Grow, rest, or write the book. Your practice will be here.
Intensive trainings, certifications, a writing season or simply rest. A licensed colleague covers your clients so your practice stays intact.
- Away
- Three months, from June 1
- Reason
- Certification training and rest
- Covering
- A licensed colleague in your state
- Clients
- Covered, or referred out if they prefer
- Return
- September 1
Can a therapist in private practice take a sabbatical without losing clients?
Yes, with enough notice and a covering colleague. Plan three to four months ahead, give clients the choice of seeing your covering therapist or transferring care, and set a clear return date. Many clients wait for you when they feel supported in the meantime.
Why therapists take sabbaticals
Deeper training
Intensive trainings and certifications (EMDR, IFS, couples work and more) are easier to absorb when you're not seeing clients.
Long-term sustainability
Extended rest helps prevent burnout and keeps you in the work for the long run.
Creative work
Writing, research or building a new program needs uninterrupted time.
How to plan sabbatical coverage
- 3 to 4 months before
Step 1: Request coverage
Share your dates and caseload. We match you with up to three licensed therapists in your state.
- 2 to 3 months before
Step 2: Tell your clients
Give plenty of notice. Offer the choice of seeing your colleague during the sabbatical or transferring care.
- 1 month before
Step 3: Hand off
Introduce clients who want it, share consent forms using our templates, and agree how you'll hand back.
- Coming back
Step 4: Return gradually
Plan the handback with your colleague so clients move back to you smoothly.
What to tell your clients
- Why you're taking time away, at the level of detail you're comfortable with
- Your return date
- Their options: see your colleague, transfer care, or pause
- Who to contact while you're away, and what to do in an emergency
Getting coverage for your clients
Tell us your dates and what your clients need. We match you with up to three licensed, in-state therapists. Invite the one you want; once they accept, you pay $49 to unlock their contact details.
Common questions
How long can a sabbatical be?
As long as you need. You set the dates, from a few weeks of training to several months away.
Should I arrange coverage or refer clients out?
Both can work. Coverage keeps the relationship for clients who want to return to you; a transfer suits clients who need consistent weekly work for a long stretch.
How much does it cost?
$49 one-time, charged only after a covering therapist accepts. Your colleague bills sessions through their own practice.