Calculators built by behavioral-health operators for behavioral-health operators.
Two free tools we use with every consulting engagement — now yours to use, share, and cite. No email required.
Free calculators
Program Startup Cost Estimator
Rough capital + working-capital needs to open a new licensed behavioral-health program. Assumes lease (not purchase) of clinical space and mid-market wages.
How this is calculated
Startup capital = facility build-out + licensing/accreditation + per-slot capex + 4 months of pre-revenue operating costs + 6 months of working-capital reserve. State multiplier adjusts facility and licensing by regulator burden (CA/NY highest; NV lowest of the tracked states). Numbers reflect 2025-26 mid-market rates and are illustrative — actual capital needs vary ±30% based on payer mix, real-estate market, and staffing model.
Staffing FTE Calculator
Minimum clinical + support staffing to safely run your program. Based on national medians; payer contracts, state ratios, or accreditor requirements may push these higher.
| Role | FTE | Bodies (assume 1.15 coverage) |
|---|---|---|
| Clinicians (LCSW / LPC / LMFT) | 3.0 | 4 |
| Prescriber (MD / DO / PMHNP) | 0.3 | 1 |
| Tech / BHT / RN coverage | 1.0 | 2 |
| Clinical Supervisor | 0.5 | 1 |
| Admin / Intake / Billing | 1.0 | 2 |
| Case Manager / UR | 0.8 | 1 |
How this is calculated
FTE ratios based on 2024-2026 industry medians across accredited programs, adjusted for direct-care coverage requirements (24/7 for RTC/Detox). "Bodies" applies a 1.15 coverage multiplier to absorb PTO, sick time, and open shifts. This is a floor, not a ceiling — your state licensure ratios or Joint Commission / CARF standards may require more.