What to Do When You Accidentally Undersell Yourself in Your First Few Consult Calls
You get off the phone and feel it in your stomach.
You quoted too low.
You downplayed your experience.
You agreed to a free consult that turned into a full session.
And now you’re cringing.
If you’re a new PMHNP in private practice, this is one of those learning curves no one prepares you for.
You want to sound approachable.
You want to build your caseload.
But somewhere in the mix, you stop sounding like a provider—and start sounding like someone asking for a chance.
You’re not alone.
You didn’t ruin anything.
And yes, you can fix it.
Here’s how to recalibrate without spiraling, rewrite your consult script, and move forward with more clarity.
Step 1: Drop the shame. Seriously.
You’re not unprofessional for getting nervous.
You’re not a fraud for figuring it out as you go.
You’re a provider stepping into a business owner role, and that takes practice.
Plenty of seasoned clinicians started the same way. You’re in good company.
Step 2: Get honest about what didn’t feel right
Ask yourself:
Where did I over-explain or justify my rate?
Did I give more than I meant to?
Did I downplay my scope, experience, or clinical approach?
Write it down. Not to beat yourself up, but to get clear on what you want to change.
Step 3: Rewrite your consult script
You don’t need a full pitch. You need 2–3 clear sentences you can say with confidence.
Try something like:
“I offer 60-minute sessions, and my rate is $175. I don’t take insurance, but I can provide a superbill if your plan covers out-of-network providers.”
Or:
“I focus on working with adults navigating anxiety, burnout, and major life transitions. If it feels like a good fit, I’d be happy to get you scheduled.”
Short. Grounded. Clear.
You don’t need to prove your worth on a consult call.
You’re not auditioning.
You’re helping someone decide if your care is the right fit and that goes both ways.
Step 4: If you need to reset with a current client, you can
Yes, even if you’ve already had a session.
You can say:
“As I’m finalizing my private practice structure, I’m making some updates to my fee schedule. Starting [date], my session rate will be [rate]. Let me know if that still works for you.”
No apology. No over-explaining. Just clarity.
Some people may leave. That’s okay. You are building a sustainable practice, not trying to be accessible to everyone at your own expense.
Step 5: Practice until it feels natural
Confidence comes with repetition.
You won’t magically feel ready until you’ve done it a few times.
So rehearse it. Say your new script out loud.
Stand in your rate.
And when that next consult comes in, show up with the clarity you’ve worked for.
If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to start, come join us inside Strong Roots Mentorship. We take you step by step from ground zero to seeing patients and beyond, without the overwhelm.