One of many, many testimonials on file at our headquarters in San Diego.

Letter to our Network Director, Jane Milliken LCSW

Dear Jane:

I am pleased that my referring you to 1-800-THERAPIST referral network has developed into you becoming an area representative. I have found that my subscription to my local representative to be a very valuable resource and am sure that you will develop your network to be an asset to both clients and providers in your area.

Through my subscription as a provider in my local 1-800-THERAPIST network, I have enjoyed numerous benefits. Primary among these benefits has been the quality and quantity of client referrals that I have received. Although the quantity of client referrals varies, starting with my first months subscription, the client revenues have consistently exceeded my subscription dues. At the time that I had joined, I had recently moved my existing practice into a new area. The pooled marketing that is inherent in the network helped sustain my practice while I began to develop local contacts.

The quality of referrals that I have received through my local 1-800-THERAPIST network is noteworthy in that the clients are pre-screened and matched to my service offerings in a number of ways. First, is a matching of clinical experience in the client's given problem area. Clients that are referred begin their initial call to me with an understanding of what their concerns are leading to prompt discussion of a proposed treatment plan.Clients are also screened regarding their financial and third party re-imbursement plan requirements. This reduces the amount of time I spend during the initial contact on the fee arrangement aspect of services, again, enabling both the client and myself to move promptly to treatment planning. Finally, clients are screened for geographical distance that they are willing to travel. It is my belief that these screening measures have led to an increase in client readiness for and follow-through with services, greatly decreasing the 'no-show' rate for first time clients.

As I have always maintained a 'managed-care free' practice, my reliance on various marketing strategies and cultivation of referral bases is essential. I have found that my local network has been the most lucrative investment I have made thus far.

Additionally, I have used the network for locating appropriate referrals for clients that I cannot service.

My best to you as you develop your network.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Petersen LCSW