Therapists are experts at helping others but when it comes to managing the demands of work, finances, and life, it can feel like we’re always behind. Whether you’re working in schools, private practice, or early intervention, the reality is often the same: billing takes forever, reimbursement is unpredictable, caseloads go up while pay stays flat, cost of living and loan payments don’t go away, the list goes on. If you’re looking for more financial freedom or creative outlets, a side hustle could be the perfect next step. Below are 5 realistic ideas for pediatric therapists that can bring in extra income without burning you out. You can download a list of 25 Side Hustles for Therapists at the bottom of this post.
Private Therapy Services (Cash-Based)
Seeing private clients outside of insurance can offer more flexibility, better rates, and less paperwork.
- Offer services in person or virtually.
- Set your own rates and hours.
- Use sliding scale options to stay accessible.
- List your services on Whole Child Guide to help families find you.
Need help with promotion? Read: How to Market a Private Therapy Practice
Parent Coaching
You don’t need a clinical diagnosis or treatment plan to support families. This side hustle of parent coaching is especially effective for therapists with strong communication skills and a desire to empower caregivers. Parent coaching allows you to use your knowledge in a consultative, non-clinical way.
- Offer 30–60 minute Zoom sessions.
- Support families with routines, behavior, motor skills, and more.
- Package services in 4- or 6-week series to increase value.
Online Courses
If you find yourself repeating the same advice to clients or teachers, it might be time to turn that knowledge into a course. You can start small—just 3–5 lessons—and build from there.
- Use platforms like Teachable or Thinkific.
- Courses can target parents, educators, or even other therapists.
- Offer bite-sized modules that are easy to complete on demand.
Digital Product Creation
Digital downloads are a popular way to earn passive income while supporting others in your field. Start with one product and grow your catalog over time.
- Design printables, visuals, checklists, activity cards, or lesson plans.
- Sell them on Teachers Pay Teachers, Etsy, Your Therapy Source, The OT Toolbox, or your own site.
- Repurpose your existing materials from sessions or in-services.
Virtual Workshops
Host a live Zoom workshop for parents, teachers, or professionals. Workshops build credibility, grow your audience, and can lead to ongoing clients or course sales.
- Choose a focused topic like sensory-friendly routines, regulation strategies, or developmental milestones.
- Promote it through your website or social media.
- Charge a registration fee and offer a replay option.
Want 20 More Side Hustles for Therapists?
This is just the beginning! Download your free printable for:
✅ 25 Side Hustles for Therapists
✅ Organized by difficulty level
✅ Designed for OTs, PTs, speech therapists, and counselors
✅ Includes income ideas you may not have considered
