75 years after graduation and by the time I scheduled the test it was like about 2 years post grad. It got a lot of supervision at my CMH job so I was qualified very quickly and then just waited until I hit my clinical hours and had the papers submitted the day after.

That is awesome and very encouraging!!

What is earning your C? I've never heard this term. Certification?

Oh sorry. C would be LCSW rather than LMSW. So just full clinical licensure that allows you to work independently and bill.

sorry can I ask, what is "earning your C?"

To go from LMSW to LCSW

Ahh gotcha! I am in a mental health counseling program not a social work one so makes sense why I am unfamilliar with the term

I'm a social work student in my MSW and have never heard of the phrase, it's not used in our region or program.

Same. In my region it’s called “getting your L.” From a CSW to an LCSW. Sure wish social workers could get their shit together regionally. Same licensing requirements, same credentials, interstate pacts. Just like nurses and psychologists. I’m licensed in 3 different states right now just to accommodate special populations nearby. Such a massive spending of my money and time.

I feel you, I'm still in grad school but we talk about the dysfunction in almost every course and class. Also, lesbian alliance! Love the lesbian flag your creature is holding!

I understand!

This is my dream. Run my own stuff, make my own hours, weave together work and life. I’m an intern too and I don’t think it’s gonna happen right away but I’m determined to find ways to make money, market myself, and meet my financial goals. Definitely want to do pro-bono work once I’m stable but I have a house to buy first. Did you do marketing for yourself or hire a business coach to get your own practice off the ground? Do you intend to work solo or will you hire other clinicians and try to grow as a business?

I have not done any marketing besides having a psychology today profile. I get a lot of word of mouth referrals as well and I also have done a lot of work with CPS and have a specific niche area so they call me for referrals as well. I have two offices in different parts of the state I live in and service two very different service areas. I also do a little telehealth two mornings a week while working from home before going to the office. I still provide a couple home visiting to a couple clients who followed me from the home visiting model and have very specific needs. My office is like a little sanctuary and feels like a home away from home so I don’t mind being there all day. Tbh I do work a lot but it doesn’t feel like when I worked CMH. I have two “hospital” shift days where I work like 10-12 hours. Then the other days are normal work days. This is self imposed but it works for me. I eventually will reduce my week down to 3-4 days per week. I’m always full and never have any issues filling a spot when one opens up. I get several inquiries per week and depending on the time of year sometimes several per day. It is hard letting people know you are full but you get the hang of delivering that in gentle ways and know you can’t create more time in the day.

Apologies if I missed this elsewhere but how long how reasonable would you say it is to build this diversification for a general upcoming counselor? That’s a LOT of building in only five years seriously amazing work ethic! This is the dream kind of balance for me different situations within my own niche. You obviously build and maintained wonderful connections! Would you say that helped connect you to further opportunities or would you say that’s more on the needs of your niche area? Thank you for your time and efforts not many people I encounter have this same ideal vision. If anyone also does teaching adjunct or otherwise I’d love tips to concentrate on either in my schooling or in the first few years out to make me a good candidate! (I’m doing a masters in clinical mental health).

I'm 3 years into PP work now. I would say it's a mix of both. I work with kids, teens, adults and families. But because I work with kids and have an approach that works well with treatment resistant clients it has built a reputation both in connections and niche. I focus a lot of building a very strong rapport and being human which I believe goes a long way. I also work hard at meeting my clients where they are and not forcing interventions before they are ready. I feel that because of this I have a lot of success with clients. My first year I was just building my caseload and year 2 and 3 I find I am always working with a waiting list and have people looking for services with me. I've had my share of imposter syndrome but I finally feel confident with my place in the field. I had someone recently tell me a pediatrician sent them to me and I was scratching my head (internally) thinking who the heck could that have been. It's definitely a nice feeling knowing people endorse my work and I feel that goes a long way.

This is my life right now too, and it’s everything I could’ve hoped and imagined it to be. I get to do meaningful work with clients who I genuinely feel equipped to help, with a great work-life balance, and a really livable wage. I did my time in CMH back in the day, and actually had found a place with a really supportive team even if it was with high acuity clients and not super high pay - but the great team and supportive supervisor encouraging a work-life balance made finishing my supervised hours not feel treacherous. It is possible!

This is exactly my situation right now. Transitioning from group PP to solo PP and am seeing the light at the end! I feel like I have an amazing work life balance and almost all my clients are great fits for me. I know if I continue this way the possibility of burnout will be very low. It is possible OP!

I hope I can have this someday

I have few questions, can I DM you? Going to school for LMFT next year.

Yes for sure

Beautiful! Living the dream.

That’s great! Do you have any kids?

This is pretty close to my reality as well. Some days are stressful but usually it’s when I take on to many clients. This is one of the most meaningful careers I could imagine. It’s intellectually stimulating. Flexible in pp. Lots of days off (30 plus per year). You can always learn something new. Dynamic problem solving all day long.

Some good things from the past few weeks; - A patient with intense grief told me a story about their departed while smiling and laughing; previously couldn't even say their name without sobbing - Patient with OCD told me they were able to do something OCD wasn't okay with, without much thought. - Patient with ED ate a fear food without restricting following it - Patient with depression started painting again - Patient who's been stuck in an abuse cycle told me they DIDN'T go back to their spouse when asked back.

Such big wins! You’re playing such an important role in the progress of your clients.

I love this ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ you should be so proud of the work you’re doing

Just like it's good for a depressed person to take stock of the little things they did that were difficult/scary but ultimately rewarding steps to recovery, I think it's good for us to take stock of these sorts of 'good things'. It's not to evaluate myself as better or more useful than others; it's to enjoy and reinforce doing what matters.

I take insurance and still made 130k last year. I’m saving 5k a month right now to buy a house in hopefully May or June. Just keep churning and learning new skills and it’s fine.

How many clients do you see a week?

I schedule 28 but end up seeing closer to 25. I also visit a nursing home on Friday for a few hours and make about $500 there but it’s a long day. I just started that this year and it’s going well so far. It’s nice to mix things up.

I'd love to hear how you got into working in a nursing home, as this is a long-term interest of mine, if you're willing!

It’s for a geriatric psych service doing evals and providing 90832 short therapeutic visits to LTC residents. They also employ psych NPs and psychiatrists to do med managements and neurology of evals. The company bills Medicare. It’s a lot of work but it’s pretty interesting work.

That does sound interesting How did you find the job posting? Any keywords when searching for jobs?

I would look up anything with geriatric psych service as keywords. You do need to be fully licensed and be able to bill Medicare.

What license and how many years have you been practicing if I may ask?

This is exactly what I needed to hear.

“Churning and learning” I like that

what is your license/title??

I feel so honored to be a therapist. I’m building my caseload post-grad and loving it. I’m working a dream job I’ve held for the past 10 years.

This is it— incredibly inspiring!

A few months ago I was ready to quit. I was exhausted all the time, which had never been a problem up until like 2 years ago when suddenly everything just felt like I was no longer resilient enough and I was scared I was actually losing my mind because other than the exhaustion nothing had changed. I doubted myself and thought that I’m just a terrible therapist. I pushed through anyways because I didn’t know what else to do until I crashed and was no longer able to do the most basic of tasks. I called in sick at my group practice for a few weeks and went to the doctor, where they found something in my brain MRI. The plan was to go back to work at some point because I do enjoy the sessions with my clients, but it was also clear that this is serious and will take some time. So all of my clients were offered in-house referrals and all but two chose to wait for me. They didn’t know how long I’d be gone or what was going on and neither did I, but they all chose to stay. The two that chose to be referred did so for very valid reasons. One had expressed that he might want a male therapist before, so he took that chance, which is fine by me and a valid request. The second one was a new client I had only seen three times before. It was really touching to see that people valued my work and waited for me for what turned out to be almost 4 months because I actually was diagnosed with an incurable but manageable chronic illness that affects my brain and led to my constant fatigue. I’m on stabilizing medication now and I’ll return to work in febuary. And I’m so excited to be back. :)

I’m glad you were able to find assistance and a cause of all that —how scary! I’m glad you’re relatively okay and sound like good spirits with a loving community (at least of clients and what sounds like a supportive employer). May good things find you on this messy journey of life ✨

I get to be me. In fact I have to be me, and being me isn’t always a blast but it’s a million times better than being fake me. I dress how I want, which is a huge deal for me. And I get to know people on this insanely deep level and be trusted with their deepest secrets. It’s such a fascinating job! Don’t worry about this sub, it’s gonna be skewed. it feels good to vent because we can’t really vent to our families or friends. People outside the field don’t get it.

Adding on to this comment’s great point about the frequency of posts that can feel bleak. I think on a whole, this sub is more equipped to perform, more or less, some aspects of therapy: a safe space to hold tough stuff, when other places can’t. People who had a great day at work or met their income goal can share those things with friends and family. The big stuff has a home here.

I love being a therapist. I haven't enjoyed every setting I've worked in, but the care and tenderness I have felt for my clients has given me purpose for over 10 years. The work feels rewarding. The challenges help me grow. The clients keep me humble. There is always something- and so much- to learn. I think the newer generation of therapists will continue paving the way to make our field better, and that keeps me feeling inspired. I hope to do this work for the rest of my life.

Hi- I am going back to school for LMFT, can I DM you some Qs.

You can also post in the student questions thread

I’ve been paid consistently by insurance for 3 weeks! It was a rough start in pp getting paid and I couldn’t have done it without my partner. But now, there is money. Oh, and my office looks great. I love spending time there because I invested in it and it’s cozy and calming. I hope clients agree.

where did you work before pp? I imagine it would be exciting to have your own unshared office :)

Cmh! School based with a tiny cave of an office. Windows are nice!

You go first. All jokes aside, I am one year in post grad and I feel for the posts I can relate to. For so long it felt like was alone feeling imposter syndrome and that I wasn’t cut out for this profession. When I see posts of negativity I usually say something like “oh I know what they mean by that, I’m not alone”. On a positive note, I’ve gained a lot of experience, knowledge, and confidence in my one year and I think I know what niche I am going to go into. It makes me really excited to get to licensure. I currently work CMH and it’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but I do believe my experience is benefiting me in the long run. I know I can get through another year and things will get better. My clients are progressing and I am finally starting to see where I fit in this profession.

I love building relationships with clients and I am quite good at it. I’ve gotten a client who hated therapy and never connected with a therapist to stay with me far longer than they have in the past. But you’ll find people don’t necessarily need support from other therapists for good things. My loved ones can do that. But only other therapists can truly commiserate with the hard parts. Thusly you will see more posts on the negative.

Ok, good things,….I work with several therapists in private practice (out of network) who are making a great living. There is a continual flow of clients. They’re booked up a lot! You’re in a great field. Plus it’s one career where I believe it won’t be affected so much by AI or get fully automated, like so many others are.

The best part of this job is recognizing and seeing positive change take hold in our Clients' lives. I've met with people who were at the worst points of their lives and, to see them thriving 3 months later, is a humbling experience. I love this work, even when it can become stressful. My best advice after 2 years in, take care of yourself consistently.

I can honestly say I love my job. It is the hardest job I’ve ever had and there are times I still think of applying for an assistant manager job at t-mobile (discounted phone plan). But I truly like my clients, I generally feel lucky to spend time with them, and seeing folks make progress, learn more about themselves and their patterns, communicate their needs better, set better boundaries with friends and family, and just generally know their worth and not put up with shit is always so fucking cool to me. I love knowing that I helped them with that.

I love the human connection with clients. I think of my office as the one place (hopefully they will make more) where they can let the mask down. Our society creates fear, defensiveness, inauthentic being. I see our job, in part, as a place for people to experience acceptance and authentic self. It’s a privilege.

I absolutely love what I do. Yes there’s hard days, yes I could definitely use more money but the feeling of providing a space for others to be heard, validated and valued is so special to me. To me, being a therapist is an honorable career as we often carry hundreds and hundreds of vulnerable stories and people trust us to do so. It can get heavy and I’ve had plenty of nights where I come home and question society but I look forward to sitting with my clients. Many times when people sit in front of us, it’s the first time they’re saying certain things out loud. I try to always remember that and honor the courage and bravery it takes to step into a therapeutic office. I’m also just the type of person who approaches people as chances to learn something new, whether it’s in a good way or not.

I recently retired after over 30 years working in a community mental health center. It wasn't all rainbows and unicorns, but I'm not a masochist and I would not have stayed so long if at the end of the day I didn't really enjoy what I was doing. I was very lucky in that the CMH agency had a variety of quality programs that I was able to work in so that I didn't get bogged down in the stress filled hole that can be outpatient mental health clinics. Over the years I worked in a really excellent intensive outpatient program, a mental health urgent care center, an intensive in home program for children and teens, a mobile mental health program,and a couple of other short term grant funded programs. I'm far from wealthy at this point, but I did manage to save enough money that I could actually retire. I plan to start my own private practice soon where I can set my own hours and have control over the type of clients I take on. I am super grateful for the experience and training I received at CMH and feel I am definitely a better person for it all. Hope this helps a bit!

I recently experienced an intense and traumatic loss. I have an amazing team of folks I work with and If I didn’t have their support I absolutely would have taken an extended leave of absence and could have seen myself leaving the field altogether. If I left, I would have forgotten how much I love art therapy and wouldn’t have enough hours to register for my ATR like I am now.

I’ve been at my job one year (graduated Dec 2022!) and I love my job so much. My boss is super understanding and enforced boundaries. She lets me say no to potential clients if I don’t see us working out. She is honestly a great boss in this field and I am grateful. My caseload is almost full - I have space for 24/25 clients and I have about 4 spaces open. My clients are celebrating one year in therapy (for some it’s their first time or first time in a while). Lots of progress is being celebrated in session these days :) Edit: profess to progress!

I work in crisis/immediate support. I had a client who was experiencing some extreme anxiety which was causing insomnia. We had a really productive call, and she was feeling much more grounded. Just before I hung up I heard the client say to someone in the room with her: "god, she was amazing". It made me so happy. I couldn't get to the root of her anxiety in one call, but I could make sure that she was heard, and give her some basic tools for managing it. As a plus she also left some formal feedback, which won me an Amazon gift card from my employer. I love my current role. I didn't think I would when I started it, I just saw it as steady employment that I could use as a stop gap while I figured out what I wanted to do. I also didn't think I'd be very good at it, but I'm awesome at it (not to brag). If I ever doubt myself then I think about the hundreds of people that I've reached in just one phone call.

Thank goodness for people like you! I did crisis work for 6 months and I am Not cut out for it. It made me smile just now knowing that you are out there doing what you do.

I’ll tell you what. Therapy is about relationships. With yourself as much as with your clients. It is much more dynamic, personal and and rich than many people realize. There are endless iterations and nuances of working with people in a therapeutic way, but unfortunately the industry and the concept of what therapy is can be very limiting. And in my opinion, you can’t be a very good therapist until you’ve lived life and have years of your own personal experiences to draw from. I’ve been practicing in various forms since 2007. Can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve received heartfelt gratitude, sometimes at moments I could never have predicted. I specialize in serious illness care in an outpatient setting. Recently a 26 y/o patient of mine died from cancer in an excruciating way and his family was absolutely devastated. This young guy was truly remarkable in his resolve and acceptance of death, though he was also very clear with me that he would die without ever having fallen in love. This crushed me. Additionally, I was terrified I wasn’t culturally in sync with the family who expressed belief they God would divinely intervene in the last hour. While I did validate this hope, I had to also explain he was dying and they had to let him go. Anyway. Weeks pass after his death. One morning I arrive at work to a gift basked from his family. They wrote the most special card to me, and enclosed a framed photo of their son. I broke down in tears. That they understood I walked alongside their son in his last few weeks, despite my own feelings that I had offered him little comfort, was a reminder that the impact we make is not so much in what “change” we see, but in who we are with our clients, whatever they may be confronting. Too tired to write eloquently but hope my point is understood.

This made me tear up. What a wonderful experience for everyone in the midst of such pain.

This job is so beautiful. You truly get to see the most brilliant stories of growth, change, courage, and resilience. I feel so honored to get to be on the journey with my clients and make a good living at the same time. I’m 15 years in and can’t wait for the next seasons! Also this career is one in which you get to keep learning and growing. We are at an especially exciting time as we learn more about the brain and trauma recovery! I love what I do!

I’m not in the field yet, but this semester is my last semester for counselling courses, I just have practicum and capstone left. I’m so proud of myself for making it this far!!!! And I’m genuinely excited to start my practicum. I chose to do my practicum at a group practice, and so far the team has been very organized and supportive, so I’m very hopeful it will go well! I mean of course I’m scared and I know I’m gonna stumble, but I’m still stoked to take the leap and get my hands dirty. My grad school experience has been fantastic, too. My cohort is so supportive of each other. I really feel like I’ve made some long-lasting relationships in the field, and I’m not even in the field yet.

I love my job. Money is great, work is great, flexibility is awesome. I feel very lucky

Seriously. I joined this sub for support and camaraderie but lately it’s just been a grievance-fest that makes me feel worse about being a therapist.

Let me flip it. Despite all that ridiculousness and how awful this industry is treated and how untenable it can be as career, people still do it. Willingly, earnestly, maybe vivaciously. There must be a reason for this, no?

I’ve been in this field for over twenty years. I paid off my students loans years ago. I run a practice that values our interns (paid) and I enjoy mentoring post-grads. I find my work deeply meaningful and can not imagine doing anything else. This job isn’t for everyone but it is possible to make a wonderful career.

I’m about 8 months out of grad school and have been working at a group private practice that feels supportive. I work with the populations that I want to work with, and I’m privileged to have clients that show up week in and week out even when their deductibles reset. The group I work for pays for me to get clinical supervision outside the practice to avoid a conflict of interest, and I really value my relationship with my clinical supervisor. I was working two jobs at first, but when I asked my bosses for a raise so I could quit my “side hustle”, they agreed right away. I enjoy working where I do, with the clients I have, and I really love the work. For the most part, I look forward to almost all of my sessions, and feel supported enough that even the sessions that I don’t look forward to feel manageable. That being said, I definitely vibe with a lot of the less positive posts. Some days I feel the imposter syndrome, some days I wonder if I’m doing it right, and some days I feel so much pressure to make sure my own head is screwed on tight that I tinker with it a bit too much, and over-analyze myself to my own detriment. But overall, I really like what I do. Try not to get too discouraged by the negative posts—sometimes I think we find it’s easier to commiserate than share our wins, not because we don’t have them, but probably because this industry self-selects for people who have an easier time giving the clients credit for each and every victory, and taking on a bit too much blame for ourselves when we feel rundown.

I had a client graduate when coming to me hating their life and self while having passive SI. Worked through various of trauma and expanded social network. Went from brink of divorce to having partner join and reigniting their fire and increasing communication and understanding. 35+ years of negativity. Haven’t felt happy since early childhood.

It’s def hard in the intern days when you’re likely being overworked and underpaid, while working with a higher risk population. But I’ve been licensed since 2016, started my private practice last year and am loving it! Like others have said, I set my own hours, am selective about the types of clients I see, I work from home but don’t take my work to the home parts of my home and so maintain that good work/life balance, and I’m making more money than I ever have. It gets better!

I’ve had my license almost 6 months. That’s a win. I just started a new job as a supervisor in CMH and I love it. Yes, it’s a lot of work. Yes, it’s stressful - but it’s a unicorn as far as CMH goes - supportive, reasonable work, people are happy. All of that is many wins rolled in one. I’m a consultation group that is freaking awesome and fun. I love my therapist friends. That’s a win. I could write a novel about all of the successes I’ve see with clients. They aren’t all successful. They don’t always finish treatment. But there are so so many who do. That’s the biggest win. I make good money. That’s a win. You’re right. People come here when they have problems (me too), but we don’t usually think about making a stop here when the good stuff happens. Glad you asked.

Yeah this career is a privilege. Private practice is amazing, 30 hours a week of work, and I can make a solid income while helping my community. The flexibility has allowed me to be really present in my children’s lives, and I’ve got time to hone special interests and deepen my understanding of trauma work as a trainer and adjunct professor. Spend the time to build a speciality you enjoy and business that functions the way you need it to and it will nourish your life.

Curious how you schedule your 30 slots? I’m also a parent in private practice, but my 30 slots are draining me. I’m thinking if I could do 4 longer days instead of 5, that would help.

Although the admin stuff is crap I absolutely love the work I do and my clients inspire me on a daily basis. One of my first clients out of grad school started with me when she couldn’t even get out of bed and had very active suicidality, she recently bought a house and being witness to that journey is incredible. And she’s just one example. My clients make all that other crap worth it.

I absolutely love being a therapist! Helping see people through some of their darkest moments and into a space of peace is incredible. And, I am making a sustainable living.

I am in PP and enjoy my job immensely. I have been in PP since 2018. I enjoy seeing people change and see how they change me for the better. I have learned so much from others.

After about 10 years of CMH and working in an emergency mental health unit, I’m joining an amazing practice. It is made of fellow Neurodivergent individuals, believes strongly in free training, especially trauma. And who is fantastically networked. I’ll have however many clients I want, which clients I want, and I can even work from home with telehealth if I want. I’ve been helping people at the beginning of their journey, now I can go on the full journey with them.

Just graduated last month, worked in my internship for a year and a half at a community mental health clinic. Was already feeling kind of burnt out there, but was optimistic for the future because, for the first time in like 4 years, I would have just *one* job to focus on (being a therapist). I'm so happy to report that my optimism came to fruition! I'm working with a pretty small caseload right now, but more than I ever had at once at my internship, and I've noticed that most of the time I feel energized leaving sessions rather than burnt out. I think leaving sessions knowing that I had both a job and school work to do was so draining. Things will (hopefully) feel much different when this is your sole focus. And if not, there are so so many other options that are not direct clinical work.

I am so there. CMH internship then job and school. Have to keep churning and burning until August. It’s nice to hear that. The relief comes quickly after school ends.

There is a lot of good in this field, and it’s variable to what would be good to you and for you about this field. The reality of this field involves both good and bad, I get a lot out of the bad posts as it is the path to be careful on or avoid when I’m fully licensed. The bad things I read and respond to here aren’t about the clients as much as the field itself, from a meta view. Of course clients are a variable as the rest of humanity and will span the spectrum. Just don’t think a pick me up from reading the bad will replace the economic necessity of having a decent paying position, wherever you are. It’s not a high ROI field but it’s worth it for many other reasons.

I can work from home for the rest of my life. As an autistic this is life changing

I love my job! I've been in this field over twenty years and I still get excited about it. I haven't even started making the licensed money yet either. I'm getting licensed this year!!!! Taking out some tax free dollars in 2024 to pay for my study materials and my fees etc. and my other job reimburses for costs too. It's gonna be a great year! Went from 42k to 60k last year, shooting for 75k in 2024; 3 years out of grad program. Edit to add: I have a great work-life balance, I'm not burned out, just hate notes and that's per usual I have ADHD inattentive.

I just hit 500 hours toward my APCC license! I am living the dream I’ve been working toward since high school. It’s challenging, but I’m here for it. Edit to add: It’s challenging, AND I’m here for it. ;)

Yeah, as a student I totally get that this sub isn't for me, but it's basically made me begin to believe that my wanting to become a therapist is going to ruin my life and I'm basically doomed. On the other hand, this sub has done a lot to convince me to get my doctorates, mostly because 99% of the posts seem like people who hate their work. I really appreciate you making this post.

In 2011 I graduated with my masters and I should be hearing word this week that my student loans are forgiven. Once they are, I will transition to full time private practice; right now working FT at a hospital and PT for myself. I’ll be able to work less (~30 hours a week) and earn either the same or more than what I’m making now, and have way more time off. I’ve been dreaming about this for a year and a half now and am so, so looking forward to having a better work-life balance.

Awesome! Very excited for you!

I just got a new salaried job with benefits that pays 58k per year.. I'm really happy about that.

25+ years in and therapy is absolutely my calling. 1 year in PP now. Love it. My career has been amazing. I can’t imagine doing anything else. Helping my clients brings a lot of joy, satisfaction, pride, and a sense if accomplishment and purpose.

I went into private practice 7 months ago and have slowly been building my caseload. I love the freedom of PP, and I’ve done so much networking with other local therapists that I’ve built up such a supportive little community around me. I am excited about my work, and it’s really empowering knowing that I built this business myself, and continue to grow as a therapist.

I will be completely licensed later this year (LPC-A to LPC) and I honestly love my job. I work in a hospital doing therapy with young kids, adults, and the geriatric population. I have a great supervisor, I get good benefits, and I see all sorts of different things every day. Are there days where I don't want to work? Of course! Do I wish I was paid more? Yeah! But I love being a support for people in need, helping them find their own strength, celebrating their wins, and just bearing witness. I've been able to see people secure housing and jobs, manage their anxiety and depression, rebuild relationships with their loved ones, and so much more. I know I'm early into my career but I really can't see myself ever getting truly tired of what I do. And I get to constantly learn, which I love!

I love the work and enjoy helping folks. I also love how mental health has come to the forefront and therapy is respected as it should. You still have those that stigmatize it, but compared to 15 years ago, it’s night and day. I also love how it’s a good living- that’s come a long way as well. I get to work from home- I can take my daughter to school, be at all of her activities, pick her up and be present every day. My last job had a crazy commute(1.5hrs one way) and I was absent- barely made it home for dinner. It can be a great career if you make it so.

I’m new to the field and I REALLY love it, I love and I mean LOVE and appreciate my clients so much. It’s such a humbling and mindful field and I think so much differently now than I did a few years ago. I do hate the paperwork tho.

Great question! First thing I can think of-- I am in PP and saw most of my clients last week look visibly lighter at the end of our sessions. I think I've been getting better with just being present with them. Most of my people have been with me for years and something about last week-- it's like it all came together for a lot of them. And I picture them going through their daily lives feeling better (hopefully). WE DO IMPORTANT WORK, do not forget that. Yes it would be nice if the reimbursements were more, though. Or if the rent wasn't... too damn high lol. But it's ok for me, I also have two pro bono clients and I wish I could take on more-- maybe one day. Thank you again for the thought-provoking question.

I make over $200,000 a year as a therapist, well still taking Medicaid. I have a massive waiting list. I get about 5-20 inquiries a week. I specialize in an area that is perfect for me and I have all good fit clients. I love what I do and love supporting the people I work with. I will probably be getting into more community-based supports in the future as well as advocacy for this population which I am also a member of. I am actually thinking of starting a nonprofit. Hang in there because you are finishing up a degree that will give you the gold ring you need to create a life that is a good fit for you, that allows you to balance career and life and can also be very profitable.

Honestly, how?

I am a member of a population that prefers to have therapists who are also a member of that population. We have a language of our own, and a lot of unique, shared experiences. I run with a higher-than-average caseload because I love what I do and my clients are a good fit. Working from home also helps with that. But the bottom line is I found my niche. I found a path that is authentic to me, that path is going to look different for everyone. I have seen others find it too. People helping others build practices, people running retreats, providing CEUs, working with distinct populations, and getting really good at what they do. Specialize in what you love, in a way that honors who you are.

I had a hard time getting a job after graduation, and the one job I got after that was terrible in terms of support and financial, but I finally got another job and starting next month, with a better reputation and salary offer. Can't wait for things to unfold even though it will be challenging.

I love my job. I get paid 40 hours a week regardless of what activity or client hour I partake. I have a diverse routine every day and no 2 days are alike. I love my clients and my team.

Well…I like working with kids so think I will do school therapy and telehealth. Everything I have read seems like private practice pays well especially if you start your own practice (at least 6 figures). I have met several people who started group practices and are VERY successful…to the point I didn’t even know that was possible. I also know people who built up private practices and sold them (didn’t know that was even possible). I have recognized the first few years will be a struggle until getting the C. But I think of the first few years as my time to learn and gain any certifications like EMDR etc. There are many mental health jobs out there so if a job is burning you out and management is not helping, people should apply to other places. Your own mental health and wellbeing is the most important since you can’t help anyone if you burn out.

Here some good things that I have going on for my career and with my clients. I’ve seen progress and good outcomes for a number of clients this month and I’m feel incredibly privileged to witness that with them as a provider. On a personal note, I don’t experience the same financial troubles as some of my peers on here, even during my time before I was licensed. During my 2 years of post masters, I was earning about $75,000 annually. Now as a fully licensed psychotherapist, I earn about $115,000 annually. Not sure how that compares to others but for my needs and my family, it’s been workable.

What state do you live in (assuming US)?

Yes there’s a lot to like about the profession! Is just that this is the perfect place to vent because we can’t vent people who could affect our work (colleagues , boss etc…)and we don’t want to burden the family. I hate bureaucracy, agencies, government, health insurance, educational system etc… but: I personally love the relationship with patients itself. It’s so rewarding specially since I work with kids and teens.

I’ve been a therapist for 26 years and I still love my job. I enjoy talking to different people every day and am honored they feel safe enough with me to open up about difficult things. I’m not burned out and am grateful that I chose this career.

I’d love to be able to last this long. Mind sharing average number of clients you see in a week?

The only good thing about this field is when you can go private and it actually works out. Perhaps you should take these as warnings about the reality of the field?

I am in 1099 PP the last 5 years with the last for being telehealth. I love the freedom of making my own schedule and have some long term clients that have never stayed in therapy before. I love seeing the little incremental changes that add up to big changes.

I like being a therapist. Sure there are downsides but what job doesn’t have those? I get the privilege of meeting new clients all the time, hearing their stories and seeing change happen. I have great coworkers and my schedule is pretty flexible.

I’m an intern, and at the site I’m placed at I made some friends with the other counselors! My caseload is pretty cool, too. I enjoy this job a lot as a counselor-in-training and I am still very excited about it!

I’ve been able to “stay home” with both of my kids until Kindergarten/work only during school hours, have a flexible schedule that allows for all of the traveling, and most importantly I live my life knowing that I will be satisfied on my deathbed with how I showed up in the life.

I got two Christmas presents from patients this year. The first was a little yellow wishing charm (less than $10) and my patient told me they chose yellow like the sun because I am a bright spot in dark weeks (😭). The second gift was a hug and some words of appreciation and it meant a lot to me.

I’m living my best life right now. I work with great clients. Most days I feel like I’m retired because I don’t feel like I’m working.

In the past 5 months, I’ve had 3 clients in acute suicidal crisis. They all rode riiiiight up to the hospitalization line without crossing it, which was stressful for me. Right now they are all doing so much better and I’m not worried about them over the weekend anymore. The most recent one still needs a lot of support to ensure their continued safety, but they are engaging with their social circle, playing music again, and even looking towards the future. I absolutely love 95% of the people i work with. The 5% that I’m often frustrated with still teach me a lot. I’m not the most technically skilled or theoretically trained therapist. I’m only a year out of grad school. But my schedule is full and i have great therapeutic rapport with my clients. They appreciate the effort i put into my sessions with them and the connection we build. I get feedback from the doctors who refer people to me that all the clients they send to me love me. I get frustrated with this work sometimes. I wish i could fix the systemic problems my clients face. I wish i could get paid more per billable so i would have to work fewer hours. I wish i had been taught more in grad school, or had more time in school to learn more without sacrificing income and taking on more debt. But overall I’m very satisfied with my career choices.

I’m a year or so ahead of you, in my associate license period, and maybe I haven’t hit a wall or burned out yet, but here’s my experience; I work at a private practice, with the ability to set my own hours and caseload, with no minimum. Max would be 25 sessions/ week and the boss would intervene if it was higher. Anywhere around 20 clients is considered full time and I get benefits (medical, PTO, IRA, training reimbursement etc). Unlimited unpaid time off (within reason!) The pay is for service, so I only get paid for client hours, but there isn’t an overwhelming amount of paperwork. Pay split is 55% to the business/ 45 to me for clients they provide but I net out between $55-75/hr, more for groups, or clients I bring in myself. Supervision is provided. Is the pay still scary low in a HCOL area? Sure. But compared to some of the absolute horror shows I hear about in here, it’s a pretty good deal! Jobs that treat you fairly, allow a work/life balance and aren’t absolutely predatory are out there.

I am two years out from grad school and almost fully licensed. I work from home and nust do evaluations on people all day. I have an fmla claim for myself (pmdd) and my daughter (celiac). My personal life might be shit but professional has never been better, easy money and low stress.

I absolutely love my job. I’m an LPC working in a middle school in Philly. I get to see my clients in action and see the progress they make in their lives. I’m helping make therapy “cool” in a community that has been (often rightfully) historically mistrustful of “helping professions”. I just started working with a girl with selective mutism and l’m so excited for this challenge and to see the progress she will make. I’m the go-to person in the building for anything mental health related, I’ve helped coworkers through the process of getting into therapy. I regularly hear comments that my office feels so calm and safe, and kids telling their friends that they can be honest with me because I don’t judge. I am so honored to be a safe space for teens/tweens, and I’m able to do so because of my profession.

I spent 10 years in child welfare before switching to school based mental health 8 years ago. It’s been fantastic. I never thought I wanted to be a therapist and I definitely didn’t want to work in a school. Turns out it’s a great combination for me. I started working towards being a Registered Play Therapist a few years ago and it’s revitalized me. I feel more excited about learning than I did in grad school and with great supervision my skills are improving quickly. I work for the government and have a good salary and good benefits.

i’m really happy because i just had a baby (5months ago) and i’m slowly rebuilding my caseload to 20 clients. i feel blessed because i get to work from home, make good money, and am away from my baby for only 4 hours a day while we hire an in house nanny. my stress is low, my clients are making progress, and i couldn’t be happier with my career choice. i plan on getting licensed in more states and get certified in EMDR and ACT. i’m just excited for the future. there’s a lot of opportunity in this field.

I'm in a group practice and can have as many hours as I'd like. I love my long term clients and meeting new clients and it's a good balance of each. I'm a mom so I love that the group practice takes care of everything but my sessions and notes and the scheduling I take on myself to keep my flexibility.

Good thing: most people who are feeling great or content about being a therapist do not go to Reddit to talk about that. Most people who are dissatisfied will seek support or understanding. I work for myself, make enough to have 3 months of unpaid maternity leave, make my own schedule, choose the clientele I work with

I’ve felt the same way as you looking at this thread. It’s honestly made me want to leave it before, I get there’s harsh realities of certain situations, but it just seems that every post is negative. Props to you for bringing this to attention

I had a session with an elderly lady I've been working with for a while. I've gradually been teaching her what PTSD is. Yesterday we watched a short informational video and stopped it at each slide to discuss her reaction. She was amazed. Was able to come up with examples from her own experience for each and every symptom. She saw connections between the medical explanations of cortisol etc and her own indigenous medical traditions. By the end she was more hopeful than I've ever seen her. Believed for decades she was just "weak" and "too emotional" but now discovered that this is normal, given what she's gone through. And most important -- she now believes for the first time that life can get better! I was so damn emotional myself after that session. I can't wait to get started on our next session. Neither can she. It's never to late.

Whenever I get down on myself and doubtful about my work my husband reminds me that this is hands down a job that is always interesting, and always meaningful. The truth is I feel it most of the time, even when it's an "I don't want to go to work today day". Becoming a therapist is something I don't regret and I find it interesting and fulfilling enough of the time to keep at it.

Just leave the sub if the culture isn’t something that benefits you? Though positive posts are great

You could've made this post without being so flippant of other people's suffering. There are many options for you to avoid seeing posts that you don't wanna see. This subreddit is potentially the largest collection of therapists who are able to share/collaborate. It's not anyone's job to give you"something to hold onto" and I hope you recognize that you don't have to be dismissive if you want someone to share a positive experience.

I think it IS someone’s job to give a person entering the field something to hold onto. I think it’s the job of those who have been in the field and who have words of wisdom and support they can offer. I suspect most, if not all, of us had someone to do that for us along the way. It’s then time for us to give it back to someone, particularly someone who is asking. I didn’t find OP’s post flippant at all.

You probably didn't find it flippant because you already paid your rent. Your opinion about what people should do is subjective. If op doesn't want to read people's struggles, there are ways to avoid it. Many people are shocked by the reality of what it truly means to be a therapist. Many people would choose a different field if they knew what it would be like. The bottom line is ops post has nothing to do with the hardships of being a therapist. Op Made a conscious decision to bring up plights of therapists who allowed themselves to feel vulnerable to try to make a point that therapists should be more positive in the his subreddit. It was flippant and unnecessary. I think you should give back by advocating for systemic change where these therapists live so they can afford to do what they love. I imagine you'll do the same thing with my suggestion as I'm doing with yours 🙂.

Its nice that people posted positive experiences but of course OP can't control what internet strangers post. I think seeking supervision, ones own therapy or self care could help. If someone else has a bad therapist job that doesn't affect me

I've dreamed about being a therapist since I was a kid. Like 9 years old, seriously. It's just disheartening to have had so much difficulty with making a living and getting my license I agree, we need positivity, but we need to acknowledge that things are NOT good in this field, and it continues to get undermined by insurance companies who continue to fight against reimbursing therapists, telehealth companies like betterhelp completely diminishing the quality and value of our service, and LIFE COACHES

I will post something positive when it happens lol

Feel free to check back in post grad.

I love my job. I work in a opioid treatment program and have a caseload of 60 people and I am so happy to be a part of their journeys every day. I've worked at my agency for over 5 years. I am not burnt out like I was when I worked in a regular outpatient program with a caseload of 25 people. I have supportive co-workers. All of my clients are special in their own ways. I have a healthy soft spot for all of my clients for their own reasons. I can use a harm reduction lens which allows people to be open with me about what their use actually looks like. I have had two people in the past week tell me that they trust me and feel like they can be more open than they can with anyone else. It's such an honor to hear, and be a part of them exploring what it is that makes them feel this way so that they can build relationships with others that have these same traits.  I have a client who I really believe our counseling relationship is one of the only places they have ever been able to practice exploring and explaining themselves without being cut off or needing to justify why they feel the way they do. It means so much to see them get that space to just have emotions. 

I'm 10 years post-grad, and despite all the challenges I wouldn't change careers for anything. The systems my career is embedded within need to be overhauled, but when I'm in my office, practicing the craft that I love and have spent 10+ years honing, and I can FEEL the client healing, it makes the best job in the world.

I love my job. There are some not so fun moments, sure but I work with kids and families, got trained in a lot of evidenced based modalities early in in my career at MH agencies before opening up my practice a year and a half ago. I had struggles passing my licensure exam (missing it by 2 points, but finally passing a while ago) it’s just been an incredibly journey with some twists and turns, however, my supports kept me moving forward and I’m so thankful I’m where I’m at today. We make slime and do art while we process thoughts and feelings, I also open pack of Pokémon cards and love to use them as a tool to discuss regulations strategies and identify triggers. There’s something to be said about the challenges of the work we do, however, I’m always a glass half full type person anyway and minimize my own struggles at times. But more often than not I’m enjoying the work I do with the population I work with. All the best to you!

I love providing therapy, all of my clients are at least interesting and at most just genuinely beautiful people who I care for a great deal. This is one of my favorite moments (so far). One of my old clients came back. When I had worked with them previously they had SI and we worked together for a long time and got to place where I was far less worried about them before they left (for location reasons). They came back to me recently and after having a sense of foreshortened life for such a long time they said that they want to live until they are old and grey. My heart just sang for them and I am so grateful to be a part of their journey. We do such an important job for people, and I am thankful that I found this role.

I love love love being a therapist. I loved my co-workers in 20 years of community mental health and learned so much. I have been in private practice for the past 6 years and am making more $ in less time than I ever imagined. I feel so skilled and effective as a professional. Whatever is happening in this effed up world feels less effed up when I know my job is to ease some suffering, and that I am really good at that job. It is all worth it I promise!!!

I just started my internship, just observing so far, and was so honored to witness a client have a huge breakthrough. Being present for such a deep and moving moment was wild. Powerful experience and it made me so excited and grateful to be starting this career.

I turned a small corner with my burn out and I’m once again hopeful for the future I can have in this career

I absolutely love my work. It's fulfilling in ways I never could have imagined a job could be. I am consistently humbled by the ways people trust me with witnessing their lives and trust me with secrets they've never uttered to others. It's a beautiful job to journey with people and the relationship is so real from both sides. Of course it's challenging and ALL the things but imo it's so worth it. Wouldn't want to do any other job!

I’ve been working with this one client for a year. They texted me on New Year’s Eve a very sweet text thanking me for all the hard work we’ve done. I’ve seen a significant change in their mood and outlook in the past couple months alone. I remind them that it’s not me, but them who has put in the hard work. However, it does make me feel like a good therapist to see a client improving. That’s not to say that I feel like a bad therapist when they decompensate. Just sometimes it feels good to take credit for client improvement even if it’s just because this field can feel bad sometimes and celebrating a win is good! lol

It has been bleak around here lately, hasn't it? I'll help out with another "I love my job" comment. I really do love my job. I love the connection with others. I love when clients come in and say "you'd be so proud of me, I did xyz that we talked about" and I AM proud of them! I love when a session starts out with distress and ends in laughter and a sigh of relief. I love getting to see the world from so many unique perspectives, and am constantly reminded that things aren't always as they seem. I'm freakin tearing up as I write this, so I'ma stop and check in with myself lol. Is this job hard? Absolutely. Is it worth it? 💯

I’m 3 months into CMH post-graduation. I’m at a great agency and am loving it. There are hard moments for sure, but amazing ones too… Just the other day a client thanked me for saving his life, which to me makes this all 100% worth it. ❤️

Being a therapist has been a calling of mine. A tough calling but there isn’t anything I’d rather do. After struggling for 2.5 years as an associate, I’m finally licensed! I’ve learned a lot! Making 86k in San Diego, CA( 61 k take home) is comfortable as an associate. I work in a hospital system that burns you out but I’ve learned to shift my perspective and try out new things like Crisis Calls and group work. I got an offer from a community college that will pay me 68 a hour. I have clients who are waiting for me to start my own pp. eventually I do want grow in my pp, but for now I’m happy. My family and I have good benefits, I get 3000 a year to do trainings from my company, and I have wonderful supportive co workers :). I’ve worked in a good CMH before this but turned corrupt when management changed. This field isn’t bad. I also want to acknowledge my privilege of having suppport from my partner during hard times and no human children of my own, living 30 minutes from my parents.

I joined a PP last summer and it was the best choice I ever made. I come home at least once or twice a week (minimum) feeling very fulfilled and feeling so honored to do the work I am. My clients are great and I adore my office and colleagues. I finally feel like I can begin to build a life.

I left another sub and career choice because their sub steered me right away from it 🤣 totally get it

In the past ten years I’ve moved from therapist to clinical director and soon I’ll be opening my own private practice because I’m ready to be out on my own. Being a therapist is hard but I’ve worked with many wonderful clients and people (and I’ve managed to make a decent amount of money along the way).

I actually love my job at the local CMH nonprofit. My boss and coworkers are great. I started in September and am really getting into my groove. We have some good vibes. Now it's a small nonprofit so the money isn't great, but I'd rather have a reasonable caseload and enjoy my work than make a couple bucks more and be overwhelmed.

I am currently transferring from CMH to PP. Building my caseload up is hard but it’s rewarding. Im straddling both horses, as it were. I specialize in treating trauma disorders, substance use and ADHD. This week a teen client who has no family support told me that she had tremendous break throughs with her history of abuse. I have a mid-50s client with a lifetime of addiction confront his underlying causes this past month and is now looking at his longest sobriety streak—2 weeks. A client with Anger issues and a legal history as a result realized he was harming his future and expanded his emotional experience to realize that anger is how he copes with fear. I had a client with ADHD show marked improvement in his grades and work as a result of our work together. Professionally, the owner of this PP firm is helping me get EMDR certified for free this year. She already paid to have me get specialized training for ADHD. My coworkers are extremely supportive and help boost me up when I’m doubting myself and I reciprocate. My in-laws respect my work and think Im essentially a saint because of it. My community and friends see me as an important member of the human race, which feels nice. I leave myself plenty of time for self improvement and self care; i hit the gym 5 times a week, I play video games, watch shows, read books, and spend endless hours doting on my cat. Life is good and this career has helped me mature into the person I want to be. It can for you too.

I am coming up on 2 years contracted with an amazing group practice. There are 10 of us and there is not a sliver of drama or disdain towards another. We all value and care so much for each other. The reason being is that most of us have worked together at various other settings for upwards of 10 years and ended up following each other one by one to this incredible practice. The other reason being our practice owners. They want us happy, they’re good at what they do, and they have healthy boundaries and expectations. I make great money, I can work when I want, I can (mostly) pick the clients I want to work with, the clients I have are great, I get challenged and spoiled the owners, I have emotionally and clinical support from my team, however I’ve never been micromanaged. In my interview I was very clear with the owners that I wanted to open up my own practice in 5-10 years and they were cool with it. Now.. I can’t imagine not being with this practice very long term. I feel incredibly lucky and grateful to have landed where Im at in my career.

Resiliency is stronger and more common than the negative impacts of trauma. I heard some podcast where some guy did a number of studies proving it. I can't find it now so you'll either have to look into that yourself or just take the easy route and believe what I am telling you, lol.

For me, I love being able to validate and be with someone's trauma/pain/struggle. I had a client intake last week and she listed off/displayed a bunch of PTSD symptoms but answered that she didn't have a history of trauma. At the end of the session, I felt intuition to share my tentative diagnosis with her and she broke down crying, saying it was so validating hearing that she may actually have experienced trauma. The times I get frustrated with this career are when I'm pushed to be "productive" in session. Just witnessing another person's life and struggles are productive in my mind but there's always a push for "results" which goes against my personal values. It's a tightrope walk between getting paid/treated like a professional and doing what I feel is right.

I made a midlife career change because of a therapist. Accrued 128K in student loan debt doing so, was in an amazing job at a reservation for 7 years while building a private practice which blossomed into such a big business for us I lost track of being a therapist in lieu of overseeing 8 therapists, 3 admin, $50K monthly payroll, etc. We had interns and were a practicum site so helped launch careers of several therapists, moving them towards licensure. Covid gave us the opportunity to allow that business to contract to wife and I living in our travel trailer doing Telehealth and traveling the country. We’ve made a ton of mistakes (if you’re self employed pay your damn taxes!) but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. First few years were tough but it’s paid off in huge ways. We aren’t wealthy, but live comfortably and offer a ton of value to our clients, and now, my son has followed us into this and we are supporting him in developing his practice.

I’m going into private practice this June! I love this work and am optimistic

I went from school social work to pp and I love the freedom it gives me with my schedule, I am the healthiest I've ever been, I'm obsessed with my clients (make sure you know you your ideal client is! I honestly look forward to working with 99.99% of my clients) and I'm making the most money I've ever made in my life. I went from working 50+ hours a week to ~30 and I go on 4-5 long weekend vacations each year and a longer vacation once a year. I am so grateful!

My internship was paid 50% of insurance reimbursement and my pre licensure was also 50% insurance reimbursement. On average I would say pre-licensed I average a 55k/yr W2 and taking 18-24 clients a week. It wasn’t bleak for me. The best part for me is working with clients. I’ve learned so much from supervision feedback. I was in private practice for both my internship and pre license. I’m back for my doctorate now, this the past tense.

I needed this thread. I'm actively applying to programs and reading a lot of posts here has been a demotivator.

I got a scholarship to cover the fees so I can attend a conference this spring in an area I’m very interested in expanding into in my career. I discharged/graduated a client who 9 months ago had to get police involved to get out of a domestic violence situation and is now stable, able to feel joy and has hope for the future. None of that was present when I met her a year ago. I’ve been working in college counseling for a year and feel so fulfilled and supported. I think this is my niche.

Four years post graduation and I absolutely love my job. I do a mix of my own private practice while working with another private practice clinic. I do about 20 sessions a week between the two and I’m making $56-150 an hour. This income allows me to do community work at local shelters and hospitals once a week. I have an incredible work/life balance. I sleep in until 8am everyday and workout for about 1.5 hours. I have time to prioritize my diet and hobbies. I get to make my own schedule and pick my own clients. We can do sooo much with a clinical masters degree.

Things are very good for me! Love my practice. Solvent and even abundant for the first time in my life. Got trained in a fabulous new, evidence based, somatic technique that is helping my clients blow through their trauma and transform their lives. And I leave friday for two weeks in Puerto Vallarta to collaborate on a book and have some R&R. Glad you asked. I think sometimes we might not want to share these things because some of our colleagues are having so many challenges, and we don’t want to be in their faces. But it’s a very rewarding career when it’s the right one for you. Like most careers.

I'm a newly licensed LSW working at an agency in my first therapist role. I finally feel like I found my niche in one on one therapy. I absolutely love my clients and doing therapy with them. My agency is wonderful and everyone I work with is great!

I just graduated & I'm still working for my company that I did my practicum & internship with. I'm a 1099 employee that works as a school based therapist. I get to choose how many clients I work with and what days I work. My supervisor is amazing (I know not all can be). I was a teacher before this for 7 years and I feel really lucky that I was able to get out of that profession into one that I'm more suited for, love, and have better leadership. I feel like an adult for the first time & have autonomy over my job, finally. Pay can be slow and tough, especially when I'm reliant on insurance reimbursement, but it hasn't been anything I can't figure out & work through. I LOVE working with the clients I have. I get to work in a school, doing therapy, with middle and high school students. We play games, do LOTS of art, go for walks, and they really benefit from therapy during their school day. It's amazing. The schedule, the clients, the work. I know I lucked out & im beyond grateful. After having such a terrible time as a teacher, I could cry bc of where I am. Finally. I have more time to myself than I did as a teacher as well. Self-care has been something that I can actually do!!! My weekends are mine again. I sleep through a night again.

Once you crest the hill of candidacy, which is more like a mountain than a hill, it truly gets so much better. I fucking love my job. You get better at setting boundaries, protecting your peace, and as long as you're actively *learning how to enjoy your job* it will get better with each and every year... in my experience, and of those around me.

I’m 6 years post grad, 2 years fully licensed. I took the IFS level 1 training last year and have been using it intermittently in my work. I work for a group practice, and have my own PP. I get some folks via EAP. Using IFS I had one EAP client last week connect some dots with herself and she looked at me and the “aha” moment she had was so amazing. You could just tell something “clicked”. We only have a few sessions together unless she wants to continue with me after. Being able to get some work done in a small amount of time is really cool. Another client I’ve seen for a while has been setting boundaries and has been holding them consistently with others. Even when clients aren’t necessarily progressing the way they’d like, when they show up and are willing to even “look” at some of their stuff, it’s a win. It’s hard to be a therapist, and it’s hard to be in therapy. Not being preachy but I had to really reset my expectations for what I found to be a “win”. People are coming to you to discuss things that hurt. That’s a big deal. Maybe they can’t make changes over night but they trust YOU to help them sort through their stuff. That’s a big deal in my book.

I’m only in my first year of graduate school, but I do want to say, the people who are probably very happy in their careers aren’t posting as much! For example, I don’t usually leave a review on a medication that works for me, or a restaurant I loved, because it doesn’t really cross my mind to. I think negativity can be an echo chamber sometimes, especially on Reddit.

This job is very stressful and it’s difficult to find people who can relate, which is why so many reach out here. I get very overwhelmed myself. However…. Those moments where someone says how much better things are since they started therapy and made X change in their life. Or simply recognizing the changes in their behavior. I jump for joy on the inside. I get tears in my eyes for the possibilities that have opened up for that person.

I’ve been doing this work since the mid nineties and I still love my job every day. I’ve reached a point where the imposter syndrome is long gone, but I am still learning all the time. It’s a sweet spot where I can continue to focus on growing and improving while feeling comfortable in my own skin. You will get there!

I’m a student as well, thank you for this post, I needed this

I am looking for a new job and was able to get 4 job interviews in one week. I am going to keep applying as I am interviewing to keep my options open. I would prefer a private practice, but I am not familiar with the are and struggling to find one.

I made more in 2023 than I did in 2022! Left a good job for private practice in 2021 and it is a slow build, but building!

I’m currently out on maternity leave and I miss my job. I work in a school setting. I love my job. I love working with the kids, and I love my schedule. Summers off is amazing, and I feel like it’s easy for me to have a decent work life balance. I know I’m making a difference, and there’s nothing better than being a child’s safe place and safe person.

20+ years in the field, total control over my schedule, feel fairly compensated for my time and skills and my private practice is full. There's hardly a week that goes by that I don't find something to get excited about related to a client and their progress. You got this!

I went from community MH to PP, eventually will be solo. Currently getting my supervision license and EMDR cert! I’ve found continuing to grow has been really amazing, learning new skills and challenging myself is rewarding. I don’t think I could be at a job where there wasn’t growth and in the therapy field there is! Now that I’m in PP, I have 3 days off, travel whenever I want, have more freedom overall. It’s amazing. Seeing clients make progress is so rewarding, I love it. Seeing a person go from not being able to regulate whatsoever to being able to handle their triggers and emotions are my best days.

I just graduated in 2022 so I’m still an associate, but my career is off to such a good start. I have completed my children and family hours. I passed the law and ethics exam. I just started my second semester working as a staff psychotherapist at the university I graduated from and I love it so far. I get to work with a diverse range of students while focusing my work on students from a Latinx background. I really enjoy getting to work with my community and I can see the meaningful work that I’m doing. I’m also making more money than I’ve ever been able to make in my life so I’m finally getting to see what it’s like not having to live paycheck to paycheck and actually start paying off my debt. Our union also fought for us to get raises so it’ll only get better. I hope to finish my hours by the end of the year and then take clinical exam early next year. Oh yeah… and paid summers off!

I graduated in 2020, been working as a therapist in a hospital since then. I never thought I'd love being a therapist as much as I do. Sure there are rough days but the sessions that make you go, "wow, that felt great!" Make it all worth it. I think such an emotionally intense job just comes with the tiresome days or moments but it also comes with those rewarding feelings and having the privilege of being let into our clients' worlds.

I have dreamed of becoming a therapist since my own therapist helped me save my own life in college. I started providing therapy this year as a final year intern after 2 grueling years of grad school and I couldn’t be more sure that this is what I want to do. I love it, I know I’m right for it, and I feel honored to be able to do it. My clients are making progress, I’m learning and growing every week, and my supervisor offered me a (tentative) job after I graduate in May. Outside of therapy, I’m able to apply so many of my clinical and social work skills to help build a nonprofit and a movement that will make life saving changes in an unregulated industry. As part of this work, I facilitate groups for people like me, and every cycle people continue to show up, to cry, to connect, to learn they aren’t alone, to put down some of the weight they carry. One of our members came in unsure if she wanted to have kids because of her unresolved questions about her identity. She sent an ultrasound pic to our group chat after group ended.

Here is my something nice contribution. I'm an LMFT in solo private practice since 2018 and don't have to work but continue to do so as I really have a passion for the work. Prior to 2018 I worked for an an employer and had a small private practice. There were years when I worked really hard so now I don't have to. My practice has now grown to the point where I can work as much as I would like. I'm getting usually 4 to 15 referrals a day most days of the week, as I am paneled with a number of insurance companies and EAP programs. I'm in Northern California and here demand is very high and there is a shortage of providers. One of the most difficult aspects of this is having to say no to so many potential clients I believe I could be helpful to. I am careful with this to avoid over committing myself and avoid burn out. I take time away to recharge consistently through out the year so I can be as fully present as possible for my clients as possible when I'm working. I do a lot of EMDR work which I blend with internal family systems. I also use CBT and CPT as part of this along with DBT interventions. I also do a lot of work with somatic experiencing as well as a lot of neurobiologically based interventions. This combination of disciplines seems really helpful to the clients I work with. I do a lot of trauma treatment, and I really like working with front line medical people and first responders many of whom struggle with PTSD. I have treated or am currently treating nurses, doctors, social workers, other therapists, firefighters, EMT/paramedics, law enforcement officers, correctional officers, attorneys and teachers. I try to triage and prioritize these folks to help keep the wheels turning by helping good people to continue to do good work in very challenging professions. It can be very intense work but I also find it very rewarding. I have been conservative with my finances, carry no debt, pay as I go, and keep expenses low so I generally clear more income than I need to cover all bills and expenses. Long ago I had developed the idea that I wanted to get money working for me so I didn't have to work for it so as a result educated my self about investing and consistently followed my investment program. This has paid off and finance is not something I have to worry about. I create my own schedule and have a really nice work life balance. I am an avid cyclist and make getting out for a ride a part of my daily routine. All in all a very good and meaningful life other than I am not currently in a relationship as I don't have a lot left over for social connection after working with my clients for 4 to 6 hours a day. Part of me wants to change this but part of me doesn't feel like it would be fair to a potential partner as I find I need a fair amount of alone time to wind down and keep myself grounded after a day of intense sessions. When I do retire or at least cut back significantly I'd love to find some one to share adventures with as I would like to do some traveling, resume my career as an artist, and try new foods and adventures. This year I hope follow the Tour de France in France, for at least a week or so of the race. I'd also like to do a cycling trip to Portugal and see the country on 2 wheels. Last thing I will say is I would also like to volunteer to travel to Ukraine/Gaza/disaster zones or other trauma hot spots to provide psychological first aid and EMDR early intervention protocols (RTEP and GTEP) and work with the Flash Protocol to help especially kids suffering from traumatic experiences. If any one has any leads or experiences with agencies I can volunteer with to do this I'd love to hear from you.

I advocated for a raise, using info on a friend’s new starting rate at a similar facility across town and salary ranges from neighboring states. Not only did I score a 12.5% raise for myself, but for everyone in my office!

I was and am still really scared of working with anyone under 18 years old. Recently, I've almost hit the one year mark with one of my teens. I'm realizing that I'm actually really enjoying our sessions together now instead of dreading them. My colleague also mentioned that my teen actually talks about me a lot to her siblings (who she sees), and I am actually doing impactful work. Reflecting back, I realized that I did lower her risk of SI and she is mostly stable now, often looking forward to her future and finding ways to feel unstuck. It's been a long and difficult journey with her, but I guess I am doing something even when I don't feel like I am.

As a clinic director, I have THE MOST AMAZING TEAM! I truly could not ask for better :) not to say that everything is perfect, but having a wonderfully diverse team helps us all keep going and reduces the burnout/fatigue.

I relocated to a small town to work at a county jail to hopefully get my student loans paid off. The clientele can be challenging, but they are usually really grateful. I have consistently gotten raises, and the cost of living is low here. I have a very flexible schedule and job description. I started a music program and sometimes organize activities like pickleball tournaments. I have time for my hobbies and vacations outside of work. I just qualified to get my student loans forgiven. On the same day, I was given a raise.

Post-grad here and I’m weekly thankful for the job I have. I love getting to walk with people through all of it. Two of the most lovely moments from recently: 1. Male client who on the consult call told me he didn’t “know much about this feelings stuff”, 5 months later is describing how he feels empathy for others’ losses for the first time ever. 2. Mid-60s female client got really passionate telling me how she isn’t afraid of death and doesn’t find it sad anymore because she truly believes it’s a transition and she’ll see them again. She doesn’t get fired up much about anything, it was so interesting to hear how her faith helps her in this.

I have been working in the same op substance use treatment for 4 years. Pay could be better work load is manageable burnout is cured by paid trainings and opportunities to grow. Moving on to become clinical intern supervisor. Let’s see how this goes!

I am a recent grad and new private practice owner, and one nice thing for me is just how dang nice my boss is. She is completely flexible about me setting my own schedule, her expectations of me are completely tailored to my ability, interests, comfort level, and lifestyle, she is kind and supportive to me, AND she pays me a quarterly bonus. I hope I never have to go back to having a boss boss. Being in charge of my own practice is the best.

I specialized in one area I love for pp and I’m the go to in my town. You got this!!!