What No One Tells Therapists About Starting a Practice

In this episode of Trauma, Tea, and Tangents, we sit down with therapist and business owner Kamber Peerboom, LICSW, to break down what it actually takes to start and grow a private practice. From the lack of business training in graduate programs to the fear of financial instability, we’re having an honest conversation about the barriers therapists face—and how to move through them with confidence. Whether you’re a new therapist or thinking about going out on your own, this episode gives you practical insights to help you build a sustainable, aligned practice without burning out. You can watch the full episode on YouTube or listen on any podcast platform. In this episode, we cover: Why therapists aren’t taught the business side of private practice Common fears about starting your own therapy business Financial considerations and how to prepare The truth about “gatekeeping” in the therapy industry How to diversify your income as a therapist Building a sustainable and profitable private practice Key Takeaways: Business skills are essential for long-term success in private practice Fear and uncertainty are common—but they don’t have to hold you back Diversifying your income can increase stability and prevent burnout You don’t need decades of experience to start your own practice About Our Guest: Kamber Peerboom is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (L.I.C.S.W.) and founder of Loud Thoughts Therapy. With a background in business (MBA) and a passion for helping therapists grow, she supports clinicians in building successful and sustainable practices. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Business Side of Therapy 04:32 Why Therapists Aren’t Taught Business Skills 08:15 Common Fears About Starting a Private Practice 12:40 Financial Planning & What to Expect 17:05 Breaking Through Industry Gatekeeping 21:30 Diversifying Income as a Therapist 25:10 Building a Sustainable Practice 28:45 Final Thoughts & Advice ✨ Want more of Kamber Peerboom? Find her here: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapistkamber?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnOd3oa7iVk-1EK0-iZRnurOLAuoaZgt_7cgrHsEKl5QYJePxA8cXmtfm8LSg_aem_FeadHYgbRm0mgVEvM3haYA Instagram: @meanoldersistertherapist ✨ Want to work with Hannah and the trauma therapy team at Revive Therapy Services? You’ve gotta be a PA resident—check us out at revivetherapyservices.com And don’t forget to follow along on TikTok & IG: @revivetherapyservices If this episode resonated with you, be sure to follow Trauma, Tea, and Tangents and share it with a fellow therapist or someone considering private practice.