Would you have walked away too?

I’d love to get feedback from other therapists about a job offer I recently walked away from because it raised a ton of red flags. Would you have done the same?

The position offered a $59K base salary but dangled “up to $16K in bonuses” tied to patient outcomes, documentation metrics (PHQ-9/GAD-7), and consistently hitting 30+ client-facing hours/week. Admin time was unpaid. You are scheduled 35 clients a week to try to meet this bonus incentive.

Here’s where it really concerned me: • They have a strict non-compete clause but wouldn’t let me read the full language before signing. Not sure how long it lasts after termination.

• I’m dual-licensed and currently see clients virtually in another state. When I asked if I could maintain that practice, I was told they’d “have to ask legal” but they also clearly stated I would need to transfer all of those clients over to their practice in December when I started, because they’re planning to expand into that region.

• I asked whether the bonus structure was fixed once hired or could change at the company’s discretion. They couldn’t give a clear written answer.

• Lastly, the employee contract included a clause stating you’re not allowed to talk or write about the company in a way that could deter others from working there. That felt like a non-disparagement clause aimed at silencing honest feedback, which causes me concern, and explains the mostly positive employee reviews.

The recruiter and clinic manager were personable, but the model felt exploitative. They said most therapists hit their bonuses easily because they’re scheduled 35+ sessions a week but that felt unsustainable, especially with no admin time pay. I am also wondering if every therapist hits the bonus, how come the company doesn’t raise the base salary?

I don’t believe in the idea of “stealing clients.” Clients have autonomy and aren’t property. Being asked to transfer people I’ve already built relationships with felt completely unethical.

Would you have walked away too? Would love to hear other’s thoughts!