Have you ever wondered how starting your own private practice could bring vital services to families who need them most? Today’s guest proves that with determination, planning, and support, it’s not only possible—it can be life-changing for your community.

Joining me is Alaina Verkinnes, a speech language pathologist and owner of Minnesota Speech Therapy Solutions in Princeton, Minnesota. Over the past two years, Alaina has built a successful practice that meets a critical need in her community, providing accessible speech therapy to families who previously faced long drives or lengthy waitlists.

In this episode, Alaina shares her journey from school-based SLP to private practice owner, the challenges of balancing family and business, and the strategies she used to grow her caseload and make a real impact in her community.

Alaina has been a speech-language pathologist for over 15 years, gaining experience in private practice, home visits, and school-based early intervention. Early in her career, she discovered a passion for AAC, a specialty that few others wanted to take on. This expertise, along with her collaborative approach, laid the foundation for her thriving private practice today.

The idea to start her own practice came from her husband, who noticed her growing burnout while balancing a school SLP job and parenting two young children. Seeking to better serve families and maintain work-life balance, Alaina gradually built her practice while still working part-time in schools. She opened her private practice in 2022, serving a mix of pediatric clients and collaborating with local schools to ensure children receive the support they need.

As the only speech therapy provider in her area, Alaina has made a meaningful impact—families no longer travel long distances for care, and younger children benefit from home visits and natural-environment sessions. Alaina’s story shows that starting a private practice is about more than leaving a job—it’s about designing a life that balances professional fulfillment with family priorities, taking things step-by-step, and seeking support when needed.

In Today's Episode, We Discuss:

• How her years of experience prepared her for private practice much more than she expected
• Why being “voluntold” to learn AAC ended up shaping her clinical passion and niche
• The moment her husband encouraged her to finally go for it
• What it was really like handling billing and insurance solo
• How serving a rural town opened up opportunities she never imagined

Whether you’re wondering if now is the right time to start your private practice, or if you’re nervous about building something from scratch, Alaina’s story is proof that it’s possible to make it work—no matter your location or circumstances. She shows that success comes from taking small steps, leaning on support, and prioritizing relationships and community needs.

Want to build a private practice that gives you freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment—just like Alaina has? The Start Your Private Practice Program gives you the tools and guidance to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com.

Whether you want to Start or Grow a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.

Resources Mentioned:

Check out her website: www.mnspeechtherapysolutions.com

Where We Can Connect:

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