The setup checklist

• Decide the kind of practice you want Read the guide →
• Choose who you most want to work with Read the guide →
• Set a realistic timeline to your first client Read the guide →

A clear direction. Now the practical build begins.

• Register with a professional body Read the guide →
• Sort professional indemnity and public liability insurance Read the guide →
• Register with the ICO and pay the data protection fee Read the guide →
• Arrange your supervision Read the guide →
• Get a DBS check if your work needs one Read the guide →

Foundations done. That's the hard admin behind you.

• Set your session fee Read the guide →
• Open a business bank account Read the guide →
• Register with HMRC for self-assessment Read the guide →
• Set up simple bookkeeping Read the guide →
• Put a percentage aside for tax Read the guide →

The money side is set up. That takes real weight off.

• Decide where you'll see clients Read the guide →
• Sort room hire or a home-working setup Read the guide →
• Check insurance and safety for the space Read the guide →

You have somewhere to work. That makes it feel real.

• Choose your practice name Read the guide →
• Build or commission your website Read the guide →
• Set up your Google Business Profile Read the guide →
• List on the directories that fit you Read the guide →
• Set up your enquiry and booking process Read the guide →

You are findable. Now the enquiries can come.

• Write your counselling contract Read the guide →
• Write your client privacy notice Read the guide →
• Set your cancellation policy Read the guide →
• Set up secure client notes Read the guide →
• Put a clinical will in place Read the guide →

The everyday systems are in place. Steady work from here.

• Ask settled clients for feedback Read the guide →
• Review your fees each year Read the guide →
• Add a service or specialism when ready Read the guide →
• Build referral relationships Read the guide →

You're set up and building. This part never really stops.