LaTonya Shelton joins the show to discuss the highs and lows of her first year in private practice. It's possible to do things your own way. LaTonya speaks about her self-care techniques and what has helped her get through the lows of running your own business. Plus, LaTonya explains the ways to ease the pain points of private practice and how mastermind groups can play a crucial role.

Meet LaTonya Shelton LaTonya N. Shelton, LCSW, RYT, the owner of Red Jasper Counseling, PLLC, located in Nashville, TN. Her practice specializes in providing treatment for trauma, anxiety, and depression. She is a licensed clinical social worker and yoga instructor who integrates somatic (body-centered) psychotherapy practices and mindfulness in her work with clients. LaTonya embodies a deep passion for helping individuals learn, heal and grow. She believes that by helping others understand and navigate difficult emotions, clients can experience relief, improved health, and regain control of their lives. Doing Things Your Own Way

LaTonya is a self-starter. It is so easy to get overwhelmed and inundated with all of the information that's out there. There are a lot of opportunities for mastermind groups and business coaching. With all the information, it's so easy to get overwhelmed. You need to start somewhere. Plus, you're not going to get it right and perfect in the beginning. However, that's the beauty of starting and moving forward on a journey. Make it your own!

Self-Care For Private Practice Owners

Self-care is such a buzzword these days. Some of the self-care that LaTonya engages in is very simple. She enjoys a cup of coffee most mornings with her dog walking in the park, and that works well for LaTonya. Do the things that get you out in nature. Reading, talking, and being around people that support you will also be essential. These things have been the crux of LaTonya's self-care.

Take the Leap of Faith

Throw your limiting beliefs out the window. Show up and do the work that you want to do. LaTonya is a dreamer, but also a planner. Being organized, balanced, and flexible will assist in your private practice journey. Are you wondering if you should take the leap into private practice? It's going to be scary, and there's going to be peaks and valleys, but start, and you'll find your way. You'll meet great people like Gordon. Plus, LaTonya met people in a mastermind and focus groups.

Pain Points in Private Practice

The most significant pain point for LaTonya is not knowing. A lot is riding on your business, so it can be scary, not knowing how it's going to turn out. The journey is unpredictable, and that cannot be very easy. Also, learning how to market has been a journey for LaTonya. We all want to scale and grow our practices. So that's been a pain point, not knowing and then deciding what marketing avenues to go down. Imposture syndrome is also a pain point. Sometimes you'll ask yourself if you really know what you're doing or if you know what you're talking about. Take a step back and breathe deeply. You can ease some of the anxiety of jumping into private practice by keeping your full-time job until you have enough finances saved up to feel comfortable.

Mastermind Groups

It's great to know other people are going through the same struggles. Plus, you'll see how well other private practice owners are doing, and yet they still have questions and need help. There is always room to grow. It's inspiring to see other people who are willing to learn continuously. Once you hit a peak, there is still an opportunity to find another peak. Having the support and the opportunity to problem solve is invaluable.

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LaTonya's Resources LaTonya's Website Email: [email protected] Phone: (615) 606-2964 Facebook Instagram Other Resources

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Gordon is the person behind The Practice of Therapy Podcast & Blog. He is also President and Founder of Kingsport Counseling Associates, PLLC. He is a therapist, consultant, business mentor, trainer, and writer. PLEASE Subscribe to The Practice of Therapy Podcast on iTunes, Stitcher and Google Play. Follow us on Twitter @therapistlearn and Pinterest "Like" us on Facebook