Ask any seasoned chiropractor about their early career, and you’ll likely hear the same thing:
“I wouldn’t be where I am without a mentor.”
Mentorship can accelerate your clinical confidence, help you avoid burnout, and open doors you didn’t even know existed. But here’s the catch:
Most students and new grads don’t know how to ask for mentorship. They worry about being a burden, saying the wrong thing, or coming off as unprofessional.
The truth is, most experienced chiropractors want to help. They just need to be approached the right way, with respect, clarity, and consideration for their time.
Here’s a guide to doing exactly that.
Where to Find a Chiropractic Mentor
You don’t need to rely on luck or formal school programs to find a great mentor. Most meaningful mentorships start organically, through shared interests, conversations, or mutual connections.
Great Places to Look:
- Seminars and CE Workshops
- Strike up a conversation after a session. Ask thoughtful questions and follow up later via email or social media.
- Chiropractic Facebook and LinkedIn Groups
- Join specialty groups (e.g. pediatric, sports, technique-specific) and participate regularly. Many mentors quietly observe and engage with thoughtful members.
- Alumni Networks and School Events
- Reach out to recent grads or seasoned alumni. Many enjoy giving back and are happy to support students from their own program.
- Clinics You Admire
- Don’t be afraid to reach out to chiropractors you look up to, even if you don’t know them personally. A sincere message can go a long way.
<Callout type="info" title="Tip"> Don’t limit yourself to local mentors. Virtual mentorship (via Zoom, email, or phone) can be just as powerful. </Callout>
How to Reach Out Without Making It Awkward
The most important rule? Keep it short and specific.
Most chiropractors are busy. But if you approach them with respect and a clear ask, many will be flattered, and happy to help.
What to Include in Your Message:
- Who you are
- Include your name, school, or current role.
- Why you’re reaching out to them specifically
- Mention something you admire, their clinic model, social media content, or something they said in a seminar. Be sincere and specific.
- What you're hoping to learn
- Don’t ask them to "be your mentor" right away. Instead, request a 15–20 minute conversation.
Sample Message Template:
Hi Dr. ____,
My name is [Your Name], and I’m currently a [student/new grad] at [school] with a strong interest in [area of interest]. I’ve been following your clinic for a while, and I really admire how you [specific thing they do well].
I was wondering if you’d be open to a short 15-minute call sometime in the next couple of weeks. I’d love to hear more about your journey and get your perspective on building a successful practice.
Thanks so much, and I completely understand if your schedule is tight.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
How to Keep the Mentorship Going
If the conversation goes well, great, but don’t immediately ask for a formal mentorship commitment.
Instead, let the relationship develop naturally.
Ways to Build the Relationship:
- Send a thank-you email after your first chat
- Follow up periodically with updates or questions
- Share value — articles, case studies, or even help with a project
- Be mindful of their time — keep your asks clear and limited
Some mentorships last one or two calls. Others evolve into multi-year relationships. Either way, treat every interaction with professionalism and gratitude.
<Callout type="info" title="Pro Tip"> The best way to earn a mentor's investment is to show you apply their advice and grow from it. Follow-through is key. </Callout>
Final Thoughts
Mentorship isn’t about finding someone to give you all the answers, it’s about building a relationship with someone who helps you ask better questions.
If you’re serious about your chiropractic career, don’t wait for mentorship to find you.
Be proactive. Reach out. Be respectful. Follow through.
Most successful chiropractors were once in your shoes, and many would be glad to guide someone just like you.