Debunking the Myth: Independent Practice is Too Risky for School Psychologists
By Juliana Ramirez, EdS NCSP ABSNP
Owner and Founder of PERA Services®
Independent School Psychology
Private Practice for School Psychologist
Busting Myths
Business for School Psychologists
IEE’s
The Real Risk: Staying Stuck in an Unfulfilling Job
For many school psychologists, the idea of leaving the security of a traditional school job and starting an independent practice can feel like a leap into the unknown. The perceived risks—financial instability, uncertainty about finding clients, and managing a business—can make independent practice seem overwhelming. But what if I told you that the real risk is staying stuck in the rinse-and-repeat cycle of cases and evaluations that don’t fill your cup as a professional?
If you’re feeling unfulfilled and burned out in your current role, staying in that space is far riskier than stepping into independence. Let’s debunk the myth that independent practice is too risky and explore how taking the leap can bring you more freedom, fulfillment, and financial stability than you ever thought possible.
The Real Risk: Staying Unhappy
As a school psychologist, you’re passionate about making a difference, but the repetitive nature of testing, evaluations, and endless paperwork in the traditional school system can leave you feeling drained and undervalued. When you’re stuck in a cycle that doesn’t allow you to grow or explore your true potential, the biggest risk is doing nothing. Independent practice offers a way out—a path to reclaiming your time, passion, and career.
Here’s the truth: The risk isn’t in leaving your job; it’s in staying in a position that leaves you unhappy and burned out.
Perceived Risk #1: Financial Instability
A common fear about going independent is financial instability. Without the fixed paycheck and benefits, it can feel daunting to rely on client contracts for income. However, as an independent contractor, you are in control of your income. You can set your rates, work with multiple districts, and diversify your income streams in ways that aren’t possible in a traditional job.
Strategy: Build a Financial Safety Net
Before transitioning fully to independent practice, create a financial cushion by saving several months’ worth of living expenses. You can also start part-time, taking on independent contracts while continuing to work your full-time job. This way, you can ease into independence without sacrificing financial security. It’s not all or nothing. You can start small. You can begin your path towards independence by supporting an already established practice, maybe on Saturday’s or after school. You can also start offering consult services to districts in rural areas, or begin working on the foundation of your Independent Practice. Take your time while leveraging your finances.
One of the greatest advantages of starting your independent practice is that you can grow organically and at your own pace. You don’t need to quit your day job right away—instead, you can slowly pick up cases on the side, offering your services to districts or supporting established clinics in your area. This gives you the opportunity to learn the ropes of independent practice, establish contracts, and develop your business skills without the pressure of jumping in all at once. Plus, you can choose the cases that align with your expertise and gradually build your credibility as an independent practitioner.
As you continue to grow your business, you’ll also be earning extra income that you can reinvest into your practice, allowing you to scale at a pace that feels right for you.
Perceived Risk #2: Lack of Client Base
Many school psychologists worry they won’t be able to find enough clients to sustain their independent practice. But you likely already have connections in the field that you can tap into. The key is learning how to market yourself effectively and use your network to find opportunities.
Strategy: Use Your Network
Reach out to your existing contacts—school administrators, fellow educators, and local districts—to let them know about your independent services. Build an online presence to showcase your expertise, and use platforms like LinkedIn and professional websites to market your services.
To truly grow and expand your independent school psychology practice, you need to treat it like a business. This means dedicating time to marketing and generating referrals. Just like any successful business, getting the word out about your services is crucial. Build a strong professional network, establish relationships with districts, and tap into your existing connections to spread the word about your expertise. Consider creating a professional website, leveraging social media, and utilizing platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your skills and success stories. Referrals are a powerful tool—by delivering high-quality services, you’ll naturally attract more clients and districts who trust your work. Consistent marketing and generating referrals are key to ensuring that your practice grows and thrives.
Perceived Risk #3: Managing the Business Side
The idea of handling contracts, billing, and taxes can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve never run a business before. However, managing the business side of things doesn’t have to be complicated. There are tools and systems available to make running your practice smooth and efficient.
Strategy: Protect Yourself with Strong Contracts
Your contract is one of your most powerful tools in independent practice. Make sure your contract outlines clear terms for payment, work expectations, and cancellation policies. A solid contract protects you and ensures you’re not treated like an employee but as an independent contractor with full control over your services.
Shortcuts don’t work here. You need your business to be legitimate. This means, you need a proper legal foundation, and that means contracts. If your business isn't legitimate, it can cost you hundreds of dollars and it will be harder to secure contracts and future clients.
Success Story: Larissa’s Journey to Independence
Still think independent practice is too risky? Let me share Larissa’s story. Larissa, a school psychologist from Illinois, took my Increasing Your Independence course because she wanted to break free from the traditional school setting and build a practice on her own terms. Here’s what she had to say:
I've secured 4 contracts for the upcoming year, which is about 80 evaluations. I'm projected to make 2.5 times the amount of my public school psych salary job and I'm so, so excited for the freedoms that come along with that!
Larissa’s success didn’t happen overnight, but through careful planning and using the strategies taught in the course, she was able to build a thriving independent practice that gives her more freedom and financial stability than her previous role.
The Real Reward: Freedom and Fulfillment
Independent practice isn’t just about financial freedom; it’s about professional freedom*. As an independent school psychologist, you can:
- Set your own schedule
- Work with clients and cases you’re passionate about
- Specialize in areas that align with your strengths
- Avoid the burnout and bureaucracy that come with traditional school roles
- Create a work-life balance that allows you more time for family and personal passions
By stepping into independence, you’re not just taking control of your income—you’re taking control of your life.
Ready to Take the Leap?
If you’ve been feeling trapped in your current role and are ready to break free, it’s time to explore the path to independent practice. Worried about the risks of going independent? Let me show you how to navigate those challenges and set yourself up for success.
Join my FREE Leap to Liberty Webinar today to learn more about the steps you can take to build a thriving independent practice. Or, if you’re ready to dive deeper, check out my course, Increasing Your Independence, where I guide school psychologists like you on the journey to financial freedom and professional autonomy.
Don’t let fear hold you back. Take control of your career and discover the rewards that come with independence!
Let’s Connect
I’d love to hear from you and support your journey. If you’re a DIY type school psych and are ready to start your journey to independent practice, I’ve got just the thing for you.
And if you’re looking for more in-depth support, schedule a 1:1 coaching call with me. Together, we can dive deeper into your unique situation and tailor a plan specifically for you. Trust me, this could be the start of something amazing!
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Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take control of your career and find the professional joy you’ve been searching for.
About Juliana
Juliana is a bilingual school psychologist in Independent Practice and the owner and founder of PERA Services Inc. Her business supports school districts in the state of Ohio with the evaluation of bilingual learners for Special Education. She also coaches and mentors school psychologists wanting to become independent and start a business. To learn more about her business and Juliana visit www.peraserivcesinc.com
