This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with real-world, actionable insights to help you market your private practice in a way that actually fits your life (without burning out or losing yourself along the way). If you’ve been overwhelmed by marketing, felt that tug to do “all the things,” or are wondering how to draw in the right clients while honoring your limits as a parent, you’re in the right place.

As someone who’s navigated the juggle of motherhood, private practice, military spouse life, and all the messy, beautiful realities that come with it, I know firsthand how easy it is to fall into the trap of comparison and hustle. Spoiler: You don’t have to. Sometimes, it’s a small pivot—giving yourself permission to simplify or say no—that makes all the difference for your sanity and your referrals.

In this episode, I’m sharing the strategies that have helped me (and the therapists I support) step out of marketing survival mode, focus on what actually works, and drop the guilt about not doing it all. Whether you’re brand new to private practice, shifting from full-time work, or a seasoned therapist looking to fine-tune your systems, this episode was designed with you in mind.

• How to Ditch “Survival Mode” Marketing: Why doing more isn’t always better—and how intentional simplicity can make marketing less overwhelming.
• Finding YOUR Aligned Strategies: Discover how to identify the few strategies that actually move the needle for your unique client base.
• The Two Non-Negotiables for Long-Term Success: Learn why a website and intentional networking are critical, no matter what else you try.

• 00:00: Honoring the realities of building a private practice as a mom and why “all-in” marketing isn’t always the answer.
• 01:54: Moving beyond hustle—how to choose marketing strategies based on what works for you (not just copying others).
• 06:57: Why feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by marketing doesn't mean you’re failing—it might just mean you need to edit your approach.
• 13:00: The 3–5 Strategies Rule: How to simplify and select only the most effective ways to reach your clients.
• 19:32: Why having your own website—and building real referral connections—are must-haves, not optional extras.
• 26:12: Practical reflection: How to audit your current marketing efforts and let go of what isn’t serving you.

1. Intentional Marketing Beats Doing Everything

• Let’s break this down: “Spaghetti at the wall” marketing—trying every single platform or strategy just because someone else is doing it—doesn’t automatically lead to more clients. In fact, it often leads to burnout, self-doubt, and wasted energy. I’ve been there: signing up for every directory, half-heartedly posting everywhere, all because it looked like “the answer” for someone else. The truth? When you focus on what feels sustainable for you and matches where your clients actually search, your marketing becomes more effective and much less draining. 02:22 for my candid story on this shift.

1. Focus on 3–5 Core Marketing Strategies

• Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:
• Step 1: Audit what you’re currently doing—where are clients actually finding you? Which activities drain your energy?
• Step 2: Identify your top 3–5 marketing strategies. Non-negotiables? A clear, client-friendly website and intentional networking with referral sources.
• Step 3: Give yourself permission to let go of anything that isn’t moving the needle, even if it works for others. Simplicity = sustainability and results. 13:00.

1. Don’t Let Comparison or “Shiny Objects” Derail You

• We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do when applying these strategies:
• Mistake 1: Switching strategies every time someone else says there’s a “better” way—this prevents you from gaining traction.
• Mistake 2: Confusing social media engagement (likes, views, followers) with real client inquiries and actual business growth.

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is filled with honest, practical insights to help you finally take action on starting your private practice—even if life feels busy, messy, or overwhelming. If you’ve been caught in a cycle of waiting, over-preparing, or second-guessing every move, and wonder if you’ll ever feel “ready,” you’re in exactly the right place.

As someone with over a decade in private practice, and as a mom who has built a business while juggling motherhood, unpredictability, and those all-too-familiar waves of self-doubt, I know firsthand that the moment you feel fully ready rarely—if ever—arrives. What matters isn’t waiting for total confidence or perfect timing; it’s taking that first small step in the midst of your real, beautiful, complicated life. Let’s get real about what’s keeping you on the sidelines and how you can finally begin.

• How to Tell the Difference Between Real Constraints and Fear: You’ll learn to spot the sneaky ways fear disguises itself as “reasonable” reasons to wait, and how to recognize true logistical barriers.
• Why “Ready” is a Decision—Not a Feeling: We’ll unpack how to give yourself permission to move forward, even when self-doubt is loud.
• Action Steps for Getting Unstuck: Practical strategies, scripts, and mindset shifts to help you take the next step toward building the career (and life) you want.

• 00:02: Opening honesty about motherhood, private practice, and why the “perfect time” myth keeps us stuck.
• 01:45: Examining reasons women therapists delay starting—life seasons, certifications, “more research”—and uncovering what’s underneath.
• 07:03: Why real-life barriers and fear are so hard to separate, and the consequences of endless preparation.
• 10:31: How systems, training, and culture teach us to overprepare and internalize self-doubt.
• 16:47: The truth about readiness: why you’ll never feel fully prepared, and why that’s not a problem.
• 19:07: Step-by-step: How to identify real vs. “ambient” constraints and move forward—even if it’s messy.
• 23:59: How courage (not confidence) propels you forward, and how to let go of waiting.
• 25:29: Next steps and how to get clarity (plus, how to connect for a coaching consult).

Let’s break this down: We all have legitimate seasons—babies, school transitions, financial realities—that can impact timing. But more often, the reasons we give ourselves (“I need another certification,” “It’s just not the right time”) are really masked fear. This shows up as endless prep, research, and delaying. The first step is to get radically honest about what’s truly holding you back.

Example: As I shared in this episode, my own leap into private practice was tangled with fear of failure, fear of judgment, and a long list of “responsible” reasons to wait. The truth? That list kept regenerating every season until I finally decided to do it scared.

Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:

• Step 1: Write down all the reasons you’re telling yourself “not now.” Split them into two categories: Real Constraints (logistics like money, childcare, licensing) and Fear-Based Narratives (“I’m not prepared,” “What will others think?”).
• Step 2: For the real constraints, create a concrete plan (even a single, tiny step—like researching business bank accounts or listing names for your practice). For the fear-based reasons, give yourself permission to take action anyway.
• Pro tip: Remember, confidence comes from doing. Each small step quiets fear and builds momentum.

We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:

• Mistake 1: Believing another certification or another podcast episode will make you “ready.” That moment never comes—you always find something else to wait for.
• Mistake 2: Expecting life to “calm down” before you begin. With motherhood, there is always another season around the corner.
• Bonus: Thinking you need to build your whole practice at once. Small, imperfect steps forward are enough.

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you create and hold boundaries in your private practice—especially as a mom. If you’ve ever felt your work bleeding into your family time, or you’ve struggled to protect your calendar from constant demands, you’re in the right place.

As someone who’s both a therapist and a mom navigating the realities of entrepreneurship and motherhood, I know firsthand how easy it is to let your business overtake the rest of your life. I also know that small, intentional shifts in how you structure your days and protect your time can change everything about your experience as both a clinician and a parent. Let’s dig into the strategies that have changed my own practice and family life, and can help you do the same.

Whether you’re brand new to private practice or you’ve been at it for years but still find yourself stretched thin, this episode will help you anchor your business around your real needs, not just everyone else’s.

• Why Boundaries Matter for Private Practice Moms: How respecting your own limits protects you (and your family) from burnout.
• Concrete Boundary Strategies: Real-life examples of boundaries you can set in your schedule, communication, and workflow to reclaim peace and presence at home and at work.
• Systems That Support (Not Undermine) Your Needs: How to build boundaries into your practice operations, so you’re not left white-knuckling your willpower every week.

00:02: Naming how the new school year immediately crowds our calendars and ramps up demands on both mothers and therapists

01:33: Why boundaries in private practice aren’t optional—they’re essential for sustainable work and family life

04:45: The emotional and practical costs of constant flexibility and how overextending slowly drains your energy

08:34: Putting boundaries into action: specific examples from my own practice—including protected hours, documentation routines, and time off for family

20:04: Building boundaries into the structure of your business so you’re not renegotiating every week

29:08: The discomfort of holding new boundaries, why it’s normal, and how to respond to pushback with kindness and clarity

31:10: It’s not a personal failure if your practice lacks boundaries—it’s a design issue you can fix

1. Your Capacity Is Data—Not an Inconvenience
2. We aren’t trained to see our own exhaustion or limits as valuable feedback. Too often, we override the signals from our body and spirit, believing we must bend further and further to serve everyone else. Instead, I learned to see my own capacity as essential information for designing my practice—protecting my evenings, creating buffer times between sessions and pick-ups, and being honest with myself about what I can truly offer. For instance, after years of feeling depleted, I now block off the hour after school drop-off just to ground myself before my first client 13:16.
3. Build Boundaries Into Your Practice Structure—Not Just Your Willpower
4. If every boundary depends on you making a case, you’ll burn out. Instead, set your availability, cancellation policy, and communication windows in your intake paperwork and booking systems. For example, my calendar now only shows the times I’m actually available—no hidden options. Clients don’t get to negotiate for extra hours because the system simply doesn’t offer them 25:14.
5. How to Start:

• Step 1: Clearly define your available hours and caseload maximum.
• Step 2: Set automated systems—like booking software and out-of-office email responses—to reinforce your limits for you.
• Step 3: Review your policies seasonally and update them as your family or personal needs shift.

1. Don’t Over-Explain—Kind and Clear Is Enough
2. When your boundaries are challenged, it’s natural to want to justify, negotiate, or offer lengthy reasons. But often, over-explaining just invites more requests. Instead, use a brief, warm statement: “That time doesn’t work for me, but here is what I do have available.” Hold firm and know that discomfort is part of the process (not evidence you’re being unreasonable) 29:34.
3. What NOT to Do:

• Mistake 1: Offering a paragraph-long explanation that invites negotiation
• Mistake 2: Making exceptions “just this once” unless they’re truly your choice—not a response to pressure

• Your Ideal Practice Blueprint – A guided workbook to design a private practice that fits your life
• Berries The AI tool I use to support my documention. Use code RAISETOEMPOWER for $50 off

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with practical guidance to help you integrate advocacy into your private practice—without overwhelm or burnout. If you’re a therapist mom who’s felt stretched thin by the competing demands of running a business, raising a family, and simply surviving through this “hanging-on-by-a-thread” world, you’re in the right place.

As someone who’s lived through both the trenches of motherhood and the complexities of building a private practice, I know firsthand that advocacy can feel like another impossible “should” on an already endless to-do list. What I want you to know is this: meaningful change isn’t reserved for the bold and tireless. Sometimes it looks like everyday courage, small wins, and honest conversations—ways we can show up for our clients, ourselves, and our communities even when the world feels heavy. So grab your coffee (and maybe your cold medication or allergy tablets if it’s that kind of day), and let’s dive into ways advocacy can feel supportive, sustainable, and true to your calling.

Educating Your Clients on Rights and Resources:

How simple resource sharing empowers your clients and integrates advocacy naturally into your existing workflow.

Using the Five Calls App for Micro-Advocacy:

How to use this free tool to make your voice heard on issues that matter, even with a packed schedule.

The Power of Amplifying Others’ Work on Social Media:

How lifting the voices of frontline advocates extends your impact and signals solidarity in meaningful ways.

• 00:02: Advocacy in motherhood and private practice, naming the hard stuff and why it’s needed more than ever
• 01:15: How politics and policy impact therapy—and why we can’t separate them as mental health professionals
• 05:28: Three concrete strategies for weaving advocacy into your practice without extra overwhelm
• 07:47: Step-by-step on using the Five Calls app to make advocacy quick, relevant, and sustainable
• 11:45: Why amplifying others on social media is a meaningful way to advance justice

Let’s break this down:

You don’t have to overhaul your life to make a difference. Every time you help a client understand their rights, or connect them to a resource (like workplace accommodations via the ADA, or support for military families navigating TRICARE), you’re engaging in advocacy. I’ve seen shoulders physically drop in relief when clients realize they have options—sometimes, the act of naming what’s possible is a quiet revolution in their lives 07:01.

Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:

• Step 1: Download the Five Calls app—it’s free and quick to set up.
• Step 2: Enter your zip code, choose the issues that matter to you, and use the provided scripts to call your reps directly.
• Step 3: Pro tip—do it while you’re waiting in the school pickup line or at the pharmacy. One call takes five minutes and contributes to larger impact 09:22.

We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:

• Mistake 1: Thinking you have to do advocacy “perfectly” or not at all—sharing relevant posts or supporting colleagues can be powerful.
• Mistake 2: Believing you have to share personal details or risk your professional boundaries—simply signaling your support for equitable policies and marginalized voices is meaningful 13:40.

Visibility isn’t just for self-promotion; it’s currency for justice. Every like, comment, and share that uplifts a frontline advocate or community member helps shift the conversation—both for your clients and your own sense of agency.

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you confidently choose an electronic health record (EHR) that truly serves your private practice and your life. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by piecing together clunky software or stressed about the never-ending admin behind your sessions, you’re in good company.

As both a therapist and a mom who’s navigated the chaos of launching a practice while managing family life, I know how easy it is to undervalue your own time (especially when “saving money” feels responsible). What I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—is that making wise, strategic choices about our systems creates so much more time freedom and ease. This episode is for clinicians who want a practice that supports them (not just their clients), who crave flexibility, and who know that practical, honest advice matters far more than fluff.

Today, I'm sharing my real-life missteps and lessons, plus the six essential things to consider when picking your EHR. Let’s make your daily work lighter, your client experience smoother, and your time fully your own—without apologizing for it.

• Why Your EHR Choice Impacts More Than Admin: Discover how your daily workflow, stress level, and client retention all tie back to this one decision—and how to prioritize you in the process.
• Six Must-Ask Questions Before You Choose an EHR: How to compare real costs, ease of use, client experience, and whether a system truly supports a growing practice (without drowning in details).
• Avoid the Biggest EHR Mistakes I Made: Simple ways to save yourself months—maybe years—of stress, lost time, or expensive transitions.

00:02: Honest strategy for building private practice on your terms as a mom and therapist

01:44: Why piecing together free tools cost more in time, money, and mental energy

06:46: How your EHR becomes your practice's entire operating system and shapes client experience

10:42: Six critical factors every therapist mom should consider when choosing an EHR

22:11: Step-by-step: How to evaluate, demo, and actually decide between EHR systems

26:23: My personal experience—and why a system that grows with you is everything for long-term sustainability

Let’s break this down: When I started my practice, I patched together free tools to avoid spending money before clients were coming in. What I didn’t realize was that the true cost was paid in lost time, relentless admin headaches, and a poor client experience. Investing in a solid, all-in-one system from the beginning would have saved me countless hours and spared so much stress. If it feels like you’re “being resourceful” by using scattered, free software, remember: your time is valuable, and your peace of mind is worth more than a few dollars saved each month.

Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:

Step 1: Go beyond the sticker price. Ask: What’s included? Are there hidden fees as you grow, or for add-ons you’ll eventually need?

Step 2: Evaluate customer support—can you reach a real person, and will you get help when you actually need it (not just during business hours)?

Step 3: Try both the provider and client experiences—demo the software, book yourself as a client, and see if it feels simple or frustrating.

Step 4: Check payment and insurance processing. Does the EHR make getting paid (by clients or insurance) genuinely frictionless?

Step 5: Investigate scheduling features and calendar sync—will this system help you protect your family AND work time?

Step 6: Confirm that all features actually work together—you want a streamlined, all-in-one system, not more duct-tape solutions.

Pro tip: Book a free demo and get your hands dirty before making a final decision. Don’t let comparison paralysis stop you from moving forward.

We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do when choosing your EHR:

• Mistake 1: Relying only on price and ignoring hidden expenses like added features, credit card processing, or extra clients as you grow.
• Mistake 2: Choosing a system that’s clunky for your clients—if it’s not easy for them, you risk losing them before you ever meet.
• Mistake 3: Waiting too long to switch. Staying with a system that isn’t serving you because moving feels daunting wastes more time and causes more stress in the long run.

If this episode hits home for you, or you know another therapist mom struggling to untangle her practice systems, share this episode and let’s empower each other to create work and life on our own terms.

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you find (and keep) your ideal clients as you’re building a private therapy practice. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by how to market your new practice, wishing for more client inquiries, or feeling unsure about how to turn those elusive “intro calls” into actual bookings, you’re in the right place.

As a therapist, mom, and someone who’s been where you are—juggling spreadsheets one minute and wiping noses the next—I know how tough it can feel to connect with your community and grow your practice on your own terms. I also know that it’s those small, intentional shifts that can open up a new path for both your business and your own peace of mind. Let’s dig into some real, relatable strategy—because you deserve actionable support, not more pressure.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to increase your referrals without losing your sense of self (or your sanity), this episode will guide you through authentic, practical steps for marketing, networking, and building genuine connection with clients—even during those 15-minute intro calls.

• Targeted Networking for Therapists: How to get out of the “just drop off a flyer” rut and start building referral relationships that actually work.
• Designing Your Marketing Plan on a Budget: How to use grassroots approaches and creative community connections to get noticed—without breaking the bank.
• Converting Consult Calls Authentically: Scripted, practical tips for running a consult call that feels good—not salesy—while helping both you and the client feel confident moving forward.

• 00:02: Introducing authentic conversations about marketing and the real-life juggle between private practice and motherhood.
• 00:48: Kendall Burnett shares her vision for a perinatal and infant mental health practice—and the challenges of attracting ideal clients at the start.
• 09:28: The marketing steps that work: networking, building relationships with providers, and why community presence matters more than polished flyers.
• 16:17: Brainstorming community and provider connections—think OBs, pediatricians, hairdressers, cafes, and building true relationships.
• 25:32: Creating tangible takeaways like tip sheets for providers—a small effort that resonates with both colleagues and potential clients.
• 43:29: Demystifying the 15-minute consult: How Ashley Comegys structures her calls, why setting boundaries matters, and finding your own flow.

Let’s break this down: Networking is so much more than just handing out business cards or dropping flyers in waiting rooms. As I shared with Kendall Burnett at 13:55, real connection happens when you reach out for a “coffee chat” or offer value—think mini resource sheets tailored to a provider’s clients. Clinicians are far more likely to trust and refer to someone they’ve actually spoken to.

Example: Instead of sending a cold email, use the templates from the Comprehensive Connecting Networking Scripts Guide to start a real conversation—then follow up, so your name is top of mind when referrals come in.

Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:

• Step 1: Identify three referral sources in each category: medical, mental health, and community (like cafes, hairdressers, or play centers).
• Step 2: Develop a one-page, visually appealing “tip sheet” or resource tailored for new parents, including your contact info and a QR code, as discussed at 25:55.
• Step 3 (Pro Tip): Make sure you have at least a basic web presence—even a simple EHR website—and register your site with Google Console to ensure clients can find you online (36:09).

We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the stress. Here’s what NOT to do when hosting your first calls:

• Mistake 1: Letting the call turn into a free therapy session—set the expectation upfront that it’s a brief, get-to-know-you chat.
• Mistake 2: Talking only about your credentials—instead, focus on the client’s needs and what change looks like for them.
• Mistake 3: Neglecting your own comfort—choose a consult format (phone or video) that lets you show up as your comfortable, authentic self (47:13 can help).

If you’ve ever worried you “should” already know how to fill your caseload or convert that consult to a client, just know: You are enough. You’re building something meaningful, and it’s okay for growth to feel messy. Give yourself permission to try, adapt, and reach out for support—you’re not alone.

For more strategies and honest stories from the front lines of therapy and motherhood, make sure you’re subscribed and check out the resources above. Let’s keep creating real change, one relationship—and one brave step—at a time.

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with honest encouragement and real-world strategies to help you honor your needs as a clinician-mom navigating private practice. If you’ve been struggling with putting everyone else’s care ahead of your own, or wondering how to realistically fit your own therapy (or ANY self-care) into the chaos of motherhood and business-building, you’re in the right place.

As someone who’s lived through the trenches of perinatal depression and juggled the invisible load of mom-life, while guiding countless women through their darkest seasons, I know that sometimes, the bravest step is asking for the help you so freely give to others. In this episode, I share why our own care is not a luxury—it’s a foundation. Let’s get real about what’s getting in the way, why it matters, and how you can start putting yourself back on the list—even if it feels impossible.

Maybe you’re a therapist, social worker, counselor, psychologist, or any mental health provider who’s finding it hard to find a therapist you trust, afford the resources, or simply make the space in your calendar. If you’ve felt invisible, overwhelmed, or even like a fraud for struggling while serving others—you’re my people. This is the episode I wish I’d had in my hardest seasons.

• Why Doing Your Own Work as a Therapist Truly Matters
• Understand how your personal wellness directly impacts your ability to serve clients, and why knowledge doesn’t replace true healing.
• The Real Reasons Therapy Feels Out of Reach—And How to Overcome Them
• We’ll name time, money, emotional labor, and the secret fears that keep us out of our own therapy chairs—without the sugar-coating or shame.
• Practical Ways to Prioritize Yourself, Even When You’re “Too Busy”
• You’ll get actionable ideas (that don’t require overhauling your life) for fitting support and real community into the margins of motherhood.

00:00: The hidden struggle of therapists who care for everyone but themselves

01:59: Why we often avoid our own therapy—and why it’s so necessary

04:22: How holding space for others makes it harder to be honest about our needs

10:00: The toll invisible emotional labor takes on therapists and moms

14:08: Naming the real barriers: time, money, and fear of being “found out”

18:19: Systemic gaps mothers and therapists fall through

24:07: Realistic tips to put yourself on your own list (without adding more pressure)

26:30: Where to find community and support when you’re not ready for therapy

Let’s break this down: We know the language, the tools, and all the right things to say in theory. But carrying knowledge is not the same as actually doing the work ourselves. I could explain every symptom of postpartum depression, but when I was in the trenches, I still needed help to move through it—just like anyone else. When we neglect our own care, we risk burnout, compassion fatigue, and limiting our presence in the therapy room 07:47. If we want longevity and true connection in our work, we have to tend to our own wounds, too.

Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:

• Step 1: Get honest about WHY you’re not in therapy right now. Is it time, money, guilt, fear of being seen as “not whole” by your community? None of these make you a bad therapist or mom—they make you human 14:08.
• Step 2: Explore alternatives to traditional weekly therapy. Telehealth, out-of-area clinicians (to avoid overlap), consultation groups, or group therapy can offer support while fitting into a chaotic life 24:07.
• Step 3: Let your provider know what’s realistic—biweekly meetings, flexible scheduling, or targeted support during crisis seasons. Pro tip: It counts, even if you have to start small. Progress, not perfection 25:05.

We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do when navigating your own care:

• Mistake 1: Believing that asking for help disqualifies you as a therapist, mom, or leader. The opposite is true—our humanity is our superpower.
• Mistake 2: Waiting until you’re completely underwater before reaching for help. Just like we tell our clients: early support isn’t indulgent, it’s foundational 25:26.

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (Call or text) 833-852-6262

PSI Maternal Mental Health Helpline 800-944-5773

Looking for your community? Register to join us for the next Therapist Mom Hangout

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with honest conversations and practical strategies to help you navigate the financial fears that come with building your own private practice—while also juggling the realities of motherhood. If you’ve ever felt anxious about the unpredictability of private practice income, or questioned whether you’re “allowed” to want more security and abundance, you’re in the right place.

As a therapist, coach, and mom (who has been in your shoes), I know that those inside fears about money and worthiness are often the biggest hurdles to designing a business and lifestyle that supports both your family and your professional calling. In this episode, I get real about how our field—and the systems around us—shape our money mindset, and I share the shifts that helped me find freedom and sustainability.

Whether you’re thinking about leaving agency work, already running a private practice, or dreaming of having more control over your time and income, this episode will give you the clarity, permission, and practical tools you need to move forward.

• Breaking Down Money Shame: Why so many therapists carry fear and guilt around money—and how oppressive systems perpetuate this scarcity mindset.
• How to Create Safety in Your Private Practice Leap: Practical strategies for reducing fear as you transition from agency work to entrepreneurship.
• Why Profit Isn't a Dirty Word: How changing your view of profit can actually help you serve clients and your family better.

• 00:00: Welcome, context of motherhood and practice, and naming our “hard stuff.”
• 00:37: Naming money shame: the quiet fear so many therapists carry about financial instability.
• 01:47: Unpacking the roots: how our field and society teach therapists to devalue themselves financially.
• 04:16: Breaking free from guilt and scarcity; giving yourself permission to want more.
• 05:09: The reality of being a business owner—and why you deserve sustainability, not just survival.
• 07:04: The myth that private practice is always unpredictable: the power of taking control.
• 08:19: Facing the discomfort of profit and learning to value your work with confidence.
• 09:23: What to do with money fear: actionable steps for creating safety and support.
• 10:55: Encouragement and final permission to step into a practice that supports your real life.

1. Money Isn’t the Problem—Shame and Scarcity Are. Let’s break this down: Most of us were never taught to run a business or dream of abundance without guilt. We received messages—both direct and subtle—that helping professions like ours should be separate from wanting (or achieving) financial security. But that narrative isn’t serving anyone. Wanting to make enough to breathe, take care of your family, and avoid burnout? That’s human, not selfish. I’ll never forget that clench in my stomach when I considered leaving the “safe” paycheck. If you feel that too, know it makes sense—and it means you’re ready for something more (01:47).
2. You Have More Control Than You Think Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:

• Step 1: Get curious about your fear instead of bulldozing through it. What would you need to truly feel safe making this leap? (09:26)
• Step 2: Build a basic safety net—whether that’s 3 months of savings, a side caseload, or a roadmap to avoid common mistakes.
• Step 3 (Pro tip): Focus on systems and strategy, not just hustle—when you design your practice intentionally, you actually have more control than in most agencies, and you can build in time for your family and your needs (07:11).

1. Don’t Fall into These Common Traps We all make mistakes, but here’s what to avoid:

• Mistake 1: Believing you’re “bad with money”—you just weren’t taught the skills yet.
• Mistake 2: Letting guilt talk you out of seeking the stability and abundance you (and your family) deserve.
• Mistake 3: Internalizing the idea that if you’re making a profit, someone else must be losing. Profit lets you give more, take better care of yourself, and stay in this work for the long haul (08:52).

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This week I’m bringing you a conversation from my recent appearance on Between Sessions with Berries, hosted by Kym Tolson. In this episode, you’ll find grounded strategies and honest stories about building a private practice that supports your life instead of competing with it.

If you’re feeling stretched between the demands of motherhood and your business—or you wonder whether it’s possible to create a practice that works for your real (messy, beautiful) life—you’re exactly where you need to be.

As someone who’s built and rebuilt a private therapy practice while moving across states as a military spouse, raising three kids (including managing food allergies and ADHD), and taking three very different maternity leaves, I know firsthand how much courage and creativity it takes. Sometimes, it’s the small but conscious choices—giving yourself permission, redefining what “success” looks like, letting go of guilt—that make all the difference. Today, I’m sharing what it actually looks like to hold space for both clients and kids, and still have energy left for yourself.

If you’re a mom in private practice (or hope to be one), building a practice you can take with you, or just trying to imagine a business that supports your family and your needs, you’ll find validation, tactical advice, and encouragement in this conversation.

What a Real Therapist Mom Schedule Looks Like:

Why there’s no such thing as a “typical day” as a mom in private practice—and how I’ve structured my workweek to create genuine breathing room and flexibility.

How to Build a Portable, Resilient Practice as a Military Spouse:

Lessons from moving and rebuilding my business in multiple states, navigating licensure, and how online therapy has given me agency (and a paycheck) even in transition.

Maternity Leave and Private Practice—On Your Terms:

How to approach maternity leave with self-compassion and clarity—from emotional prep to finances and communicating with clients—plus what I wish I’d known beforehand.

00:02: Honest intro—why we need real talk about motherhood and private practice, not more hustle-culture noise.

04:45: Behind the scenes: what my days actually look like (spoiler: “typical” is a myth).

07:12: My path to building a portable, online therapy practice across state lines as a military spouse.

10:51: Practical logistics for licensure, scheduling across time zones, and tech tips to keep it all running.

15:46: Why I started The Therapist Mom Podcast—and the fire that keeps me advocating for therapist moms.

21:14: How to prepare for maternity leave—emotionally, financially, clinically—and why it’s okay if yours doesn’t look like anyone else’s.

26:38: How your niche and client population might shift through motherhood, and permission to check in (and shift) as you grow.

33:08: The life-changing impact of leveraging technology (and a little self-forgiveness) to lighten your mental load and documentation.

37:25: Final encouragement: Building your practice YOUR way—and why your needs matter.

Let’s break this down: true flexibility in private practice isn’t about cramming in more—it’s about intentionally carving out buffers so you can breathe. I’ve learned to schedule space after kid drop-off, cap my client caseload, and batch projects/admin on separate days 04:45. Life will always throw curveballs (sick kids, surprise moves), but giving myself permission to move things around—without guilt—is what allows me to show up for my family and my clients.

Relatable Example:

There are days I have to reschedule because a child is sick at school, and that’s okay—I built my practice knowing this would happen 06:12.

Here’s how you can start preparing today:

• Step 1: Begin setting aside savings well before you need them; even small, regular amounts add up 21:14.
• Step 2: Map out your clinical “exit” early: inform clients, offer clear options for support, and have a plan for referrals or coverage 29:09.
• Step 3 (Pro-Tip): Give yourself (and your clients) permission for things to look different—the “right” length for maternity leave is what fits you and your family, not what anyone else does 22:15.

We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:

• Mistake 1: Don’t build a practice that’s modeled on someone else’s life—customize your schedule, your ideal client, your systems to your needs 37:20.
• Mistake 2: Don’t push yourself to return—or hold onto intense cases—if you’re not ready. Be honest about your clinical capacity post-baby or during life transitions 27:37.

• Maternity Leave Podcast Playlist
• Maternity Leave Blueprint Course
• Berries use code RAISEDTOEMPOWER to get $50 off

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you confidently start, grow, and thrive in your online private practice—especially if you’re a mom or woman therapist craving more freedom and flexibility. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by all the decisions in starting your practice, worried about the finances of setting up a physical office, or unsure if online therapy is really a legitimate and effective option, you’re in the right place.

As someone who’s been building both in-person and online practices since 2015—while moving across the country, raising kids, and juggling all the military spouse transitions—I can tell you firsthand: sometimes, it’s those small, thoughtful shifts (like choosing to start online) that change the entire course of your career and family life. We’re getting honest about the realities, the doubts, the numbers, and the possibilities—no fluff, just practical wisdom and encouragement.

In this episode, I share my story, debunk the biggest myths about online practice, and give you permission (and a plan!) to do things on your terms.

• Why Starting Online Makes Sense: Clear, benefit-focused reasons why an online practice is the best choice for flexibility, family, and finances—especially if you’re a mom or military spouse.
• Overcoming Doubts and Limiting Beliefs: How to let go of guilt, fear, or old-school ideas about needing a physical office to be credible or successful.
• Practical Steps & Cost Comparisons: Exactly what you’ll need to build your online practice—with a breakdown of startup costs and actionable first moves.

• 00:00: Laying out the realities of building private practice as a mom, and why honest strategy matters.
• 00:56: The pivotal decision: online vs. in-person practice and personal reflections on choosing online.
• 01:54: My early days starting out—moving to Maui, job scarcity, and the unexpected journey into online therapy.
• 03:40: Creative solutions for office space and the financial challenges new practitioners face.
• 07:59: The shift: how the pandemic normalized and transformed telehealth for both therapists and clients.
• 10:42: Busting myths: why a brick-and-mortar office isn’t necessary for credibility or a full caseload.
• 15:32: Stories of client resistance (and ultimate acceptance) of online therapy.
• 17:09: The real costs of in-person vs. online practice—how to start for under $500.
• 19:09: Freedom, flexibility, and the real-life benefits of running an online practice as a mom.
• 20:09: Facing (and overcoming) fears, doubts, and perfectionism on the path to practice ownership.

1. Online Practice: Freedom without the Overhead
2. Let’s break this down: You don’t need an expensive physical space to provide amazing care or to be taken seriously. Starting online means drastically lower startup costs, no monthly rent draining your bank account before your caseload builds, and—most of all—the ability to fit your work around your family, not the other way around. I started seeing clients from home, often with my laptop propped on a stack of books, and it worked. My clients found comfort and connection, and I found sustainability [see 06:16].
3. Online Therapy Is Just as Effective (and Often Preferred!)
4. Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:

• Step 1: Reframe your thinking—clients are now seeking out online therapy for the convenience and privacy it offers [see 13:07].
• Step 2: Share clear information on your website that you offer online sessions, and normalize this option in initial consults.
• Step 3 (Pro tip): If a client is unsure, offer to try a few sessions online; most find it fits beautifully into their lives and don’t look back.

1. Don’t Fall into the Common Traps
2. We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:

• Mistake 1: Thinking you need a fancy home office setup or expensive tech. A clean background and good lighting are enough to start.
• Mistake 2: Believing your credibility depends on a physical office. Clients are looking for connection—not your zip code or waiting room décor.
• Mistake 3: Waiting until you “feel ready.” Every successful private practice owner started before they felt fully prepared ([see 21:15]—you’ll learn as you go!).

⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here

🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking

🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period

📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower

📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE

📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com

🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.