Getting started in the holistic health business

New Therapist Advice

How to choose the right job/workplace

Location is key but not everything. It's more important to check the area to see if what you offer is relevant for that clientele. Scan websites but it's best to visit and ask to be shown around or book a treatment. Check how they welcome people, the ambience and if you could fit into their ethos and team. Some therapists like to work in a different location to where they live for safety reasons (unless you come from a smaller area). It is also a good idea to do a day or two in one area and a day in another to balance out the highs and lows in client numbers.

Working for yourself

The hardest thing to do is to stay passionate as you will need energy, enthusiasm, focus and belief. We notice a drop in clients when a therapists energy is down or when they lose focus. You need to stay courageous during these times, so don't just pack in your day job unless you have help to sustain your life. Start off with one or two days, get established, build your client base and build the strength needed in your mind, body and hands, as after a day seeing more than five clients, it can be exhausting at first! Ask others, as most mature therapists don't mind sharing. Join a therapist group so you avoid isolation. Also, don't be afraid to match therapy with your other passions. We know plenty of therapists who do dance, art, climbing, travelling, amidst their therapist life and juggle it very well.

What you need to know before you start

Just start! Once you've passed, continue to practice on family and friends, the paperwork will follow. It's hard to restart once you've had a long break. Know what you want to call yourself, it can change, so just print quick business cards to get the word out. Then follow with your website (free listings are available). Social media is a must just decide what works best for you. Sort your insurance cover and any memberships, so you can start on the public. For all things official including tax, NI, registering as self employed, income and expenditure, read up on gov.uk.

How to build your client list

One client at a time. You need to attract, retain and then get referrals. Let your client be your ambassadors. Offer free or low cost tasters to show what you can do even if it means volunteering to start out.  Offer % off or add a small low cost treat to all new clients to encourage them to come back and note special occasions. Become an expert in what you offer, as only you can offer it in YOUR own way. Be confident that you have the techniques so add courage and get out there.

How to handle discounts for friends and family

Strictly! Remind them that you studied hard to become a therapist and just like a plumber, you expect to get paid for your skills. Maybe decide one discount rate for immediate family and another for friends. Some people will always ask for more so always have something up your sleeve such as a low cost treat which you can tag onto a treatment for free e.g free brow shape or 10mins head massage. Also be strict with your time and value what you do like the professional that you are.

Karen Burke ACMA, MAAT, DipPPC runs MindBody Therapy Centre with her partner. She is also a Chartered Management Accountant, a Certified Personal Performance Life Coach, Stress Management Consultant, Business Owner, Mentor and Study Coach.

2016 Holistic Health magazine