Many therapists are feeling pressured to adopt the latest tech tools, but what if embracing every new innovation isn’t always in the best interest of your practice?

Candice Thompson, a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Silicon Valley, joins host Michael Fulwiler to share why she calls herself “tech cautious” and how that stance has helped her build a thoughtful, sustainable private practice. 

With 20 years of experience and a growing voice on LinkedIn, Candice offers a grounded perspective on privacy, ethics, and the dangers of moving too fast in a tech-driven therapy world.

In the conversation, they discuss:

• The real risks of AI, coaching overreach, and client data breaches
• How to choose tech that serves your practice, not the other way around
• Why licensed therapists must be the gatekeepers in today’s mental health landscape

Connect with the guest:

• Candice on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candice-thompson-lmft/
• Visit her website: https://candicecandelaria.com/ 

Connect with Michael and Heard:

• Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfulwiler/ 
• Newsletter: https://www.joinheard.com/newsletter 
• Book a free consult: joinheard.com/consult 

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School

(00:29) Meet Candice Thompson

(01:49) How Therapy Inspired Candice to Change Careers

(03:33) What USC Taught Her About Ethics and Business

(04:26) Starting Out with No Financial Safety Net

(08:40) How Candice Launched Her Private Practice

(09:59) Using LinkedIn to Think Like an Entrepreneur

(11:44) When Coaching Becomes Illegal Therapy Without a License

(15:19) Why Licensing Exists and Protects Clients From Harm

(18:57) The Dangers of Data Breaches in Therapy Tech

(28:05) What Tech Founders Know About Screen Time

(31:21) Why Candice Chose Spring Health Over Others

(33:03) How Candice Went Viral on LinkedIn

(42:47) A Therapist’s Unfiltered Take on AI in Therapy

(46:41) The Eating Disorder Chatbot That Got Pulled

(50:28) Therapists Have the Power to Shape This Industry

This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.