During a class I taught last week, one attendee asked if I thought it is feasible to make a living through virtual practice.
It was a fantastic question.
My first instinct: yes, absolutely. Although I was quick to say so, I have been wondering if I should have given more explanation.
Private practice – whether virtual or face to face – is not easy, especially when you’re getting started. Technology is not a magic cure-all to revitalize your business. Instead, it’s a tool that may make your life easier if you leverage it properly. To get started you’ll need to invest time, energy and/or money; the learning curve can be frustrating and time consuming.
If your practice isn’t working well in a traditional setting, it’s unlikely that taking it online will work any better.
Although you’ll have lower overhead and more potential clients, you’ll need to overcome technological challenges and it can be difficult to build rapport. You’ll still have to market yourself and get those potential clients turned into actual clients.
So I’d like to modify my original answer. You can certainly make a living with a virtual practice. But it won’t be any easier than making a living with an “on ground” practice.
It’s important to go with a model of practice that builds on your strengths. Virtual isn’t the answer for everyone, just like offering individual consults isn’t necessarily the best option for everyone.
If you need help getting your practice up and running, be sure to check out my Roots course.