My Psico Agenda
No-shows in psychology practice are the biggest hidden cost in private practice. A 10-15% monthly absence rate can eat your margin. Good news: with policy, reminders and bond, it can drop to 3-5%.
This guide covers what really works to reduce absences without turning yourself into a billing machine.
Clear cancellation policy
Most effective is having a written policy stated in the informed consent:
- 24h minimum notice to cancel without charge.
- 50% if cancelled between 12-24h.
- 100% if less than 12h or no-show.
- Human exceptions (illness, emergency) handled case by case.
More on cancellation policy.
Automatic and manual reminders
- 48h before: automatic WhatsApp reminder.
- 24h before: active confirmation (reply YES).
- 4h before: final check, especially for first visits.
More on WhatsApp reminders.
Therapeutic bond and commitment
The most underrated factor. A patient who feels heard and sees progress shows up; one who doesn't, avoids.
- Care for the first session: lay the commitment foundation.
- End each session with a concrete plan for the next.
- Probe resistance when absences become frequent.
- Consider prepaid packs: upfront payment cuts no-shows.
Measure to improve
- Monthly global no-show rate.
- Per patient: identify patterns.
- Per day/time slot: some have more no-shows.
- Per patient origin: referrals vs own search.
More on practice KPIs.
Preguntas frecuentes
Common questions about no-shows and absences in psychology.
What is a normal no-show rate?
10-15% in unmanaged private practice is common. With good policy and reminders it can drop to 3-5%.
Is it ethical to charge an unattended session?
Yes, as long as it's stated in writing in the informed consent. It's standard practice.
What if a patient repeatedly no-shows?
Work it clinically. Resistance to attending is therapeutic material. If it persists, consider a session about it directly.
Do prepaid packs cut no-shows?
Yes. Upfront payment lifts commitment 20-30%. Recommended for patients prone to cancelling.
How do I handle medical emergencies or major causes?
Apply human criterion. An occasional documented exception doesn't compromise policy; a pattern does.