The Grow Your Private Practice Show

How you handle that first contact over the phone is important and is the difference between having a new client appointment in your diary or not. So in this episode, I share some really effective but simple tips to be sure that if you are a good fit for them, they make that appointment.  Here's what you'll learn in this episode:The reality of phone enquiriesThe importance of mindsetHow to increase your confidenceHow to take gentle control of the callSetting expectationsBooking at days/times that are convenient for youHow to refer the client on without them feeling rejectedAnd if you want to feel more confident on these calls, grab the FREE cheatsheet to have by your side

What do clients need when they land on a therapist's website? Well in this Highlights Reel I interview the fabulous Sarah Gershone from strong roots web design and we talk all about this.Sarah Gershone works specifically with counsellors to make beautiful, functional websites. And in this episode, we’ll be busting 5 myths about websites that could be holding you back, namely.People will read my siteIf you build it they will comeA free site will be just fineThe most important thing is to look goodMy website is finishedLinks to follow:Strong Roots DesignDiscover the secrets to a successful website, free video minicourseConnect with Sarah on LinkedIn 

The Grow Your Private Practice Show has been going now for over a year which means it has become a great resource for counsellors and therapists. There have been episodes on so many things, from mindset, social media, organisation, websites, blogging, directories, niching and self-care. And some truly amazing guests too, sharing their knowledge and expertise so it’s worth taking a look over past episodes to see if there’s anything there that will help you.Here’s one of the most popular episodes we had, so I’m sharing it again in case you missed it. In this episode, Fifi Mason, who works with introverted entrepreneurs to be more visible in their business, came to share lots of tips and ideas on how to make the most of your skills as an introvert. We looked atWhat is the definition of an introvert?The difference between shyness and introversion, and why it’s important to knowWhat business challenges do introverts face?How Fifi manages her energyThe challenges of authenticityTips for introverted business ownersHow to reduce overwhelmHow can we overcome these challengesIntrovert superpowersWhy Fifi has blue hair

How are you? I hope you are doing well and looking after yourself, because looking after yourself is often something that we talk about and encourage clients to do - but we’re not so good at doing it ourselves. If that sounds familiar, then you’re going to love this episode as I have a very special guest with me.  Howard Baumgarten is a Counselor with his own practice in Lakewood, Colorado who has vast experience of helping counsellors both grow their practice and take better care of themselves. He’s an author - he wrote Private Practice Essentials A podcaster - check out Psych Biz where he produces shows with friend of the show Sarah Gershone who makes websites for therapists. And he’s a public speaker and wellness trainer too, Covering topics such as Compassion Fatigue, Burnout Prevention, Resilience, Stress Management, and Conflict Resolution.So he wears a lot of different hats. And today we look at stress, compassion fatigue and burnout - what they are, what’s the difference, how to tell if you’re suffering and what you can do to help yourself. And this is such an important topic for everyone, but especially those in the helping professions. I think you’re going to like thisIn this episode we explore:What is the difference between compassion fatigue and burnoutYour relationship with stressWhat are the signs to watch out forWhat you can do to protect yourselfLinks to followEpisode 36: How being a people pleaser can affect your private practice - and what to do about itEpisode 32: 5 Easy ways to give back to charity (without reducing your fees or working for free) with Sophia GiblinEpisode 22: It's time to take your own adviceEpisode 10: 5 commonly held website myths that could be holding you back with Sarah GershoneAbout Howard Baumgarten Howard Baumgarten is a Licensed Professional Counsellor, author, consultant, speaker, wellness and small business-training expert, and owner of a mental health private practice in Lakewood, Colorado.He is the founder of Smart Practice Central, a healthcare business-building platform that values intelligent, ethical, and clinically minded practice development, and provides clinical practice business consultation and training to private practices and healthcare agencies. Howard has lectured throughout the US on the integration of mental health, wellness and business, focusing on practice development, working within managed care systems, the impacts of the Affordable Care Act on mental health care, and work/life balance. He is the author of Private Practice Essentials published in 2017. In 2003, he developed and implemented the first practice building business curriculum in a graduate level-counseling program in the country at the University of Colorado, where he taught this curriculum for twelve years.  Howard routinely consults and trains businesses and organizations across a variety of industries in work/life wellness, including managing stress, building resilience, creating balance, burnout prevention, teamwork, conflict resolution and other topics. He has been quoted for his work with physicians and healthcare professionals around burnout prevention in Medical Economics Journal.  He is the former Director of Network Relations for Westside Behavioral Care, Inc., a clinical group practice he helped build into one of Colorado’s largest outpatient behavioural health practices.  Howard’s work has led him toward a passion for researching and understanding compassion and human resilience, thus creating his practice model of “Integrative Resilience Theory,” an approach to change and growth in which cultivating compassion is a key component. When not counselling, lecturing, teaching, researching, writing, presenting or consulting, you can find Howard hiking on a mountain top, skiing downhill, running on a trail, travelling, and spending time with his friends and family! Listen to his podcast Psych Biz where he produces shows with friend of the show Sarah Gershone who makes websites for therapists. Connect with Howard on LinkedIn HERE 

Did you ever have someone refer to counselling as a ‘chat over a cup of tea’, or ‘just listening to people moaning on’, or even suggesting that you just say ‘how does that make you feel’ over and over’. Frustrating, isn’t it. But the problem is, these messages discount the training and skills required to be a therapist and if we keep hearing them, they can have an effect. So how can you rise above these dismissive comments? Take a listen and I’ll share 3 things you can do to make a change.In this episode I explore:The mixed messages we receiveThe importance of self-care3 things to try to make changeThe importance of peer support

If you hate wasting time - and I bet you do! - then you’re going to love this podcast as I share the most simple yet highly effective way to achieve more in less time.  Because you’re busy, I totally get that. However, if you want to attract more therapy clients, you have to do some marketing activities. But look, it doesn’t have to take hours and hours. In fact, I see many counsellors taking far too long, possibly overthinking and then getting disillusioned by the whole thing. So in this episode, I share with you one of the most simple yet highly effective productivity hacks I know that will help you do far more in less time. I literally use it all the time.Sounds too good to be true? All I can say is give it a go and let me know how you get on. In this episode I share:What is Parkinson’s law and how it affects youWhy counsellors tend to overthinkHow clear goals will save you timeWhy the simple act of setting time boundaries work like magicSo I hope you enjoy my magical way to get more done in less time. 

If you’re a counsellor in private practice, chances are you’ve wrangled with some money issues in your time. And the truth is, this isn’t something you can work on and get rid of because they keep appearing in different ways and under different circumstances.There is no denying it, issues around money mindset issues can hold you back - in more ways than may first appear. So in this episode, I have the fabulous Cathy Towers here for a chat. Cathy is a counsellor and psychotherapist, a speaker and workshop facilitator, a DJ and improv leader - so she wears many hats, But the hat she’s wearing today is that of a money mentor because Cathy has been working with counsellors on this topic for years. So take a listen as we explore the deeper and more complex impact money issues can have both on ourselves, our clients, and our business. In this episode we explore:The traps we can fall into around money and charging clientsThe importance of valuing ourselvesThe impact of free on the counselling relationshipThe hidden costs of being in private practiceAbout Cathy TowersCathy has been running workshops on Your Relationship with Money and Charging for Time for ten years.  She speaks at the BACP regularly and offers consultation on money issues.She also jointly runs workshops on Business Therapy, dealing with the challenges, struggles, and sticky issues for private practice creatively by "putting your relationship with your business on the couch".  After many years of hiding her light, she is now a fierce voice for confidence and communication, with a radio show on Phonic FM called Speaking Out.Connect with Cathy on LinkedIn - just search Cathy TowersCathy's resources:Blog 'That debate about free sessions'Calculator for therapists Jane's blog ‘Should you offer counselling clients a free first session?'Links to followEpisode 36: How being a people pleaser can affect your private practice - and what to do about itEpisode 33: What to do if your client didn’t show up for their second therapy sessionEpisode 32: 5 Easy ways to give back to charity (without reducing your fees or working for free) with Sophia GiblinEpisode 31: Increasing prices the pain-free wayEpisode 23: How to avoid the feast and famine cycle in your private practice

If you want to greatly increase your chances of success in private practice then this podcast episode is the one for you.Because  I share with you my top 10 keys that will lay the foundations for a successful business that works for you and your clients. In this podcast episode we explore the importance of:Starting before you're readyWhy action is the antidote to fearManaging failure Understanding your self sabotageMoney mindsetHow there's always going to be something new to learnThe benefits of having a nicheNetworkingHow you are absolutely good enoughYour business, your rulesSo, if you're waiting for everything to be perfect or feeling scared about telling a group of people what it is you do then sit back and take note.  This podcast will show you that you have it within you to grow a successful business on your terms.Links to followEpisode 53: Why having a niche is essential in 2021Episode 7: Using introvert superpowers to attract more clients, with Fifi Mason

Having a niche is important when you are a counsellor or therapist because it has a positive impact on you, your income and your clients outcomes - including whether they even contact a counsellor in the first place.  It’s a topic I have a lot of experience in and I’ve seen just how beneficial it can be.  and something that affects not just us as business owners, but also our clients.But I know and understand the reasons why we might be fearful of niching down, namely:You worry you will push potential clients away, or End up doing the same type of work over and over againIf you feel like that, well you certainly aren’t alone. But those fears are unfounded and in this episode, I explain why the absolute opposite is true. Come and join me in this podcast episode as we explore:Why in the modern age, niching is essential to get noticedHow to stop the scattergun effect of trying to attract everyoneWhy a targeted approach will attract more potential clientsHow having a niche won’t limit the issues that you work withHow niching helps potential clients take that step into getting the help they needLinks to followRefresh Challenge

Starting in private practice can be expensive, but it really doesn’t have to be. In fact, the good news is there are many, many ways to start your private practice branding on a budget. I ‘bootstrapped’ my business, and so did Laura Pearman, todays guest expert. And in this podcast we look at how to get started without spending a fortune.Laura is a brand strategist and international photographer and she knows a thing or two about how to stand out in the crowd in a busy market, and she shares some absolute gems that I know you’re going to love. AND Laura has offered listeners a very special opportunity to work with her at a 50% reduction, so to take advantage of that very generous offer, the link is belowIn this episode we explore:Why you shouldn’t spend a lot on when you’re starting outHow to make the most professionals services when the time is rightStarting with a MVP (Minimum Viable Product)The importance of a good headshotTop tips for taking a stand out selfieHow to share personal photos on instagram if you don’t like being on cameraHow to choose the right photographer for youAnd as an extra special treat, Laura has exclusively offered you a great opportunity that might interest you.  About Laura PearmanLaura is a brand strategist and international photographer. She lives in Tyne & Wear with The Viking and Suki the Cat, and lives her life as a modern-day vintage pinup.She helps ambitious business owners turn up the volume on their businesses withbrand strategy, creative direction and brand photography.And she is also a passionate feminist.She is the host of #MwahTV on YouTubeAnd you can watch her episode ‘How Much Money Should You Spend on Your Brand? Why You Should NEVER Spend Big on Your First Brand’ HERE Connect with her on Instagram Check out her website at  www.laurapearman.comTo apply & find out more about her special Branding Offer of 50% off, click here

Do you ever feel that you need a certificate for every counselling subject that comes up and that if you don't, you are somehow failing as a counsellor or letting your clients down?If so, take a listen because in this podcast I explore the continuous pull for CPD training.I'll be looking at:How the drive to continuously take CPD has been affected during lockdownWhy it could be problematicHow it can impact on Imposter SyndromeWhat you can do insteadSo if you’re spending every waking minute learning, and are starting to feel confused and overwhelmed then take a listen. (And remember, in the Grow Your Private Practice membership, all the training includes a CPD certificate))Links to follow:Episode 16: How to silence your inner criticEpisode 19: How to use CPD for personal, professional and business growth, with guest John WilsonBlog: Shall I get another qualification before starting in private practice?

Can you get therapy clients from social media? It’s a great question and one I see a lot.So today I’m taking a deep dive into this to talk about how social media helps you attract more counselling clients. I’ll be looking at:The clients journey into therapyThe role social media playsHow you can increase the chances of standing out and connecting with the readerIf you struggle with using social media to attract more clients, then I’ve got your back. In the Grow Your Private Practice membership, you’ll find the Social Media Made Simple course to walk you through the whole thing, as well as lots of resources to make the whole process more straightforward.Just click the button below to find out more and join. Links to follow:The Refresh 5-Day ChallengeEpisode 2: The clients journey into therapyEpisode 8: What is social media engagement, and why you need to know

This week's podcast comes from a question that one of my listeners sent to me:“Being a younger, newer therapist in private practice, I often worry how my clients will perceive my age and expertise. I have had a few clients switch to older counsellors, though some genuinely like having a younger counsellor who can relate.”It raises the question of what’s the most important thing to consider when working with a client.  For me it’s all about connection, having a solid therapeutic relationship.But what if you are very different from your client, how can you make that connection so as not to alienate them? Is it important to be similar in some shape or form as your client, perhaps in age, sex, background, and does it matter?Should you consider your niche to take advantage of your personal attributes, interests and qualities?There could be a simple answer and it could be waiting for inside this podcast.   In this episode we explore:The importance of having a strong therapeutic relationship with clients Why someone might not connect with youHow to use anything about you to your advantage in private practice to help your clientsLinks to followEpisode 3: Drop the psychobabble, get more clients

In this week's podcast episode I had the pleasure of talking to Yasmin Shaheen Zaffar, from Redkite Therapy.  Yasmin has a unique approach when it comes to using her creative skills and business mind to help her clients and promote her business brand. Learn how Yasmin actively seeks out different channels to raise awareness around the therapy she offers and her business as she strives to take therapy and therapy language and make it more consumer-friendly.In this episode we explore:Overcoming adversityThe Angry TentCreativityLet’s Shop Shouting day 6th November 2021How to get into the pressCrowdfundingYasmin is a super hard-working woman who will no doubt inspire you during this podcast.  A valuable listen that will give you new ideas to try in your own business.About YasminYasmin is an integrative counsellor in private practice. She is the regional Leeds ambassador for The Creative Counsellors Club and is passionate about creative counselling.She has developed a number of therapy tools including The Angry Tent, The Anxiety Tent, The R.U.D Process, The Empty Chair Cards and online programs including Lets Stop Shouting and SHED Stress. She is also the founder of Lets Stop Shouting Awareness day which happens on Saturday November 6th 2021.She has a free Facebook group called ‘My CC Toolkit’ and shares tips on working safely online and weekly online creative interventions.Links to follow:To join Yasmins Facebook group, download free resources and find online games please go to the following link https://watotoplay.com/janetravis/Follow #journorequests for PR opportunitiesSupport National Let’s Stop Shouting Day using #letsstopshouting21

Do you ever have those days when one minute, you feel like you can take on the world and accomplish almost anything and then the next, you have about as much energy and enthusiasm as a grumpy teenager? These changes in our mood and energy directly impact our productivity at home, at work, and in life in general and usually result in us rating our day as good or bad.But what if I suggested that you change that language and instead of labelling your day’s productivity as good or bad that you refer to it as ebb and flow?A GYPP member kindly contacted me to suggest the topic of this week’s podcast, How to Stay Productive, Even on Low Energy Days.  She commented, “you once sent me a blog about ebb and flow energy, and it’s been invaluable to me at times when my motivation has been low and my imposter syndrome high”.Naomi Dunford wrote this particular blog from ittybiz in 2017, and in it, she takes a behind-the-scenes look at why bad days happen.  She highlights the importance of recognising your energy levels so that you can achieve realistic tasks during both these cycles to make the most of your day.In this podcast, I share practical tips that I have found beneficial to make the most of my ebb and flow that I hope will be invaluable to you too.We can’t meet every day with the same amount of energy, but trust that you will get things done and do what works for you.Links to follow:Naomi’s original blog ‘How To Stay Amazingly Productive On Low Energy Days’ Episode 12: Your business, your rules.

It’s my 4th anniversary, and this week I reflect on my business journey and the many lessons I’ve learned.  And - spoiler alert - they are probably things you’ve struggled with too. So take a listen and learn from my mistakes.In this episode we explore:The benefits of bootstrappingMaking good business investmentsEmbracing changeBoundaries, burnout and letting go of responsibilityBeing bullied by imposter syndromeLinks to followEpisode 39: What should I name my therapy business?Episode 12: Your business, your rulesEpisode 24: Managing your diary with time blockingTherapy Rebrand