by Addie Blinder, LMFT-Associate
When people hear I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, the reactions are usually a
mix of curiosity and confusion. “So… you give people advice?” or “Do you only see married
couples?” The truth is, being an associate in private practice is a blend of emotional presence,
professional focus, record keeping, and a good bit of self care in between. Here’s a glimpse into
a typical day in my life.
9:00 AM – Morning Rituals
I start my day with a great breakfast—non-negotiable, but this can mean different things on
different days. Then it’s a brief moment of grounding: a short walk, a good stretch, or just sitting
quietly before sessions begin. This job is about holding space for others, so I have to create
some for myself first.
10:00 AM – First Session: Individual Therapy
My first client of the day is an individual working on anxiety. As an associate, I’m still accruing
hours toward full licensure, so I’m constantly reflecting on how to support growth while staying
aligned with ethical and clinical best practices. After the session, I take a few minutes to jot down notes in our EHR (Electronic Health Record) and breathe before diving into the next hour.
11:00 AM – Couples Therapy
Next, I assist a couple to improve their communication. The energy in the room is raw and real.
We focus on slowing down talking, fostering emotional safety, and getting curious—not defensive.
Being in private practice gives me the flexibility to choose who I work with, and I’m especially
passionate about helping couples find their way back to one another.
12:00 PM – Supervision Time
Afterwards is supervision! As an associate, I meet weekly with my licensed supervisor. We discuss cases, transference, countertransference, ethics, and my own growth as a therapist. These meetings are a
lifeline—not just for clinical guidance, but for staying grounded in the long, humbling path of becoming a seasoned therapist.
1:00 PM – Lunch & Admin
Then, it’s lunchtime. Lunch is another need for me, and it’s great to have something easy to make in the middle of the day. I make sure I am up to date on client notes, scheduling, and billing. Private practice isn’t just about the therapy—it’s also management. Think invoices, emails, and HIPAA compliance. Then I have another break period for reading, research, or to make sure I am fresh for evening sessions.
4:00 PM – Couples Session
This afternoon, I have a session with a couple who are adjusting to a recent life change. I work with them to slow down conflict cycles and guide them into moments of connection that might otherwise get lost in the stress of everyday life. Being in private practice means I get to choose my hours and see clients at times of day that work for all of us.
5:00 PM – Documentation and Wind-Down
After my final session, I spend time finishing notes, responding to messages, and prepping for tomorrow. I might review a training video or read up on a theory I want to integrate into my work. The learning never stops in this field.
7:00 PM – Me Time
Evenings are sacred. I log off, cook dinner, spend time with my pets, and maybe unwind with a show. Therapist burnout is real, especially early on, so I try to practice what I preach about boundaries and self-care. I am still learning, too!
Reflections
Being a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in private practice is more than a job—it’s a calling. It means holding the stories of others with care, being endlessly curious, and learning to sit with both pain and healing.
Some days are heavy, some are beautiful, and most are both. But at the end of each day, I know this work matters—and that keeps me coming back.