The Right Tack: Episode 5 – Finding the Right Space for Your Practice
Finding The Right Space
Where you work from as a mental health professional is more than just a logistical decision — it’s a strategic one. The right space can help you grow your practice, shape the client experience, and give you the flexibility to adapt as your business evolves. In Episode 5 of The Right Tack, hosts Paul and Jim Jonas sit down with Dr. Talha Baloch, a board-certified General and Addiction Psychiatrist, Owner of Comprehensive Psych Solutions, and Co-Founder of Mindful Spaces in Eden Prairie, MN, to unpack this critical choice.
This conversation kicks off a special two-part series exploring one of the biggest questions every provider eventually faces: Where will I work from? From leasing a private office to buying your own suite to joining a coworking community, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But as Dr. Baloch explains, understanding the options — and how they align with your goals — can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
From Burnout to Building His Own Practice
Dr. Baloch didn’t start out in private practice. Like many providers, he worked in larger, private equity-backed clinics early in his career. While the structure provided stability, he found himself constrained by policies that prioritized profit over patient care. The pace was relentless, and there was little room to give clients the time and attention they needed. Eventually, he decided to step out on his own, launching Comprehensive Psych Solutions with a mission to provide thoughtful, patient-centered care on his own terms.
His experience also led him to co-found Mindful Spaces, a coworking and office-share community designed specifically for mental health, wellness, and healing professionals. The idea came from his own early days using a coworking space in Illinois, where flexible access and shared amenities helped him establish his practice without the long-term commitment and high cost of a traditional lease.
Co-Working vs. Leasing: What’s the Difference?
In the episode, Dr. Baloch breaks down the key distinctions between a coworking model and a traditional lease:
Flexibility: Coworking spaces often allow you to rent by the hour, day, or month — a major advantage for new or part-time practitioners who don’t need a full-time office.
Lower Upfront Costs: With shared resources like reception, waiting areas, and office furniture, coworking spaces reduce the need for large initial investments.
Built-In Community: Many coworking models attract like-minded professionals, creating opportunities for networking, referrals, and collaboration.
Scalability: As your practice grows, you can adjust your space needs without breaking a lease or taking on excess square footage.
By contrast, a traditional lease may be a better fit for those who want complete control over their space, can commit to longer terms, and have the resources to furnish and maintain it.
What to Look for in a Coworking Space
Not all coworking spaces are created equal — especially in the mental health field. Dr. Baloch recommends looking for:
Soundproofing and privacy to protect client confidentiality.
Therapy-friendly amenities, such as comfortable furniture, calming décor, and accessible locations.
A supportive community of fellow providers who understand the nature of your work.
Administrative perks, like front desk support, mail handling, or a virtual address for professionalism.
He also encourages providers to tour several spaces before making a decision, paying attention not only to the features but also to the atmosphere and “feel” of the space.
Why Your Space Matters More Than You Think
Paul and Jim point out that your office doesn’t just serve you, it shapes the client’s first impression and sets the tone for your sessions. Everything from the waiting room design to the commute can influence how clients perceive and engage in therapy. Choosing a space that aligns with your values and your clients’ needs can strengthen relationships and improve outcomes.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
Coworking models can offer flexibility, cost savings, and community that traditional leases can’t match.
Evaluate spaces based not just on price, but also on privacy, amenities, and client experience.
Your office space should grow with your practice — think ahead to how your needs might change over the next few years.
Take the time to tour multiple locations and trust your instincts about where you feel most comfortable working.
Opportunities to Connect
Mindful Spaces regularly hosts networking events for practitioners looking to start or grow their practices. They’re also currently offering tours for anyone interested in joining the Eden Prairie, MN, coworking community.
Whether you’re just starting your private practice or exploring ways to expand without overextending your budget, this episode is packed with practical insights you can put to use right away.
