Ep 162: Online vs In-Person Private Practice: How to Decide When Starting Out

Building an Online Private Practice: Why It’s the Smartest First Step for Moms and Women TherapistsThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you confidently start, grow, and thrive in your online private practice—especially if you’re a mom or woman therapist craving more freedom and flexibility. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by all the decisions in starting your practice, worried about the finances of setting up a physical office, or unsure if online therapy is really a legitimate and effective option, you’re in the right place.As someone who’s been building both in-person and online practices since 2015—while moving across the country, raising kids, and juggling all the military spouse transitions—I can tell you firsthand: sometimes, it’s those small, thoughtful shifts (like choosing to start online) that change the entire course of your career and family life. We’re getting honest about the realities, the doubts, the numbers, and the possibilities—no fluff, just practical wisdom and encouragement.In this episode, I share my story, debunk the biggest myths about online practice, and give you permission (and a plan!) to do things on your terms.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Starting Online Makes Sense: Clear, benefit-focused reasons why an online practice is the best choice for flexibility, family, and finances—especially if you’re a mom or military spouse.Overcoming Doubts and Limiting Beliefs: How to let go of guilt, fear, or old-school ideas about needing a physical office to be credible or successful.Practical Steps & Cost Comparisons: Exactly what you’ll need to build your online practice—with a breakdown of startup costs and actionable first moves.Episode Timestamps00:00: Laying out the realities of building private practice as a mom, and why honest strategy matters.00:56: The pivotal decision: online vs. in-person practice and personal reflections on choosing online.01:54: My early days starting out—moving to Maui, job scarcity, and the unexpected journey into online therapy.03:40: Creative solutions for office space and the financial challenges new practitioners face.07:59: The shift: how the pandemic normalized and transformed telehealth for both therapists and clients.10:42: Busting myths: why a brick-and-mortar office isn’t necessary for credibility or a full caseload.15:32: Stories of client resistance (and ultimate acceptance) of online therapy.17:09: The real costs of in-person vs. online practice—how to start for under $500.19:09: Freedom, flexibility, and the real-life benefits of running an online practice as a mom.20:09: Facing (and overcoming) fears, doubts, and perfectionism on the path to practice ownership.Top Takeaways on Building an Online Private PracticeOnline Practice: Freedom without the OverheadLet’s break this down: You don’t need an expensive physical space to provide amazing care or to be taken seriously. Starting online means drastically lower startup costs, no monthly rent draining your bank account before your caseload builds, and—most of all—the ability to fit your work around your family, not the other way around. I started seeing clients from home, often with my laptop propped on a stack of books, and it worked. My clients found comfort and connection, and I found sustainability [see 06:16].Online Therapy Is Just as Effective (and Often Preferred!)Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: Reframe your thinking—clients are now seeking out online therapy for the convenience and privacy it offers [see 13:07].Step 2: Share clear information on your website that you offer online sessions, and normalize this option in initial consults.Step 3 (Pro tip): If a client is unsure, offer to try a few sessions online; most find it fits beautifully into their lives and don’t look back.Don’t Fall into the Common TrapsWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:Mistake 1: Thinking you need a fancy home office setup or expensive tech. A clean background and good lighting are enough to start.Mistake 2: Believing your credibility depends on a physical office. Clients are looking for connection—not your zip code or waiting room décor.Mistake 3: Waiting until you “feel ready.” Every successful private practice owner started before they felt fully prepared ([see 21:15]—you’ll learn as you go!).Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking💻 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period⭐️ Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower⭐️ Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE⭐️ Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.comYou don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here🎧 If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.