Your Group Practice

A transparent group practice culture is central to today’s discussion with Jonathan Pishner, founder of Apex Counseling in Morgantown, West Virginia. Jonathan describes how losing his job prompted his move into entrepreneurship and why he has dedicated the past decade to creating a practice where clinicians can perform their best work without micromanagement. We examine the bravery and humility needed to run a business driven by values—especially when being open about money, policies, and mistakes feels uncomfortable.

You’ll hear how Jonathan develops clinicians by emphasizing foundational skills, repetition, and real-time feedback (inspired by martial arts training), and why creative freedom—down to simple choices like dress code—unlocks better therapy. He also explains the “neurological cost” of secrecy and how honesty, within reason, safeguards culture and trust.

 Takeaways:
• Train for mastery: encode basics before complexity for more decisive clinical judgment.
• Lead with transparency: admit mistakes, unlearn secrecy, and rebuild trust.
• Ditch micromanagement: create sensible guardrails and autonomy to spark creativity.
• Model curiosity: reduce shame about “not knowing” to deepen learning and client care.
 

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

Attachment-based group practice is central to this discussion with Anne Luckinbill, LPC, and founder of Seasons Counseling in Virginia. Anne describes her transition from teaching to counseling and explains why attachment theory influences both her clinical work and team culture across four locations. You will learn how a learning-first environment, a comprehensive residency pathway, and a unique multi-stage interview process (which includes AI-assisted red-flag prompts) help her select staff with empathy, ethics, and therapeutic compatibility.

We also examine technology that truly reduces workload: AI-powered note-taking integrated into the EHR to speed up documentation, improve audit readiness, and give clinicians more time with clients. For practice owners, Anne’s story acts as a blueprint for natural growth—saying yes to opportunities, avoiding unnecessary complications, and expanding through teaching, supervision, and culture.

You’ll learn:
• How to structure a residency programme that develops clinicians from graduate level to licensure
• Interview questions that reveal relational skills, boundaries, and values alignment
• How attachment theory informs leadership, supervision, and client retention
• Practical tips and safeguards for AI documentation in insurance-based environments

If you lead a group practice and seek ethical, human-focused growth—with more innovative hiring and less admin burden—this episode will refine your playbook.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

Treatment-resistant youth therapy is more than a label—it’s a mission. 

In this episode, Dan King speaks with Riley Cochran, founder and executive director of Resolute Counseling Centre, about engaging adolescents and young adults where they are—clinically and practically. Riley describes how his team combines in-home, community-based, and trauma-informed approaches to support youth aged 12–25 who are often considered “treatment-avoidant.”

You’ll hear how Riley’s personal journey influenced his focus on working with young men dealing with fatherhood abandonment and attachment wounds—and why anger often becomes the “safe” emotion that masks sadness, guilt, and shame. He shares a practical framework for boosting emotional intelligence, reframing anger, and building trust without forcing it.

For group practice owners, Riley provides a frank look at cultural alignment: how to hire for a niche, where expansion can weaken your mission, and why some clinicians only thrive when they own their specialty identity. He also shares his own experience of burnout, what occurs when a founder becomes a reluctant manager, and the simple leadership shift that transformed everything—hiring systems-minded people and empowering them to lead.

 Takeaways:

• A field guide to engaging “treatment-resistant” youth with empathy and structure

• How to recruit and develop clinicians who truly fit your niche

• Practical ways to prevent burnout by identifying what replenishes your energy

• A leadership model that distinguishes vision, culture, and systems—allowing each to thrive

 Hear how Resolute is making a lasting impact for youth and families, and discover ways to develop a values-oriented practice without compromising your true self.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

Christina Byington, founder of Elevation Behavioral Therapy in Denver, shares how she built a niche practice focusing on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) treatment using ERP therapy. She describes her deliberate hiring approach, the difficulties of managing a self-pay model, and the significance of clinician well-being. Christina also reflects on balancing leadership, client care, and personal life after returning from maternity leave.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

Trauma-informed care in group practices isn’t just a model—it’s a mission. In this episode of Your Group Practice, Sam Silverman, CEO of Silver Linings Mental Health, shares her journey from surviving 9/11 to building one of Colorado’s fastest-growing, trauma-informed group practices.

Sam’s story begins in New York City on September 11, 2001, when she narrowly escaped the World Trade Center. In the years that followed, she struggled with PTSD, insomnia, and survivor’s guilt—yet also discovered the power of post-traumatic growth. That journey shaped her values as a clinician and ultimately inspired her to launch her own practice.

When COVID-19 hit, Silver Linings Mental Health expanded rapidly to meet surging demand, growing from one to eighteen therapists. Sam explains how trauma-informed care became the foundation of her leadership and team culture. She also reflects on the role of telehealth and in-home therapy, her perspective as a hearing-impaired leader, and why sensory environments—from silence to overstimulation—matter so deeply for healing.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How post-traumatic growth can help clients and leaders reframe trauma into resilience.
• Why trauma-informed care should be the foundation of every group practice.
• Lessons from scaling a practice during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Insights on telehealth, in-home therapy, and accessibility for clients.

Sam’s journey is a powerful reminder that even in the aftermath of crisis, it’s possible to create thriving practices that put client safety and healing first.

Sam's book Silver Linings: From Surviving to Thriving After 9-11. 
Link: https://amzn.to/4mSbdAx

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

This episode, with Jeremy Zug, partner at Practice Solutions, focuses on transparent billing for group practices. Jeremy shares his journey from community mental health to leading a nationwide billing company that supports practices across all 50 states. His story demonstrates how transparency and communication can revolutionize the way group practices manage their revenue cycles.

Jeremy explains how billing is often considered “black magic,” leaving practice owners in the dark. At Practice Solutions, his team takes a collaborative approach—ensuring clinicians understand every part of the billing process. This transparency fosters trust and builds long-term client relationships, many of which last over four years.

Listeners will learn:

• Tips for Improving Billing Efficiency
• Why Payer Strategy Is Vital for Long-Term Practice Sustainability
• Practical Steps to Settle Outstanding Claims and Boost Cash Flow
• The Influence of Compensation Models on Clinician Retention and Morale

Jeremy also shares insights into mission-driven practice ownership, highlighting how billing can either drain energy or empower leaders to focus on patient care and sustainable growth. He discusses success stories where practices doubled revenue and reduced unpaid claims through structured billing strategies and payer partnerships.

Whether you’re choosing between in-house billing and outsourcing, refining your payer strategy, or exploring better ways to compensate clinicians, this episode provides actionable insights to strengthen your group practice.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

Medicare audit challenges can seriously affect even the most robust group practices. In this episode of Your Group Practice, Dan King talks with Dr. Mohamed Rifai, founder of BlueMountain Psychiatry, to share his experience navigating federal investigations, legal battles, and eventual vindication.

Dr. Rifai, who is board certified in internal medicine, psychiatry, and addiction medicine, built his Pennsylvania-based practice to serve over a million residents in the Lehigh Valley. As an early telehealth adopter, he pioneered psychiatric care for nursing homes years before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, misunderstandings surrounding medical coding led to allegations of fraud from the Department of Justice, risking his career and freedom. After facing trial, he was acquitted and now uses his story to educate practice owners.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The hidden risks of Medicare audit challenges and telehealth billing
• Why compliance systems and coding audits are vital for sustainability
• How proactive insurer communication can safeguard your practice
• Strategies to protect your team through compliance manuals and training

Dr. Rifai also introduces SHIELD, his new consulting firm helping healthcare providers navigate legal and regulatory challenges, and shares how self-care helped him rebuild after the stress of his trial.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

Future-proofing your group practice starts with a clear vision, strong community connections, and sustainable leadership. In this episode of Your Group Practice, Dan King talks with Dr. Elizabeth Carr, founder of Kentland Psychotherapy, about how she has built and maintained her practice over 20 years while planning for its future.

Kentland Psychotherapy has grown from a solo practice to a vibrant team of over 20 mental health professionals, including therapists, psychologists, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and psychiatrists. Dr. Carr explains how her unique location in a walkable urban community near Washington, D.C., influences the therapeutic experience, enabling walking therapy, easy client access, and a strong sense of community.

Key takeaways from this episode include:

• How innovative therapy spaces can enhance client experience and foster better clinician collaboration
• Why succession planning is vital for every group practice owner—even if you never intend to sell
• The influence of environment in shaping therapy outcomes, from outdoor walking sessions to community involvement
• Practical strategies for balancing leadership duties with clinician well-being and personal life

Dr. Carr also reflects on her innovative design process, her passion for integrating therapy into community life, and the importance of preparing her practice for long-term sustainability. From creative treatment spaces to thoughtful succession planning, her story offers inspiration and guidance for practice owners aiming to build something lasting.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

Mission clarity in group practice is one of the most powerful tools for building a sustainable, values-driven business. In this episode, Dr. Ryan Duckworth, founder of Hope and Wholeness Psychology Center, shares his journey of growing from twelve clients a week to more than thirty-seven clinicians across six locations in Michigan. He reflects on how staying rooted in his mission and vision shaped the culture, challenges, and growth of his thriving group practice.

Ryan opens up about his faith-driven foundation, balancing his Christian values with cultural diversity, and why love and compassion remain at the center of both therapy and leadership. He explains how intentional hiring has shaped the identity of his practice and why branding is crucial for attracting both clients and clinicians. Ryan also explores the role of psychological testing in enhancing treatment effectiveness and discusses how clarity of mission impacts long-term decision-making for group practice owners.

Key takeaways include:

• Why mission and vision provide a foundation for sustainable practice growth
• How to balance distinct branding with diversity and inclusivity
• The importance of love as a core motivator in therapy and leadership
• Insights on psychological testing and its role in improving outcomes
• Ryan’s vision for meaningful community impact and future growth

This conversation highlights how staying rooted in values can fuel both professional and personal fulfillment. Listen now to gain practical and inspiring insights for your own group practice journey.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com

Ketamine therapy and clinician retention are critical topics for practice owners navigating today’s mental health landscape. In this episode of Your Group Practice, Dan King speaks with Kimia Moghadam, Clinical Director at MyTherapyNYC, about building a human-centered practice that integrates innovative treatments with holistic care.

Kimia shares how her Manhattan-based practice has grown to 30 clinicians and over 500 clients while keeping clinician well-being at the core. She discusses training strategies for new therapists, the importance of developing a clear therapist identity, and how personal experiences shape therapeutic approaches.

Together, Dan and Kimia explore the power of the therapist-client relationship as the foundation for healing, likening it to finding the right “fit” in a dating relationship. They also highlight the importance of workplace culture and mutual fit when clinicians choose a group practice.

A key theme of this conversation is the integration of wellness services alongside traditional therapy. Kimia shares her vision for collaborations with nutritionists, yoga instructors, and even financial planners to provide clients with comprehensive, community-driven care. She also dives into the growing role of ketamine-assisted therapy, offering insights into its evidence base, benefits, and role as a complement to long-term therapy.

Listeners will walk away with practical insights on:

• Recruiting and retaining clinicians through culture and training
• Building therapeutic relationships that heal old wounds
• Designing intake systems that empower client choice
• Integrating wellness providers into group practice models
• Exploring new modalities like ketamine-assisted therapy responsibly

For practice owners and clinicians alike, this episode blends compassion, innovation, and actionable guidance.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

• Subscribe and listen to more episodes: https://yourgrouppractice.com/
• Want to be a guest? Reach out: [email protected]

About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com