This is one of the most deceptively simple questions in private practice—and one of the most important.
When income feels constrained, clinicians often assume there are only two options:
- See more clients
- Or start a group practice
But in reality, raising fees and expanding structurally solve very different problems.
When raising fees is the right move
Fee increases can be an effective—and ethical—way to improve sustainability when:
- Your fees no longer reflect your experience or specialization
- You are consistently full with a stable referral base
- Your practice model already supports your desired lifestyle
What often holds clinicians back isn’t market reality—it’s discomfort. Many worry about accessibility, loyalty to long-term clients, or appearing “greedy.” These concerns deserve thoughtful attention, not dismissal.
When handled transparently and intentionally, fee adjustments can actually improve care by reducing burnout and increasing clinical presence.
When group practice makes sense
Group practice is not simply a bigger version of solo practice. It’s a fundamentally different role.
Group practice may be appropriate when:
- You want to expand access beyond what you can personally provide
- You’re interested in supervision, mentorship, or leadership
- You’re prepared for administrative, legal, and ethical complexity
- You want to build something that extends beyond your own clinical hours
What’s often overlooked are the hidden costs: time, emotional labor, compliance responsibilities, and decision fatigue. Group practice can be deeply rewarding—but it’s not a shortcut to ease.
The question beneath the question
The real issue isn’t fees versus group practice. It’s this:
What problem am I trying to solve?
Is it income instability? Burnout? Limited impact? Lack of flexibility? Each of these points toward a different solution.
At The Practice Institute, we help clinicians map decisions like this strategically—so growth is intentional, not reactive.
If you’re weighing these options, a guided decision-mapping TPI Consultation Intensive can help you move forward with confidence instead of uncertainty.
