In the world of teletherapy services, financial arrangements between providers and schools can sometimes raise questions. At Lighthouse Therapy, we believe in transparency and want to explain why we require a 20% initial payment to start services. This policy is rooted in our commitment to providing high-quality care and maintaining our unique approach in the industry.

Our Mission: Therapists First, Students Benefit

Lighthouse Therapy was founded on a simple yet powerful principle: be a therapy company run by therapists, for therapists, to benefit students. This mission shapes everything we do, including our financial policies.

Why the Initial Payment Matters

1. Ensuring Timely Therapist Compensation: We pay our therapists on the 15th of each month, regardless of when we receive payment from schools.
2. Bridging the Payment Gap: Schools typically pay in arrears (after services are rendered), creating a cash flow challenge for smaller companies.
3. Maintaining Financial Stability: The initial payment helps us manage our finances without relying on external funding sources.

The Lighthouse Approach vs. Industry Norms

Many therapy companies solve the cash flow problem through methods that can compromise their mission:

1. Bank Loans: This approach saddles companies with debt and interest payments.
2. Venture Capital: While providing immediate funds, this often leads to:
   • Change in company leadership
   • Shift in company culture
   • Focus on profit over quality of care
   • Potential layoffs and instability

Real-World Examples

In my 13 years in teletherapy, I’ve witnessed four companies take venture capital money. The results were consistent:

• Original CEOs were replaced
• Company cultures changed dramatically
• Multiple rounds of layoffs occurred
• In some cases, companies even changed their names

The Lighthouse Difference: Independence and Integrity

At Lighthouse Therapy, we’ve chosen a different path:

1. Self-Funded: We started with our own savings, avoiding external investors.
2. Mission-Driven: Our focus remains on therapists and students, not board members or profit margins.
3. Transparent Operations: We’re open about our processes and financial needs.
4. Therapist Support: We prioritize fair pay, mentorship, and providing necessary resources.

Our Payment Structure

To maintain our commitment to quality care and timely therapist compensation, here’s how our payment structure works:

1. We bill schools on the 1st of the month
2. We request ACH payment by the 10th
3. We pay our therapists on the 15th

The 20% initial payment is crucial in this cycle, allowing us to pay therapists promptly without becoming a “bank” for schools.

Why Choose Lighthouse Therapy?

1. Stability: Our financial model ensures we can consistently provide high-quality services.
2. Quality Focus: Without external pressures, we maintain our commitment to excellent care.
3. Transparency: We’re always open about our practices and ready to answer questions.
4. Therapist Satisfaction: Happy, well-supported therapists provide better care for your students.

In Conclusion

The 20% initial payment isn’t about taking advantage of schools. It’s about maintaining a sustainable model that allows us to put therapists and students first. By choosing Lighthouse Therapy, you’re not just getting teletherapy services – you’re partnering with a company committed to integrity, quality, and the best possible care for your students.

We’re always here to answer any questions about our policies or services. Your trust in us is paramount, and we’re committed to earning it every day through our actions and outcomes.