Ep 166: Marketing a New Private Practice: How to Get Your First Therapy Clients

Private Practice Marketing and Authentic Consults for New Therapy BusinessesThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you find (and keep) your ideal clients as you’re building a private therapy practice. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by how to market your new practice, wishing for more client inquiries, or feeling unsure about how to turn those elusive “intro calls” into actual bookings, you’re in the right place.As a therapist, mom, and someone who’s been where you are—juggling spreadsheets one minute and wiping noses the next—I know how tough it can feel to connect with your community and grow your practice on your own terms. I also know that it’s those small, intentional shifts that can open up a new path for both your business and your own peace of mind. Let’s dig into some real, relatable strategy—because you deserve actionable support, not more pressure.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to increase your referrals without losing your sense of self (or your sanity), this episode will guide you through authentic, practical steps for marketing, networking, and building genuine connection with clients—even during those 15-minute intro calls.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeTargeted Networking for Therapists: How to get out of the “just drop off a flyer” rut and start building referral relationships that actually work.Designing Your Marketing Plan on a Budget: How to use grassroots approaches and creative community connections to get noticed—without breaking the bank.Converting Consult Calls Authentically: Scripted, practical tips for running a consult call that feels good—not salesy—while helping both you and the client feel confident moving forward.Episode Timestamps00:02: Introducing authentic conversations about marketing and the real-life juggle between private practice and motherhood.00:48: Kendall Burnett shares her vision for a perinatal and infant mental health practice—and the challenges of attracting ideal clients at the start.09:28: The marketing steps that work: networking, building relationships with providers, and why community presence matters more than polished flyers.16:17: Brainstorming community and provider connections—think OBs, pediatricians, hairdressers, cafes, and building true relationships.25:32: Creating tangible takeaways like tip sheets for providers—a small effort that resonates with both colleagues and potential clients.43:29: Demystifying the 15-minute consult: How Ashley Comegys structures her calls, why setting boundaries matters, and finding your own flow.Top Takeaways on Private Practice Marketing and Intro Call Strategy1. Stop Relying on Flyers—Build Real RelationshipsLet’s break this down: Networking is so much more than just handing out business cards or dropping flyers in waiting rooms. As I shared with Kendall Burnett at 13:55, real connection happens when you reach out for a “coffee chat” or offer value—think mini resource sheets tailored to a provider’s clients. Clinicians are far more likely to trust and refer to someone they’ve actually spoken to.Example: Instead of sending a cold email, use the templates from the Comprehensive Connecting Networking Scripts Guide to start a real conversation—then follow up, so your name is top of mind when referrals come in.2. Use Creative, Low-Cost Marketing—Then Optimize Your Online PresenceHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: Identify three referral sources in each category: medical, mental health, and community (like cafes, hairdressers, or play centers).Step 2: Develop a one-page, visually appealing “tip sheet” or resource tailored for new parents, including your contact info and a QR code, as discussed at 25:55.Step 3 (Pro Tip): Make sure you have at least a basic web presence—even a simple EHR website—and register your site with Google Console to ensure clients can find you online (36:09).3. Run Consults with Confidence and CompassionWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the stress. Here’s what NOT to do when hosting your first calls:Mistake 1: Letting the call turn into a free therapy session—set the expectation upfront that it’s a brief, get-to-know-you chat.Mistake 2: Talking only about your credentials—instead, focus on the client’s needs and what change looks like for them.Mistake 3: Neglecting your own comfort—choose a consult format (phone or video) that lets you show up as your comfortable, authentic self (47:13 can help).If you’ve ever worried you “should” already know how to fill your caseload or convert that consult to a client, just know: You are enough. You’re building something meaningful, and it’s okay for growth to feel messy. Give yourself permission to try, adapt, and reach out for support—you’re not alone.For more strategies and honest stories from the front lines of therapy and motherhood, make sure you’re subscribed and check out the resources above. Let’s keep creating real change, one relationship—and one brave step—at a time.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.