Episode 179: From Contractors to Employees — What Therapists Need to Know

Episode Summary

Thinking about switching your group practice from 1099 contractors to W-2 employees? You’re not alone—and you’re not crazy for feeling overwhelmed by it.

In this episode, Julie talks with group practice owner and consultant Amy Dover about her real-life journey making this transition. Amy shares what triggered the change, the surprises along the way, and what she wishes she knew from the start. Labor laws, compensation shifts, team dynamics, and aligning your business model with your values...it's all in this episode!

Here’s why this episode is a must listen:

• You’ll learn what to expect (including some hard truths) when you make the W-2 switch
• You’ll understand how misalignment between your business model and operations can shrink your profit margin
• You’ll get honest insight into what happens after the dust settles—and why Amy has no regrets

Episode Highlights

 00:45 – Why this is one of the most requested topics among therapists
 02:00 – Amy’s rapid growth—and early red flags
 03:40 – The legal wake-up call: “This is a W-2 setup in disguise”
 05:50 – Choosing alignment: why Amy shifted to employees
 07:15 – Rolling it out: legal prep, communication, and transparency
 08:30 – When kindness isn’t enough to avoid legal risk
 10:00 – The emotional weight of leadership and unexpected team changes
 11:50 – Over half the team left—what Amy learned through attrition
 16:00 – Julie: “We can’t invest in growth if the numbers don’t work”
 18:20 – “No one keeps their full fee”—a reality check for therapists
 20:00 – Life after the storm: alignment, faith, and steady referrals
 22:00 – Transition timelines: why 12+ months is realistic
 23:00 – Julie and Amy: the sooner you decide, the smoother it goes 

Resources

• Wise Practice Consulting – Amy Dover's Bio & Services
• Money for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startup
• GreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.com
• Therapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.com
• Profit First for Therapists - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com
• Profit First Academy - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com/Academy 
• Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio

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