10 Simple Ways to Make Your Private Practice More Environmentally Sustainable

You started your private practice because you care deeply about people. You help clients work through trauma, anxiety, depression, and life’s curveballs. But what if your practice could also support the health of the planet?

Mental health and environmental health are more connected than we often realize. As therapists and wellness professionals, we’re uniquely positioned to lead by example—supporting sustainable change in both our workspaces and our wider communities. The good news? Becoming a more environmentally conscious practice doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Small steps add up.

Whether you're a solo clinician or run a group practice, here are 10 practical, low-stress ways to green your practice—plus a look at how climate change and mental health are deeply intertwined.

Why Sustainability Matters in Private Practice

Let’s start with the big picture. Climate change isn’t just about rising sea levels or hotter summers. It’s a mental health issue, too.

Environmental stressors—like extreme weather, displacement, and climate-related anxiety—can lead to increases in anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma-related symptoms. These impacts show up in therapy rooms every day, even if they’re not labeled as "climate issues." For younger clients especially, climate anxiety is a growing concern.

By choosing to run a more sustainable practice, you’re not only reducing your carbon footprint—you’re modeling alignment between values and actions. You’re also sending a quiet but powerful message to clients: we care about the whole picture.

1. Go (or Stay) Paperless

If you’re using EHRs like Sessions Health, you’re already on the right track. Digital intake forms, online billing, and secure messaging all help cut back on paper use. Not only is this better for the environment, it also streamlines your workflow and keeps your office clutter-free.

Bonus Tip: If you must print, opt for recycled paper and set your printer to double-sided as a default.

2. Offer Telehealth (Even Part-Time)

Teletherapy isn’t just convenient—it also reduces emissions from commuting. Even one day a week of virtual sessions can help cut down on fuel usage and traffic congestion. Plus, many clients appreciate the flexibility.

3. Use Energy-Efficient Lighting and Power Settings

Swap out incandescent bulbs for LEDs, and use power strips that you can turn off at the end of the day. Adjust your computer and office equipment to energy-saving settings. It’s a quick, low-cost switch with long-term savings.

4. Decorate Sustainably

Furnishing your office? Look for secondhand pieces or sustainable brands. Plants, vintage rugs, and repurposed bookshelves not only look great but also reduce demand for new manufacturing. Plus, plants can help clean the air and boost your mood—bonus!

5. Switch to Green Office Supplies

From recycled notebooks to refillable pens, there are plenty of eco-friendly office supply options. Even your tissue boxes can be sustainable if you choose brands that use recycled materials or avoid plastic wrapping.

6. Support Eco-Friendly Vendors

Consider where your business dollars go. Use green cleaning products (or hire eco-conscious cleaning services), and check whether your bank or payment processors invest in sustainable practices. You might be surprised by the impact your choices have.

7. Reduce Single-Use Plastics

If you offer water or tea to clients, use washable mugs or compostable cups instead of plastic bottles. Encourage clients to bring their own water bottles, or simply provide filtered water from the tap.

8. Offset Your Carbon Footprint

If you do a lot of commuting, speaking events, or even run a larger group practice, consider investing in carbon offsets through reputable organizations. It’s not a perfect solution, but it’s a meaningful step toward accountability.

9. Talk About It (Gently)

No need to be preachy—but a small sign in your waiting room or a line on your website can let clients know that your practice is eco-conscious. This can be comforting to clients who also care about sustainability and social responsibility.

10. Start Where You Are

The truth is, most of us aren’t doing everything perfectly. And that’s okay. Being a greener therapist isn’t about guilt or perfection—it’s about progress. Choose one or two changes to start with, and build from there. Sustainability is a practice, just like mental health.

Final Thoughts: Caring for People and the Planet

Making your private practice more environmentally sustainable doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort, efficiency, or professionalism. In fact, many of these changes can improve your client experience while aligning your business with your values.

As mental health professionals, we know that everything is connected. By caring for the planet, we’re also caring for the people who live on it.

Want support building a sustainable, values-driven private practice?
I help therapists create practices that are ethical, efficient, and aligned with what matters most to them. Book a consultation and let’s talk about your goals—green or otherwise.