The Bad Therapist Show

Are you on the brink of quitting being a therapist? Before you throw in the towel, let me offer you a new perspective! You entered this field with a burning passion to help others, but what happens when the very job meant to fulfill you starts to drain your spirit? It's a harsh reality many therapists face, but I'm here to tell you that it doesn't have to be the end of the road.

Join me in today's episode as I discuss the main problem in the therapy field that makes so many therapists leave, how you can fall in love with being a therapist again, and the simple steps you can take today to improve your current situation.

So, before you decide to quit being a therapist once and for all, give this episode a listen. It might just be the lifeline you need to fall back in love with being a therapist.

Topics covered in this episode:

1. Why so many passionate therapists consider quitting being therapists
2. Is it possible to fall in love with your job again or should you just quit being a therapist?
3. The truth about working conditions for therapists and how they can be changed
4. How you can approach your current therapy job differently to improve your satisfaction
5. How The Magic Sheets can help you design your dream private practice

Connect with Felicia:

• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Facebook group: Healing Money

Resources from this episode:

• Alternative Careers for Counselors → What To Do If You Don't Want To Be a Therapist Anymore
• Liberated Business
• Sign up for The Magic Sheets

Quote:

"The truth is that your options as a therapist are literally endless." - Felicia

Are you unintentionally making the mistake of asking your private practice clients for permission when you should be taking responsibility instead? In today's podcast episode, I dive into the crucial distinction between collaboration and responsibility in your private practice. Discover why asking clients for their input or negotiating with them on certain business aspects isn't just unnecessary—it can actually lead to chaos and confusion between you and your clients.

I'll guide you through identifying which decisions should strictly be yours, such as setting fees and office policies, and how to confidently maintain those boundaries. Plus, you'll learn strategies to handle client requests that don't align with your practice's structure, all while keeping professional integrity intact.

You can expect to walk away with a clear understanding of when to lead and when to listen, ensuring your therapy sessions are both effective and empowering. So if you're ready to take charge of your business and create a practice that truly works for you, join me now!

Topics covered on this episode:

• The critical business decisions that therapists should make without client input
• How setting firm boundaries can help you avoid common private practice mistakes
• When it’s okay to say "no" to a client's request, and how can it impact your private practice positively
• Understanding your power as a therapist for healthier client relationships
• How letting go of certain clients actually improve your therapy practice
• Why it’s important to recognize that you're not the only therapist who can help your clients

Connect with Felicia:

• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Facebook group: Healing Money

Resources from this episode:

• Work with me: www.thebadtherapist.coach/private-coaching

Related episodes:

• Episode 50: What to Do When a Therapy Client Threatens to Leave a Negative Online Review

Quote:

"Being a good and effective therapist does not mean having the 100% approval of your client at all times.” - Felicia

Has a therapy client ever threatened you with leaving a negative online review? Imagine this: after upholding your cancellation policy, a disgruntled client threatens to leave a bad review online. Suddenly your hard-earned reputation is at risk. It's the scenario no therapist wants to face, yet it's all too common. But fear not! I'm here to guide you through the murky waters of client dissatisfaction and online backlash.

Join me as I share effective strategies on what to do when a therapy client threatens you to leave a negative online review and turn a potential crisis into an opportunity for growth. I'll share insights on maintaining professionalism while standing your ground, and how to navigate the delicate balance between policy enforcement and empathy. So, if you've ever received that dreaded message or fear it's just around the corner, this is the episode for you!

Topics covered in this episode:

1. Listener’s question about what to do when a therapy client threatens to leave a negative online review
2. How to effectively communicate your cancellation policy to clients
3.  Different strategies to handle a therapy client who threatens to leave a negative online review
4. How to collect positive reviews to strengthen your private practice's reputation
5. Real-life examples of handling negative reviews in private practice

Connect with Felicia:

• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Facebook group: Healing Money

Resources from this episode:

• Submit your questions for the next episode
• My No Show Policy Template & Fee for Therapists [Prevents No Shows]

Quote:

" Don't give clients discounts just because they're 'difficult’. " - Felicia

Are you thinking of marketing your therapy practice online but you’re afraid of negative feedback on social media? It's the monster under the bed for many, especially therapists looking to expand their practice online. In today's episode, I'm shining a light on this fear and giving you the tools to conquer it!

Social platforms can be battlegrounds at times, but they're also fertile ground for growth. Whether you're tiptoeing into the online marketing arena or already in the thick of it, I'm dissecting the good, the bad, and the trolls of social media. I'll share my personal battle scars and victories from dealing with negative feedback on social media and how to navigate uncomfortable situations while everyone's watching.

Expect real talk, actionable advice, and a no-holds-barred discussion on making social media a powerhouse for your therapy practice. Don't let the fear of criticism hold you back—let's dive in and turn those potential negatives into your marketing positives.

Topics covered on in this episode:

1. Why social media is an essential tool for therapists to market their practice
2. How therapists can overcome the fear of making mistakes on social media
3. What are the best strategies to handle trolls and negative feedback on social media
4. How can therapists turn online challenges (such as negative feedback on social media) into opportunities for growth
5. Real examples of how I have responded to negative feedback on social media

Connect with Felicia:

• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Facebook group: Healing Money

Resources from this episode:

• Marketing Strategy Clinic
• Submit your questions for the next episode

Related episodes:

• How to Market Your Therapy Practice Online [Ep 48]

Quote:

“People are gonna misunderstand you. Not just online, but in your life in general. And you will experience so much more freedom in your life if you stop trying to make sure that everyone understands you all the time." - Felicia

Do you ever worry the internet is just too crowded with therapists who already have a big following, so why bother with marketing your therapy practice online? Well, I've got some great news for you! Join me in today's episode as I bust the myth that there's no space left for your therapy practice online. Trust me, there's a spot just for you and your unique approach. We'll talk about how to stand out as a therapist and connect with the people who need someone just like you. I'm sharing easy-to-follow tips on choosing marketing methods that fit you like a glove and reflect your passion. Plus, I'll let you in on why mixing it up with good old-fashioned networking still has magic to work for your practice. So, don't let doubt hold you back. Press play, join me, and let's make your mark in the online world. Your journey to a thriving practice starts here!

Topics covered in this episode:

1. Is there still space for your therapy practice online?
2. What mindset should you adopt when learning to market your therapy practice online?
3. Strategies that can help you effectively market your therapy practice online
4. How can you avoid the comparison trap with other therapists on the internet?
5. The best ways to market your therapy practice online and connect with potential clients
6. The importance of having a clearly defined niche

Connect with Felicia:

• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Facebook group: Healing Money

Resources from this episode:

• Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller
• Submit your questions for the next episode

Related episodes:

• How to Pick a Therapy Niche That Makes You Happy [Ep 4]
• Marketing Mindset Shifts You Need to Make to Fall in Love With Marketing [Ep 5]
• Mastering Your Marketing Strategy [Ep 6]

Quote:

“The point isn't to go online and say something that no human being has ever said or thought before. The point is to go online and to speak your truth, trusting and knowing that there's a certain group of people out there who's most going to resonate with you.” - Felicia

Do you feel awkward or uncomfortable talking about money with your therapy clients? You're not alone! Many of my clients find money conversations tough, both in client sessions and in their personal lives. That's why today's podcast episode is all about how to normalize these chats from the get-go. You'll learn how to handle fee increase conversations and objections during sales calls with grace and confidence, why justifying your therapy fees isn't necessary, and why it's crucial to focus on your business's sustainability.

I'll also introduce you to my unique Devotional Sales practice that helps therapists navigate sales talks with ease. Plus, I'll share details about my course, Healing Money, designed to help therapists like you tackle money issues head-on. Remember, as a therapist, you're also a business owner. It's time to set fees that allow you to live your life joyfully and work resentment-free. Tune in to learn more!

Topics covered in this episode:

1. How you can normalize talking about money with your therapy clients from the start
2. Tips for talking about money with your therapy clients
3. Why it’s important to practice discussing money in your personal life
4. Why you shouldn’t justify your fee increases to your clients
5. How you can effectively screen potential clients during initial calls

Connect with Felicia:

• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach

Resources from this episode:

• Purchase Devotional Sales Practice use the code SHOW for $10 off until the end of February
• Join the Healing Money Facebook group to access my FREE course

Related episodes:

• How to Ethically Raise Your Therapy Fees [Ep 46]
• Why Lowering Your Fees Isn't Always the Answer [Ep 39]
• My Secret to Turning 10 Min Intake Calls Into Paying Clients [Ep 7]

Quote:

"Whenever you hear 'must be nice' in your head, or feel a tinge of jealousy, envy, resentment, there's something up in your practice that needs an adjustment." - Felicia

Are you a therapist grappling with how to ethically raise your therapy fees? You're not alone! In today's episode, I take you on a journey through the often misunderstood process of fee increases. I'll debunk myths and shed light on why it's not just okay but absolutely necessary for the health of your practice to increase your therapy fees periodically.

Then I'll delve into the importance of clear communication with clients about fee changes, providing them with reasonable notice, and setting up safeguards in the form of informed consent. You'll also learn how to handle situations where a client can't continue at the new rate and how to navigate these sensitive conversations. Plus, I'll discuss the crucial role of marketing when planning fee increases and the questions you need to tackle to ensure your practice continues to thrive even as you implement fee changes.

Are you ready to raise your therapy fees with confidence? Let's do it!

Topics covered in this episode:

• Can you raise your therapy fees whenever you want?
• Is it ethical to significantly raise your therapy fees?
• How to effectively and ethically communicate fee changes to your clients.
• What to do if a client cannot continue at the new rate.
• Why is it important to consider marketing strategies when raising your therapy fees?
• How can you prepare for different scenarios when raising your therapy fees?

Connect with Felicia:

• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Join my Facebook group: Healing Money
• Sign up for the Liberated Business Group Program: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusiness
• 1:1 Private coaching: www.thebadtherapist.coach/private-coaching 

Resources from this episode:

• Ten Reminders for Therapists About Fees 
• Try My Therapist Rate Increase Letter Template [So You Don't Burn Out]
• Three Different Ways To Set Your Fee (spoiler, do all three!)
• SCRIPTS INCLUDED! How to Keep Your Intake Calls Under 10 Minutes, Reliably Book Clients, and Handle Objections without Falling into the Trap of Trying to Prove Yourself

Related episodes:

• How to Uphold Your Cancellation Policy Without Feeling Guilty [Ep 19]
• My Secret to Turning 10 Min Intake Calls Into Paying Clients [Ep 7]
• How to Raise Your Fees & Take a Week Off from Your Practice Every Month [Ep 2]

Quote:

“Yes, you are allowed to raise your fees by whatever amount that you choose.” - Felicia

Welcome back to another guest episode of the Bad Therapist Show! In this episode, I sat down with Eddie Vals, founder of WellnessFi, an accounting firm for therapists and mental health practitioners.

During our conversation, Eddie shares his personal journey from dealing with ADD while creating a robust team serving therapists nationwide. He emphasizes the importance of evolving your services as the industry is changing, and how hiring help can lead to personal and business growth. We also delve into the concept of designing your life and business to align with your desires and much more!

Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of accounting for therapists, and discover how you can focus more on your therapy practice and less on the numbers. Plus, if you stick around until the end, you will find out how you can get a free consultation and a discount on bookkeeping catch-up services from WellnessFi. Don't miss this enlightening conversation!

More about Eddie Vals:

Eddie Vals is a founder of WellnessFi. WellnessFi is an accounting firm specializing in supporting mental health practitioners.  Eddie founded Wellness Five five years ago, and in that time, it has grown from a one-man operation serving just a few local clients to a robust team of 15  serving mental health entrepreneurs all over the country.

Topics covered in this episode:

1. How Eddie turned his personal experiences with therapy into a successful accounting firm for therapists
2. What led Eddie to choose therapists as his primary clients, and how has this decision shaped WellnessFi's growth
3. What are the benefits of hiring an accountant early in your business journey, and how can it impact your growth?
4. Eddie shares essential accounting tips for therapists.
5. The challenges Eddie has faced as his business grew from a one-man operation to a team of fifteen.
6. What are the benefits of working with a coach?
7. How can you design your dream life first and then shape your business around it?

Connect with Felicia:

• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Facebook group: Healing Money

Connect with Eddie Vals:

• Website: https://www.wellnessfi.com

Resources from this episode:

• Quickbooks
• Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine Hardcover by Mike Michalowicz
• Relay
• Wealthfront
• The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
• The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber
• We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman’s Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power Paperback by Rachel Rodgers

Related episodes:

• The Profit First Model: A Game Changer for Your Private Practice [Ep 44]

Quote:

“You need to hire people as soon as possible or you're going to get stuck doing these things that feel like chores.” - Eddie Vals

Are you ready to take control of your business finances in 2024? Then this episode is for you! Today, I want to share a model with you that not only transformed my relationship with money but brought financial stability to my business. It's called the Profit First model and it's based on the book Profit First by Mike Michalowicz. Join me as I share my personal journey with the Profit First model and reveal how it changed my business. Together, we'll explore the benefits of this model, how you can apply it in your own business, and how to divide income into different accounts for profit, taxes, owner's pay, operational expenses, and more.

By the end of this episode, you'll learn how this approach can help you avoid overspending and ensure you always have enough set aside for taxes or business emergencies. Plus, I'll discuss how you can adapt the Profit First model to fit your unique needs and circumstances. So tune in, and let's take control of your business finances in 2024!

Topics covered in this episode:

1. What is the Profit First model, and how can it revolutionize your business finances?
2. How does dividing your revenue into five different accounts help manage your money better?
3. Determining how much money you should put in each account.
4. What are the different ways to adapt the Profit First Model to suit your unique needs and circumstances?
5. Why is setting a consistent salary for yourself crucial in running a successful private practice?

Connect with Felicia:

• 1:1 Coaching: www.thebadtherapist.coach/private-coaching
• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Facebook group: Healing Money

Resources from this episode:

• Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine Hardcover by Mike Michalowicz
• My program Liberated Business
• We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman’s Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power 

Quote:

"Profit First is a system for approaching your business finances, and it was a total game changer for me." - Felicia

Are you a therapist dreaming of starting a therapy private practice but not sure where to begin? Then today's podcast episode is for you! Join me as I guide you through the essential steps to launching your therapy private practice. From registering your business and obtaining necessary legal documents to setting up a bank account and securing liability insurance, I've got you covered!

But it's not just about the technicalities; I delve into the importance of establishing clear policies around fees and cancellations that work for you. Plus, I share insights on how to effectively market your therapy private practice and why having a professional website is crucial in today's digital age. This episode is your quick-start guide to making your dream of owning a therapy private practice a reality. Don't let uncertainty hold you back - tune in now and take the first step towards building your successful private practice!

Topics covered in this episode:

• Legal, financial, and ethical considerations when starting a therapy private practice in 2024.
• Navigating the technical aspects of starting a therapy private practice.
• How you can create policies and practices that not only meet professional standards but also align with your personal preferences and lifestyle.
• What marketing strategies should you consider if you want to start a therapy private practice in 2024?
• Why having a website is crucial for a therapy private practice and how can it benefit you.

Connect with Felicia:

• 1:1 Coaching: www.thebadtherapist.coach/private-coaching
• Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic Sheets
• Instagram: @the_bad_therapist
• Website: www.thebadtherapist.coach
• Facebook group: Healing Money

Resources from this episode:

• Starting a Private Practice In Counseling Checklist

Related episodes:

• Ep 29 Improve Your Website Instantly with This Simple Practice 
• Ep 19 How to Uphold Your Cancellation Policy Without Feeling Guilty
• Ep 7 My Secret to Turning 10 Min Intake Calls Into Paying Clients
• Ep 4 How to Pick a Therapy Niche That Makes You Happy

Quote:

"There's actually a lot you can do to start your private practice that can all happen in a day and honestly in a matter of hours.” - Felicia