Support for Sole Traders in Independent Practice

Guidance for occupational therapists balancing clinical work with the realities of running a sustainable practice.

Running a Practice on Your Own

Working as a sole trader can be both rewarding and challenging.

You are not only responsible for your clinical work, you are also managing systems, decisions, workload, and the realities of running a service.

Many therapists start a solo practice because they want more flexibility, autonomy, or alignment with the way they want to work. Over time, however, it can become difficult to balance clinical work with the operational side of running a business.

This pathway is designed to support therapists who want greater clarity, structure, and sustainability in their practice.

Who This Pathway Is For

This pathway is designed for occupational therapists who are working independently or running their own small practice.

You may be:

Starting or growing a solo practice

Managing both clinical work and business responsibilities

Trying to create clearer systems and workflows

Feeling unsure about business decisions

Looking for guidance from someone who understands both therapy and practice ownership

Running a practice on your own can feel isolating at times. Having a place to discuss challenges and think through decisions with other practitioners can make a significant difference.

How The OT Coach Supports Sole Traders

Support focuses on helping therapists create sustainable, well-structured practices while continuing to grow as clinicians.

This includes professional discussion, business strategy, and practical guidance around the realities of working independently.

The Business Hub is a professional community for allied health business owners and practice leaders.

Inside the hub you will find:

  • weekly discussions
  • shared problem-solving
  • conversations around leadership
  • team development and service structure

It provides space to step back from day-to-day operations and think more strategically about the direction of your practice.

Learn more about the Business Hub →

Workshops provide practical guidance for therapists navigating both clinical work and business responsibilities.

Topics may include:

  • service delivery models
  • sustainable caseload management
  • clinical decision-making as a practice owner
  • communication and professional boundaries

These sessions are designed to support therapists building sustainable practices.

Explore Workshops →

The OT Coach also offers resources                to support therapists working            independently.

These resources are designed to help sole traders strengthen both their clinical practice and the systems that support their business.

These include:

  • practical business and clinical tools
  • professional development resources
  • podcast discussions about practice and leadership
  • free guides and templates
Explore Resources →

When You Need Focused Business Clarity

Sometimes a specific challenge requires dedicated time and discussion.

A Business Solution Session is a one-off strategy session designed to help therapists work through a particular business or practice challenge.

These sessions may be helpful if you need clarity around:

  • a business decision
  • service structure or pricing
  • systems and workflows

the direction of your practice

Learn more about Business Solution Sessions →

Building a Sustainable Practice

Running a practice independently is a significant responsibility.

The OT Coach exists to support therapists to make thoughtful decisions, develop strong professional judgement, and build practices that are sustainable over time.

Explore the Business Hub
View Workshops

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Listen to the Podcast

The OT Coach Podcast is filled with practical case examples, honest conversations, and tools you can apply immediately.

Start here if you want guidance before committing to a pathway or program.

Episodes are matched to early career, established practice, and business leadership pathways.

→ Listen to the Podcast