Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories

Starting a Private Practice is the podcast where we talk with therapists about the real, unglamorous decisions behind building a practice that works: who you say yes to, who you refer out, what you charge, and what you do when the thing you built stops feeling good.This episode is about a measure of success that almost never makes the list. Not caseload, not income, not a new program; whether the clients in front of you right now are actually getting better. Diana came into private practice from county mental health, where you take the next person on the list, and she kept doing exactly that. Clients ghosted, canceled, dropped out without closure, and she concluded she was a bad therapist. What changed was not a marketing overhaul. It was screening in her consult calls, asking clients every couple of months whether therapy was working, and getting honest about the two things she does best. Kelly Higdon hosts.What You'll Hear00:00 Introduction and topic overview 02:38 Finding the Right Client Fit 07:17 Consultations and Outcomes Check-Ins 09:03 Learning from Client Feedback 15:09 Defining Clinical Success 15:44 Working Through Imposter Syndrome 18:48 Finding Your Niche and CommunityAbout DianaDiana is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Menifee, California, working with anxiety disorders and complex trauma. She is an EMDRIA Certified Therapist and trained in Internal Family Systems, and she sees clients in the Menifee, Lake Elsinore, Riverside, and Temecula areas as well as across California by telehealth. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from California State University, Fullerton and her master's in counseling with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy from Pepperdine University. Before private practice she worked in a private hospital and then for the county, where she built the clinical range (and the billing and documentation habits) she still runs on. She offers a free fifteen-minute phone consultation.Website: https://www.dianakoenenlmfttherapistmenifee.com/ Book a consult: https://www.dianakoenenlmfttherapistmenifee.com/contact LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-koenen-80642836/ EMDRIA listing: https://www.emdria.org/directory/people/diana-koenen/Resources MentionedEMDR International Association (EMDRIA): https://www.emdria.org/ IFS Institute, Internal Family Systems trainings: https://ifs-institute.com/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EREvVypKgxo Read the blog post: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog/taking-every-client-private-practice zynnyme free trainings, books, and Business School for Therapists: https://www.zynnyme.com/Want the Kind of Support Kelly and Diana Talk About?Business School for Therapists is our flagship program for therapists ready to build a practice that supports the life they actually want. It is a blend of live coaching and self-paced curriculum, plus a community of clinicians who normalize niching, real fees, and clinical depth. Twenty years in, it is the work we wish someone had handed us when we were spending our own weekends figuring this out. Learn more: zynnyme.comListen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7K8TQ13vJL4L3IvtWLLXV3Stay Connected Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942 Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Afraid your private practice will not survive AI, insurance platforms, or another slow month? You are not the only therapist carrying that, and pretending it away is not working.We asked our community what they are afraid to say out loud. The answers were honest, sometimes heartbreaking, and they pointed at something bigger than any one caseload: fear does not go away because your schedule fills. In this conversation, Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer talk about what to actually do with fear as a practice owner; how to tell inherited fear from the real thing, why somatic work resolves what pros-and-cons lists cannot, and how fear-based advice spreads at therapist networking tables. There is also a guided reflection near the end, so find a spot where you can be still if you can.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the conversation on fear and systemic challenges 04:00 Somatic approaches to working with fear 14:04 Separating inherited fear from present reality 18:50 Community and connection as support 22:26 Boundaries around fear-based career advice 28:40 Guided reflection: noticing and welcoming fear 34:41 Closing: moving forward with peace amid fearResources Mentioned The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker: https://giftoffear.com/bookRead the Full Blog Post https://www.zynnyme.com/blog/episode-378-what-therapists-are-afraid-to-say-out-loudListen to the Podcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7K8TQ13vJL4L3IvtWLLXV3Want the Kind of Support Kelly and Miranda Talk About? Business School for Therapists is our flagship program for therapists ready to build a practice that supports the life they actually want. It is a blend of live coaching and self-paced curriculum, plus a community of clinicians who normalize niching, real fees, and clinical depth. Twenty years in, it is the work we wish someone had handed us when we were spending our own weekends figuring this out. Learn more: https://www.zynnyme.comStay Connected Website: https://www.zynnyme.com Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zynnyme LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942 Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/zynnyme Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmiranda#therapistsofinstagram #privatepracticetherapist #therapistburnout #privatepracticebuilding #therapistlife #mentalhealthprivatepractice #somaticexperiencing #therapistsupport #privatepaypractice #counselingpractice #therapistbusiness #nervoussystemregulationMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Starting a Private Practice is where we talk with therapists and psychologists who built practices on their own terms, and get honest about the parts nobody trained us for. This one is for anyone who has done everything they could think of to grow, watched it not work, and quietly wondered whether the problem is them. Kristin left academic medicine, built a virtual group practice for kids and teens, and figured out that the skill she needed to sharpen was not a clinical one.What You'll Hear 00:00 Introduction to Kristin and her practice 01:35 Building a virtual, accessible practice 03:12 Evidence-based care and outcome tracking 06:59 Leading a collaborative group practice 09:59 Marketing, social media, and SEO 16:12 Growing the practice through business skills 19:36 Staying grounded through growth 22:29 Advice for building a pediatric practice 25:18 Final advice for practice ownersAbout Kristin Kristin is a licensed psychologist and the founder of Little Dove Psychology, a virtual practice based in Austin serving children, adolescents, college students, and families across Texas and additional PSYPACT states. Before private practice, she worked in academic medicine at Children's Wisconsin and the Medical College of Wisconsin, including work as the attending psychologist for a cystic fibrosis clinic and research on telehealth group therapy that predates the pandemic. Her practice focuses on anxiety, depression, family conflict, emotion regulation, and ADHD testing and treatment, with evening and weekend availability so kids are not pulled out of school and parents are not missing work. She also runs Little Dove Consulting, which partners with health systems on behavioral health program design. You can reach her through littledovepsychology.com or on LinkedIn.Resources Mentioned Little Dove Psychology: https://littledovepsychology.com/ ADHD testing in Austin: https://littledovepsychology.com/adhd-testing-austin Psychological testing and evaluation: https://littledovepsychology.com/psychological-testing-evaluation Anxiety therapy for kids and teens: https://littledovepsychology.com/anxiety-therapist-austin Online therapy in Austin: https://littledovepsychology.com/austin-therapy Meet the Little Dove team: https://littledovepsychology.com/about About Kristin: https://littledovepsychology.com/dr-kristin-kroll Little Dove Consulting: https://littledoveconsulting.com/ Kristin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-hunter-kroll-phd-b94a1330/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KbHnfIZeJS4 Read the blog post: [BLOG URL]Want the Kind of Support Miranda and Kristin Talk About?Business School for Therapists is our flagship program for therapists ready to build a practice that supports the life they actually want. It is a blend of live coaching and self-paced curriculum, plus a community of clinicians who normalize niching, real fees, and clinical depth. Twenty years in, it is the work we wish someone had handed us when we were spending our own weekends figuring this out. Learn more: zynnyme.comListen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7K8TQ13vJL4L3IvtWLLXV3Stay Connected Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942 Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Starting a Private Practice is where we talk with therapists who built businesses that hold up in real life, not just on a spreadsheet. No hustle scripts, no pretending the field is easy right now.This one is a three-year check-in. Whitney was last on the show at the beginning of 2023. Since then she bought two commercial buildings, opened a second location, built a leadership team, and watched roughly fourteen clinicians walk out the door in about eighteen months. She is a private pay group practice owner in Savannah and a consultant, so she is living the turnover problem and coaching other owners through it at the same time. Kelly asks her the uncomfortable version of every question: what is actually working, what did you get wrong, and what are you telling people who are scared enough to get on insurance panels they do not want.If you have been quietly wondering whether it is you or whether it is the market, this is the episode.What You'll Hear00:00 Introduction and Practice Evolution 02:57 Challenges in Private Practice 06:01 Managing Staff Turnover and Retention 08:59 Building a Leadership Team 11:59 Creating a Culture of Growth 14:58 Adapting to Cultural Shifts in Therapy 18:09 The Future of Therapy Practices 19:09 Identifying Money Leaks in Therapy Practices 21:57 The Importance of Tracking Marketing Efforts 24:20 Optimizing the Intake Process for Success 26:04 Navigating Cash Pay Practices 28:01 Reflections on Insurance Panels 30:05 Excitement for Growth and New Developments 32:13 The Shift Towards Sustainable Business PracticesAbout WhitneyWhitney is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and the founder of Water's Edge Counseling, a private pay group practice in Savannah that she started in 2014 and has since grown across two locations. She earned her master's in professional counseling from Richmont Graduate University and has been seeing clients since 2009, in residential, inpatient, and group settings before going out on her own.She also runs Wise Practice Consulting, where she works with faith-based practice owners at every stage, from launching a solo practice to scaling a group. Her definition of faith-based is wide: it does not require you to be overtly faith-based, only that faith is part of your life somewhere. She hosts the Wise Practice Podcast and runs a community and mastermind groups for practice owners.Find her at watersedgecounseling.com and wisepracticeconsulting.com, or reach her at [email protected] MentionedWater's Edge Counseling: https://watersedgecounseling.com/Wise Practice Consulting: https://www.wisepracticeconsulting.com/Whitney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wise_practice_consulting/Whitney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-owens-85376a27/EOS, the Entrepreneurial Operating System: https://www.eosworldwide.com/what-is-eosKen Clark, referenced on the trend of therapists returning to group practice: https://www.semiprivatepractice.com/about-ken-clark-and-sppWhitney's first episode with us, from January 2023: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog/navigating-the-challenges-of-running-a-faith-based-practice-with-whitneyWant the Kind of Support Kelly and Whitney Talk About?Business School for Therapists is our flagship program for therapists ready to build a practice that supports the life they actually want. It is a blend of live coaching and self-paced curriculum, plus a community of clinicians who normalize niching, real fees, and clinical depth. Twenty years in, it is the work we wish someone had handed us when we were spending our own weekends figuring this out. Learn more: zynnyme.comListen, Subscribe, and Leave a ReviewApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7K8TQ13vJL4L3IvtWLLXV3Stay ConnectedWebsite: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942 Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Starting a Private Practice is the show for therapists who want a practice that holds up: good clinical work, real fees, and a business that does not quietly run on your unpaid hours. This one is not a success story interview. It is Kelly and Miranda talking through what they are watching in the profession right now, starting with health insurance.The reason to hear it: a lot of clinicians took insurance specifically to be accessible. That logic breaks when the people you wanted to reach no longer have coverage. Kelly and Miranda walk through what actually changed, why therapists have been quietly bending their billing to make the math work, and what it looks like to build access on something sturdier than your own subsidy.What You'll Hear 00:00 What we are watching in July of 2026 05:20 What actually happened with the subsidies, and who let it happen 07:06 2.6 million people, two very different explanations 09:48 Doctors building around the system: cash pricing, membership models, in-house labs 11:06 The quiet math problem: when therapists bend billing to make care work 12:08 Letting the deductible write the treatment plan 16:54 A better care model, not a cheaper version of a broken one 17:30 Counting who has their hands in the pie 19:17 What happens when you hand your practice to people who do not do the work 22:37 Intensives, extended sessions, and tracking your own outcomes 25:11 Why therapists are already built for a cash-pay world 29:30 More people are looking for us, not fewer 32:44 Drain versus groundswell, and how to tell which one you are in 35:09 Stockholders, platforms, and deciding where you give your laborAbout Kelly and MirandaKelly Higdon, LMFT and Miranda Palmer, LMFT are the co-founders of zynnyme and the co-hosts of this show. They have been business partners since 2010 and have reached 100,000+ clinicians with trainings, coaching, and a lot of unglamorous spreadsheet work. Kelly brings the operational side; Miranda brings the tech and marketing side. Both of them still think like clinicians first, which is why the business advice here never asks you to trade clinical integrity for revenue. Kelly uses they/them pronouns.Reach them at zynnyme.com, or start with the free training library at zynnyme.com/free.Resources Mentioned Free training library: https://www.zynnyme.com/free Platform Contracts Exposed: https://www.zynnyme.com/free/platforms Ditching Insurance and Platforms: https://www.zynnyme.com/free/ditching-insurance Private Practice Under Pressure: Ethics, AI, and the Fight to Keep Therapy Human: https://www.zynnyme.com/free/private-practice-under-pressure-ethics-ai-and-the-fight-to-keep-therapy-human The AI Policy Every Therapist Needs, with Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey: https://www.zynnyme.com/free/the-ai-policy-every-therapist-needs RedBud Surgery Center, Austin, Texas: https://redbudsurgerycenter.com/ Dr. Elisabeth Potter, MD: https://www.drpotter.com/ Are Third-Party Credentialing Platforms a Lifeline or a Trap? https://www.zynnyme.com/blog/are-third-party-credentialing-platforms-a-lifeline-or-a-trap-a-deeper-look-at-the-ethics-and-sustainability-of-alma-headway-and-grow-therapy Alma, Headway, and the Big Question: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog/alma-headway-and-the-big-question What to Ask a Recruiter Before Signing a Therapy Platform Contract: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog/what-to-ask-a-recruiter-before-signing-a-therapy-platform-contract All episodes: https://www.zynnyme.com/podcast Business School for Therapists: https://news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Want the Kind of Support Kelly and Miranda Talk About?Business School for Therapists is our flagship program for therapists ready to build a practice that supports the life they actually want. It is a blend of live coaching and self-paced curriculum, plus a community of clinicians who normalize niching, real fees, and clinical depth. Twenty years in, it is the work we wish someone had handed us when we were spending our own weekends figuring this out. Learn more: zynnyme.comListen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7K8TQ13vJL4L3IvtWLLXV3Stay Connected Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942 Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Every therapist defines success differently, and this show exists to prove it. Each episode, we sit down with a clinician who built something that fits their actual life, not the version of private practice they were handed in grad school. No formulas. No magic bullets. Just real decisions, real tradeoffs, and the reasoning behind them.This episode is one we keep thinking about. Corrie is a psychologist in the Chicago area doing complex trauma work, EMDR, and deep support for neurodivergent adults and the parents raising neurodivergent kids. She started her practice on one insurance panel because she did not know there was another option. Then she noticed something: the depth of the work she wanted to do, and the caseload size required to make that panel sustainable were fundamentally incompatible. She could not bring her best self to every client, every day, at that volume. So she rebuilt.What follows is a genuinely honest conversation about ableism in practice design, why she names her smaller caseload out loud to her clients, how parental burnout became her niche without her planning it, and what it took to finally build a course after years of listening. If you have ever wondered whether your capacity is a limitation or just information, start here.What You'll Hear00:00 Welcome, and why success looks different for every therapist00:57 Why private practice, and the long road through two doctoral programs03:22 Bridging out: community mental health, a short stint in group practice, then solo04:31 Starting on one insurance panel and why it felt like the only option05:59 Depth work, complex trauma, and what her nervous system was absorbing06:32 The subcontractor problem: one panel, no access, no room for anyone else08:28 How the niche actually formed: EMDR, neurodivergence, trauma of marginalization11:18 Why she moved to working with adults and parents exclusively12:42 Ableism in practice design and normalizing a smaller caseload14:29 Why parents cannot locate the source of the strain accurately16:03 From a full caseload to something scalable21:58 Defining neurodivergence and the rise in adult identification25:52 What it actually takes to build a course29:50 SEO, blogging, and finding the marketing that fit her strengths33:17 You don't compete, you stand out34:27 How Corrie defines success in private practice35:48 Where to find Corrie and her resourcesAbout CorrieCorrie is a licensed clinical psychologist based in the Chicago area and the founder of Shore Therapy Center for Wellness. She completed dual doctoral programs in clinical psychology and school psychology and is licensed in both fields. She is a certified EMDR therapist and a PSYPACT provider, which means she can offer telehealth across more than forty states.Her clinical focus is trauma, stress, and burnout, with particular depth in the trauma of marginalization: neurodivergent adults, LGBTQ folks, and parents raising autistic, ADHD, AuDHD, gifted, twice exceptional, and PDA kids. She works with adults exclusively now, which is a deliberate choice she explains in the episode. She is also a parent of three.Beyond her caseload, Corrie developed a free, research-based parental burnout screener and an online course for parents experiencing burnout, designed with accessibility supports built in from the start.Find her at shoretherapycenter.com or connect on LinkedIn.Resources MentionedShore Therapy Center for Wellness: https://www.shoretherapycenter.comParental Burnout Quiz (free, research-based screener): https://www.shoretherapycenter.com/parent-burnout-quizParental Burnout Course for parents of neurodivergent kids: https://www.shoretherapycenter.com/online-course-neurodivergent-parent-burnoutParenting therapy: https://www.shoretherapycenter.com/parent-therapy-chicago-onlineAffirmative therapy for marginalized adults: https://www.shoretherapycenter.com/affirmative-therapyEMDR therapy online: https://www.shoretherapycenter.com/emdr-therapy-onlinePSYPACT: https://psypact.orgEMDR International Association (EMDRIA): https://www.emdria.orgWant the Kind of Support Kelly and Corrie Talk About?Business School for Therapists is our flagship program for therapists ready to build a practice that supports the life they actually want. It is a blend of live coaching and self-paced curriculum, plus a community of clinicians who normalize niching, real fees, and clinical depth. Twenty years in, it is the work we wish someone had handed us when we were spending our own weekends figuring this out. Learn more: zynnyme.comListen, Subscribe, and Leave a Review Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7K8TQ13vJL4L3IvtWLLXV3Stay Connected Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942 Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Welcome back to the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast! In this special "State of the Union" episode, your hosts Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer step away from guest interviews to share a real-time pulse check on the mental health field. After an intensive sprint working with private practice clinicians worldwide, they reflect on the current emotional climate—acknowledging the heaviness, urgency, and even a lack of their usual laughter as the profession faces both absurd and alarming systemic changes.Join Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer as they dive into topics like the fast-tracking of AI doctors, the growing power of insurance companies, and the emotional impact of working in an increasingly oppressive healthcare system. They draw parallels between the dynamics of domestic violence and the experience of clinicians navigating insurance, highlighting the importance of safety planning, advocacy, and—yes—finding moments of levity despite it all.Stay tuned for candid insights, opportunities for listener engagement, and a reminder to take care of yourself as we all try to find balance in an ever-changing, often challenging landscape.See the adapted wheel and learn more: zynnyme.com/blob/we-adapted-the-duluth-power-and-control-wheel-for-insurance-companies-and-therapists-heres-whyLearn more about AI and Physician licensing: https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/healthcare-information-technology/ai/absurd-or-the-future-health-system-leaders-weigh-in-on-ai-physicians/ and https://www.physiciansforpatientprotection.org/danger-ahead-ai-not-physicians-to-decide-prescription-refills-in-utah/Learn more about delayed good faith estimates: https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/no-surprises-act-implementation-in-2026-4720339/Learn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTubeWebsite: https://www.zynnyme.com/Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast and leave a review letting us know what you thinkMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Therapy transcripts can now be subpoenaed and used against your clients in court. That's not a hypothetical; it already happened.In this episode of Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories, Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer dig into the Proof News investigation of Kamrass v. AdventHealth, where a woman's Talkspace messages with her therapist were pulled into a pregnancy discrimination case by her former employer. They use it as a way into a much bigger conversation: what therapist-client privilege actually protects now, and what it doesn't.Kelly and Miranda get into why this isn't just a Talkspace problem; it's a field-wide issue that touches anyone using chat, video, or AI-driven documentation tools. They talk through why "HIPAA compliant" is more marketing than protection, how anonymized data gets de-anonymized, why VC-backed platforms holding your clients' transcripts changes the risk picture, and what it means that these companies are training AI on millions of real therapy conversations.It's not all alarm. They also offer concrete next steps: how to rethink informed consent, what to look for in a platform's terms and conditions, how to talk to clients about their data, and why being a guardian of your clients' privacy is becoming part of what quality care means. Honest, fired-up, colleague-to-colleague; this one will change how you think about the tools in your practice.Resources mentioned in this episode:Woman's Talkspace Therapy App Sessions Exposed in Court (Proof News): https://www.proofnews.org/womans-talkspace-therapy-app-sessions-exposed-in-court/Psychotherapy Action Network (PsiAN): https://www.psian.org/Learn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTube Website: https://www.zynnyme.com/ Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blogMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Most therapists picture private practice as a solo act. You, your caseload, your name on the door. Allison and Amanda built theirs differently. They left insurance-panel group practice work to start a practice together in Dallas, and three years in, they have something neither of them thinks they could have built alone.They did not start as a business partnership in any way anyone would recommend, and they will be the first to tell you that. What they did have was years of working alongside each other, a real friendship, a shared vision for the kind of therapy they wanted to do, and a willingness to spend their weekends figuring out the rest.In this conversation, Kelly sits down with Allison and Amanda to trace the actual path: from meeting in an inpatient hospital, to years in a generalist group practice that discouraged niching, to four months of Saturdays spent building websites and filing LLC paperwork, to a practice now moving into couples intensives. We talk about why they chose partnership over going solo, the SEO learning curve, the mistakes and the overwork, and why riding the wave when your numbers dip is a skill, not a personality flaw.If you are thinking about niching down, wondering whether to start a practice with a friend, or asking yourself whether now is even a good time to start a practice at all, this one is for you.What You'll Hear00:00 Why two therapists chose to start a practice together (and why going solo felt too scary) 02:47 The shared vision: leaving generalist group practice work behind to niche 03:53 Their two niches: couples and emerging adults, trauma and brainspotting 04:30 The four months of weekends spent building the practice from scratch 05:39 Where the early effort paid off: networking and the SEO learning curve 07:11 What stopped working, and knowing when to pull back from events 08:32 Mistakes, overwork, and the five minute rule 08:55 Riding the wave when your numbers dip 10:02 Yin and yang: how business partners fall into their strengths 11:17 Marketing as a group practice while staying clearly specialized 13:19 What they tell therapists who want to start a business with a friend 16:01 Moving into intensives and couples work with both clinicians in the room 16:23 Is now a good time to start a private practice? 22:14 Getting curious about the fear that holds therapists backAbout Allison and AmandaAllison and Amanda are licensed professional counselors and co-owners of Crescent Counseling, a group practice in Dallas, Texas. They met working in an inpatient hospital, spent years together in a generalist group practice, and three years ago started their own practice built around specialized, relationship-centered care. Allison works primarily with couples and emerging adults; Amanda focuses on trauma and brainspotting. Together they offer a couples integrated trauma therapy service with both clinicians in the room, and they are expanding into intensive work. Learn more at crescentcounselingdallas.comResources MentionedAllison and Amanda's group practice: https://www.crescentcounselingdallas.com/crescentcounselingdallas.comBrainspotting (Amanda's trauma modality)The Gottman Institute (Allison's couples training)Business School for Therapists: zynnyme.comWant the Kind of Support Allison and Amanda Talk About?Business School for Therapists is our flagship program for therapists ready to build a practice that supports the life they actually want. It is a blend of live coaching and self-paced curriculum, plus a community of clinicians who normalize niching, real fees, and clinical depth. Twenty years in, it is the work we wish someone had handed us when we were spending our own weekends figuring this out. Learn more: zynnyme.comListen, Subscribe, and Leave a ReviewApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7K8TQ13vJL4L3IvtWLLXV3Stay ConnectedWebsite: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogInstagram: instagram.com/zynnymeLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnymeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Building a Couples Therapy Practice Around Intensives: Irina's StoryMost couples therapy practices look about the same from the outside. Weekly sessions, fifty minutes, sometimes ninety if you are feeling fancy. Irina does it differently. Her North Carolina practice runs entirely on full-day intensives, and every new couple starts with one before any weekly work begins.She did not get there with a five-year plan. She got there by paying attention to what was working, trusting her clinical gut, and being willing to invest in the support she needed along the way.In this conversation, Miranda sits down with Irina to trace the actual path: from picking psychology in college because it did not require math, to community mental health, to multiple states and modalities, to discovering Emotionally Focused Therapy through a podcast and impulsively signing up for a training that cost more than her rent. We talk about why she shifted to intensives, what her clients tell her about the difference, what business coaching actually changed for her, and why the community you build matters more than most therapists realize.If you are thinking about niching down, redesigning your model, or whether to invest in real support to grow your practice, this one is for you.What You'll Hear00:00 Why Irina picked psychology (yes, it had to do with math)06:11 Choosing self-employment over the 9 to 508:53 Discovering EFT through a podcast and an impulsive yes10:44 Trusting clinical intuition in private practice14:47 When the language finally clicked18:06 Designing a schedule that holds virtual work and family20:21 Learning to trust herself as a clinician24:13 What time constraints actually do to therapy28:31 What workplace dysfunction taught her about going solo32:28 The pandemic shift and what it surfaced35:59 Advice for therapists who want to specialize in couples work39:27 Personal and professional pivots without losing momentum41:25 What real trust with couples looks like44:11 Why the community you build matters more than you thinkAbout IrinaIrina is a North Carolina-based couples therapist and entrepreneur whose practice specializes exclusively in EFT intensives for couples. Originally from Moscow, Irina has worked across community mental health, school settings, and ABA before building the private practice that fits her life and her clinical vision. Learn more or connect for intensives at irinabaechlecounselingllc.comResources MentionedIrina's couples therapy practice: irinabaechlecounselingllc.comEmotionally Focused Therapy by Dr. Sue JohnsonHold Me Tight workshopsBusiness School for Therapists: zynnyme.comStarting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcastWant the Kind of Support Irina Talks About?Business School for Therapists is our flagship program for therapists ready to build a practice that supports the life they actually want. Live coaching, self-paced curriculum, and a community of clinicians who normalize growth, real fees, and clinical depth.Learn more: zynnyme.comListen, Subscribe, and Leave a ReviewApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7K8TQ13vJL4L3IvtWLLXV3Stay ConnectedWebsite: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942 Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode of Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories, we sit down with Dr. Corrie, owner of Shore Therapy outside Chicago and a psychologist licensed to work across 43 states through Psypact. Corrie shares her journey from working in community mental health to building a thriving solo private practice focused on supporting neurodivergent adults and parents of neurodivergent children.Tune in to hear Dr. Corrie open up about the challenges of burnout, parenting as a neurodivergent adult, and how her clinical experiences led her to create a unique online course for parents navigating burnout and overwhelm. Through personal stories and practical insights, she normalizes the experience of feeling "different," highlights the trauma that can stem from marginalization, and invites therapists and parents to embrace their unique neurotypes, both in business and in life.You'll discover why it's crucial to honor each individual's process in therapy and parenting, how creating the right environment leads to greater wellbeing, and why therapists don't need all the answers before launching their private practice. If you're a clinician working toward a more sustainable, values-driven, and personally aligned practice, this one's for you.Ready to learn more about Dr. Corrie's parent burnout resources? Visit her at https://shoretherapycenter.com/ for course info, a parent burnout screener, and helpful blog content.Learn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTube Website: https://www.zynnyme.com/ Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/Mentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

What does a therapy practice look like after five decades of building, pivoting, selling a building, surviving HMOs, outlasting COVID, and finally deciding to work a little less? Turns out, it looks pretty great.In this episode, Kelly sits down with Clifton. Clifton has been in the field since before licensing even existed in Texas, which means they have watched every wave roll through this profession and found a way to ride it.Clifton started out missing the Yellow Pages deadline (yes, really), then built a thriving insurance-based practice, watched HMOs chip away at it, dropped insurance panels entirely, bought a building with two other therapists, pivoted to telehealth during COVID, and had the three highest-revenue years of their career in the process. Along the way, Clifton and their wife co-authored books on narcissistic personality disorder, ranked on the first page of Google in San Antonio, and recently stepped into semi-retirement doing supervision, coaching, and more writing. There is no straight line here, just smart adaptation and a willingness to keep learning.**You'll hear Clifton's honest take on:**- Why getting grandfathered into three separate licenses taught them that you practice by your license, not your education, and why that distinction still matters for newer therapists choosing a path- What it actually felt like to watch insurance companies deny previously approved claims and demand money back, and why going out-of-network was the right call for their practice- How COVID forced a website overhaul that turned into their biggest growth period, and why their clients chose to stay online permanently even after offices reopened- The mistake of having their head down and staying isolated early in their career, and why staying connected to other therapists matters for referrals, grounding, and keeping up with the field- Why being dyslexic and systems-trained gave them an edge in spotting patterns and anticipating what came next in a profession that keeps changing- What semi-retirement actually looks like when you still love the work; less hours, more grandkids, some coaching, some writing, and zero regretsWhether you are just starting out and trying to figure out your niche, somewhere in the middle wondering if private practice is even sustainable long-term, or in the later half of your career and wondering if it is too late to learn something new, this episode will meet you where you are.Fifty years in, Clifton is still curious. That is the whole point.---00:00 The Journey to Private Practice02:55 Navigating the Challenges of Private Practice05:50 Adapting to Change in Therapy08:42 The Impact of COVID-19 on Therapy11:46 Writing and Publishing a Book14:33 Lessons from Decades of Practice18:44 Navigating the Evolution of Therapy Licensure23:52 Finding Your Niche in Therapy29:32 The Importance of Lifelong Learning in Therapy32:44 Embracing Change and Future Directions in Therapy---Learn more about Clifton and their practice at: CliftonFuller.com---Learn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTubeWebsite: https://www.zynnyme.com/Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast and leave a review:• Apple Podcasts• SpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode of Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories, Miranda Palmer sits down with Anna to explore the realities of building a private practice while growing your family. Anna shares the "good, the bad, and the ugly" of her journey through launching, learning, and thriving, all while having babies. From navigating the differences between being a W2 employee and a business owner during pregnancy, to deciding between solo practice and group practice, this conversation is packed with hard-earned insights for therapists planning family expansion.Hear the practical strategies and honest missteps around structuring your business for parental leave, saving aggressively (both personally and for your business), choosing the right business entity to access state benefits, and finding (or not finding) the right associate for your practice. Miranda and Anna bust common myths about therapist business models, showing how careful planning, and sometimes strategic pivots, can lead to growth, less stress, and a business that truly holds you, even during life's biggest transitions.If you want practical tips for integrating family planning with private practice success, or if you're on the fence about going group vs. solo, this episode is for you. Plus, Anna shares marketing advice for maternity leave, why intensives and short-term offerings are her favorite, and the importance of building a solid, scalable foundation before you expand.Resources mentioned: Alan Lau; Georgia AustinGuest website: thrivetherapyandcouplescounseling.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTube Website: https://www.zynnyme.com/ Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/Mentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

This is our monthly state of the field conversation and this one got real fast.It starts with the SimplePractice class action lawsuit, which if you have been on social media lately you have probably seen ads about. But Kelly and I use it as a jumping off point for a much bigger conversation about what therapists are actually agreeing to when we sign up for the tools we use every day. We talk through what cookies and tracking scripts actually do, why HIPAA compliance is not the same as your clients being protected, what it means when a terms of service says data can be used for research and development by the platform and all of its affiliates, and why those session transcripts some platforms are holding onto are a much bigger deal than most of us realize.We also get into the fact that the people investing in these EHR companies are often the same people investing in AI therapist chatbots built on what they call the largest dataset of real therapist interactions. So yeah. We connect those dots.And then we talk about what is underneath all of this for so many therapists right now. The isolation. The disembodiment. The way working for venture capital platforms has added a whole new layer on top of the burnout that was already there. The difference between being pulled toward a vision and being pushed by ethical rage, and why both of those are legitimate.We also share some things from our recent retreat, including what happens when therapists get into a room together and actually slow down long enough to feel what they have been carrying.If you have never watched our free Terms of Service training, this is your sign to go do that. It is at zynnyme.com/free and it features a mental health attorney and the folks at Person-Centered Tech. It is not just us. It is a real dive into what these documents actually mean.Topics: SimplePractice lawsuit, EHR data privacy, therapist burnout, private practice sustainability, telehealth vs in-person therapy, HIPAA and terms of service, venture capital in mental health, therapist isolation, nervous system regulation, AI and therapist data.Free Terms of Service Training: zynnyme.com/free Reach us at: [email protected] more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTubeWebsite: https://www.zynnyme.com/Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/Mentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

What does it actually take to go from escaping a toxic nonprofit job to running a thriving 25-person trauma-focused group practice? Ginger Houghton, LCSW, has done it — and she's not sugarcoating the journey.In this episode, Kelly Higdon sits down with Ginger to talk through the real decisions, real mistakes, and real wins that shaped her practice over seven years. From nearly quitting over insurance credentialing in month one, to navigating a 1099-to-W2 conversion without losing her team, to finding the niche that made everything click — this is the conversation most group practice owners wish they'd had earlier.You'll hear Ginger's honest take on:Why VC-backed platforms are a trap (she worked for one for 35 days)The compliance and billing fundamentals that protect you long-termWhat she got wrong in her first 10 hires — and what changedHow profit sharing and "red carpet exits" built a stable, loyal teamThe mindset shift that takes you from clinician to sustainable business ownerWhether you're still solo, quietly thinking about hiring your first clinician, or already scaling and feeling the growing pains — this episode will meet you where you are.Building a practice that works for your clients AND your life isn't just possible. Ginger's proof.Learn more about Ginger Houghton and her practice at: www.brightspottherapy.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTubeWebsite: https://www.zynnyme.com/Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast and leave a review:• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5iY2FzdC5mbS9zdGFydGluZy1hLWNvdW5zZWxpbmctcHJhY3RpY2UtenlubnltZQMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Welcome back to Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories!Today, host Miranda Palmer sits down with Dr. Carmy, founder of Destined Horizons — a multi-state group mental health practice serving Georgia, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland.Dr. Carmy's path to therapy wasn't a straight line. From being the friend everyone came to for advice, to earning an MBA before finally answering her true calling as a therapist, her journey is one many practitioners will relate to.In this episode, you'll hear about:The real challenges of building a private practice from scratch — including burnout, balancing family life, and navigating the financial realities of running a group practiceHow she transitioned from solo clinician to group practice owner and the systems that made it possibleWhy finding community and support changed everything for her business and her well-beingHer passion for supporting other helping professionals and normalizing mental health care in Black and brown communitiesWhether you're just starting your private practice, thinking about expanding to a group model, or deep in the weeds of managing it all, this conversation is packed with honest, practical wisdom from someone who's been through it.Grab your coffee and let's dive in.Dr. Carmy's Websites: https://destined-horizons.com/ and https://www.drcarmy.com/Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

This episode is a good one, y'all.Beth Rontal went from burnt-out costume designer to therapist to creating Documentation Wizard - a business that teaches therapists how to actually use their documentation as a clinical tool instead of dreading it. And honestly? The parallels between costume design and therapy work are kind of brilliant.We talk about the reality of getting licensed while raising kids, why falling behind on your notes is actually telling you something important about your practice, and how Beth went from supervising 50+ clinicians at an agency to building something sustainable on her own terms.Here's what I love about this conversation: Beth gets real about the fact that nothing is actually a "side gig" when you're passionate about it. We talk about the myth of balance (spoiler: it doesn't exist the way we think it does), why your body might be screaming at you to stop overworking, and how enforcement of your cancellation policy is actually about modeling healthy boundaries - not being a jerk.If you're trying to figure out how to fill your practice through actual relationships instead of SEO panic, or you're drowning in documentation and wondering why it feels so hard, or you're just tired of the hamster wheel and want to see what building something sustainable actually looks like - this one's for you.Beth's offering free resources on getting your notes done (link in show notes), and if you've ever dealt with an insurance clawback and felt completely lost, she does consultations for that too.Real talk about private practice, documentation, and what it actually takes to build something that doesn't destroy you in the process.Get Beth's free "25 Tips to Getting Notes Done": https://bit.ly/zynnymeDocumentation Wizard: https://documentationwizard.comInsurance clawback consultations: Available through Documentation WizardMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this compelling episode of Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories, hosts Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer sit down for an honest, no-interview conversation about the seismic shifts in the mental health world right now. Drawing on their experiences supporting thousands of clinicians and leading Business School for Therapists, they dive deep into the growing influence of venture capital-backed therapy platforms, the realities of 1099 contracts vs. employment, and how insurance companies are reshaping the landscape—with a powerful impact on therapist autonomy and pay.Listen as Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer peel back the curtain on how big marketing and profit-driven systems are affecting therapists’ mindset, fees, and even their health. The duo discuss the importance of embodied practice, highlight the risks of burnout and autoimmune issues on the rise in the field, and share why it’s crucial to reconnect with your body, intuition, and core values when making practice decisions.You’ll hear practical guidance on navigating contracts, fee-setting for sustainability, and why group and community-oriented offerings may be the future for accessibility and authentic healing. If you’re feeling the pinch of working harder for less, or questioning the “way things are” in private practice, this episode will leave you with validation, tangible next steps, and a reminder: you have more agency than you think.Learn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTubeWebsite: https://www.zynnyme.com/Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/TikTok: @zynnymeMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, hosts Kelly and Miranda take on the messy realities of the mental health field today. They dive into everything from the latest challenges with insurance and the impact of AI on documentation to the emotional toll and ethical decisions many therapists are grappling with, especially those in marginalized or high-pressure environments.You’ll hear about the push-and-pull of staying in the system, fighting for change, or carving out new, sustainable practice models. Kelly and Miranda also share updates on healthcare negotiations, rising costs, and the importance of understanding how clinical work and finances intersect. It’s a candid, supportive conversation meant to validate what so many counselors are feeling right now, while encouraging everyone to find their own best way forward.Join us as we unpack the chaos, honor the complexity, and highlight new ways to thrive in practice!---Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, host Miranda chats with Katie, a licensed professional counselor, author, and group practice owner specializing in high-risk teens. Katie shares her deeply personal journey into therapy, from overcoming her own struggles to building a successful practice through relentless visibility and networking.You'll hear how Katie navigated career pivots, from agency work to private practice, launching consulting programs, and now focusing on her upcoming book and signature treatment methods. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about following your curiosity, creating impact, and how embracing change can fuel your success as a therapist.---Katie's Website: creativehealingphilly.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/zynnymeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Miranda welcomes Cassidy, a therapist, group practice owner, and now published author based in Utah. Cassidy shares her compelling journey from teaching high school math to specializing in trauma therapy and ultimately writing a book about religious trauma affecting women in the LDS church.You’ll hear how Cassidy navigated the growing pains of private practice, set up a supportive leadership team, and found the personal inspiration and focus needed to tell her story. She gets real about the challenges of writing, the emotional rollercoaster of putting her truth on paper, and the practicalities of bringing her book to life.Whether you’re a therapist, aspiring author, or just looking for an honest conversation about healing and innovation in counseling, Cassidy’s insights offer inspiration and practical takeaways for your own practice or creative journey.---Cassidy's Website: purpleskycounseling.comJoin Us for our November 4th LIVE Training - Platform Contracts Exposed: What's Really at Stake for Your License, Your Ethics, and Your Practice's Future: news.zynnyme.com/platforms/Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, we are joined by Laith from Person Centered Tech to tackle the surge of venture-backed online therapy platforms, like Talkspace, Alma, and Spring Health, and their impact on private practice.Together, they discuss why so many therapists are turning to these tech companies for supplemental income, and whether that’s as safe or sustainable as it seems. The trio dives into hidden risks around contract terms, HIPAA responsibility, AI recordings, and how therapists’ labor and expertise are being leveraged by big business.If you’re considering working with one of these platforms, don’t miss this honest, practical conversation about asking the right questions, understanding the real risks, and protecting your clients and yourself. Tune in and get the insights you need to make informed choices for your practice!---Liath's Website: personcenteredtech.comJoin Us for our November 4th Webinar: The Platform Playbook: How Tech Companies Exploit Therapists (And How to Protect Yourself) news.zynnyme.com/platforms/ Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s episode, host Kelly sits down with Amity, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Florida, to explore her inspiring transition from working in a government civil commitment facility in Wisconsin to launching her own private practice - while navigating a cross-country move, burnout, and finding balance in her life and career!Amity shares the real-life challenges and triumphs she faced during her shift into entrepreneurship, what it was like to build a practice from scratch in a brand new state, and how she learned to shape her business around her core values: peace, stability, and flexibility. From leveraging online therapy platforms like BetterHelp for a quick financial start, to ultimately customizing her schedule to support her mental health and family life, Amity’s story is packed with honest insight, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone considering their own leap into private practice.Whether you’re on the fence about making the jump or seeking a fresh perspective on managing growth and self-care in your existing practice, this conversation delivers relatable lessons you won’t want to miss. Tune in as Amity and Kelly discuss the evolving definition of success, the power of intentional business-building, and the importance of aligning your work with your true values.---Amity's Website: olson-counseling.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this special episode, hosts Kelly and Miranda tackle timely issues shaping the world of mental health—from rising insurance rates and the hidden influence of state insurance commissioners to the expanding reach of AI in therapy.They discuss recent headlines, including dramatic insurance rate hikes, and share eye-opening stories about how legislation and business decisions directly affect therapists and their clients. Kelly and Miranda highlight why every therapist should know their insurance commissioner, the risks and opportunities AI poses, and how to track clinical outcomes to advocate for better pay and practice policies.Packed with real-world advice and empowering insights, this episode is a must-listen for any clinician navigating the evolving healthcare landscape.---Join Us for our October 7th Free Training - Crossing State Lines in Therapy: A Guide to Staying Legal & Ethical with Ben CaldwellLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/zynnymeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, host Kelly sits down with Dr. Wiyatta to explore her inspiring journey from working in correctional and federal settings to building a thriving, bicoastal private practice. Dr. Wiyatta shares candid insights about why she chose the path of private practice, the pivotal moments that sparked her transition, and how she tailored her business to fit her life—including focusing on women's mental health and fertility counseling.You'll hear practical advice on building a practice with multiple income streams, the power of niching down, and the importance of creating a foundation before taking the leap. Dr. Wiyatta reveals how flexibility, autonomy, and the courage to do things her way have shaped not only her business, but her lifestyle—from cross-country moves to international speaking opportunities.Whether you’re on the fence about starting your own practice or looking for tips to refine your business, Dr. Wiyatta’s story is filled with valuable lessons, encouragement, and inspiration. Tune in for a conversation that’s both real and motivating, and discover how you too can design a practice—and life—that truly works for you.---Dr. Wiyatta's Website: drwiyatta.comJoin Us for [Webinar Name]: Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/zynnymeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s episode, our host Kelly sits down with Jessica, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who’s carved out a thriving solo private practice after years in the hospital and group practice worlds. Jessica opens up about her unconventional journey to entrepreneurship, how she overcame early doubts about running a business, and the personal work she did to reshape her relationship with money. Known for her unique blend of specialties—including sleep issues, chronic pain, PTSD, OCD, and radically open DBT—Jessica shares practical insights on building a specific niche, making the leap from agency to independent work, and finding joy in both clinical and business growth. Whether you’re on the fence about private practice or struggling with your niche, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and the reminder that, as Jessica puts it, “everything is learnable.”---Jessica's Website: jessicafinktherapy.comJoin Us for our upcoming October 7th Webinar - Crossing State Lines in Therapy: A Guide to Staying Legal & Ethical with Ben Caldwell. CE Credit Eligible! Sign up here: news.zynnyme.com/crossing-state-lines-in-therapyLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s conversation, host Kelly Higdon sits down with Allison, a licensed marriage and family therapist and registered art therapist based in San Diego. Allison shares her inspiring journey from burnout in the mental health system to building a thriving private practice—one that’s grown and adapted through personal health challenges, parenthood, and even a global pandemic. Together, they dive into the realities of solo versus group practice, the importance of honoring neurodivergence as a business owner, and the lessons learned about timing, support, and sustainable growth. Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about expanding your practice, Allison’s story offers practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement for anyone looking to build a business that truly fits their life and values.---Allison's Website: Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s special episode, hosts Kelly and Miranda take a break from their usual client success stories to dive deep into the current landscape of the mental health field. Drawing on real-world data and their decades of experience, Kelly and Miranda unpack some of the most pressing concerns clinicians face right now—like the fear that fewer people are seeking therapy, how online directories and tech companies are shifting the playing field, and what the actual search data tells us about modern demand for therapy.They’ll also explore why therapists sometimes feel pressured to chase certifications, how to make intentional choices about training and specialization, and why finding your unique voice—and getting clear about your strengths—matters more than ever. If you’ve ever worried about competition, burnout, or whether private practice still has a place in today’s world, this episode is packed with encouragement, honest insights, and practical strategies.So grab your coffee and get ready to hear what’s really happening in the mental health field—and why there’s more opportunity for passionate clinicians than ever before.---Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Today, host Kelly Higdon sits down with Nina, a psychologist based in Costa Mesa, California, for a deeply personal and powerful conversation. Nina shares her journey from an early dream of becoming a therapist to the challenges and triumphs of owning a private practice as a first-generation Vietnamese immigrant.In this episode, Nina opens up about the loneliness she experienced while building her practice—especially without family support or role models who looked like her. She discusses how a recent revelation about her own neurodivergence, sparked by supporting her son through diagnoses of dyslexia, ADHD, and giftedness, has profoundly shifted both her self-understanding and her approach to therapy. Nina and Kelly explore the impact of intersectional identities, intergenerational trauma, and the resilience needed to create a practice that feels authentic amidst cultural expectations and stigma.If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t belong, questioned your path as a clinician, or found your private practice mirroring your own healing journey, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone. Nina’s candid reflection and hard-earned wisdom offer encouragement for therapists navigating similar paths and demonstrate the transformative power of self-acceptance and community.---Nina's Website: www.ocaapsych.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: www.youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s episode, host Kelly Higdon chats with Dr. Melanie Harth, a longtime therapist in Santa Fe. Together, they dive deep into how private practice evolves over the years and what it means to navigate aging, self-worth, and personal growth as a clinician.Melanie shares her journey from underpaid agency work to confidently running a high-fee, values-driven practice, all while confronting her own fears around visibility, money, and aging. The conversation explores practical strategies for adapting your business to life changes, setting boundaries, and honoring your needs—offering valuable insights for both new and experienced therapists. If you’re looking to be inspired by real talk about authenticity and evolution in private practice, this episode is for you.---Melanie's Website: www.thesantafetherapist.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s episode, hosts Miranda Palmer and Kelly Higdon chat with Latasha, owner of a successful group practice in San Antonio, Texas. Latasha shares her unexpected path from teaching to therapy, how she built a practice that now serves up to 150 clients a week, and the lessons she learned about sustainability, self-care, and leadership along the way. Tune in for Latasha’s honest insights on balancing business with purpose, overcoming burnout, and building a practice that truly honors both clinicians and clients.---Latasha's Website: www.seekhope.netLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s conversation, host Kelly Higdon interviews Gary, LCSW, founder of the Center for Intimacy Recovery. Gary shares his evolution from solo practice to leading a multi-state group focused on the theme of intimacy—both in clinical work and in business leadership.Kelly and Gary discuss building authentic connections among clinicians, maintaining quality while expanding, and redefining success beyond just financial growth. Gary offers practical insights on fostering community, overcoming fear as a business owner, and staying true to your practice’s core values.If you’re looking to grow a counseling practice with purpose and meaning, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration.---Gary's Website: www.intimacyrecovery.com/gary-katz Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/zynnymeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Today, host Kelly Higdon sits down with Merrilee, an LMFT based in Los Angeles who’s carved out a truly unique and much-needed niche in the world of private practice. Merilee shares her journey from working in traditional treatment facilities to building a thriving practice focused on helping clients struggling with alcohol—not through abstinence, but moderation. She opens up about the challenges she faced breaking away from mainstream approaches like the 12-step model, how she found support and inspiration through harm reduction, and the creative ways she was able to attract her ideal clients.If you’ve ever felt drawn to serve a population that doesn’t fit inside the usual boxes, or you’re worried that following your passion might set you apart from the crowd, Merilee’s story will inspire you. From the practicalities of subletting office space as you get started, to riding the ups and downs of niche-based marketing, to letting your own unmet needs guide the direction of your business—this episode is full of honest insights and actionable advice for any therapist ready to get a little weird and do things differently. Tune in and learn how standing out can be the key to a fulfilling, sustainable practice.---Merrilee's Website: merrileeburke.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, your hosts Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer, along with guest Barbara Griswold, set aside industry talk to focus on the lived experience of therapists. Together, they explore how years in the mental health field can quietly disconnect practitioners from their intuition and authentic selves—thanks to pressures from training, organizational culture, and the demands of documentation and systems.Through honest stories and personal reflection, the trio examines how this disconnection impacts therapists’ well-being, work satisfaction, and client outcomes. They offer insight into the journey back to embodiment and intuition, and even guide listeners through a simple exercise to help reconnect with their own inner wisdom.Tune in for an inspiring, heartfelt conversation that invites you to imagine a practice—and a life—rooted in authenticity and self-compassion.---Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, Kelly and Miranda sit down with Erinn, the inspiring founder of Every Heart Dreams Counseling in El Dorado Hills, California. Erinn shares her journey from working in a group practice to launching her own private practice during the midst of the 2020 pandemic—all while welcoming her third child. Tune in as Erinn discusses the surprising influx of clients during uncertain times, navigating imposter syndrome, and the decision-making process behind striking out on her own. We’ll explore the seasonal ebb and flow of running a practice focused on kids, teens, and families, and hear Erinn’s sage advice for anyone feeling unsure about making the leap into private practice. Stay tuned for real talk about the challenges, triumphs, and deeper purpose behind a thriving counseling business.---Erinn's Website: everyheartdreamscounseling.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Today, host Kelly Higdon sits down with Jessica, an MFT from California, to talk candidly about her journey to building a private therapy practice from the ground up. Jessica opens up about what inspired her leap from agency work to entrepreneurship, navigating burnout, the realities of setting up her business, and what it’s really like to start with zero clients—while balancing family life with two young kids.Together, Kelly and Jessica unpack the challenges of those critical early steps: licensing, website building, marketing, networking, and learning to celebrate the small wins along the way. Whether you’re thinking about starting your own practice, already in the thick of it, or just want a transparent look behind the scenes, this episode is filled with real talk, encouragement, and practical takeaways. Stay tuned for an honest conversation about patience, perseverance, and building a solid foundation for your counseling practice!Mentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s episode, host Kelly Higdon and guest co-host Shani sit down with Megan, a Pennsylvania therapist and new author, to explore how her private practice evolved through unexpected personal loss and major life changes.Megan shares her journey from working with premarital couples and grief support to reimagining her practice after the deaths of her parents. She opens up about listening to her intuition, letting go of traditional therapy models, and weaving together her backgrounds in ministry and mental health. Along the way, Megan explains how creativity, grief, and self-compassion led her to build a practice—and write a book—that meets people where they truly are.This powerful episode is perfect for any clinician reassessing what it means to serve authentically. Get ready for a moving, practical discussion about honoring change, overcoming burnout, and letting your business grow as you do.---Megan's Website: a-new-path.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, Miranda Palmer interviews Shay (they/them), a San Diego-based anxiety and trauma therapist specializing in somatic therapy. Shay’s journey to private practice took them from working as a nanny and in the airline industry to finally becoming licensed at age 50—a testament to perseverance and dedication.Tune in to hear Shay discuss transitioning from nonprofits to private practice, the impact of deep personal healing on their business, and the ups and downs of navigating insurance and building a supportive community. Shay’s honest story is a reminder that it’s never too late to create the practice—and life—you truly want.---Shay's Website: overcomeanxietytrauma.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/@ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, hosts Kelly and Miranda sit down for an honest, big-picture discussion about the challenges therapists face in private practice today. Sparked by a lively Reddit thread, they explore why even experienced clinicians sometimes struggle to achieve great client outcomes—and why the issues often run much deeper than individual skill.Kelly and Miranda unpack the systemic problems plaguing the mental health field, from underwhelming graduate training and overwhelming student debt to exploitative supervision and a broken insurance system. They discuss how these factors impact not just therapists but also client care and the profession as a whole.If you’ve ever wondered why private practice often feels so hard—or how to create a more sustainable, effective practice—this episode is a must-listen. Dive in for an open, insightful conversation that challenges old assumptions and offers hope for meaningful change.---Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, Kelly Higdon interviews Dawn-Petrice, an LPC and group practice owner in Texas. Dawn shares her path from education and hospital administration to building a successful, community-focused group practice.Listen in as Dawn discusses the power of leading with transparency, the importance of creating a diverse and supportive team, and how her background in education has shaped her approach to mentoring clinicians. She also dives into the challenges of insurance platforms, maintaining clinician retention, and staying true to your values. If you’re interested in growing a thriving counseling practice with heart, this episode is for you!---Dawn-Petrice's Website: youngscounseling.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/@ZynnyMe Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Welcome to a special "State of the Union" episode of Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories, hosted by Miranda Palmer and Kelly Higdon. In this engaging conversation, Miranda and Kelly tackle the rapidly evolving role of AI in mental health private practice. They explore real examples, like ChatGPT referring clients to therapists, and discuss the opportunities and challenges AI brings—from its environmental impact and ethical concerns to its ability to streamline marketing and documentation.Balancing optimism with caution, the hosts reflect on how AI can support clinicians without replacing the essential human touch of therapy. Whether you’re curious or cautious about AI, this episode will help you navigate its possibilities and pitfalls, all while keeping client care and ethical practice at the forefront. Tune in for a grounded, insightful discussion on embracing technology in private practice.---Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogYouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMeFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, Miranda Palmer sits down with Dr. Jamey, a New York-based psychoanalyst and therapist who made the bold switch from a career as a literature professor to private practice. Jamey shares how his love for the humanities infuses his therapy work, the challenges and rewards of starting over in midlife, and the nitty-gritty of building a thriving practice - including dealing with insurance, setting fees, and embracing your unique therapeutic style. If you’re looking for honest insights and practical tips on creating a meaningful private practice, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!---Jamey's Website: https://www.drjameyhecht.com/Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In today’s episode, host Kelly Higdon is joined by Alicia, a California-based Marriage and Family Therapist breaking new ground with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (CAP). Alicia shares how she’s creatively structured her practice - from one-on-one sessions to dynamic groups and couples intensives - to deliver the most meaningful client outcomes while staying true to her own growth and passions.Tune in as Alicia and Kelly discuss the importance of innovation in a shifting mental health landscape, navigating insurance limitations, and reigniting your own enthusiasm for the work you do. If you’re craving inspiration and fresh ideas for your counseling practice, this episode is for you!---Alicia's Website: https://www.ranchocounseling.com/Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

In this episode, host Kelly Higdon is joined by Lauran, founder of a thriving trauma-focused EMDR group practice in downtown Orlando. Lauran shares her journey from solo practice to building a close-knit team, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how she’s navigated economic worries, private pay challenges, and the importance of staying true to her core values of collaboration, communication, community, and continued learning.Listen in as Lauran talks about practical strategies for hiring great therapists, keeping burnout low, tracking outcomes, and standing out through reputation and relationship-building. Whether you’re just starting out or leading your own group, Lauren’s story will inspire you to create a healthy, effective, and values-driven counseling practice.---Lauran's Website: https://www.mindfullivingcounselingservices.com/Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Welcome to another episode of "Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories"! Today, host Kelly Higdon is joined by her friend and breath work mentor, Zach Raider, for a unique conversation about the power of breath work in both personal healing and professional practice.Together, they unpack how breath work can help therapists navigate stress, uncertainty, and change, offering a path to deeper self-trust and creative ways of connecting with clients. Zach shares the science and art behind conscious breathing, while Kelly reflects on her own transformative journey with breath work and how it’s become a cornerstone in her life and coaching.Tune in for practical insights on integrating somatic practices into therapy, finding opportunity in discomfort, and building community in challenging times. If you’re looking for inspiration and new therapeutic tools, you won’t want to miss this episode.00:00 "Breathwork: Key to Healing & Awareness"03:24 "Mindfulness Through Breath Awareness"09:24 Limits of AI in Therapy12:42 Embracing Triggers for Growth14:04 "Self-Reflection on Triggers"19:07 "Collective Fear or Personal?"21:59 Breaking Generational Emotional Cycles24:55 The Power of Breath in Therapy29:39 "Expanding Beyond Limitations"31:25 "Therapist's Role in Embracing Fear"33:46 "Until Next Time"---Zach's Website: https://www.zachrehder.com/Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Welcome to "Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories"! In this State of the Union episode, hosts Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer tackle the latest shifts in mental health care and how they affect private practice owners. From the push toward value-based care and what that means for therapist pay and accountability, to the personal impact of working in an increasingly profit-driven system, Kelly and Miranda get real about insurance, outcomes, and the emotional cost of navigating broken structures.You’ll get insights on tracking client improvement, negotiating with insurance, and building a sustainable practice that supports your clients—and yourself. Tune in for honest discussion, practical tips, and encouragement for therapists striving to create positive change in a challenging environment.00:00 "Understanding Value-Based Care Concepts"03:19 Therapist Payment Issues and Challenges09:02 UHC: Profitable Yet Problematic Partnerships13:10 Therapists' Fear-Induced Behavioral Shift17:23 "Burnout vs. Mental Health Diagnosis"20:27 Decolonizing Practice for Healing25:03 Holistic Support Over Self-Care26:58 Balancing Business and Community Support29:59 Navigating Private Practice Challenges33:43 Evaluating Therapy Success Metrics39:30 "Orlando's Top Trauma Therapists"42:03 Therapists' Anxiety and Outcome Improvement43:56 "Recognizing Progress Beyond Trauma"---Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify

In this special new series of Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories, Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer are switching things up with their very first “State of the Union” episode! Once a month, they’ll hit pause on the usual interviews and have real, unfiltered conversations about what’s going on in the mental health world—and what that means for anyone running (or dreaming about) a private practice.In this kickoff chat, Kelly and Miranda spill their honest thoughts about the big news shaking up the field—like Rula teaming up with Amazon Health and the latest drama with BetterHelp. They dig into what all this means for therapists: choosing the right platforms, burnout, marketing headaches, and how to carve out your own space in an ever-noisier industry.So, if you want to hear what’s really going on behind the scenes and pick up some practical tips for building your practice in these wild times, you’re in the right place. Grab your coffee, get comfy, and join Kelly and Miranda as they share what’s on their minds and help you find your footing in the shifting world of mental health care.---Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Bridgette shares her experience of building a successful private pay therapy practice in rural Montana in less than a year. She discusses the challenges she faced, including concerns about client volume and the viability of a private pay model. Bridgette highlights the importance of strategic planning, creating a positive client experience, and utilizing resources like zynnyme.com. She offers valuable advice for therapists navigating the early stages of private practice, emphasizing the importance of community, self-compassion, and embracing the freedom of being your own boss.---Bridgette's Website: nourishwellnesstherapy.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Welcome back to the podcast! This week, we're talking about a topic that resonates with so many therapists: navigating the often-turbulent waters of insurance and private practice. We're thrilled to have Chelsea, MFT, join us to share her inspiring journey of transitioning away from insurance panels and building a thriving private pay practice. Chelsea's story exemplifies the power of self-reflection, strategic planning, and courageous action. If you've ever felt the pull to create a more sustainable and fulfilling practice, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready for practical tips, honest reflections, and a dose of encouragement as Chelsea reveals her secrets to private pay success.---Chelsea's Website: chelseakramertherapy.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)

Guest: Raffi, LCSW-CLocation: Baltimore, MarylandPractice: Baltimore Therapy CenterTopics Covered:Unconventional Career Path: How Raffi transitioned from computer science at Brown University to therapy, finding his true calling.Starting a Private Practice: The decision to open a practice after moving to Maryland and how a parallel job reduced stress during the early days.Organic growth: Building a thriving practice, starting with a simple website and moving to a group model with a growing team.Relationship Expertise: Key focus areas include couples counseling, infidelity, family conflict, and workplace relationships.Balancing Work and Wellbeing: Lessons Raffi has learned about running a business while maintaining personal health and fulfillment.Why connect with Raffi?Raffi is the go-to expert on couples counseling, family dynamics, and personal growth. Whether you're facing a relationship crisis or want to improve communication, his guidance can help you achieve meaningful change.---Raffi's Website: thecommunicationbook.comLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/Website: zynnyme.comBlog: zynnyme.com/blogFacebook: facebook.com/kellyandmirandaInstagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think:Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotifyMentioned in this episode:Register Now - Private Pay Clients: How to Attract, Convert, and Keep Your First (or 50th)