My main concern is having an income while doing this. Doing OM part time in addition to dental hygiene, what kind of income is reasonable? I know there are many variables but I can’t find any info about that online.
On our website page below, we have a page for RDHs about why they have entered this specialty area: https://orofacialmyology.com/myo-media/ I’ll also attach a letter from one RDH to another that was then sent to me. It will give you another RDHs point of view about this area. As far as getting into the business end of orofacial myology, we do get into this nearer the end of the course and discuss the “do’s and don’ts”, insurance issues, what to charge patients, where is the best place to practice, etc. But for now, here are some of my thoughts:
- You should keep your current job (or other job) while you develop your practice unless you go into it within the office of a DDS or orthodontist while working in that same office.
- If you want your own “business,” it takes time and work. Having an entrepreneur outlook helps!
- You’ll be practicing on as many patients/family members/neighbors/friends as you can. My course includes the Myo Manual treatment program, so you will be able to implement programs for individuals with many different symptoms.
- We’ll talk about how you can determine what is a reasonable fee for your particular area of the country.
- We can also discuss the possibility of working with a speech pathologist near you and advantages or disadvantages.
- Although the pay is likely to be more than you are currently making, don’t go into this for that reason. That is one big difference between being a true “therapist” and anything else in the world. I work hard to instill the concept of “therapist” in my grads because I am convinced that success is a combination of science (knowledge) and art (the human factor of therapy). Being a therapist is the most rewarding profession I can think of….you no longer have to “push” information into someone, but rather you have the pleasure of “drawing out” the best in each patient/client. In the end, you benefit as much or more. Helping them is like a gift you give yourself… and such has been my experience for every year since 1969…!!! But it sure keeps one young at heart.