How to Make 6 Figures as a Therapist - Without Burnout or Overworking
Most therapists are taught that making six figures in private practice is either impossible or requires booking 40+ sessions a week until you collapse from burnout.
But here’s the reality: not only can you make $100k+ per year as a therapist - you can do it while working 15-20 hours a week.
The key? Shifting to private pay, setting your rates strategically, and streamlining your marketing so you’re not constantly hustling for clients.
Let’s break it down.
How to Make 6 Figures As A Therapist: Private Pay vs. Insurance
Many therapists assume insurance = more clients, but in reality, insurance often means:
Lower rates (sometimes as low as $60 per session).
Delayed or denied payments (hello, clawbacks).
More admin work (hours spent submitting claims, following up, and getting paid months later).
Private pay, on the other hand, gives you:
Control over your rates - you decide what you charge.
More financial stability - no waiting on insurance to reimburse you.
Fewer clients per week - so you can make more while working less.
Let’s talk numbers:
If you charge $150 per session and see 15 clients per week, that’s $117,000 per year.
If you raise your rates to $200 per session, that jumps to $156,000 per year.
At $250 per session, you’re at $195,000 per year.
And all of this is without needing to see 30+ clients a week or drowning in insurance paperwork.
💡 Want to transition off insurance and start booking private pay clients? That’s exactly what I teach inside The Therapist Private Pay Accelerator.
How to Make 6 Figures As A Therapist: Setting Your Rates Based on Your Desired Salary
Most therapists set their rates based on what feels comfortable instead of what’s actually sustainable.
But here’s the thing: Your rates should reflect your financial goals—not just what you “think” clients will pay.
The simplest way to calculate your ideal rate:
Decide how much you need (and want) to earn per year (e.g., $120,000).
Figure out how many clients you want to see per week (e.g., 15).
Divide your desired salary by the number of sessions per year.
For example:
$120,000 per year ÷ 45 working weeks = $2,667 per week.
$2,667 per week ÷ 15 clients = $178 per session.
Note: This method doesn’t take into account any overhead you have (like an office space, subscriptions, etc) or setting aside money for taxes, but it’s a quick way to see if you’re on the right track with your rates!
How to Make 6 Figures As A Therapist: Streamline Your Business & Marketing to Maximize Your Time
The best way to hit six figures without working 50-hour weeks? Making every working hour count.
Instead of spending hours on inefficient marketing, social media posting, or admin tasks, focus on strategies that bring in clients with less effort.
The smartest ways to market your practice efficiently:
✔️ SEO & Google Business Profile – Potential clients are already searching for therapy in your area—your job is to make sure your name shows up first. Optimizing your Google Business Profile and website helps you rank higher so private pay clients can find you without paid ads.
✔️ Website Optimization – Your website shouldn’t just list your credentials—it should instantly make visitors feel like “This therapist gets me.” A clear, client-focused message and easy booking process can turn website visitors into paying clients.
✔️ Referrals & Networking – Build strategic relationships with therapists, doctors, and other professionals who regularly refer out clients. A strong referral network can bring in steady inquiries, without extra marketing effort.
✔️ Consult Call Strategy – A well-structured free consult call can double your booking rate by helping potential clients feel confident in choosing you. The key? Ask the right questions, keep it focused, and end with a clear next step.
The goal? Set up systems that bring in clients consistently so you’re not wasting time chasing referrals or scrambling to fill your schedule.
Mindset Moment: Stop Undervaluing Yourself
Therapists are taught to expect low pay and high burnout, but let’s be clear:
Charging sustainable rates isn’t selfish - it’s necessary.
Making six figures doesn’t mean you’re prioritizing money over clients.
Private pay clients exist - and they’re willing to invest in their mental health.
A thriving, high-earning private practice doesn’t mean selling out—it means you can afford to:
Take time off when you need it.
Set healthy boundaries with your schedule.
Show up fully for your clients because you’re not running on empty.
💡 Inside the Therapist Private Pay Accelerator, we help you shift out of the scarcity mindset so you can build a practice that supports you - without guilt or hesitation.
I already figured out how to make 6 figures as a therapist - and I’ll teach you how to do it without burning out from constant marketing and back-to-back sessions.
If you’re ready to:
✅ Set sustainable rates and stop undercharging.
✅ Streamline your business so you’re working smarter, not harder.
✅ Start booking private pay clients consistently.
Then it’s time to stop guessing and start building a practice that actually works for you.
