5 Reasons to Start Your Own Private Practice

If you’ve been feeling stuck, burned out, or like your current role doesn’t allow you to fully use your expertise and creativity, you’re not alone. Many speech-language pathologists reach a point in their careers where they’re ready for something more—a path that offers freedom, flexibility, and the chance to make a bigger impact.

Starting a private practice might feel like a big leap, but it could be exactly the opportunity you’ve been looking for. Whether you want to work with your ideal clients, create your own schedule, or increase your earning potential, private practice puts you in the driver’s seat of your career.

Here are five reasons to consider starting your own private practice:

1. Freedom to Design Your Career
In private practice, you get to choose the clients you serve, the hours you work, and the services you provide. No more one-size-fits-all caseloads—just the freedom to shape your career around your strengths, values, and goals.

2. More Control Over Your Income
Gone are the days of waiting for a small annual raise. As a private practitioner, you set your rates and build a business model that reflects the value of your services. You have the potential to scale your income over time—and build something that’s truly sustainable.

3. Flexibility That Fits Your Life
Need to work around school pickup? Want Fridays off? Looking to travel more? A private practice gives you the flexibility to create a work-life balance that feels good and supports your lifestyle.

4. Impact on Your Terms
You became an SLP to make a real impact—but in many traditional settings, strict policies and procedures can hold you back. When you run your own private practice, you have the freedom to deliver services in ways that are creative, client-centered, and aligned with your values and expertise.

5. Endless Possibilities for Growth
Private practice is just the beginning. Once you’ve built a strong foundation, you can explore other opportunities like content creation, consulting, or even product development. Owning your own business opens the door to multiple streams of income and professional fulfillment.

If you're ready to take the first step, our course Unlocking Success in Private Practice: Setting Up Your Private Practice Foundation will guide you through the essential steps to build a solid foundation. 

Want more support? You can also purchase the Unlocking Success Bundle, which includes our second workshop on Marketing, Networking & Branding for SLPs—plus a free 1:1 coaching session to help you dig deeper and stay on track.

Let’s build the business you’ve been dreaming of—together.

Learn more here!