From graduation to grounding: finding your path as a new practitioner
When you graduate, there is an expectation that you will feel proud and accomplished. That you will be relieved and inspired to take your next steps, however what is not openly discussed is that many new therapists and health practitioners don’t feel any of those things. Instead they feel lost and confused about what comes next.
It can be difficult, when you’ve worked hard through years of intense study, supervision, and emotional investment and then training wheels come off. Suddenly, you’re staring into the void. No lectures to attend, no classmates to discuss your next assignment with, no tutors to answer important questions and no built-in clients. Just you…. And your next steps.
This stage can be one of the most confronting parts of your professional journey. You begin to realise that while your training prepared you to support clients, it didn’t necessarily prepare you for the business decisions that come with it, or for the level of self-direction required to work independently in your field.
The good news is, you’re not alone in feeling this way. Most new clinicians experience some uncertainty after finishing university. I certainly did, especially in those first few months.
From there, one of the first major decisions you’ll face is whether to work for someone else or take the step into private practice.
Choosing the Right Path: Employee, Contractor, or Room Rental
Each model: Employee, Contractor, or Room Rental, offers a different balance of support, independence, and financial responsibility.
Here’s a breakdown to help you weigh your options before diving deeper with our free downloadable guide.
Employee
If you value security, structure, and support, being an employee might be the best fit, especially in your early career. You’ll receive a regular wage, tax handled on your behalf, and benefits like sick and annual leave. This allows you to focus on developing your clinical skills and confidence without worrying about admin or business overheads.
Pros:
Stable income – predictable pay regardless of client cancellations or seasonal dips.
Mentorship and guidance – work under experienced practitioners who can support your professional growth.
Less admin stress – payroll, marketing, and client management are handled by the clinic.
Ideal for beginners – lets you focus on clinical work while learning the business side gradually.
Cons:
Lower earning potential – you’re paid a set rate, even if clients are charged more.
Limited flexibility – clinic sets your hours, fees, and policies.
Less autonomy – less control over your brand, client relationships, or treatment structure.
Contractor
The contractor model offers flexibility and freedom, making it appealing once you’ve gained some confidence. You’re usually paid a percentage of client fees (commonly 60/40 or 70/30), and your income directly reflects how busy you are. You’ll need to manage your own tax, insurance, and professional responsibilities.
Pros:
Flexible schedule – choose your working days and hours to suit your lifestyle.
Scalable income – the more clients you see, the more you earn.
Independence – you can shape your services and build your personal brand within the clinic environment.
Low financial risk – if you don’t see clients, you’re not out of pocket for rent.
Cons:
Unpredictable income – no guaranteed earnings, especially in quieter months.
Self-management required – you handle your own tax, insurance, and super.
Less inclusion – not technically part of the clinic team, so may miss out on internal benefits or culture.
No paid leave – time off means no income.
Room Rental
Room rental is perfect if you have an established client base and want full control of your practice. You pay a fixed fee (daily, weekly, or monthly) to use a space, and everything you earn on top is yours. This option offers complete autonomy: but also full responsibility.
Pros:
High earning potential – keep 100% of your fees after rent.
Creative and clinical freedom – set your own fees, hours, and client approach.
Predictable expenses – fixed rent makes budgeting easier.
Brand independence – operate under your own name or business identity.
Cons:
Fixed costs – rent is due even if you have cancellations or slow weeks.
More admin – you’re responsible for marketing, bookings, and client management.
No safety net – if your client flow drops, you absorb the loss.
Requires confidence and consistency – best suited for practitioners with a reliable caseload.
Finding Your Fit
There’s no “right” answer: only what’s right for you, right now.
💡 If you’re new and still finding your rhythm, a base wage or contractor model can give you structure while encouraging growth.
💡 If you’re established and confident in your client flow, room rental might give you the freedom and ownership you crave.
💡 If you’re somewhere in between, consider a hybrid model: a base rate plus commission for clients seen. This balances financial security with motivation to grow.
Final Thoughts
If you’re standing on the edge of graduation, facing that quiet uncertainty, know that what you’re feeling is a natural part of the journey. The silence doesn’t signal failure; it marks the beginning of your autonomy.
Reach out. Connect with others. Ask questions. You don’t have to build your practice or yourself in isolation.
The stillness won’t last forever. It’s simply the space where your next chapter begins.
✨ And if you’re ready to take the next step:
Download our free guide, “Getting started in Practice”, to explore the options in detail and make confident decisions about your professional path.