Ideal Practice

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]

Seasons change — and so does the rhythm of our work.

In today’s short “Behind the Mic” reflection, I want to tell you a little about why things on the Ideal Practice podcast might sound a little different for a while — and what’s coming next.

Over the next few months, I’ll be alternating between short reflections and replays of some of my favorite episodes that are packed with value. This new rhythm gives me space to create something I’m really excited about — the self-paced, DIY version of my live course, Evolve. Whoooeeeee….!

Ever wish you had a roadmap to help establish a solid foundation and grow your practice at your own pace — without adding more to your already full plate? This will be for you.

So tune in today for a quick, heartfelt update about honoring your own seasons, working with intention, and our evolution as practice owners.

Sometimes the most generous thing we can do is to create space for what’s next.

That’s what I’m doing here. 

This week’s message is brief, but important. 

And hey! Why don’t you shoot me a note and let me know what you think about my plans. Am I on the right track here? :)

I think I am. 😎

In the meantime, I’d love to know — what kind of “seasonal shift” are you in right now? Send me a DM on Facebook or an email and tell me. 💬

And have a great week!

~Wendy

P.S. If you’re craving a slower, more intentional way to grow your practice, stay with me through this new season — and get ready for Evolve, coming February 2026.

_______________

MENTIONED: My Interview with Joe Sanok, Host, Practice of the Practice Podcast in Episode #170.  

_______________

HAVE YOU HEARD? 

You can get my popular min-course on how to transform your money mindset from one of lack, to one of abundance - and just in time for the holidays. Use the promo code "Ideal50" at check out and save $50 - over half the usual fee. Look at that! You're already attracting more abundance! Check out Mind Over Money right here; www.WendyPittsReeves.com/mind .

Support the show

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

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

Hey everyone! You’re in for a treat and a half today! 😍

On the podcast this week, I sat down with the one and only Joe Sanok, popular founder of Practice of the Practice and host of one of the most successful, longest-running podcasts in our field.  Joe helps therapists build a private practice that they absolutely love … one that makes money, serves people deeply, AND doesn’t burn you out in the process. 

Heading into this interview, I was eager to hear his backstory, and he did not disappoint. :) 

In this episode, Joe shared how he stumbled into private practice almost by accident, and the journey that his career took to bring him all the way to where he is today … guiding and inspiring the next generation of therapists.  

We're not just talking tactics and strategies here, y’all (though we cover plenty of those). We're digging into the personal evolution that happens when you grow a business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The 3P Process Joe uses to validate every new idea he has (and how it helped him turn a $500 course idea into a $20,000 done-for-you service!).
• Why you should never think of your business as your baby (and the surprising reframe that changes how you show up as an owner).
• Why there are probably 10 different ways you can serve a single client… (This was such a creative way to grow your practice AND serve at a deeper level. I loved it!!)
• The simple pricing rule to use when raising your rates. (Spoiler alert: might make your stomach flip! 😉)

Whether you're just starting out, growing a group practice, or wondering what's next, there's something here for you. Joe is one of the most respected leaders and teachers in the private practice world, and this interview shows why. 

So give this a listen.  And maybe - just maybe - start dreaming a little bigger about what your practice could become. 🤩

Lots of love,

~Wendy

P.S. What was your #1 takeaway from this conversation? Send me a DM on Facebook or an email at [email protected] and tell me. And if you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a 5 star review too. Thanks!

_______________

TODAY’S GUEST:  JOE SANOK 

Joe Sanok launched Practice of the Practice in 2012, first as a blog, and later as a podcast, so he could talk about what he was learning about business, marketing, and private practice. In the years since, he's sold his very successful group practice, became an author, a keynote and TEDx speaker, a business consultant, and podcaster. His show, The Practice of the Practice Podcast, is the #1 podcast for therapists and one of the top podcasts in the world.

He's been featured in multiple outlets and is the author of Thursday is the New Friday. Joe has been named a top therapist resource for his podcast, blogging, and consultant services. Check out his signature program: The Practice Academy.

His Website: https://practiceofthepractice.com/

His Podcast: https://practiceofthepractice.com/listen-to-the-podcast/

Support the show

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

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

Okay, let’s talk about this, folks.

I know a lot of us break out in hives at the mere thought of marketing. 😜

And yet - some of the most talented healers I know sit with open appointment slots while people who need their help are scrolling Psychology Today, completely lost.

It's heartbreaking on both sides. 💔

But we can fix that. :) 

So today, I’ve found someone who can help. Aaron Price is quite the therapy evangelist, who’s cracked the code on this whole thing. He helps therapists bridge the gap between "I know I can help…" and "but how do the right people actually find me?".

And now, he even has a unique tool that he designed and developed himself, Therapy Profile Pro, that I loved learning about.

I know how to write a smart profile, and have helped countless therapists do exactly that. And even with that, I found this conversation to be incredibly helpful.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The simple math formula that will change how you think about marketing. (This is easy - and eye opening.)
• The TWO questions we should all be asking when we consult with a new client (… and why the second question can give you SO much insight into your ideal clients).
• Aaron’s three-paragraph Psychology Today formula that actually works to attract better clients (and how not to waste precious real estate on your profile).
• The specific Psychology Today optimization hacks that some therapists miss completely (and how to use those for your advantage).

This episode really was filled with actionable tips you can implement today. And Aaron was kind enough to offer a discount code for Ideal Practice listeners who want to take advantage of his software. 

I am not an affiliate, y’all. I just liked what he had to share, and I think what he has to offer is probably worth a look.

So grab a cup of coffee and give this one a listen.

Because when you learn to market authentically and strategically, you're not just filling your caseload – you're making it easier for the people who need your unique gifts to actually find you.

#win/win 😎

~Wendy

P.S.  I know you'll love this. So, have you left a review for us yet over on Apple Podcasts or Spotify? Hint hint….

_______________

TODAY’S GUEST:  AARON PRICE

Aaron Price is a marketing expert and software engineer who specializes in building marketing tools for private practice therapists. As the founder of Therapy Profile Pro, Aaron has helped over 1,000 therapists enhance their Psychology Today profiles, refine their professional focus, and attract more of their ideal clients authentically and ethically.

Learn more here: https://www.therapyprofilepro.com/

Before founding Therapy Profile Pro, Aaron led marketing for multiple education and climate tech companies. He has also been attending therapy himself for the past few years—a journey he describes as life-changing.

Support the show

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

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]

Ever feel like you're screaming into a void when it comes to marketing your practice? 😵

If so, you're going to love what I have for you today, because I'm talking with the brilliant Marina Gee about something that could completely transform how you connect with your ideal clients: authentic storytelling.

And that might even mean telling YOUR story.

(Even though we’re often taught specifically not to do that…)

Marina is a digital marketing strategist who runs an agency specifically focused on helping healthcare professionals and private practice owners. She's passionate about helping heart-centered practitioners (like you!) cut through all the digital noise and build genuine trust with the people who need your services most.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The most effective way to build trust with your audience on social media (spoiler: it doesn’t involve dancing on TikTok!).
• Why your education and credentials matter WAY less than you imagine to potential clients (and what you should be sharing with them instead).
• The two most revealing (and valuable) questions you should be asking every new client.
• The three types of personal stories every practice owner can share (and why they don’t need to be as personal as you think).

I have to tell you: this conversation completely shifted how I think about sharing personal experiences with clients.

Because here's the thing … Your credentials matter, but your story is what makes people say, "This is the person I want to work with". 

So give this one a listen.  Because your people are out there looking for exactly what you offer. 

Let's help them find you.

~Wendy

P.S. “Okay Wendy - you’ve got me thinking…“ 

If that’s what you find yourself saying as you listen, would you please share a little love with a 5 star review and a few words over on Apple Podcasts or Spotify? 

_______________

TODAY’S GUEST: MARINA GEE  

Marina Gee is a dynamic marketing strategist, entrepreneur, and creative visionary dedicated to empowering brands through storytelling and purposeful strategy. As the founder of MG Media Creative, she blends innovation with intuition to elevate health, wellness, and private practice businesses. 

Marina’s voice has been featured on leading podcasts like ‘The Soul of Business' and ‘Pastor Plus' and in publications including ‘Bold Journey Magazine’ and ‘Canvas Rebel’. Bilingual in Spanish and English, she’s passionate about authentic connection, global impact, and building heart-led businesses. Marina’s mission is simple: help others show up, stand out, and succeed with clarity and confidence.

Her Website: www.mgmediacreative.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mgmediacreative1

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/mg-media-creative

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mgmediacreativeagency

Support the show

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

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
[email protected]