If you’re a new Myofascial Release (MFR) therapist, getting offered a job in someone else’s practice can feel like a dream come true. But before you say yes, it’s important to pause and make sure that dream job won’t turn into a nightmare.
In this episode of The MFR Coach® Podcast, Heather Hammell walks you through the red flags to look for before signing a contract to work for another therapist or clinic. From understanding your pay and training agreements to evaluating non-compete clauses and workplace culture, Heather helps you protect your rights, your energy, and your future business goals.
You’ll learn what questions to ask about wages, onboarding, and required training, how to spot scarcity-based business practices, and why your long-term freedom matters more than short-term excitement. Whether you’re fresh out of training or considering a part-time position, this episode will help you make a confident, informed choice that aligns with your values and financial goals.
When you’re just starting out, any offer can feel like validation that you’re “good enough” to do this work. But excitement can cloud judgment. Heather encourages new therapists to take a step back and remember that feeling seen and valued doesn’t mean you should ignore the fine print. The goal is to enter every opportunity with clarity—knowing what’s required, what’s offered, and how it aligns with your personal and professional vision.
Before you put pen to paper, get clear on pay structure, required training, hours, and expectations. Will you be paid for onboarding and continuing education? What duties are included in your role—client care only, or also laundry, phone calls, and sales? These questions reveal how the business is run and whether it’s sustainable for you. Heather also reminds listeners that everything is negotiable: hours, duties, and even how non-competes are written.
Red flags include unpaid required training, low pay relative to client fees, unrealistic work hours, or contracts that restrict your future freedom. A non-compete that prevents you from opening your own practice in the same area could set your career back years. Heather challenges therapists to view these clauses as signs of scarcity thinking—if a business truly believes there’s enough work for everyone, it won’t need to restrict you to stay afloat.
You have power, even as a new therapist. Ask hard questions, read every line of your contract, and notice how potential employers respond. Do they welcome transparency and discussion—or get defensive? The way they handle your questions reveals how they’ll treat you later. Protect your future by staying informed, negotiating fairly, and never trading your long-term goals for short-term comfort or recognition.
**This podcast is not medical advice and is not a substitute for consultation with an appropriate medical professional. We make no representations as to any physical, emotional, or mental health benefits that may be derived from listening to our podcast. Likewise, we do not make any representations or guarantees as to any possible income, business growth, additional clients, or any other earnings or growth benefits that may be derived from our podcast. Any testimonials, examples, or other results presented are the experiences of one client. We do not represent or guarantee you will achieve the same or similar results. You understand and agree you are solely responsible for any decisions you make from the information provided.**
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