Psychological Practice in Small Towns and Rural Areas

Private practice opportunities for psychologists have traditionally existed in primarily large urban areas with large patient pools. Little has been written concerning the current atmosphere for psychologists working on a fee for service basis in small towns. Many psychologists are not aware of the growing need and opportunity for private practitioners in small towns in rural America. Psychological Practice in Small Towns and Rural Areas is the key sourcebook on the subject as it reviews the attitudes and needs of the people residing in these geographical areas and considers the benefits and difficulties of establishing a small town or rural practice. A variety of significant topics are covered, including the nature of small town and rural values, the psychologist's lack of anonymity in the town and adjustment and acceptance by the community, coping with the vastly different physical and social environment, ethical and personal dilemmas, ethical principles, community pressures, staff concerns, and husband and wife joint practices. Errors and stumblings to avoid, as experienced by psychologists who have entered rural private practice, are highlighted to make the transition a smooth one. Also covered are the professional and volunteer opportunities for the psychologist seeking out a small town practice and the relationships between professional and volunteer activities. Psychologists who may be considering a change of practice locale for early or after retirement, will find this an intriguing book. Newcomers to private practice, in determining the question of geographical area of practice, will find the information presented in this book helpful, as will graduate students in coursework dealing with professional activities.