Expanding your own group practice

At what stage did you decide to enter private practice, and why? 

I began my first private practice in Cape Town South Africa.  I had always wanted to work for myself and felt that after five years of experience in first psychiatric services and then university counselling services, I had a solid foundation of experience in clinical work to launch my own business. I sold my practice in Cape Town before coming to Canada.

Once in Canada, I worked at other practices to fulfill the requirements to register with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I also wanted to get to know the landscape in Toronto before starting my practice again.

Why did you decide to work with the First Session team? 

I was referred to First Session by a friend and colleague.  He had great things to say about what First Session stood for and his experience with working with the First Session Team.  I got on a call with Rob and was impressed with his vision and the quality of the videos he was creating.

What made you decide to start a group practice?

I wanted to work at a clinic that combined clinical psychology with sport/performance psychology. I could not find a clinic like this in Toronto, so I created one myself.  I felt there was a need to support athletes and performers’ well-being, not just in terms of their mental skills but also in their broader mental health.

Have you noticed a change in the performance of your private practice since partnering with First Session? Where was it before, and where is it now? 

Yes, First Session has been a mutually beneficial partnership in building the profile of my clinic associates both in terms of referrals and having the videos to use for marketing the Mental Game Clinic associates.

What has your experience been like working with the First Session team so far? 

They are a fantastic group of people to work with.  Their passion for what they do and their professionalism shine through.  I look forward to continuing to collaborate with them.

How has your experience been working with the clients who are connecting with you via First Session? 

The clients who connect to my clinic via First Session already have a sense of who they want to work with and why before the first intake call.  They tend to be committed to the therapy process and have been a great fit for The Mental Game Clinic.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

First Session is a valuable resource for my business, and I would highly recommend them to other group practice owners.