Being a home health therapist fosters an immense sense of pride and accomplishment. Working in this position allows you to improve another’s quality of life, know you are doing something truly meaningful, and helps build bonds that can last a lifetime. Support can feel difficult to find within this industry, but more and more home health companies are fighting this through the implementation of mentorship programs – programs where new graduates are matched with experienced therapists who provide training, advice, and companionship.
Whether you are thinking of beginning a new career within the home health care industry or are exploring new opportunities, one of the most important factors to look for in your new position is ensuring that your company provides access to established mentors to help guide you in the right direction.
But with so many companies to choose from, it can be difficult separating worthwhile mentorship programs from the duds. If you are interested in exploring new career opportunities, keep an eye out for the following in a mentorship program.
Personal, One-On-One Relationships
Mentorship is all about fostering personalized bonds and connections without distractions or self-consciousness involved. The best mentorship programs will ensure that you are assigned your own personal mentor to be there for you no matter what, rather than assigning you to a group or limiting the number of opportunities you are able to reach out.
When vetting your options, keep an eye out for mentorship programs that not only connect you to a fitting match, but facilitate and prioritize regular connections with your mentor. These connection opportunities should minimally consist of ongoing, in-person training and regular phone calls to check in and discuss any questions, concerns, or advice.
Tailored To Your Needs
You boast your own unique set of strengths, weaknesses, and goals – so why would you work with a mentor who doesn’t align with the direction you are aspiring to reach?
Worthwhile mentorship programs will take the time to get to know you, your priorities, and your working style through the interview process when assigning your mentor. This will ensure that the individual you are paired with is on the same page as you and has the capacity to help guide you towards the goals and opportunities that are most important to you, both within your career and personally. Avoid programs that approach their mentorship program with a “one size fits all” mentality.
[cta title=’FREE Download – Top 5 Things Therapists Should Look For in a Therapy Company’ url=’https://kidscarehomehealth.com/downloads/download-our-free-top-5-things-therapists-should-look-for-in-a-therapy-company/’ align=’right’]Hands On Training and Coaching
Your mentor should be offering more than mental support, they should also work closely with you to equip valuable skills and training to ensure you are set up for a long, successful career.
A great mentorship program will offer in-person support throughout your onboarding process. They may play a large role in your new therapist training, but may also be present during the first few visits to help you feel comfortable with your new clients. Their priority should be to ensure that you are starting off your new career on the right foot and feel comfortable approaching your new position. A great program and mentor will never push you to move forward if you feel inexperienced, untrained, or unready to approach the task alone.
At KidsCare we are dedicated to establishing the most worthwhile and supportive mentorship programs in the industry to help you become the most successful therapist you can be. We offer one-on-one training and personalized coaching from mentors custom matched to you and your territory. Learn more about KidsCare and what our company has to offer here.
