Navigating the leap from structured agency work to the exhilarating world of private practice can feel like a tightrope walk over ethical quandaries and financial uncertainties. Jocelyn Aguilar joins me on a journey that traverses these high stakes, sharing her unique perspective as a pioneer in online counseling for Christian women confronting anxiety. Together, we confront the hard-hitting questions every mental health entrepreneur faces: How do you build a practice that balances the books without compromising on care? Can you truly marry income with integrity? Our conversation is a treasure trove of insights for those ready to find out.

What does it mean to keep your financial engines running while charting a course through the choppy waters of private practice? In a profession where time is your currency, we dissect the concept of passive income, cutting through the noise to bring you actionable strategies, like office space rentals, that complement your primary business. I open up about my experiences, from the incremental growth of early mornings to the calculated risks of side hustles, offering a compass to therapists who are steering their businesses towards sustainable shores. Let's decode the dilemmas of time management and income diversification.

Finally, the episode shifts gears, focusing on the roadmap for growth and strategic planning essential to any business venture. Whether it's the cautious calibration of financial milestones or the ethical considerations during practice expansion, we're revealing the nuts and bolts of what it takes to thrive. I extend a special thanks to Ridgely Walker for her contributions, and spotlight resources for those looking to rise to the role of supervisor. Tune in and join our community of Texas counselors dedicated to crafting not just businesses, but legacies within the mental health field.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Ever felt that twinge of awkwardness when the topic of money arises in your therapy practice? Join us as we strip away the discomfort with my insightful guest, Jennifer, guiding you through the complexities of financial discussions in the counseling room. We're tackling the big questions head-on: How do you introduce your rates with confidence? What's the smoothest way to handle declined payments? And how do you maintain the integrity of your practice while being compassionate to those facing financial hurdles? Our conversation is a treasure trove of strategies for any private practitioner seeking to balance ethical considerations with the bottom line. 

This episode isn't just about the numbers; it's about fostering respectful, clear-cut relationships with your clients from the get-go. We'll share our combined wisdom on setting, discussing, and sticking to your fees and policies, including the sticky situations of no-shows and rate increases. Discover how to apply sliding fee scales ethically and fairly, the potential perks of pro bono work, and the value of mentorship in offering affordable services. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or embarking on your private practice journey, our exchange is designed to equip you with the tools you need to navigate these waters with ease and professionalism. With Jennifer's expertise, we're shining a light on the path to a financially and ethically sound practice.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Embark on a voyage through the transformative landscape of counseling with Dr. Tara Fox from Midwestern State University as our guide, uncovering the often-intricate journey from graduate student to Licensed Professional Counselor associate. In the heart of Texas, where the path to licensure is as sprawling as the state itself, Dr. Fox bestows upon us her knowledge, from the art of tracking clinical hours to finding that perfect supervisor who will champion your growth and align with your counseling ethos. Her astute advice doesn't stop there; for online students, she lays out a blueprint for building professional relationships that are both meaningful and enduring.

As you navigate the waters of LPC supervision and licensing, it's paramount to find a supervisor who not only aligns with your professional aspirations but also provides a secure anchor for your developing practice. Dr. Fox shines a light on the questions you should be asking to gauge compatibility and supervision styles and underscores the importance of a strong, genuine connection. This chapter doesn't shy away from the realities of ethical practice and staying abreast of the ever-evolving professional regulations, ensuring you're well-equipped to apply for that coveted LPC Associate license in Texas with confidence.

Lastly, we address the nitty-gritty of practical hours and the sometimes daunting transition from student to professional. For those wondering if school counseling practicum hours fit the bill for LPC requirements, we've got answers. And for those pondering the chicken-or-the-egg dilemma of finding a supervisor versus landing a job, we clarify the steps to ensure a seamless transition. Dr. Fox also arms you with a realistic timeline for acquiring your LPC associate license, sparing you from common pitfalls that could delay your start in this rewarding profession. Tune in for an episode rich with insights, poised to fortify your journey toward making a profound impact in the lives of others through counseling.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Navigating the financial and ethical tightrope of side hustles in the counseling field can be as complex as the human mind itself. This episode peels back the layers on the reality that many counselors face as 1099 independent contractors, where the pressure of financial instability can cloud clinical judgment and ultimately impact the quality of care provided to clients. We don't just talk about the stress of juggling multiple income streams, though. Our discussion opens up a toolkit of strategies, from the support of partners to alternate jobs, that can help solopreneurs balance their books and preserve the sanctity of their practice.

Embrace the courage to tread uncharted career paths with us, as we also spotlight the importance of professional growth that resonates with personal fulfillment. You'll hear an inspiring story of a counselor who kneads her passion for baking into her therapeutic approach, illustrating that diversifying interests can lead to innovative and fulfilling career avenues. Let's challenge the norms of career progression and explore the ethical pursuit of side hustles that not only provide financial security but also enrich the lives of counselors and clients alike. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a novice in the field of counseling, this episode promises insights into maintaining integrity while building a multifaceted career.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Embark on a journey to seamless tax management with Dr. Olivia Wedel, a beacon of wisdom in the labyrinth of tax law for professional counselors. Feel the empowerment course through your veins as we dissect the essentials of record keeping, navigate the chasms between 1099 and W-2 positions, and unpack the ethical considerations that are pivotal to your practice. Dr. Wedel brings her rich tapestry of experience to the table, ensuring you'll come away with a toolkit brimming with strategies to make peace with the IRS and keep your financial health in check.

Let's shift gears and explore the linchpin of business success: unshakeable organization and meticulous planning. Learn how honing your skills through training and education isn't just a career-booster; it's a lifeline for ensuring compliance with professional standards and laws. I'll illuminate the paths of setting competitive hourly rates and forecasting annual expenses, ensuring that every step you take in your private practice plants you firmly on the ground of prosperity. 

Finally, we chart the territory of business entities and tax preparation, where choices like PLLCs, LLCs, and S-Corps shape your fiscal landscape. With recent changes stirring the federal waters on worker classification, understanding these nuances has never been more crucial. Dr. Waddell and I will guide you through the maze, offering financial tips and sage advice for managing your practice's wellbeing, striking the perfect balance between deductions and solid business decisions. Tune in for an episode that transforms daunting tax tasks into a mastered craft, exclusively for our dedicated listeners.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

As our counseling practices flourish, we're faced with the critical task of balancing ethical standards with the burgeoning demand for our services. This episode promises to guide you through the thorny issues ranging from the use of client testimonials and navigating the pitfalls of Google reviews to ensuring compliance with HIPAA and House Bill 300. We tackle the potential for burnout during the delicate transition from agency work to private practice, and share effective strategies for self-care and professional sustainability. If you're curious about incorporating AI into your practice without overstepping ethical boundaries, you won't want to miss the wisdom imparted by guest expert Jenny Melrose, who also provides the opportunity for earning continuing education credits through her illuminating webinar.

Navigating the murky waters of content creation is no simple feat in the mental health profession—misrepresenting your skills in pursuit of market appeal can lead to serious consequences. We'll confront the ethical quandaries in advertising, particularly concerning the accurate portrayal of one's expertise in sensitive areas like eating disorders. Struggling with client waitlists? We offer ethical and practical solutions to provide value while clients anticipate your services. Moreover, the complex journey of trademarking, as I've personally experienced with AchieveBalance.org, is demystified, showing how it integrates with ethical business expansion. This episode wraps with a call to uphold responsibility, especially in rural and underserved communities, while extending an invitation to collaborate and grow within our professional support network.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Ever felt like business numbers were a beast you couldn't tame? Fear not, because this time, I'm pulling back the curtain on the mystique of financial data, sharing the journey from trepidation to triumph. We'll explore the essential role of financial literacy in business success, using vivid metaphors to illustrate two distinct approaches: the precision of the 'driller' and the creativity of the 'butterfly collector'. Whether you're averse to arithmetic or a numbers nerd, I promise you'll walk away with the tools and confidence to tackle the analytics of your business like a pro.

Strap in as we dive into the heart of client conversion rates within a therapeutic practice. You'll hear firsthand how to track the path from a curious caller to a committed client, and the stumbling blocks that can sabotage success. We'll equip you with strategies to fine-tune your communication, sharpen your client engagement, and leverage tech to make your practice as efficient as it is effective. This episode isn't just about crunching numbers; it's about crafting a thriving practice that stands out as an indispensable pillar in your community.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Unlock the secrets to ethically garnering Google reviews as a counselor with Dr. Kate Walker. This episode promises to guide practitioners through the complex terrain of client feedback, highlighting the importance of respecting professional boundaries while leveraging online tools for business growth. As we walk together, you'll gain insight into the ethical nuances that make the counseling profession unique, especially when it comes to managing your digital presence and ensuring your services are appropriately and effectively showcased.

Navigating the landscape of Google My Business can be tricky for counselors wary of crossing ethical lines, but with Dr. Walker's expert advice, it becomes a path of integrity and professionalism. She details the steps to claim and maintain your business listing and why colleague reviews, rather than client testimonials, are the gold standard in our industry. You'll learn how to organize your marketing tools using platforms like Trello to safeguard client confidentiality while still promoting your practice wisely.

Wrapping up the episode, the focus shifts to outcome surveys as a tool for refining your counseling services and reinforcing business success. Dr. Walker emphasizes the collection of anonymous client data to maintain privacy while highlighting your effectiveness and areas for improvement. She assures Texas counselors that an ethical approach to soliciting feedback not only upholds our duty to clients but also strengthens our practices, ensuring that these vital services continue to reach those in need with utmost integrity.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

As we charge through the critical midpoint of Q1, I'm here to arm you with strategies for keeping your 2024 goals within reach. Ever felt the drift away from your objectives, especially post-holiday? I've been there, and I'm spilling the secrets to pulling yourself back with fear setting, a technique that doesn't just anticipate obstacles but steers you straight through them. This episode is your roadmap for rebooting discipline in your diet, fitness, and professional routine, all to ensure you're hitting your marks not just as an entrepreneur or therapist, but in any ambitious pursuit you're on.

Strap in for a candid look at setting robust Q1 goals, where we tackle the temptation to cling to those festive season comforts a bit too long. I'll guide you through a check-up on your physical and emotional wellbeing, integral for anyone looking to conquer their field. Plus, we're marking our calendars for key business deadlines like the 1099 forms due January 31st—no slipping under our watch! Join me, and let's reignite that initial spark that drove you into your business, power past self-sabotage, and keep the momentum of your dreams in full swing.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Let's face it, New Year's resolutions often lead us down a path of high hopes followed by an all-too-familiar sense of letdown. As Dr. Kate Walker, I've been there, but today I'm shedding light on a game-changer that's reshaping the landscape of personal and professional growth: fear setting. Inspired by Tim Ferriss and his powerful TED Talk, I'm taking you through a transformative process that goes beyond the usual goal-setting. It's about confronting the fears that stifle our progress and turning them into stepping stones for success. If you're ready for a fresh take on achieving your counseling career dreams, this episode is your ticket to breaking the cycle of unmet resolutions.

In this powerful episode, I delve into the core of Tim Ferriss's fear-setting philosophy and how it's revolutionized my approach to running a business and embracing personal change. The idea of taking a sabbatical used to send shivers down my spine, but through strategic delegation and facing down my financial and control-related fears, I've unlocked a level of empowerment and innovation I never knew possible. From a modest two-week getaway to month-long solo journeys, I demonstrate the incredible rewards of calculated risks. Join me as I lay out the transformative steps to navigate your deepest fears, setting you on a course to a more fulfilling counseling practice and life.

Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.