NASW Resources for Starting a New Private Practice
First and foremost, NASW reminds practitioners that business requirements and licenses are different in different states and even in different counties of the same state. Consequently, anyone looking at opening a new private practice will need to research the legal requirements in their local jurisdiction.
One place to start is the Small Business Administration website https://www.sba.gov/ https://www.sba.gov/. Begin reading about “planning a business” and “launching a business,” including writing a business plan.
NASW resources for private practice include the following:
- NASW Leadership Ladders: Opening a Private Practice (is attached and on second page addressing whether it is necessary to incorporate)
- NASW Brochure: Starting a Private Practice: Most FAQs https://naswpress.org/product/53565/starting-a-private-practice
- NASW Specialty Section: Private Practice: https://www.socialworkers.org/Careers/Specialty-Practice-Sections/Private-Practice
In terms of incorporating a business, the following web article outlines the 3 major reasons to incorporate: https://www.thecounselorscoach.com/practice-business-building-ideas-counselor-blog/thoughts-on-incorporating-your-private-practice.
However, note that throughout the written material, NASW strongly suggests that practitioners contact professional legal and financial experts to answer questions related to their personal and professional goals and needs, and to assist in planning and implementing a new business.