Texas Counselors Creating Badass Businesses

What if the key to starting 2025 successfully lies in early planning and preparation? Join me as we uncover essential strategies for financial planning and tax readiness, with critical deadlines such as December 31st for fiscal year-end and January 31st for 1099 submissions. For counselors, staying informed about frequent rule changes can be daunting, but fear not—our Step it Up members have access to exclusive resources to help navigate these updates. Plus, I’ll share insights from my audit experiences to help you effectively prepare for the upcoming continuing education credits shift on November 26th.

Supervisors and supervisees, maintaining compliance just got easier with our comprehensive checklist! Discover how a supervision planner can be your go-to tool for organizing supervisee details, from emergency contacts to practice site visits. We'll also discuss the importance of keeping personal information current on the BHEC website and ensuring malpractice insurance is up to date. As the holiday season approaches, learn how to manage tasks and stress using mindfulness techniques inspired by Jennifer Rosado’s polyvagal counseling presentation. And don't miss a preview of our upcoming discussions on harnessing AI for website copy and note writing—exciting opportunities for innovation and growth are on the horizon!

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.

What if the key to becoming an exceptional clinical supervisor lies in understanding the foundational challenges faced by new supervisors? Join me, Dr. Kate Walker, as I unveil insights from Chapter 11 of my book, "The Clinical Supervision Survival Guide," designed to make your journey into supervision both impactful and rewarding. Discover strategies for selecting supervisees with mental health experience, using recordings for skill enhancement, and nurturing the gradual growth of Level One counselors. Our conversation promises to equip you with the tools to navigate the anxieties and dynamics of stepping into a supervisory role, setting the stage for successful therapeutic relationships.

In this enlightening episode, we traverse the multifaceted responsibilities of supervisors, highlighting the importance of fostering open communication and strong alliances with site supervisors. Learn the significance of early intervention in potential issues and how to manage supervisees' development effectively, from understanding level two behaviors to ensuring comprehensive evaluations. Whether you're guiding a novice counselor or an experienced professional transitioning roles, our strategies promise to support their journey toward developing a unique therapeutic style. Together, we aim to empower supervisors and their associates to continue delivering exceptional therapy and supervision, contributing to a broader mission of positive change.

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.

Step into the world of clinical supervision with us as we promise to transform your approach with insights from the Clinical Supervision Survival Guide. Discover how to anticipate and tackle the obstacles of supervision much like preparing for a challenging hike, ensuring you're equipped with the essential tools and knowledge. We dive into the complexities of supervising across state lines, emphasizing the importance of staying informed in the ever-evolving landscape of counseling laws. Through the developmental model from the Kate Walker Training Online Course, we explore how to support supervisees' growth and embrace the diversity of their emerging counseling styles.

We'll unpack essential strategies, introducing the OER triad and the concept of a resource library to foster an enriching learning environment. As you tune in, prepare to note strategies that will make your supervisory role more rewarding and insightful. We'll give you a sneak peek into future discussions, including vital equipment, onboarding paperwork, and a handy checklist to streamline the process. Plus, get acquainted with a clinical supervision planner designed to complement your journey with the guidebook, setting the stage for effective supervision like never before.

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.

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.

Join us as we unravel the complexities of the 2024 Behavioral Health Licensing Rules with our expert guests, Dr. Stevens and Kate Walker. Ever wondered how these new regulations might impact your practice as an LPC, LMFT, or social worker? We'll explore this in detail, offering practical advice on staying compliant and highlighting the benefits of joining professional organizations to stay informed. You'll walk away with actionable strategies for accessing the latest updates from the BHEC website and tips for managing regulatory changes effectively.

Dive into the evolving landscape of social work with Ashley, who provides a historical perspective on continuing education (CE) requirements and recent changes that allow more flexibility in CE formats. We clarify the misconceptions about in-person training and discuss the recognition of associates as professionals, shedding light on the unique structure of the Behavioral Health Executive Council in Texas. This segment is packed with insights on navigating CE requirements and understanding the organizational aspects of these rules.

For LPCs and LMFTs, we cover critical updates you need to know—from changes in supervision plans and procedural updates to the impact of COVID-19 on relational hours. Learn about the new definition of family for LMFTs and why proper documentation and billing practices are more crucial than ever. We'll also tackle essential topics like handling audits, renewing licenses, and maintaining compliance with new CE requirements, ensuring you stay ahead in your professional journey. Don't miss your chance to gain a comprehensive understanding of these changes and how they affect your 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.

What if you could attract your ideal clients effortlessly, even before they realize they need your services? Join me, Dr. Kate Walker, as we uncover the secrets of attraction marketing and why it's a game-changer for your practice. Learn how this approach not only surpasses traditional marketing methods but also transforms how you engage with potential clients. We'll break down the significance of the 10-minute consultation and explain how understanding your ideal client can revolutionize your marketing strategy.

In the next part of the episode, we explore the art of building strong relationships through resources. Discover how a brief consultation can pre-qualify clients, guide them towards valuable resources on your website, and eventually turn them into part of your extended marketing network. By offering no-cost resources like recommended books, guides, and YouTube videos, you not only build trust and familiarity but also create opportunities for referrals from satisfied non-clients. This approach not only enhances client engagement but also maximizes your marketing reach.

Finally, we discuss the importance of creating branded, personalized resources while ethically leveraging existing ones, such as those from the National Institute of Mental Health. Learn how to optimize your website’s SEO and utilize analytics to identify the resources that resonate most with your audience. By making helpful resources accessible and encouraging newsletter opt-ins, you can significantly expand your reach and support more people. Tune in to gain actionable insights that will transform your practice into a magnet for your ideal clients.

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.

What happens when your client's behavior stirs up unexpected emotions within you? Join us as Dr. Kate Walker shares her profound insights into countertransference in therapy, unraveling how therapists' unconscious emotional reactions, influenced by their personal histories, can impact their therapeutic relationships. Learn how to transform these reactions from potential obstacles into powerful tools that enhance your practice. Dr. Walker's relatable analogies and practical examples, like the grape jelly-smeared projector, will help you recognize and manage your own emotional responses more effectively.

In this episode, we also dive into real-life scenarios where countertransference can manifest, such as a client reminding a therapist of their own family member. Discover practical techniques such as genograms and recommended readings like "The Dance of Anger" that can deepen your understanding of your emotional responses. Whether you're a new counselor or a seasoned professional, this discussion equips you with the confidence and strategies to clear your mental "projector" and better support your clients. Don't miss out on these invaluable insights that can take your therapeutic skills to the next level.

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.

Can a simple change in your personal presentation drastically improve your client retention rates? Discover the vital link between reducing client anxiety and enhancing your intake process as Dr. Kate Walker breaks down the most common mistakes therapists make during client intake. From the critical role of good hygiene and a well-organized virtual setup to presenting a calm and welcoming presence, this episode covers essential strategies for creating an environment where clients feel comfortable and eager to return.

Authenticity and preparation are key to a successful practice, and this episode offers practical solutions to logistical challenges such as parking and navigation, as well as insight into ensuring your online presence accurately reflects your therapeutic approach. Hear about the importance of setting clear expectations from the start through a story of a neighbor's unsatisfactory play therapy experience. By balancing clinical acumen with effective marketing techniques, you'll learn how to streamline your intake processes and authentically showcase the therapeutic experience you offer. Tune in and take your client intake procedures to the next level!

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.

What happens to your practice when life takes an unexpected turn? This episode features Dr. Dawn Brankenhofer, bringing her extensive expertise to shed light on the crucial need for a professional will. From safeguarding client records to ensuring business continuity, Dr. Brankenhofer explains the practical, legal, and ethical reasons behind this often-overlooked aspect of professional practice. She even provides a free template to help you get started, making this conversation an essential listen for anyone in private or group practice.

Dr. Brankenhofer shares invaluable insights on what makes a professional will effective. Learn how to compile all necessary license information, designate professional executors, and include essential contacts, such as attorneys. Drawing from personal anecdotes and practical scenarios, she emphasizes the importance of preparing for any eventuality. With Dr. Brankenhofer's guidance, you'll understand why choosing multiple professional executors and maintaining thorough business documentation are key to minimizing disruptions and stress in the face of unforeseen events.

Navigating the complexities of appointing a professional executor and managing your practice can be daunting. Dr. Brankenhofer delves into the nuances of selecting the right person for the job, the roles of attorneys and significant others, and managing your practice's legal and administrative tasks effectively. Learn how to securely manage passwords, document critical practice information, and handle client communications posthumously. Whether you're considering the continuity of your practice or its eventual closure, Dr. Brankenhofer's expert advice will ensure you're well-prepared, safeguarding the future of your practice and peace of mind.

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.

Is adding coaching to your mental health practice the right move? Uncover the essential differences between certifications and licenses, and understand why having a governing body is critical for professional integrity. Without regulatory oversight, the coaching landscape in Texas presents unique challenges and opportunities. Join us as we dissect these distinctions and provide clear, actionable advice for mental health professionals contemplating this addition to their services.

Explore the ethical maze of dual relationships in therapy and the intricacies of integrating coaching into your counseling practice. We dive into how coaching is perceived by licensing boards like the LMFT and the implications for additional training and supervision. Learn about the accessibility expectations for coaching, the insurance reimbursement hurdles, and the complexities of being both an individual and couple's counselor. We'll also discuss how you can contribute to the mental health community by promoting business growth through collective engagement with our podcast. Tune in for an episode packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the evolving landscape of mental health 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.