Perspectives on Private Practice. Handling the Finances: HMO versus Private Pay

Abstract

We have created a new column for advanced practice psychiatric nurses who are in private practice or are thinking about this option. It will give you the needed information to develop a practice – the nuts and bolts of working for yourself – and how to navigate the ongoing challenges of being a competent and successful therapist. We are excited about introducing this new column and we welcome your participation! It offers a question-and-answer forum that will bring you news and views that will hopefully make contributions to your private practice and the quality of your work life. Pat Barry has a wealth of knowledge and expertise with private practice. She has 21 years’ experience working as a private practice psychotherapist in West Hartford, CT. Pat's specialty is consultation psychiatry. Approximately 1/3 of her clients are persons who are seeking assistance coping with their physical conditions. The remaining 2/3 of her clients are individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, and related conditions. Pat was active in the legislative process that resulted in the opportunity for advanced practice nurses in Connecticut to obtain third party insurance reimbursement for their services. Pat is the author of Mental Health and Mental Illness, Ed.7 and Psychosocial Nursing: Care of Physically-Ill Persons and Their Families, Ed.3 published by Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins.