Private and Independent Practice Program
The Private and Independent Practice Program (PIPP) is designed to equip psychology students and professionals in Ontario with the skills, knowledge, tools, and networks necessary to successfully launch and thrive in private practice. The program is led by seasoned professionals who have built and managed their own practices, sharing decades of real-world expertise.
Why start a private practice now?
- Set your hours and tailor your work environment to fit your lifestyle
- Transform your skills into unlimited earning potential, putting you in charge of your financial future
- Embrace the flexibility of private practice and create a balanced life where your well-being is as prioritized as your clients
With no prerequisites or antirequisites, PIPP is designed for all psychology graduates and professionals in Ontario. Whether you’re just finishing your studies or already deep into your career and looking to pivot, this program will teach you how to build a sustainable practice that reflects your unique vision and expertise.
"Our professional community has been waiting for a program like this for 30 years."
Program structure
- Virtual sessions for only 1 hour per week after working hours (typically 6:30 pm)
- 29 hours of sessions organized into three periods and five different themes of Who, What, When, Why and How
- Optional in-person events for networking to build lasting collaborations
- Optional virtual peer-networking events to ensure ongoing support and accountability
Program dates
The program will run from January 22, 2025 - August 27, 2025
- January - March: 7 hours of sessions
- March - May: 10 hours of sessions
- June - August: 12 hours of sessions
- Total 29 hours
What will the program cover?
The January - March sessions will answer questions such as:
- Why start a private practice
- When to start a private practice
- Who are the clients
- Who are the professionals in and about to enter a private practice
- What models (solo, group, inclusive, etc.) exist for private practice
- What should be the scope of a private practice
- What is the initial investment
The March - May sessions will answer questions such as:
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The May - August sessions will answer questions such as:
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"Our training is wonderful but then we're kind of thrown off. We're well trained for an academic or hospital job but we don't learn enough about private practice for people who don't want to work in an academic setting."
Learn from seasoned professionals
The program is led by experts who have firsthand experience in starting and growing successful private practices. They’ve navigated the challenges, seized the opportunities, and built thriving practices, making them the perfect guides for your journey. You’ll benefit from their knowledge and practical insights, gaining the confidence to launch your own private practice with their expert support.
“I wish this had been around when I left grad school."
Meet the facilitators
Dr. James Watson-Gaze
Ph.D., C.Psych. (he/him)
Clinical Psychologist and Director
Dr. Melisa Arias-Valenzuela
Psy.D./Ph.D., C. Psych. PMH-C (she/her)
Clinical Psychologist / Psychologue
Dr. Rachael Finnerty
PhD in Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour, Registered Psychotherapist, Certified Music Therapist, and Music Therapy Academy Founder
Dr. Terra Dafoe
Ph.D., C.Psych.
Dr. Jeffrey Letourneau
Ph.D., C.Psych.
Clinical Psychologist and Clinic Director
Why this program?
Input-driven
We have interviewed hundreds of psychologists to ensure that this program addresses real-world needs at various career stages
Hands-on
The program emphasizes practical, actionable steps with tools, templates, and case studies to help you successfully launch your private practice
Launch-specific
The program focuses solely on the essential steps needed to start a private practice, making it highly efficient for those looking to begin quickly without the distractions related to long-term management
Expert-led
The program will feature live, interactive sessions with experienced psychologists who have been running their practices for over ten years, offering real-time guidance, opportunities for Q&A, and insights
Wellness-centred
As we recognize the emotional effort involved in trying something new, the curriculum includes strategies for managing stress and mental health during the launch phase, helping participants stay balanced and resilient.
FAQ
The program lasts 8 months, from mid-January to late August 2025. Sessions are virtual for one hour a week on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. There will be a one week break between each of the three periods.
Sessions will be recorded in case you miss one or if you'd like to return to one after class.
The program does not have an application process. You can register here (external link) .
The program will not have any assignments or exams. However, it is expected that you complete the program with a business plan and a journey map for your future practice.
Yes, these will be covered in the sessions titled "How to manage ethics and EDI" and "How to protect a private practice."
The program is primarily designed for clinical psychology graduates and professionals in Ontario who are either planning to establish a private practice or are already running one and seeking further guidance. While the focus is on psychology, professionals from other fields are also welcome to join, even though the program has been tailored with psychologists in mind.
With the “Comprehensive Program Fee,” participants gain access to all 29 sessions in the curriculum. The “Enhanced Program Fee” allows access to up to 18 sessions, while the “Core Program Fee” provides flexibility for up to 10 sessions from the full offering.
The program does not yet offer scholarships or financial aid options. Fees can be paid in full or in three installments: once at the start of the program, once at the end of February 2025, and once at the end of May 2025.
Enrollment and payment can be made anytime during the program, but you will only be able to attend live sessions scheduled for after your enrollment date. You will still have access to the recorded sessions you have missed before your enrollment.
A full refund minus a $50 administration fee will be issued for cancellation requests on or before January 28, 2025. Refunds will not be issued after this date.
Supported by the Department of Psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University