For occupational therapists stepping into private practice or building an online business, three core pillars determine success: clients, cash, and confidence. These are the foundations of a thriving OT business, and when one wobbles, the others quickly follow.

Whether you are just starting out, feeling stuck in a rut, or striving for growth, understanding this trifecta will help you create a sustainable, profitable business that reflects your unique skills as an occupational therapist.

1. Attracting the Right Clients

If no one knows what you do, you cannot get paid. Visibility is the highest profit action you can take. Many OTs struggle to get clients because their message is unclear or hidden behind generic statements such as “holistic, client centred care”.

To attract the right people:

• Niche down — be specific about who you help and how.
• Call out your ideal client directly — do not assume people will work it out.
• Use your client’s language — avoid OT jargon such as sensory processing disorder. Instead, describe what your clients actually experience, for example: “Your child covers their ears or melts down in noisy shops.”
• Be visible and imperfect — people connect with real humans, not polished logos. Showing your face and personality is far more powerful than spending hours creating perfect branding.

When you clarify your message and put yourself out there, you begin attracting clients who are genuinely aligned with your values and excited about your services.

2. Cash: Building a Sustainable OT Business

Many therapists feel uncomfortable talking about money. We are often taught that helping and earning should not go hand in hand. But the reality is that without cash, your OT business simply is not sustainable.

Key points to remember:

• Know your worth — years of study, clinical expertise, and experience deserve fair value. Do not undercharge out of guilt or fear.
• Price with intention — being the cheapest is not generous, it is often unsustainable. Aim to be the best, not the lowest cost.
• Clients commit more when they invest — free or very low cost services are rarely valued, and results suffer as a consequence.

Undercharging leads to stress, burnout, and undervaluation. By charging appropriately, you not only protect your own energy but also support clients in achieving better results.

3. Confidence: Backing Yourself as an OT Entrepreneur

You can have the best strategy in the world, but without confidence, it will not land. Confidence is not something you read about, it grows through action.

Tips to grow your confidence as an OT business owner:

• Celebrate wins weekly — acknowledge even small milestones.
• Keep client feedback and testimonials — these remind you of the real impact you are making.
• Rewire your beliefs — if you were taught not to talk about money or self promotion, start challenging those assumptions.
• Surround yourself with growth minded OTs — peer networks can significantly increase confidence and motivation.

Confidence comes from showing up consistently and taking imperfect action. The more you do, the more capable you will feel.

Bringing It All Together

The business trifecta for occupational therapists: clients, cash, and confidence works like a three legged stool. Remove one, and the whole thing collapses.

If you feel weak in one area, start small and focus there first. Do not wait for perfection. Consistent, imperfect action will always move you further than endless planning.

With the right mix of visibility, fair pricing, and self belief, you can create a profitable, purpose driven OT business that not only serves others but also provides the freedom you deserve.

Ready to Build Your OT Freedom Business?

If you are an occupational therapist ready to attract more clients, boost your income, and finally back yourself with confidence, I would love to help.

👉 Book a 1:1 call with Beki here and let us design a business that gives you the freedom, fulfilment, and financial security you have been dreaming of.