Are you familiar with the concept of co-working sessions for therapists?
Have you ever participated in a co-working experience?
A co-working session occurs when a group of colleagues gather, either in person or virtually, to work alongside each other. Each participant works on independent tasks of their choosing. The group alternates between work and break sessions. Momentum is built, progress is made and there may even be a little fun had while working.
In the past number of years, I have participated in a variety of virtual co-working sessions, both with therapists and non-therapists, and find that I thrive on the energy of working alongside others even when they are not in the same space and are working on tasks that are completely different than mine.
Stuff gets done!
Consider these top reasons therapists should give co-working sessions a try:
- Working with others is more fun.
- Colleagues are right there to support you if you are looking for an idea or get stuck
- You’ll likely get more done than if you worked alone.
- You won’t forget to take much needed breaks.
Working with others is more fun.
During the work sessions that I have participated in there is always lots of laughing and conversation (work and non-work related) during the scheduled break times. Being a therapist in private practice can be isolating if you are not intentional about connecting with other colleagues. During scheduled work session breaks you will connect with colleagues and build relationships which you may decide to nurture outside of the work session, too.
Colleagues are right there to support you if you are looking for an idea or get stuck.
Examples: When co-working with therapists you can ask for suggestions about how to word something or tweak a practice related system from colleagues who have had similar experiences. When co-working with non-therapists you can get non-clinical feedback about your marketing materials.
You’ll likely get more done than if you worked alone.
There’s an energy that accompanies co-working that allows therapists to build momentum. You are more likely to stay focused and avoid distractions if you know your colleagues will be checking in with you about your progress at the next scheduled break.
You won’t forget to take much needed breaks.
Most co-working sessions have a structured schedule; alternating work and break periods. This helps therapists avoid the temptation to just “push through” and forget to give their minds and bodies the breaks that support them.
How can therapists start participating in co-working sessions?
Create your own co-working group. Your group can meet in person or online.
Pros/Cons: You invite trusted colleagues to join you and choose the times and structure of your co-working sessions that work for you. This works well for therapists who believe they have the time and energy to set up a co-working group and know colleagues who are interested in participating.
Join a co-working group facilitated by someone else.
Pros/Cons: Someone else takes the initiative for arranging and running the co-working sessions. All you have to do is show up and get to work. There may be less flexibility as the dates/formats are chosen by someone else, but this option may be best for a therapist who doesn’t have extra time/energy to put into forming and running work sessions.
If you are interested in checking out a co-working experience without a long term commitment, Vibrant Therapist Virtual Work Sessions could be a good fit. Learn more here.
Happy Co-Working!
Sarah