Healing What's Within: A Conversation with Chuck DeGroat on Trauma, Healing, and Faith

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, host Whitney Owens interviews Chuck DeGroat, a seasoned pastor, therapist, and author. They delve deep into Chuck's new and previous books, discussing topics such as trauma, narcissism in the church, and the importance of doing one's own therapeutic work. Chuck shares his rich experience from teaching at Western Theological Seminary and starting Christian clinical mental health programs. The conversation also touches on the personal journey of balancing professional and spiritual life, highlighting valuable lessons for faith-based therapists.

Show Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast

06:01 Guest Introduction: Chuck DeGroat

06:35 Chuck DeGroat's Background and Work

07:40 Discussion on Chuck's Books and Themes

10:03 Exploring Trauma and Disconnection

13:30 Three Questions from Genesis

15:25 Personal Stories and Reflections

19:40 Advice for Therapists and Self-Work

28:47 Starting Counseling Centers in Churches

31:10 Chuck's Current Work and Future Plans

35:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources and Links

Chuck DeGroat has written several books that delve into the topics of trauma, narcissism, and pastoral care. Here are some resources mentioned in the podcast:

• Books by Chuck DeGroat:

• When Narcissism Comes to Church

• Toughest People to Love

• Wholeheartedness

• Healing What’s Within: Coming Home to Yourself--and to God--When You're Wounded, Weary, and Wandering (Coming October)

• Free Workshop on Spiritual Abuse and Religious Trauma: If you pre-order Chuck's upcoming book, you can access a two-hour workshop. Visit his website and submit your receipt information to receive the workshop.

Show Sponsor Practice Solutions

• By partnering with Practice Solutions, you can remove the burden of billing and focus on patient care. Visit www.practicesol.com/wise to schedule a free consultation, determine which solution is right for you, and receive 15% off your first three months of billing.

Show Sponsor Navigator Bookkeeping

• If you’re looking for a financial ally, Navigator Bookkeeping is offering a limited number of free tactical strategy sessions to listeners of the Wise Podcast. In those 30 minutes, they’ll diagnose the financial health of your practice and, together with you, create a plan for profitability and positive cash flow. Just go to www.navigatingyourbooks.com/wise to schedule your session now.

Links and Resources

• Chuck DeGroat Website: You were created to flourish

• Chuck DeGroat on Instagram

• Chuck DeGroat on Facebook

• Looking for support and connection: Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Wise Practice Consulting

• Connect with Wise Practice on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com

• Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.

 

Graceful Transitions: Navigating Departing Therapists with Kindness and Faith

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, Whitney Owens, a group practice owner and faith-based practice consultant, shares strategies for managing the departure of therapists from a practice gracefully and with a Christian perspective. She emphasizes five key steps: not taking it personally, supporting the departing therapist, creating an efficient transition process, conducting exit interviews, and observing God's hand in the transitions. Whitney recounts personal experiences and offers tips on handling the emotional and logistical challenges, aiming to help practice owners maintain a compassionate and effective environment.

• 00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast

• 01:59 Welcome Back and Listener Engagement

• 02:30 Upcoming Wise Practice Summit

• 04:57 Graceful Transitions When Therapists Leave

• 15:32 Steps for a Smooth Transition Process

• 20:47 Exit Interviews and God's Movement

• 28:56 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements

Steps for a Graceful Transition when a Therapist Exits Your Practice:

• Do not take it personally

• Support therapist as they exit

• Create a Transition Process

• Complete an Exit Interview

• Look for God's Movement in the Process

Show Sponsor Practice Solutions

By partnering with Practice Solutions, you can remove the burden of billing and focus on patient care. Visit www.practicesol.com/wise to schedule a free consultation, determine which solution is right for you, and receive 15% off your first three months of billing.

Show Sponsor Navigator Bookkeeping

If you’re looking for a financial ally, Navigator Bookkeeping is offering a limited number of free tactical strategy sessions to listeners of the Wise Podcast. In those 30 minutes, they’ll diagnose the financial health of your practice and, together with you, create a plan for profitability and positive cash flow. Just go to www.navigatingyourbooks.com/wise to schedule your session now.

Links and Resources

• Looking for support and connection: Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Wise Practice Consulting

• Connect with Wise Practice on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com 

Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.

WP 90 | Navigating Faith and Business: Whitney's Journey in Purchasing a Practice Building

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, host Whitney Owens, a group practice owner and faith-based consultant, shares a personal and faith-inspiring story about her journey to purchase a new building for her practice. From initial excitement and divine signs to roadblocks in zoning and appraisals, Whitney describes her challenges and victories. She emphasizes the importance of faith, patience, and God's timing in business decisions. Additionally, Whitney intertwines practical advice on handling financial aspects of a practice and the support she received, highlighting the role of faith in overcoming obstacles and achieving goals.

Show Highlights

• 00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast 02:21 A Summer Break and New Beginnings 03:06 The Journey to Purchasing a Building 05:13 Challenges and Faith in the Process 09:33 The Final Steps and God's Guidance 16:52 Overcoming Zoning and Appraisal Hurdles 25:47 Closing the Deal and Future Plans 28:29 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Show Sponsor Practice Solutions

• By partnering with Practice Solutions, you can remove the burden of billing and focus on patient care. Visit www.practicesol.com/wise to schedule a free consultation, determine which solution is right for you, and receive 15% off your first three months of billing.

Show Sponsor Navigator Bookkeeping

• If you’re looking for a financial ally, Navigator Bookkeeping is offering a limited number of free tactical strategy sessions to listeners of the Wise Podcast. In those 30 minutes, they’ll diagnose the financial health of your practice and, together with you, create a plan for profitability and positive cash flow. Just go to www.navigatingyourbooks.com/wise to schedule your session now.

Links and Resources

• WP 86 | Most Common Mistake Made When Purchasing or Leasing Office Space with Colin Carr

• Looking for support and connection: Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Wise Practice Consulting

• Connect with Wise Practice on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com 

Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.

Insurance Insights: Navigating Credentialing and Avoiding Mistakes with Kelley Sonnenberg

Master the Essentials of Insurance Credentialing and Billing

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, Whitney Owens, a group practice owner and faith-based practice consultant, interviews Kelly Sonnenberg, Billing Director at Practice Solutions. Kelly shares her extensive experience in insurance billing, providing actionable steps for credentialing, managing pitfalls, and optimizing billing processes. Listeners will learn about the importance of choosing the right insurance companies, understanding timely filing limits, and the benefits of outsourcing billing tasks to save time and ensure efficiency.

Show Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast

08:30 Meet Kelly Sonnenberg: Billing Director at Practice Solutions

09:16 Understanding Credentialing: First Steps and Pitfalls

16:47 Credentialing for Group vs. Solo Practices

26:55 Insurance Contracts and Common Denials

35:40 Outsourcing Billing: Benefits and Next Steps

37:19 Conclusion and Special Offers

Show Sponsor: Practice Solutions

Practice Solutions, LLC provides mental and behavioral health billing solutions and services to your practice, freeing you up to focus on providing best-in-class care to your Patients and growing your practice. Free consult and 15% off your first 3 months of billing by clicking this link and asking for a consult.  

Guest Resources

• Instagram - @practicesolutionsbilling

• Facebook - Practice Solutions, LLC

• LinkedIn - Practice Solutions, LLC

• Website - www.practicesol.com or to get the discount and free consultation click here. 

Links and Resources

• Looking for support and connection: Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Wise Practice Consulting

• Connect with Wise Practice on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com 

Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.

 

Boost Your Practice with Google Ads: Insights from Marketing Expert John Sanders

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, host Whitney Owens interviews John Sanders, a marketing and paid search advertising specialist focusing on Google Ads for the mental health industry. Sanders discusses his journey, from helping his wife’s private practice to establishing his own company, Revkey, which specializes in Google Ads for therapists. They explore key aspects such as the optimal timing and budget for Google Ads, the importance of tailored website service pages, and the benefits of combining SEO and Google Ads. Sanders emphasizes the need for professional assistance in running Google Ads to avoid common pitfalls and maximize return on investment. The episode is packed with practical advice for practice owners looking to expand their client base effectively.

Show Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast

01:56 Meet John Sanders: Marketing and Google Ads Expert

02:26 John's Journey into Google Ads for Therapists

04:12 Understanding Google Ads for Mental Health Practices

08:01 SEO vs. Google Ads: When to Use Each

10:38 The Science Behind Google Ads

15:41 Budgeting for Google Ads

22:18 Targeting and Optimization Strategies

26:22 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

Guest Resources

• RevKey on Facebook

• RevKey on Instagram

• RevKey on LinkedIn

• Therapy ROI Calculator - Google Sheets

Links and Resources

• Looking for support and connection: Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Wise Practice Consulting

• Connect with Wise Practice on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com 

• Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio

 

Building a Successful Faith-Based Practice and Achieving Efficiency with Michael Ashford

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, host Whitney Owens interviews Michael Ashford, the Director of Marketing at The Receptionist in Denver, Colorado. Michael shares his insights on growing a faith-based practice, the importance of effective communication, and efficient systems for managing a therapy practice. He discusses his career journey from journalism to marketing, the concept of employee supremacy, and practical advice on minimizing burnout and improving office operations with technology. Listeners will gain valuable tips on achieving a balanced and successful professional life while fostering a positive work environment.

Show Highlights

• 00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast
• 01:57 Interview with Michael Ashford: Background and Journey
• 06:03 The Concept of Employee Supremacy
• 08:57 Efficiency Tips for Solo and Group Practices
• 20:32 The Receptionist: A Tool for Practice Efficiency
• 25:15 How The Receptionist Works and Pricing
• 34:04 Conclusion and Contact Information

Thanks to our Sponsor Practice Solutions

Practice Solutions offers Wise Practice Podcast listeners a free consultation and 15% off the first three months of billing. You can head to www.practicesol.com/wise to schedule a consultation to find out which service is right for you and leave your billing worries behind.

Links and resources

• The Receptionist: Website: The Receptionist
• 14-day free trial and product tour: Available on their website.
• Receptionist Checking Example 
• The Receptionist Product Tour Sign-Up
• Website: Brain.fm for focus and clarity
• Looking for support and connection? Join the Wise Practice Community 
• Learn More about Wise Practice Consulting
• Connect with Wise Practice Consulting on Instagram
• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook
• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com 
• Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.

Streamlining Faith-Based Therapy: Thrizer's Revolutionary Billing Solution

 

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, Whitney Owens, a group practice owner and faith-based practice consultant, discusses how faith-based practice owners can grow their practices, and enjoy their lives. She introduces Thrizer, a cutting-edge company that simplifies the process of out-of-network billing, making therapy more financially accessible for clients while ensuring therapists get paid upfront without dealing with complex insurance processes. Whitney interviews Sanjana, co-founder of Thrizer, who shares her personal and professional journey in mental health advocacy, the challenges she faced, and how Thrizer addresses those challenges effectively. They dive deep into the functionalities and benefits of Thrizer, including a special offer for listeners to try the service with waived credit card fees for the first $2,500 in charges.

Show Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast

00:31 Listener Feedback and Community Engagement

01:24 Special Offer from Thrizer

02:36 Mastermind Groups and Coaching Benefits

03:53 Success Stories and Personal Reflections

07:07 Interview with Sanjana from Thrizer

07:56 Sanjana's Personal and Professional Journey

10:29 Challenges in Mental Health Access

15:04 The Origin Story of Thrizer

16:37 How Thrizer Works

19:24 Understanding the Reimbursement Process

19:44 Clarifying the Client Payment Workflow

20:36 Benefits Checking and Fees Explained

23:57 Handling Insurance Issues for Clients

26:27 Superbill Upload Service

28:26 Group Practices and Associate Therapists

29:36 Special Offer and Getting Started

32:18 Conclusion and Contact Information

Join Our Mastermind Groups

If you're looking to grow your solo practice or hire your first therapist, consider joining our mastermind groups starting in July. These groups offer tailored support to help you achieve your goals. Visit Wise Practice Consulting for more information and to apply.

Guest Resources

• Try Thrizer for free with this link or code wisepractice and receive waived credit card fees for your first $2500 in charges. Transform out-of-network therapy into an in-network experience for your clients. Use Thrizer to instantly verify your clients' OON benefits, automatically submit claims for them, and allow them just to pay their co-insurance for sessions. All while you earn your full rate upfront. 

• Instagram: @thrizer.app

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrizer

• Thrizer Explained in One Page

Links and Resources

• Looking for support and connection? Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Whitney Owens Consulting

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com 

Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.

Avoid Common Pitfalls When Leasing or Buying Office Space with Colin Carr

 

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, Whitney Owens, a group practice owner and faith-based consultant, discusses common mistakes in leasing and buying office space with Colin Carr, the founder and CEO of Carr, the leading provider of commercial real estate services for healthcare tenants and buyers. Whitney emphasizes the importance of timing, professional representation, and strategic negotiation in commercial real estate. Colin shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting pitfalls and offering advice to help healthcare providers make informed decisions. Additionally, Whitney provides information on summer plans for personal and business growth.

Show Highlights

• 00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast
• 00:37 Common Mistakes in Purchasing Office Space
• 01:13 Summer Plans and Business Strategies
• 05:00 Introducing Colin Carr and His Expertise
• 05:47 Colin Carr's Journey in Real Estate
• 08:21 Challenges in Real Estate Negotiations
• 15:46 Common Mistakes Therapists Make with Office Space
• 23:14 The Risks of Month-to-Month Leases
• 23:41 Challenges of Relocating a Healthcare Practice
• 26:02 The Importance of Negotiation Strategy
• 30:25 Common Mistakes in Lease Negotiations
• 38:11 Balancing Space Needs and Growth
• 41:56 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

How Can Guto Help Save Time with Payroll Processing?

Gusto is an excellent payroll processing option for therapist group practice owners due to its intuitive interface and comprehensive support. It simplifies the complex task of managing payroll, taxes, and employee benefits, which is particularly beneficial for practices with multi-state employees. Gusto’s paperless onboarding streamlines the hiring process, and its user-friendly software makes it easy for administrative staff to run payroll efficiently. Additionally, Gusto’s responsive phone support ensures that questions or issues are promptly addressed, allowing therapists to focus more on their clients and less on administrative tasks. If you sign up using this link, you will get a $100 sign-on bonus! 

Guest Resources

• Connect with Colin Carr on LinkedIn 

• Carr - CARR is the nation’s leading provider of commercial real estate services for healthcare tenants and buyers

Links and Resources

• Looking for support and connection: Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Whitney Owens Consulting

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com

• Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.

 

Building Strong Relationships Between Therapists and Churches

 In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, Whitney Owens, a group practice owner and faith-based practice consultant, interviews Cameisha Brewer, a therapist, speaker, and author. They discuss practical strategies for therapists to build relationships with pastors and churches, emphasizing the importance of genuine connection and service over immediate business goals. Learn insights from her experience in the mental health space and her recent book, 'The CEO Clinician.' They also touch on the complexities of dual relationships and the value of persistence and follow-ups in establishing a strong referral network.

Show Highlights

• 00:00 Introduction to Whitney Owens and Wise Practice Podcast
• 06:15 Meet Cameisha Brewer: Therapist, Speaker, and Author
• 07:04 Cameisha's Background and Journey
• 08:33 Integrating Faith and Mental Health
• 10:09 Building Relationships with Churches
• 13:48 Effective Networking Strategies
• 21:47 Handling Dual Relationships and Referrals
• 30:51 Cameisha's Resources and Final Thoughts
• 34:00 Podcast Closing Remarks

Resources Mentioned in the Podcast

• The CEO Clinician, is available for purchase at this link

• The 3 biggest mistakes to avoid In Private Practice: Freebie! 

• Cameisha Brewer Consulting: Home of The CEO Clinician

• IG: @cameishabrewer 

• Facebook & Youtube: @cbrewerconsulting

• Wise Practice Consulting Website: For information on the mastermind group starting in July. Wise Practice Consulting Mastermind Group

• Webinars and Workshops: or information on the webinars in June click here. 

• When to Pull the Plug on Agency Work and Grow your Faith-based Private Practice, Tuesday, June 18, 2024

• Is It Time To Grow? Should I Start a Group Practice?, Thursday, June 20, 2024

• Money Leaks in Your Private Practice, Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Grow to a Group Practice

If you're considering starting a group practice and want personalized guidance, consider joining Amy Dover's "Scaling to a Group Practice Mastermind Group." This six-month program offers live Zoom meetings, access to the Wise Practice membership community, and personalized support from Amy. You can find more information and sign up on the Wise Practice Consulting website. Don't miss this opportunity to build a solid foundation for your group practice and avoid common pitfalls.

Starting a group practice is a challenging yet rewarding journey. By asking yourself these essential questions and seeking the right support, you can set yourself and your practice up for success.

Links and Resources

• Looking for support and connection: Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Whitney Owens Consulting

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com

• Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.

 

The Essential 5 Questions before Starting a Group Practice with Amy Dover

In this episode of the Wise Practice Podcast, host Whitney Owens introduces Amy Dover, a Group Practice Owner and WISE Practice Consultant. Amy shares valuable insights for solo practice owners contemplating the transition to a group practice. She outlines five essential questions to consider: 1) Do you want to manage people? 2) Do you want to see fewer clients? 3) Are you personally ready to be a group practice owner? 4) Are you prepared to be lonely? 5) Do you trust your decision-making skills? Amy emphasizes the importance of strong foundations, effective decision-making, and personal readiness for the challenges and rewards of running a group practice. Additionally, she promotes her upcoming mastermind group starting in July, designed to help practice owners scale successfully by providing practical tools, support, and community. Listeners are encouraged to visit wisepracticeconsulting.com for more information and to sign up for a free consultation call with Amy.

Show Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Scaling Your Practice

01:42 Meet Amy Dover: Your Guide to Group Practice

02:34 Amy's Journey and Experience

03:16 The Importance of Foundational Planning

04:16 Personal Insights and Challenges

07:12 Essential Questions for Aspiring Group Practice Owners

14:47 Managing People: The Good and the Bad

20:20 Balancing Client Work and Leadership

23:23 Balancing Client Load and Business Growth

24:19 Shifting Focus from Clinical to Business Skills

26:17 Personal Readiness for Group Practice Ownership

27:41 The Challenges of Balancing Family and Practice

31:36 Building Trust and Managing a Team

33:01 The Loneliness of Leadership

37:06 Decision-Making in Group Practice

40:30 Mastermind Group and Coaching Opportunities

45:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources Mentioned in the Podcast

1. Wise Practice Consulting Website: For information on the mastermind group starting in July. Wise Practice Consulting Mastermind Group

2. Webinars and Workshops: or information on the webinars in June click here. 

   • When to Pull the Plug on Agency Work and Grow your Faith-based Private Practice, Tuesday, June 18, 2024

   • Is It Time To Grow? Should I Start a Group Practice?, Thursday, June 20, 2024

   • Money Leaks in Your Private Practice, Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Grow to a Group Practice

If you're considering starting a group practice and want personalized guidance, consider joining Amy Dover's "Scaling to a Group Practice Mastermind Group." This six-month program offers live Zoom meetings, access to the Wise Practice membership community, and personalized support from Amy. You can find more information and sign up on the Wise Practice Consulting website. Don't miss this opportunity to build a solid foundation for your group practice and avoid common pitfalls.

Starting a group practice is a challenging yet rewarding journey. By asking yourself these essential questions and seeking the right support, you can set yourself and your practice up for success.

How Can Guto Help Save Time with Payroll Processing?

Gusto is an excellent payroll processing option for therapist group practice owners due to its intuitive interface and comprehensive support. It simplifies the complex task of managing payroll, taxes, and employee benefits, which is particularly beneficial for practices with multi-state employees. Gusto’s paperless onboarding streamlines the hiring process, and its user-friendly software makes it easy for administrative staff to run payroll efficiently. Additionally, Gusto’s responsive phone support ensures that questions or issues are promptly addressed, allowing therapists to focus more on their clients and less on administrative tasks. If you sign up using this link, you will get a $100 sign-on bonus! 

 

Links and Resources

• Looking for support and connection: Join the Wise Practice Community 

• Learn More about Whitney Owens Consulting

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Instagram

• Connect with Whitney Ownes on Facebook

• Check the podcasts on the PsychCraft Network: PsychCraftnetwork.com 

 

Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio.