One of the most common things I hear from private practice owners is this: 

“I know I need help, but I have no idea where to start...” 

If that sounds familiar, you’re totally in the right place. 😉

Because today, I’m bringing back a super practical, ever-so-encouraging conversation I had with my own right hand, my assistant, Queenie Verhoeven. 

Together, we’ll break down how to hire the right VA — walking you through exactly what to think about as you prepare, how to find the right person, and more. 

I mean, there’s a reason this is one of our most popular episodes ever. :) 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• When it’s time to hire a VA for your practice (and when it isn’t). 
• Where to find qualified assistants who can bring you the help you need, without wasting time and money on what you don’t. 
• What to look for when you’re finally hiring — and what not to over-prioritize... 
• How to set up a successful working relationship with your new hire. 
• And why hiring help is about more than saving time. (So much more!) 

You’ll learn directly from someone who’s been on both sides of the hiring relationship - which can help you avoid common mistakes many make. 

Listen: you really don’t have to handle everything on your own, nor should you! 

But if this episode stirs up questions about your own path forward, a Quick Start Consult can help you get clear. Learn more about that right here. 

Running a business is SO much better with a good team. 

And you deserve nothing less. 

~Wendy 

P.S. Remember: hiring help doesn’t mean you’re failing — it means you’re growing.

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TODAY’S GUEST: Queenie Verhoeven 

Queenie Verhoeven is a proactive virtual assistant and the founder of Your Business Ally. With over 15 years of experience supporting small business owners, she provides administrative, marketing, and tech support — and, more importantly, freedom from overwhelm. 

She works as a true partner to her clients, helping them focus on what matters most while she handles the behind‐the‐scenes details that keep a business running smoothly. 

Learn more at www.YourBusinessAlly.com.

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JOURNAL PROMPT: 

What is the most important quality you want any team member you hire to have? Is it a specific skill set, experience, an attitude or perhaps a personality trait? 

Before you begin your search, taking some time to think about what matters most. You’ll make a better hire when you do. 

_______________ 
MENTIONED: 

EPISODE: #75. Virtual Assistants: What They Do, How They Help, and Why You Should Hire One 

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

This week, I’m sharing something I’ve never done on the podcast before: a replay of an interview I did as a guest on Joe Sanok’s show, The Practice of the Practice.
 
In this conversation, Joe and I first did a quick walk through of my 7 Pillars framework - the foundation I use to help practice owners build a business that’s clear, solid, and sustainable. 

And then (because Joe is Joe 😄) we did a deep dive into the money side of it all: pricing, rates, and the mindset stuff that gets in the way.
 
If you’re craving a clearer way to think about what’s working in your practice - and what needs attention next - you’re going to love this one.

In this episode, you’ll learn…

• A simple overview of the 7 Pillars of an Ideal Practice, including the aspect that matters most about each.
• Better ways to think about your ‘product’ (and why an ‘hour a week’ isn’t the only option).
• How building in certain systems can save your sanity as a practice owner.
• Why payment is about soooo much more than your fee (and the hidden clinical cost of not handling it well.)

Plus, I’ve got a sweet deal for you on my popular course, Mind Over Money.

So join Joe and I for a fun (and eye opening) conversation about how to sustain your private practice in a much better way.

~Wendy

P.S.  If you want a quick way to review your own practice through the lens of the 7 Pillars, grab the IP360 Scorecard. It’s free, it takes about 10 minutes, and it’ll show you where your biggest stress points are right now. Link is in the show notes.

_______________

TODAY’S GUEST:  Me! 😉

I’m sharing the audio today from my appearance as a guest on Practice of the Practice with Joe Sanok. Joe is a podcaster, consultant, and practice owner who helps therapists build businesses they love. He has supported thousands of clinicians through training, consulting, and resources for private practice owners.

_______________

MENTIONED

• Joe Sanok: A Story of Business Success, True Worth and Personal Evolution | IP 170
• The Practice Academy by Joe Sanok. Note: This is not an affiliate link, but please do mention my name as the person who referred you if you reach out to them. Thank you. 
• The IP 360 Scorecard

_______________

FEELING SQUIRMY about CHARGING for YOUR SERVICES??

Sign up for my course, MIND OVER MONEY. Learn more about it here, and use the promo code ‘Joe’ at checkout, to get it over 50% off! 

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

As we step into a brand new year, I wanted to start 2026 with a different kind of conversation.

In this episode, I’m sharing why I chose to hit the reset button on the podcast over the last few weeks — not by stopping, but by shifting the rhythm. 

After a demanding fall, caregiving responsibilities, and a deep need for creative breathing room, I realized I didn’t need to quit or push harder.

I needed a strategic reset.

So this reflection is an invitation to rethink how we approach consistency, productivity, and growth — especially in seasons where our energy, priorities, or capacity have changed - or need to change. ;)

In this episode, you’ll hear…

• Why “pushing through” or quitting entirely are not your only options.
• What a strategic reset can look like in real life (and in your private practice!).
• How small tweaks in rhythm and structure can make a big difference in your energy...
• Why you don't have to burn out to evolve.
• And a gentler way to approach goals, planning, and presence in 2026. (Totally what I’m going to try this year. 🤨)

I’ll share about how I’m approaching this new year differently — with broader intentions, more spaciousness, and a renewed focus on being present rather than forcing outcomes.

Because here’s the thing.

Sometimes the most sustainable way forward isn’t more discipline or bigger goals — it’s permission to pause, recalibrate, and let what’s next unfold with care.

I kind of like that.
How about you?

~Wendy

P.S. If you need an easy tool to help you review all aspects of your practice for your own strategic reset, download your copy of the IP360 Scorecard, right here.  No cost. Takes 10 minutes to do. And will give you a quick overview of the stress points in your practice! 

_________________________ 

FREE RESOURCES

• IP360 Scorecard:  https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/360

_________________________

WANT to BE on the PODCAST?

You can apply right here! 👉  https://forms.gle/2zq1WqEx3k7Kngje7

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

Well, Happy New Year everyone! 🥳

As we say goodbye to the year that’s been and step forward to who we’re becoming, I wanted to share something meaningful with you.

Someone special once shared this with me during a season of real transition, and I’ve been passing it along ever since.

Here’s the thing.

If you’re in the middle of change — if things feel uncomfortable, uncertain, or unfinished — it may be because something new is taking shape within you. And that might actually be a good thing.

But goodness - that in-between space can be hard.

We can feel the old way ending, while the new way isn’t clear yet. And when that happens, we often rush — into action, distraction, or busyness — just to get out of the not-knowing.

Don’t do that. 🛑

Let yourself stay present, sit with the discomfort of change for a while. This space matters. It’s where growth begins.

The gift I’ve got for you today explains this beautifully… I hope it brings you the kind of comfort it’s brought me over the years. (If it resonates, I’ll also tell you how to download a copy so you can return to it whenever you need.)Wherever you are today, I hope you’re being good to yourself, that you’re surrounded by people who love you, and that you know good things are coming your way soon.

Here’s to what’s next. 🥂

~Wendy

P.S. What change are you in the middle of right now? Hit reply or send me a note — I’d love to hear! 🙏

_______________

FREE RESOURCES

- Want your free copy of today’s reading? Click here ➜ www.wendypittsreeves.com/waiting

- Assess Your Progress with the IP360 SCORECARD in January…and get a free consult!

As a coach of mine used to say, running a business is a full contact sport. There are SO many different parts to keep up with, manage, think about, and create - at every step of the way. How do you know what to work on first or where to focus your energy? How do you tell where your weaknesses are and where you're solid?

Well I’ve got you covered! The IP360 Scorecard, based on the 7 Pillars of an Ideal Practice, is designed to give you a practical, actionable, big-picture review of your practice as it stands. And you can complete it in less than 10 minutes.

Click on the link below to get your free copy today.

The IP360 Scorecard: https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/360

HEADS UP!! For anyone who downloads and completes this free self-assessment in January 2026 >>> I’m offering a no-cost 30 minute online coaching consultation to anyone who completes theirs and submits it to me for a review.

That’s a terrific offer, y’all. Don’t miss it. 😎

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

Hello everyone -

It’s the week of Christmas, the world is slowing down, and, like many of you, I’ve been settling down into my own year-end pause. (You ARE doing that, right? Or will be soon?)

In honor of that pause, I wanted to do something a little different on the podcast. So I’m reflecting in this episode not on what I did this year, but what I learned — especially from the courageous, thoughtful clients I’ve had the deep honor of serving this year.

Their stories shape me in ways big and small, and I’d like to share a few of those with you.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

1. How courage, self-respect, and claiming space showed up everywhere this year.
2. The challenge so many high-achievers face by showing up for everyone but themselves (and how things change when they shift that dynamic).
3. Three powerful client stories that sparked my own growth, and how I am inspired by each.
4. Why alignment matters more than approval or output. (👈This!)

I’ll also share a year-end journal prompt to help you capture your own lessons, so that you can step into 2026 grounded, clear, and aligned with what matters most - to you.

I hope you enjoy!

~ Wendy

P.S. Don’t skip the journal prompt. It’s simple, and surprisingly clarifying…

💟

_________

MENTIONED

Free Resources Page — https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/free-resources

IP360 Scorecard — https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/360

Mind Over Money™: Use Promo Code Ideal50 to get $50 off! Learn more at www.WendyPittsReeves.com/mind.

Evolve™ (Coming February 2026!)

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

Managing a private practice, like any business, means managing growth. And growth always happens in phases. That means, we all start as beginners somehow - right?

I know.

But the start up phase of a private practice can be completely overwhelming. No one taught us how to do this in grad school, and we have a LOT of questions.

• What do I charge?
• Should I offer a sliding scale?
• How will I get paid?
• Who should I work with?
• Where will I see them?
• Do I have to offer evening appointments?
• How do I get referrals?
• What do I say when someone asks me what I do?

Whew boy. So. Many. Questions.

(And that’s just for starters!)

Well don’t worry my friend, because I’ve got you covered.

In today’s episode, I’m going to break it all down, so you’ll know what you HAVE to know up front, and what can wait.

In this episode, I’ll share:

1. Three key decisions you’ll have to make up front, and how getting those in place will make everything else so much easier.
2. Four new skills it will help to learn in your new role as a business owner.
3. A handful of specific action steps to take as you figure out the foundation of your practice.

Feeling a little overwhelmed? Let’s fix that.

Let’s get you started, so you can open your doors to new income, and new ways to help others.

~Wendy

_______________

THIS WEEK’S JOURNAL PROMPT:Based on what you’ve learned from today’s episode, what one thing could you do today to move your private practice, your business, forward?

_______________

MENTIONED:

• Episode 67. What Should You Charge When Clients Cancel at the Last Minute? [https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/blog/67]
• Episode 82. Overcome Money Shame for More Success, with Profit Coach Sam Varner [https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/blog/82]

_______________

NEED a Money Mindset RESET?

You’ll love this. Get it for $50 off with the promo code Ideal50 at checkout!

Mind Over Money [http://wendypittsreeves.com/mind]

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

In this episode, I’m taking time to look back at what I wish I’d known when I started my private practice as a young therapist in the early 90s. (SO many things, y’all.😑)

Back then, I was juggling a toddler, a full-time job as a department head, managing 2 adoptions, and starting a brand-new business. And back then, we didn’t have the kind of resources that are available today, so I was figuring it all out alone.

In this personal reflection, I’ll share the lessons, missteps, and wisdom I sooo wish someone had handed me — especially around boundaries, money, even the structure of my business - and especially, the need to believe in myself more.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why so many new practice owners overextend themselves (and what to do instead.)
• The emotional toll of hiding money stress and business mistakes…🫢
• What healthy boundaries actually look like.
• How to design the kind of ideal week that helps prevent overwhelm. (I still need this, lol.)
• The mindset shift that makes getting paid feel respectful, not uncomfortable! (We all need this…)

We’ll also talk about how your growth as a business owner keeps unfolding at every stage — and why that’s a beautiful thing. 🥰

Because here’s the thing…

You really can build a practice that sustains you, instead of one that quietly drains you - if you only knew a few things that I myself didn’t learn for a very long time.

~Wendy

P.S.  If money is part of your growth edge right now, my mini-course Mind Over Money will help you shift your mindset in the sweetest way possible — and in just 5 minutes a day for 31 days. See the link below - and use promo code IDEAL50 to get it over half off, for just $47.

This is the course I wish I’d had in my early 30s. It’s light, even fun - but powerful — and it will meet you right where you are.

_____________

MENTIONED

• Mind Over Money™ >> One of my most popular courses, open just in time to help insulate you from holiday stress. Develop a whole new abundance mindset with inspiration AND strategy in just 5 minutes a day for 31 days. You’ll thank me later. 🙂

Use Promo Code: IDEAL50 to get $50 off. Sweet!

Learn more at www.WendyPittsReeves.com/mind

• Evolve™ (Coming February 2026! >> A self-paced version of my signature coaching program to help you build a practice that fits your life. More details coming soon...

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

Listen. I get it. 

Money can be one of the hardest things to talk about — especially for therapists, healers, and wellness professionals who pour their hearts 💟 into their work.

That’s why I’m bringing back one of the best episodes from the Ideal Practice archives — all about the messy, emotional relationship healers have with money.

This is a conversation about boundaries, integrity, and abundance — and how talking about money with your clients is not just practical, but deeply therapeutic.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

• Why ignoring financial dynamics in therapy actually hurts the client relationship. (No one talks about this, y’all. 🤔)
• How to view money as a healthy, energetic and even healing presence in your practice. (Who knew?!)
• The mindset shift that allows you to lead a vibrant practice that’s both profit-centered and still people-forward. 💪

You’ll also hear how your willingness to name the “money elephant” in the room will strengthen trust with almost every client you serve.

And when you learn these skills, my friend, your fear about any money talk will begin to fade — and you’ll start seeing it as a natural part of good, ethical care. 

I know. #Radical, right?

Here’s a little challenge for you…

If you’ve got a client that you need to talk to about the money side of your relationship, don’t wait another week. Choose one account, one overdue balance, or one fee conversation — and let’s address it, how about it?

Be clear. Be kind. And take that step today. You will feel better, and there’s a good chance they will too. 

You got this!

~Wendy

P.S. #Truth >> Especially if there’s a problem, your clients are already thinking about money — whether you address it or not. Take the pressure off both of you by naming it clearly, kindly, and with confidence. They’ll appreciate it!!

_______________

MENTIONED

• Mind Over Money™

One of my most popular courses, open just in time to help insulate you from holiday stress. Develop a whole new abundance mindset with inspiration AND strategy in just 5 minutes a day for 31 days. You’ll thank me later. :)

               Use the Promo Code “Ideal50” to get $50 off. (Sweet!)

               Learn more atwww.WendyPittsReeves.com/mind.

• Evolve™ (Coming February 2026!)

A self-paced version of my signature coaching program to help you build a practice that fits your life. More details coming soon…

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

This week, I’m sharing a quick Thanksgiving-week reflection on why I still believe in private practice, even when the work feels hard… along with a simple exercise to help you reconnect with the good stuff in all of this.

(If you ever ask yourself if the hassle of owning a business is worth it - that exercise will help.)

As we head into the holiday here in the U.S., I know many of you have a lot on your plate. 🦃 #Understatement So I thought it might be nice to just take a quick pause before we all get REALLY busy and remember why the work we do matters.

So. Much. 

Private practice isn’t always easy. Hardly ever, really… There are long days, last-minute cancellations, challenging client moments, and financial lessons we’d rather not learn. There’s the dance of managing a practice on top of having a life. And some seasons feel heavier than others. All of that is real.

So in this Reflection, I’ll share a few stories, insights, and reminders that help me stay grounded when things get tough… 

…including a different way to think about gratitude.

Lord knows that gratitude doesn’t erase the challenges — but it does give them context. And it can reconnect us to the deeper purpose behind our work.

So in this episode, you’ll hear…

• Why private practice still matters, even in the tough times. (Perhaps especially in the tough times. 🤔)
• What gratitude actually looks like in the day-to-day. (Might surprise you!)
• How to recognize the sacred moments 💜that are sprinkled throughout our work. 
• A simple way to reconnect with your “why” when things feel  a bit heavy.

I’ve got a great exercise that can help you spot, savor, and store the small wins that make your practice meaningful too — the kind you can return to whenever you need a lift.

Good stuff. Important. Grounding. 

I hope you have a lovely Thanksgiving - and if you’re off this week… yay for you! 🎉

I also hope you get a moment - or three - to breathe, and as we say here in the South - count your blessings. :)

Thanks for tuning in, my friend.

~Wendy

P.S. Hey - if this episode encourages you, share it with someone who might need a little reminder of why their work matters, too. 🙌 

And just in case I haven’t said it lately – I’m really grateful you’re here. 

____________

MENTIONED

• Mind Over Money™

One of my most popular courses, open just in time to help insulate you from holiday stress. Develop a whole new abundance mindset with inspiration AND strategy in just 5 minutes a day for 31 days. You’ll thank me later. :)

Use Promo Code: Ideal50 to get $50 off. Sweet!

Learn more at www.WendyPittsReeves.com/mind.

• Evolve™ (Coming February 2026!)

A self-paced version of my signature coaching program to help you build a practice that fits your life. More details coming soon…

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

If you’ve ever found yourself feeling exhausted, under-appreciated, and wondering if private practice is really worth it, this episode is for you.

In this replay of one of our classics, I’m going back to one of the very first conversations we ever had on the podcast: what an Ideal Practice actually is, and why giving yourself permission to do things your way changes everything.

We’ll talk about how most of us slide into a “default” practice that fits everyone but us—and what it looks like to turn that around with a few honest, clarifying questions.

Yeah. This is going to help you. :))

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why developing your practice “by default” leaves you tired, resentful, and broke—and how to transition to something way better..
2. The core mindset shift behind an Ideal Practice: you have both the freedom and the responsibility to design it. (You may like this and you may not, lol.)
3. Five clarifying questions that help you get clear on who you serve, the kind of work that lights you up, and how you actually want to work. (So many choices. I know!)
4. Real-life examples of healers who changed their schedules, adapted their services, and even learned to set better money boundaries so their practices just FIT them better. 
5. A simple reflection exercise you can do this week to celebrate what’s already working — and begin changing what isn’t.

And you’ll hear some of my favorite truths from this early episode, like:

• “We own it all, y’all.” 😉
• “Do things your way. That doesn’t make you a bad person. It makes you happy.” (Am I right???!)
• The five most important words you will say in your business…. And more. 

All of this so that you can start designing a practice that pays an honorable rate, reflects the good you do in the world, and actually feels like it was built for you.

If this episode stirs something up for you, set aside 30 minutes this week, grab a notebook, and walk yourself through the five clarifying questions I share. Notice what already feels ideal—and what absolutely doesn’t. Then choose one small change you’re willing to make next.

When you do, I’d love to hear about it. Tag me on social or send me a quick note and tell me what you’re changing in your practice next.

~Wendy

P.S. If you love this episode, would you give us a 5 star review? Just scroll to the bottom of the show page in Apple Podcasts where you’ll see the reviews that are already there, and find “Write a Review” in a tiny link underneath. Thank you!!!

_________________

SPECIAL OFFER

Heading into the holidays brings up allll kinds of mixed emotions, worries and joys for our clients, and for ourselves. What better time to practice focusing on abundance, and learn how to attract better income, better energy, and better flow in your private practice? 

Check out Mind Over Money, my sweet mini-course that may be just what you need right now. And use the Promo Code “Ideal50” at check out to get over half off, too. BOOM! 

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]