You're ready to take the leap. We'll be there from day one.
Introducing the Heard Private Practice Launch Grant. Three therapists starting their private practices will receive $5,000, complete formation (LLC, PLLC, S-corp, etc) and ongoing compliance support, and the partnership they need to build something meaningful.
Why this program exists
Therapists are needed more than ever, yet many feel burned out and underpaid. Private practice offers a different path with autonomy, equitable pay, and the chance to build a career that reflects personal values. But the logistics and setup can feel overwhelming, turning an exciting next step into an intimidating one.
The Heard Private Practice Launch Grant is our answer to that gap.
We're partnering with three mental health professionals to show what's possible when you don't have to figure it out alone—when someone who understands both therapy and business is there from the very beginning.
We believe that the therapists who care for our communities deserve support as they build something of their own. We want to make that leap a little less scary and a lot more possible.
What grantees receive:
- A $5,000 grant to invest in your business & vision.
- First, free access to Heard’s new Business Formation tool. We handle your LLC setup, EIN, registered agent, and state requirements. You're in business in days, not weeks
- First, free Early access to Heard’s new Business Banking. A business account built for therapists. No hidden fees, instant setup, and automatic sync with your bookkeeping. Everything works together
- A year subscription for SimplePractice EHR software to manage scheduling, notes, billing, and client communication in one place.
- Heard's software and financial guidance—free as you build your practice. When you reach the point where S-corp formation makes tax sense (typically $60K-$80K in net profit), you'll transition to our Premium plan with tax preparation and S-corp support.
How it works
- Applications open through 12/31/2025
- We'll select 10 finalists for interviews
- Three grant recipients will be announced in March
- Your supported launch journey begins in Q1 2026
- We'll follow your progress for at least six months, celebrating and documenting milestones while learning together
Eligibility
This grant is for licensed mental health professionals who are standing at the edge of something big. Whether you're about to launch your private practice in Q1 2026 or you're in your first six months and still finding your footing.
- Must be a licensed mental health professional by the finalist interviews in February 2026 (LCSW, LPC, LMFT, psychologist, psychiatrist, or state equivalent).
- Must be based in the United States
One of the following describes you:
- You're planning to open your private practice doors in Q1 2026 and haven't formed your business entity yet
- You launched within the past 6 months and you're still in the thick of figuring it all out
Must be willing to share your story on-camera as part of educational materials to show other therapists what this process actually looks like
You do not need to be a Heard member to apply. Everyone who applies will be added to the waitlist for our Formation and Banking services
Guidelines
- Grantees will receive $5,000 if selected.
- Once accepted, Heard will provide a letter of agreement that clearly outlines the use of funds.
- Program commitment for grantees includes attendance of advisory meeting and willingness to share business launch story on-camera. The video piece will be used as part of an educational series to show other therapists what the private practice formation process actually looks like.
Application
Your Vision (300-500 words)
Tell us about your decision to start a private practice. What's calling you toward this? What does success look like for you in that first year?
We want to understand what's driving you and the real reason you're willing to take this risk.
Your Biggest Fear (200-300 words)
What's the thing keeping you up at night about launching or running your practice? What feels most overwhelming? What feels like the biggest barrier between where you are and where you want to be?
How would this grant and support help you move through it?
Where You Are Right Now (200-300 words)
Why now? What’s your timeline? What have you already done? What's next? When do you plan to see your first client as a private practice owner?
We want to understand where you are in the journey and whether Q1 2026 is realistic for your launch.
Anything Else? (100-200 words, optional)
Is there something about your story, your background, or the communities you serve that would help us understand why this work matters to you?
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated on three factors:
Readiness
Do you have a concrete timeline and actionable steps already underway? We're looking for evidence of forward momentum—licensure in process or complete, specific launch dates, clear next steps. If you're still in the "someday" phase, you're not ready for this grant yet—but we’re cheering you on to get there.
Barrier to Entry
Would this grant materially change your ability to launch? We want to support therapists for whom the $5,000 + formation assistance removes a genuine obstacle. Be specific about what's actually standing in your way.
Documentation Value
Will your story help other therapists take the leap? We need applicants who can articulate their journey clearly, who are willing to be filmed and photographed at key moments, and who understand that being selected means your wins and struggles become teaching moments for others.
Selection Criteria
Just like you, Heard values authenticity. Tell us your real story:
- Why you're doing this
- What scares you about it
- Where you are right now
- What you need
We’re more interested in honesty than in polish.
Grant FAQs
Do I need to be a Heard member?
No. This grant is open to all eligible mental health professionals, whether you're already part of the Heard community or not.
I launched 8 months ago. Can I still apply?
This particular grant is focused on therapists who either haven't formed yet or are in their first 6 months. We're learning how to best support that earliest stage. But we’re simultaneously considering programs to help our members further in their business launch practice.
I've already formed my LLC. Is this still valuable?
Yes. Even if formation is behind you, you'll receive the $5K grant, banking support, free EHR access, Heard's software and financial coaching, and guidance as you build the financial foundation of your practice.
What if I'm still working toward full licensure?
You can apply as long as you'll be fully licensed by March 1, 2026. Just include your expected licensure date in your application.
How do you choose the recipients?
We're looking for readiness, need, and story. Someone who has a real plan and timeline. Someone for whom this support would make a meaningful difference. And someone whose journey will help other therapists believe this leap is possible for them too.
What exactly is the documentation commitment?
You'll do video interviews at key moments (before launch, 3 months in, 6 months in). You'll share photos and short updates as you hit milestones. You'll let us feature your story in our newsletter, on social media, on our website, and in content designed to help other therapists.
Can I submit a video application instead of written?
Yes. Submit in whatever format feels right. Submission format will not impact selection process.
Is the $5,000 taxable?
Grant funds are generally taxable income and will be categorized as “Other Income” in your business books. You’ll complete a W-9 and we’ll issue funds via ACH.
Will this be an annual program?
This is our inaugural grant program. We’ll share details about future opportunities as they develop.
What if I'm not selected?
You'll still be on the waitlist for our Formation and Banking services and we will be launching other educational materials and programs in 2026 to help a broader range of therapists form their private practices. And we hope you'll launch anyway, even without this specific support. The world needs what you're building.