Sit and Stay: Run a Successful Mental Health Practice

How should you divide the revenue your mental health practice brings in? In this episode of the Sit and Stay Podcast, we explore how to allocate income across clinician pay, operational costs, and business savings, whether you're a solo provider or running a group practice. Tom breaks down his recommended percentages, the psychology behind pay splits, and why clarity around revenue is essentia...

In this episode, we sit down with Farokh Herfat, Head of Channel Partnerships at Twingate, to explore why modern cybersecurity is essential for mental health providers handling sensitive patient data. Farokh breaks down the real-world risks facing small practices today, from phishing emails to password reuse and unsecured Wi-Fi. He explains how Twingate’s Zero Trust model helps protect both clinic...

In this episode, we break down why time-based billing might be hurting your practice, especially if you're a prescriber. Tom explains how using complexity-based billing (with E/M and psychotherapy add-on codes) can significantly improve patient reimbursement and reduce audit risk, even in cash-only practices. We also touch on how therapists can take advantage of interactive complexity codes, and w...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Anna Yusim, an award-winning psychiatrist, executive coach, and author of Fulfilled: How the Science of Spirituality Can Help You Live a Happier, More Meaningful Life: https://www.amazon.com/Fulfilled-Science-Spirituality-Happier-Meaningful/dp/1455596795She shares how her path began with studying math at Stanford, then shifted to pre-med, followed by medical s...

For our 50th episode of the Sit and Stay Podcast, we’re doing something a little different—spotlighting our own EHR software for the first time. In this special episode, we walk through two new features designed to make documentation easier for mental health providers: the AI Document Generator and AI Note Scribe. We discuss why we built these tools, how they help clinicians reclaim time in their...

How do you ethically end care with a patient and how do you know when it’s time? In this episode, we unpack why maintaining your patient list isn’t just good business but also good care. From unreachable patients to poor therapeutic fit to non-payment, we cover the most common reasons for termination and how to handle each one ethically, legally, and compassionately.

In this episode of Sit and Stay, we explore why being self-employed as a mental health provider may offer more stability during economic downturns than you'd expect. Tom shares insights on job security, cash vs. insurance-based practices, and why clinicians often weather recessions better than most.

Parker and Tom unpack what private equity and venture capital really mean for mental health practices. From outlining the core differences between these two funding sources to weighing their potential pros and cons, this conversation shines a light on how outside investment can shape clinical care. UC Berkeley Report - "The Impact of Private Equity on Healthcare": https://publichealth.be...

When major events impact entire communities—like the COVID-19 pandemic or economic uncertainty—mental health providers often find themselves navigating the same stressors as their patients. How do clinicians maintain professional boundaries while addressing collective anxiety? In this episode, we explore how providers can manage these challenges, avoid burnout, and support their patients effective...

In this week's episode, we talk with licensed sex therapist and couples counselor, Christina Nail. She shares how her early work in a psychiatric hospital shaped her passion for strengthening relationships and improving sexual health, as well as her transition into private practice. From women’s support groups and healthy boundary-setting strategies to the essential role of clinician self-care...

In this episode, Parker Anderson and Dr. Tom Tarshis explore a New York Times article by Ellen Barry that reveals how the pandemic-era boom in online therapy has mainly benefited more privileged communities, leaving lower-income and underserved groups behind. They discuss why telehealth hasn’t lived up to its promise of greater access and examine potential strategies—like improved insurance reimbu...

In this episode of the Sit and Stay Podcast, host Parker Anderson and RipsyTech founder & CEO, Dr. Tom Tarshis, continue their deep dive into Open Notes. They explore common misconceptions about sharing mental health documentation with patients, discuss best practices for handling sensitive issues (like trauma, psychosis, and substance use), and highlight key legal and ethical considerations.0...

In this episode, Parker Anderson and RipsyTech founder/CEO Dr. Tom Tarshis discuss how Open Notes originated, why it was championed by the VA, and the unique questions it raises for mental health providers (including strategies for documenting sensitive information). You’ll also hear about special considerations for adolescent records, the rise of AI-assisted scribing, and how transparency in medi...

In this episode of the Sit and Stay podcast, Parker Anderson and Dr. Tom Tarshis address the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles and the devastating impact large-scale disasters can have on mental health. They explore how traumatic events can lead to conditions like PTSD, share the importance of early support and “mental health first aid,” and discuss ways communities can build resilience in the afte...

In this episode, we explore the challenges and opportunities of expanding mental health services across state lines. Join Parker Anderson and Dr. Tom Tarshis as they discuss licensing, insurance, business regulations, and strategies for building trust in new markets. Whether you're considering telehealth or setting up an in-person clinic, this episode provides valuable insights to help you nav...

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of evidence-based prescribing practices. Dr. Tom Tarshis shares insights on balancing patient needs with evidence, the art of selecting medications, and the challenges of off-label use in psychiatry. From navigating the influence of pharmaceutical companies to addressing common prescribing pitfalls, we discuss practical strategies for ensuring patien...

In this episode of the Sit and Stay Podcast, Parker Anderson and Dr. Tom Tarshis explore the fascinating world of evidence-based therapy treatments. The discussion delves into the challenges of conducting therapy research, how providers can choose the best treatment for their patients, and the importance of staying up to date with the latest evidence-based practices. 0:00 Introduction 4:26 What ar...

In this episode of the Sit and Stay Podcast, Parker Anderson and Dr. Tom Tarshis introduce the core concepts of evidence-based medicine—especially how it applies to mental health. They discuss the difference between “gut feeling medicine” and research-backed practice, explore common barriers to implementing evidence-based methods, and highlight the importance of balancing patient preferences, prov...

Following the shocking assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Sit and Stay Podcast hosts Parker Anderson and Dr. Thomas Tarshis, joined by Dr. Sara Heron, explore public frustration with the healthcare system, the struggles providers face with insurance companies, and what this means for the future of mental health care. 0:00 Introductions 5:40 Why did so many people react to the C...

Join us for this insightful episode of the Sit and Stay podcast as we welcome Virginie Goldstein, founder of Tech Connect Reset and a seasoned marriage and family therapist specializing in screen addiction treatment. Virginie shares her journey from Paris to California, her passion for understanding human behavior, and how she built a thriving mental health practice focused on supporting kids, tee...

What happens when close relationships mix with professional ones? In this episode of the Sit and Stay Podcast, Parker Anderson and Dr. Thomas Tarshis dive into the dynamics of working as a mental health provider alongside a spouse, family member, or close friend. From navigating ethical concerns and boundaries to balancing personal and professional lives, they explore the unique challenges and rew...

Thinking of employing trainees at your mental health practice? In this episode of Sit and Stay, we explore the benefits, challenges, and practicalities of bringing trainees into a clinical setting. Join Parker Anderson and Dr. Thomas Tarshis as they discuss setting up a supportive learning environment, managing the financial impact, and navigating billing and supervision requirements. Perfect for...

In this episode of the Sit and Stay Podcast, we break down single case agreements—a useful yet complex way for patients to access out-of-network providers under their insurance. We discuss how mental health providers can advocate for single case agreements, the two-step process of authorization and rate negotiation, and practical advice for families seeking coverage. Learn why in-person services a...

In this episode of the Sit and Stay podcast, we discuss the challenges and strategies of managing a waitlist in mental health practices. Tom shares insights from his years of experience, from weighing the pros and cons of a waitlist to setting realistic expectations with clients. Together, we explore how prioritizing urgent cases, managing intake timing, and balancing ethical considerations can he...

In this episode, we dive into the art and science of writing clinical notes for mental health providers. Dr. Tom Tarshis and Parker Anderson explore the purpose of clinical documentation, balancing detail with efficiency, and the role of malpractice and insurance in shaping note-taking practices. We also discuss how AI may change the landscape of clinical documentation, offering both benefits and...