Family Therapist Onboarding Checklist

Family Therapist Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Family Therapist starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Therapy onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Family Therapist, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Family Therapist onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Family Therapist Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new family therapist attends an orientation session to familiarize themselves with the company’s mission, values, policies, and procedures. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated orientation coordinator.

2. Introduction to the Team: The new family therapist is introduced to their colleagues, supervisors, and other team members. This allows them to establish relationships, understand the team dynamics, and foster a sense of belonging. The task is usually performed by the supervisor or team leader.

3. Review of Case Files: The new family therapist is provided with access to relevant case files and is expected to review them thoroughly. This task helps the therapist gain an understanding of the clients they will be working with, their backgrounds, and any ongoing treatment plans. The task is typically performed by the supervisor or a designated staff member responsible for case management.

4. Training on Electronic Health Records (EHR) System: As most therapy practices utilize electronic health records, the new family therapist receives training on the company’s EHR system. This includes learning how to document client sessions, update treatment plans, and access relevant information. The task is usually performed by the IT department or a designated EHR trainer.

5. Familiarization with Therapy Modalities: The new family therapist is provided with resources and training to familiarize themselves with the various therapy modalities used within the company. This task helps the therapist understand the theoretical frameworks and techniques employed in their practice. The task is typically performed by the supervisor or a designated clinical trainer.

6. Review of Ethical Guidelines: The new family therapist is given a copy of the company’s ethical guidelines and is expected to review them thoroughly. This task ensures that the therapist understands the ethical standards they must adhere to in their practice. The task is typically performed by the supervisor or a designated ethics committee member.

7. Introduction to Administrative Processes: The new family therapist is introduced to the administrative processes of the company, such as scheduling appointments, billing procedures, and insurance documentation. This task helps the therapist navigate the administrative aspects of their role effectively. The task is typically performed by the administrative staff or a designated administrative trainer.

8. Shadowing Experienced Therapists: The new family therapist has the opportunity to shadow experienced therapists during client sessions. This task allows the therapist to observe different therapeutic approaches, gain insights into effective interventions, and learn from experienced practitioners. The task is typically coordinated by the supervisor or a designated mentor.

9. Participation in Team Meetings: The new family therapist is encouraged to actively participate in team meetings, where case discussions, treatment planning, and professional development topics are addressed. This task helps the therapist integrate into the team, contribute their expertise, and stay updated on organizational matters. The task is typically facilitated by the supervisor or team leader.

10. Ongoing Supervision and Mentoring: The new family therapist receives ongoing supervision and mentoring from an experienced therapist. This task provides the therapist with guidance, support, and feedback to enhance their clinical skills and professional growth. The task is typically performed by the supervisor or a designated clinical supervisor.

11. Continuing Education Opportunities: The new family therapist is informed about continuing education opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and online courses, that can enhance their knowledge and skills. This task encourages the therapist to engage in lifelong learning and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. The task is typically communicated by the supervisor or a designated professional development coordinator.

12. Introduction to Referral Networks: The new family therapist is introduced to the company’s referral networks, including other therapists, psychiatrists, social workers, and community organizations. This task helps the therapist establish collaborative relationships and access additional resources for their clients. The task is typically performed by the supervisor or a designated referral coordinator.

13. Review of Safety Protocols: The new family therapist is provided with information on safety protocols, crisis intervention procedures, and emergency contacts. This task ensures that the therapist is prepared to handle any potential safety concerns that may arise during their practice. The task is typically performed by the supervisor or a designated safety officer.

14. Performance Evaluation: The new family therapist undergoes a performance evaluation after a specified period, usually three to six months. This task allows the therapist to receive feedback on their performance, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for professional development. The task is typically performed by the supervisor or a designated performance evaluator.

15. Integration into the Company Culture: The new family therapist is encouraged to participate in company events, social gatherings, and team-building activities. This task helps the therapist feel connected to the company culture, build relationships with colleagues, and foster a positive work environment. The task is typically coordinated by the human resources department or a designated culture committee

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Family Therapist checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Family Therapist up to speed and working well in your Therapy team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.