Imagine this: You’ve built a thriving behavioral health practice—one that provides critical care and support to your community. You’ve invested years into building a dedicated team, establishing strong referral relationships, and fostering an environment of trust, healing, and compassion. Now, you may be starting to think about what’s next. Maybe you’re approaching retirement, ready to scale back your involvement, or considering a leadership role in a larger organization.
That’s where Evergreen M&A comes in. We specialize in helping behavioral health owners like you transition on your terms. Whether you're planning your exit or simply curious about what a sale could look like, this guide walks you through every step. From understanding your options to closing the deal, we’ll help you make a confident, informed decision—one that maximizes your value and protects your legacy.
Considering Selling Your Practice?
You probably have some important questions:
- Is now the right time to sell?
- What is my practice worth?
- Who are the right buyers for behavioral health clinics?
- Will I need to stay involved after the sale?
- How do I ensure a smooth transition for my team and clients?
We’re here to guide you through those decisions. At Evergreen M&A, we provide:
- Market Intelligence: We analyze current trends, deal structures, and buyer activity specific to behavioral health.
- Valuation Support: We review your financials and identify ways to enhance your value before going to market.
- Buyer Matchmaking: We connect you with serious buyers whose goals align with your care model and mission.
- Full-Service Deal Management: We handle everything—from negotiations and legal coordination to diligence and closing—so you can stay focused on your clinic.
Our Personalized Approach
Led by M&A expert Gary Behler, Evergreen M&A takes a values-driven approach to every engagement. We understand the behavioral health landscape and know how important it is to find a buyer who respects the clinical integrity of your work.
When you partner with us, you can expect:
- Transparent Communication: We keep you updated at every step and explain what’s happening and why.
- Behavioral Health Expertise: We’ve helped mental health and addiction treatment practices across the country achieve smooth, successful exits.
- Confidential Execution: We protect your privacy while moving quickly and efficiently.
- End-to-End Support: From your first valuation call to the post-sale transition, we’re with you all the way.
The Complete Guide to Selling Your Behavioral Health Practice
Step 1: Evaluate Your Options
This first step is all about clarity. You need to know where you stand and what the future could look like.
- Your Timeline: Whether you’re hoping to exit in a few months or plan to stay on for several years, we’ll help match your goals to the right structure.
- The Market: Demand for behavioral health services is strong, with many private equity-backed platforms and health systems actively acquiring. You may be surprised by the value of your practice—even if you’re not ready to step away just yet.
Why Sell Now?
- Strong Valuations: Multiples for behavioral health practices can range from 6x to 10x EBITDA or higher for larger, well-managed operations.
- Support for Growth: Many buyers bring marketing, recruitment, and operational resources that can alleviate your administrative load.
- Work-Life Balance: A sale can free you up to focus solely on clinical care—or to take more time for yourself.
- Financial Security: The right deal can provide liquidity now while opening the door to new career opportunities.
Interested in a valuation? Gary can provide a complimentary estimate. Email him at gary@evergreenforfounders.com or schedule a time here.
Step 2: Build Your All-Star Team
You don’t need to navigate this process alone. The right advisors make all the difference:
- M&A Advisor (like Evergreen M&A): We quarterback the entire sale—from strategy and outreach to deal structure and negotiation.
- M&A Attorney: Behavioral health sales involve unique regulatory and licensing issues. A lawyer who understands the space will protect your interests.
- Wealth Advisor: A financial planner can help you prepare for life post-sale with personalized tax and investment strategies.
Step 3: Prepare Your Practice for Peak Performance
We help position your business to shine for buyers.
- Financial Preparation: We help you assemble accurate, compelling financial statements, normalize earnings, and identify add-backs to boost EBITDA.
- Operational Readiness: We pinpoint areas to improve efficiency or clarify roles, improving your clinic’s appeal.
- Brand Presentation: We advise on upgrades to your website, materials, and facility to present a polished, professional image.
Step 4: Match You with the Ideal Buyer
The right buyer will carry your mission forward. We make sure they’re the right fit—culturally, operationally, and financially.
- Targeted Outreach: We don’t blast your listing. We introduce your practice to carefully vetted buyers who align with your goals.
- In-Depth Research: We evaluate each buyer’s reputation, integration style, and growth trajectory.
- Negotiation Guidance: We help you compare offers and negotiate for price, structure, and your future role.
- Holistic Evaluation: We look beyond just the purchase price to ensure long-term alignment and success.
With Evergreen M&A, you’ll be empowered to choose a buyer who supports your values—and who you’ll be proud to partner with.
Step 5: Seal the Deal with Confidence
Closing a sale involves many moving parts. We lead the way so nothing gets missed and everything moves forward smoothly.
- Offer Selection: We guide you and your attorney through reviewing final offers and making a confident decision.
- Due Diligence Management: We set up a secure data room, collect documents, and coordinate buyer access.
- Integration Planning: We work with you and the buyer to create a thoughtful transition for staff and patients.
- Post-Sale Support: We remain involved to ensure everything goes as planned—before, during, and after closing.
- Staff Communication: Once a Letter of Intent is signed, we help you prepare a clear, compassionate message to share with your team. We’ll also help facilitate buyer introductions and future planning conversations.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Selling your behavioral health clinic is a major decision—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support, it can be a deeply rewarding one.
We’re here to ensure a thoughtful, values-aligned sale that maximizes your return and honors your legacy.
Want to explore your options? Contact Gary at gary@evergreenforfounders.com or schedule your consultation here.
Why Evergreen M&A?