How to Prepare Your Private Practice for the Summer Slowdown
- Jessica Kryzer, Founder & CEO
- May 20
- 2 min read
As the warmer months approach, now is the ideal time to start planning your summer schedule—before the chaos of vacations, shifting client schedules, and back-to-back cancellations begins.
Take a moment to reflect on last summer. Pull up your calendar and ask yourself:
Were there specific weeks when your private practice felt unusually quiet?
Did client cancellations increase or your caseload drop unexpectedly?
Were you caught off guard by the summer slowdown?
These seasonal dips are common in therapy practices. But the good news? They’re also predictable—and manageable with a bit of thoughtful planning.
How to Prepare Your Therapy Practice for Summer
Whether you’re a solo clinician or managing a group practice, here are a few strategies to help you navigate the upcoming months with intention:
1. Plan for the Dip
If you anticipate a lull in sessions, could you start filling your calendar now to prepare? Or would it feel more sustainable to embrace the quiet period and schedule a break?
2. Use the Time Strategically
A slowdown can be a great opportunity to catch up on continuing education (CEUs), review administrative tasks, refresh your intake systems, or simply rest.
3. Block Off Time for Yourself
Don’t forget to prioritize your own well-being. Summer often brings more family obligations, travel plans, and unpredictable schedules. Make sure you carve out time off for yourself now—before the calendar fills up.
Set Boundaries That Support You and Your Clients
Summer doesn’t have to throw your therapy practice into disarray. By identifying your goals now—whether it’s sustaining your caseload, taking a true vacation, or focusing on business development—you can build a summer schedule that supports your mental health and your bottom line.
A little intention today goes a long way in creating a smoother, more sustainable summer later.
