The Right Tack: Episode 4 – Why Your Bank Could Be Holding Back Your Practice Growth
What to Know from Episode 4 of The Right Tack with Tim Sery, VP Commercial Lender at BankVista.
If you're like most behavioral health practice owners, you probably didn’t go into this field to think about banks. You’re focused on clients, care, and growth. But as your practice expands—or even if you're just getting started—choosing the right bank can make or break your financial momentum.
In Episode 4 of The Right Tack, Paul and Jim sit down with Tim Sery, VP Commercial Lender at BankVista, to dive into what behavioral health providers should really be looking for in a banking partner.
And spoiler: It’s not just low interest rates or sleek mobile apps—it’s about relationships.
Local Matters: Why a Community Bank Can Offer More Than You Think
One of the most powerful points Tim makes is that big banks often apply blanket assumptions that don’t account for local context—especially when reviewing business loan applications. For example, a national bank headquartered in a small rural town may undervalue your clinic’s billing projections if your practice is based in a high-cost metro area. Their underwriters might flag your prices as "too high" without understanding the local market realities.
“Some areas are more expensive than others. It's not one box fits all,” Tim explains.
“With community banks, you're getting local decisions being made… not someone in another part of the country guessing what your business should look like.”
That local knowledge also extends to availability and service. At a community bank, you can often walk in and talk to someone who knows your name. Tim even gives out his cell number and encourages clients to call or text if they need help—whether it’s about a hacked debit card or questions on financing a new office space.
Contrast that with calling a national bank’s 800-number and waiting on hold just to talk to someone who doesn’t understand your practice—or your business model.
What to Look for in a Banking Relationship
Whether you’re just getting licensed and ready to launch your practice, or you're several years in and considering expanding your team or location, Tim offers some guidance:
Look for a banker who knows your market and understands behavioral health billing and operational costs.
Prioritize responsiveness. If your banker can’t return your call quickly when a financial issue comes up, that’s a red flag.
Don’t wait for a crisis to assess your banking relationship. A good banker can help you plan ahead, not just bail you out.
Consider switching if your current bank doesn’t treat you like a partner. Yes, switching banks involves a little work upfront—but as Paul and Jim share in the episode, it can be completely worth it when you end up with better service, faster answers, and someone truly invested in your success.
“Our goal is to work with business owners to grow and succeed,” Tim says. “We're not looking to take over your business—we want to support it.”
Why This Matters for Private Practice Owners
Running a behavioral health practice is already challenging—you juggle clinical care, compliance, billing, staffing, and more. The last thing you need is a banking partner who slows you down or doesn’t understand the realities of your business.
Whether you're applying for an SBA loan, exploring a line of credit, or just trying to get a quick answer on a charge, having a real relationship with a local bank can be a game-changer.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your bank is really supporting your practice—or just cashing your deposits—this episode is a must-listen.
🎧 Listen to Episode 4: How to Finance Your Private Practice the Smart Way
Want even more insight?
Tim also shares how to prepare for a loan application, why transparency matters when you’re financially struggling, and what it really takes to switch banks without disrupting your practice. It’s a practical, honest, and encouraging conversation you won’t want to miss.
Listen now:
The Right Tack – Episode 4: Why Your Bank Could Be Holding Back Your Practice Growth
Available wherever you listen—or stream it directly from our website.
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The information shared in this podcast reflects the views of Tim Sery as a guest and is intended for general informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal, financial, or business advice, nor does it constitute an offer to lend. Listeners should consult their own advisors before making any financial decisions. Any discussion of SBA programs is based on current understanding and may not reflect the most recent guidance or eligibility criteria. BankVista is Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.
