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 Therapy

12:42 Embracing Triggers for Growth

14:04 "Self-Reflection on Triggers"

19:07 "Collective Fear or Personal?"

21:59 Breaking Generational Emotional Cycles

24:55 The Power of Breath in Therapy

29:39 "Expanding Beyond Limitations"

31:25 "Therapist's Role in Embracing Fear"

33:46 "Until Next Time"

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Zach's Website: https://www.zachrehder.com/

Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

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 Challenges

09:02 UHC: Profitable Yet Problematic Partnerships

13:10 Therapists' Fear-Induced Behavioral Shift

17:23 "Burnout vs. Mental Health Diagnosis"

20:27 Decolonizing Practice for Healing

25:03 Holistic Support Over Self-Care

26:58 Balancing Business and Community Support

29:59 Navigating Private Practice Challenges

33:43 Evaluating Therapy Success Metrics

39:30 "Orlando's Top Trauma Therapists"

42:03 Therapists' Anxiety and Outcome Improvement

43:56 "Recognizing Progress Beyond Trauma"

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Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

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.

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Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

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.

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Bridgette's Website: nourishwellnesstherapy.com

Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

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.

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Chelsea's Website: chelseakramertherapy.com

Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

Guest: Raffi, LCSW-C

Location: Baltimore, Maryland

Practice: Baltimore Therapy Center

Topics 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.

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Raffi's Website: thecommunicationbook.com

Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

Guest: Anna, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Location: Lakewood, California

Practice: Thrive Therapy and Couples Counseling

Topics Covered:

• The transition to private practice: From working in a group setting to starting her own business after the birth of her first child.
• Challenges and growth: Learning business skills, building a website, and finding pride in each step of her entrepreneurial journey.
• Specialization: Using the Gottman Method to strengthen couples' relationships and focusing on anxiety, panic attacks, and postpartum care.
• Breaking stigmas: Overcoming family doubts about a career in social work and finding success on your terms.
• Advice for aspiring therapists: "It's doable. It may feel daunting, but you can achieve your dreams with the right mindset and resources."

Why Connect with Anna?

Specializing in couples counseling, anxiety, and postpartum care, Anna reflects on overcoming family stigma and her advice for aspiring private practice owners.

Whether you're a therapist dreaming of a private practice or looking for inspiration, this episode is for you!

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Anna's Website: thrivetherapyandcouplescounseling.com

Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

Guest: Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor

Location: Berkley, Pennsylvania

Practice: Mr. Ross Private Practice

Topics Covered:

• From Group Practice to Private Practice: Ross's journey from feeling undervalued in a group setting to building his own successful private practice.
• Finding Your Niche: How Ross chose addiction therapy as his primary focus and leverage his experience to help others.
• Challenges of Being a Young Male Therapist: Ross reflects on the obstacles of demographic selection and how he turned them into opportunities.
• Learning to Balance: Tips for managing a busy practice, writing a book, and navigating the entrepreneurial side of therapy.

Why Listen?

Ross's story highlights the power of trusting your instincts and making bold decisions. His insights into private practice ownership and his work with addiction recovery will inspire anyone interested in the field of therapy.

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Ross's Website: www.misterrosscounseling.com

Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

Guest: Patricia, Stanford-trained psychiatrist

Location: San Diego, California

Practice: Patricia Pop MD

Topics Covered:

• Childhood curiosity: Patricia's dream of becoming an astronomer and her interest in theological studies led her to psychiatry.
• The Journey to Private Practice: Patricia's journey through mentorship, exploring different jobs in the field, and her decision to prioritize autonomy in her career.
• Preventing burnout: Lessons from the Therapist Burnout book, including setting clear boundaries for patient load and research.
• Innovative treatment approaches: Patricia's exploration of psychedelics in therapy, addressing stigma, and ensuring controlled and safe use.
• Sustainable practice design: Her balanced schedule includes two remote working days, psilocybin research studies, and medication management.

Why connect with Patricia?

Discover Patricia's advice for creating a meaningful and balanced psychiatric practice, and hear her tips for aspiring professionals navigating this dynamic field. Take advantage of this episode of inspiration and practical insight!

Watch the full video and don’t miss her advice. You’ll love it.

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Patricia's Website: www.patriciapopmd.com

Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists

Guest: Robin, Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist

Location: Kensington, Maryland

Practice: Better Together Family Therapy

Topics Covered:

• A Natural Listener: How Robin’s gift for understanding others inspired her career in therapy.
• The Journey to Family Therapy: Robin shares her unconventional path from challenging psychology classes to finding her calling.
• The Private Practice Pivot: Life’s challenges inspired Robin to start her practice, empowering her to work on her terms.
• Creating a Safe Space: Robin’s commitment to neurodiverse clients and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• Balancing It All: Lessons on managing personal and professional life as a therapist.

Why Connect with Robin?

Robin’s story powerfully reminds us that growth often comes from unexpected places—her work at Better Together Family Therapy changes lives, one client at a time.

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Robin's Website: Better Together Family Therapy

Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/

Website: zynnyme.com

Blog: zynnyme.com/blog

Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda

Instagram: 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 Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Spotify

Mentioned in this episode:

Register Now: From Dread to Done - Documentation & Time Hacks for Busy Therapists