Who is in your corner?

Feb 12

As a group practice owner, you might often feel like you’re navigating this journey alone. It can seem like no one truly understands your unique role and responsibilities. Therapists in agencies or solo private practices may not relate, and professionals in other fields, like chiropractors or dentists, may not grasp the nuances of running a group practice.

But you don’t have to go it alone. Having a strong support system can help keep you motivated, provide encouragement, and ensure you stay on track toward your goals. These key relationships can make all the difference in your success and well-being.

The Essential People to Have in Your Corner

1. A Peer

Having another group practice owner as a peer can be invaluable. Whether they run their practice differently—perhaps they have renters while you have employees—the ability to bounce ideas off someone who understands your challenges can be incredibly helpful.

I’ve been fortunate to connect with another group practice owner in my area. Reaching out to her when I started my practice, I found a source of encouragement, accountability, and mutual support. It’s been a reciprocal relationship that has made a significant impact on my business journey.

2. A Mentor

A mentor doesn’t necessarily have to be another group practice owner, though that would be ideal. They should be someone who has experience in business, managing people, and making strategic decisions. A good mentor helps you think ahead, avoid common pitfalls, and refine your approach before you veer off track.

In recent months, I’ve been lucky to gain a mentor who has been a great source of encouragement. Whether she’s reassuring me with a simple "You’ve got this!" or helping me consider critical questions, her guidance has been invaluable.

Who in your network could fill this role for you?

3. A Spouse or Close Friend

This is the person who knows the "real you." They don’t see you just as a therapist or business owner but as a whole person. They help you maintain balance, remind you to take breaks, and hold you accountable when needed.

A close friend or partner can encourage you in different ways. They might say, "You need to slow down and take a break," or, "You need to step up and make that decision." Having clear conversations about what kind of support you need from them ensures they can be effective in that role.

4. A Supporting Professional

Although people outside the therapy world may not fully understand your challenges, they can still offer valuable business insights. A few key professionals to consider having in your corner include:

A Business-Minded Chiropractor or Service Provider – Someone who runs a client-facing business can offer advice on business strategies, efficiency, and customer care.
A Lawyer – Yes, legal advice can be expensive, but having a good lawyer who understands your practice’s needs is a crucial investment.
An Accountant – Managing finances is critical, and a great accountant can alleviate stress while keeping your business on track. I personally work with Larissa Neville, an incredible accountant who has guided me through financial challenges.
A Bookkeeper – If tracking finances isn’t your strength, hiring a bookkeeper can help keep your business financially organized.
A Financial Planner – Keeping your long-term financial goals in mind can be difficult when you’re focused on daily operations. A financial planner helps you stay on track, celebrate milestones, and make adjustments when needed.

Who Is in Your Corner?

These are the people I’ve found essential in my journey as a group practice owner. Do you have others you rely on? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

If you’re looking for a mentor or coach to guide you through the complexities of group practice ownership, I’d love to help. I offer:

The Group Practice Connection – A membership-based program providing connection, support, and tools to create, build, maintain, and grow a group practice.
Individual Coaching – One-on-one sessions to help you get answers to your specific questions and develop actionable solutions for moving forward.
Masterminds - Small groups of committed group practice owners who spend six months with a particular focus in moving business forward confidently.

You don’t have to do this alone—let’s build your support network together!