What’s Your Next Move? A Business Planning Session for Social Workers
The end of the year is a natural time to pause and reflect. Many of us create vision boards for our personal goals, but what about our professional lives? This year, I want to help you do that for your social work practice.
On Thursday, December 10, I’m hosting What’s Your Next Move?, a one-time, 90-minute business planning session designed specifically for LCSWs and LMSWs. This session is about more than just seeing clients. It’s about building a practice that lasts, one that fits your life and protects your income.
Why Business Planning Matters for Social Workers
Seeing clients is the heart of what we do. But running a successful practice takes more than clinical skill. It requires a clear niche, a business model that works for you, and systems to manage your schedule and income.
Most of us never learned this side of social work in school. We focus on helping others but often neglect the business side of our work. That’s why this session is so important. It’s a chance to step back and plan your next move with intention.
What We’ll Cover in the Session
During the 90 minutes, we’ll work through key areas that shape your practice:
Your vision for 2027
What do you want your practice, income, and schedule to look like in five years? We’ll clarify your goals and set a clear direction.
Defining your niche
Who do you serve best? Narrowing your focus helps you attract the right clients and build a reputation.
Your business model
We’ll discuss fees, insurance versus private pay, and how to decide on your ideal caseload size.
Managing no-shows and policies
Learn how to enforce your policies without guilt, so your time and income are protected.
Individualized next steps
You’ll leave with clear, actionable steps tailored to your practice.
Building a Practice That Fits Your Life
One of the biggest challenges is balancing your work with your personal life. A practice that fits your schedule and income needs is key to long-term success.
For example, deciding between accepting insurance or going private pay can affect your income stability and administrative workload. Some social workers find that private pay allows more flexibility and less paperwork, while others prefer the steady flow of insurance clients.
We’ll explore these options so you can choose what works best for you.
Why Figuring Out Your Niche Matters
A clear niche helps you stand out and attract clients who truly need your expertise. It also makes marketing easier because you know exactly who you’re talking to.
Think about the clients you enjoy working with most. What challenges do they face? What strengths do you bring to their care? Answering these questions helps you define your niche.
For example, you might specialize in trauma-informed care for young adults, or focus on family therapy for blended families. The more specific you are, the easier it is to build a strong practice.
Managing No-Shows and Enforcing Policies
No-shows can disrupt your schedule and income. Setting clear policies and enforcing them kindly but firmly protects your time.
We’ll discuss strategies to reduce no-shows, such as reminder systems and clear cancellation policies. You’ll learn how to communicate these policies without feeling guilty, so your practice runs smoothly.
About Me and Why I’m Hosting This Session
I’ve spent nearly 30 years in social work, including medical social work, child welfare, behavioral health leadership, and private practice. I’ve managed clinical teams of up to 80 people and built my own practice from the ground up.
I want to share what I’ve learned so you don’t have to figure it out alone. This session is designed to give you practical tools and clear next steps to grow your practice confidently.
Session Details
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2026
Time: 6:30 to 8:00 PM ET
Where: Google Meet
Group size: Limited to 8 participants
Recording: Included for all registrants
Investment: $149
Early bird special: $125 with code LESSGO through December 2
All registrations are final. If you can’t attend live, you’ll still receive the recording.
How This Session Fits Into Your Growth
This session is a chance to pause and plan your next steps with clarity. Whether you want to grow your income, reduce your caseload, or find a better work-life balance, this planning session will help you get there.
By defining your niche and business model, you’ll build a practice that supports your goals and your clients. You’ll also gain confidence in managing policies and protecting your income.
Final Thoughts
Taking time to plan your practice is an investment in your future. You deserve a practice that fits your life and supports your passion for helping others.
Join me on December 10 to map out your next move. Together, we’ll create a clear path forward so you can build the practice you want by 2027.
Remember, this is your chance to get personalized guidance and connect with others who share your goals. Don’t miss out.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.
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