As a recruiter at Lighthouse Therapy, I’m often asked about the onboarding process for new therapists. In this post, I’ll outline the support we provide during onboarding and highlight some common obstacles to be aware of, as shared by our Director of Human Resources, Amanda Tingle.

Comprehensive Onboarding Support

At Lighthouse, we’re committed to providing robust support to our new therapists with:

1. Dedicated Mentors: Each therapist is paired with a discipline-specific mentor to help with teletherapy acclimation and Lighthouse-specific processes.
2. Clinical Coordinators: These professionals assist with school-specific questions and scheduling.
3. Discipline-Specific Group Chats: Active chat groups allow therapists to connect and share information.
4. Live Tech Support: Available during business hours to address any technical issues.
5. OT Kits: Provided to occupational therapists and their students for consistent materials.
6. Assessment Library: An extensive list of assessments is available to all therapists.

Common Onboarding Obstacles

While we strive to make onboarding as smooth as possible, there are some common challenges to be aware of:

1. Document Accessibility: Having required documents (licenses, certifications, insurance, bank information) readily available can expedite the process.
2. Experience Requirements: Some states have specific clinical hour requirements for licensure. It’s important to verify these early in the process.
3. Licensing Wait Times: New state licenses can take 4-12 weeks to process. We require applications to be submitted within 5 business days of contract signing.
4. Upfront Costs: Be prepared for initial expenses related to licensing and certification. Lighthouse offers pay incentives to help offset these costs once you begin providing services.
5. Understanding Independent Contractor Status: It’s crucial to understand the implications of being a 1099 contractor versus a W-2 employee.

Preparing for Success

To ensure a smooth onboarding experience:

• Gather necessary documents in advance
• Research state-specific licensure requirements
• Plan for potential wait times and upfront costs
• Familiarize yourself with the independent contractor role

At Lighthouse Therapy, we’re dedicated to supporting our therapists throughout their journey with us. By being aware of these potential obstacles and leveraging the support we provide, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful start in teletherapy.

For more detailed information about our onboarding process or the difference between 1099 and W-2 positions, please visit our website at www.lighthousetherapy.com.