Afleveringen

  • The act of decluttering sounds like a simple thing, but it can be loaded with emotions, triggers, and feelings of overwhelm. Today’s guest takes us through this process which can be a beneficial supplement to therapy. 

    Our Featured Guest

    Sarah Mueller

    Sarah Mueller is a friend I’ve known for several years. She started The Decluttering Club to teach people to declutter in a way that doesn’t create burnout, lets them keep the things they love, and actually lasts for the long term. She has grown a huge online following based on the concept of decluttering. It’s a relatable problem that we all face, and learning to let things go is important. Sarah discusses why decluttering is part of her story and part of who she is. She explains what decluttering is, what the benefits are, and how to declutter even when you feel overwhelmed. We wrap up by covering how decluttering can be an advantageous supplement to therapy.

    The Decluttering Club

    You’ll Learn:

    Sarah’s story that led her to create The Decluttering ClubSarah’s tagline: “Less stuff, more life!”The impacts of the personal and professional growth for Sarah as she fulfills the needs of othersDecluttering defined: “Letting go of anything that doesn’t serve me”Being honest about what serves you and what “is clutter and needs to go”The internal work around stories, emotions, and our attachments that goes along with declutteringBenefits of declutteringDecluttering when you feel overwhelmedSarah’s tips for decluttering booksHow letting go of sentimental items can be part of healingWorking with a decluttering expert can supplement therapy in many waysWhy decluttering is a combination of practical work and emotional work to boost someone’s self-worth

    Resources:

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

    Try Upheal!

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  • Today’s session is about leaving psychotherapy for coaching. This transition is one that many therapist colleagues have made, and the reality is that many more are shifting from the field of therapy into coaching. Several major factors play into this decision, and my guest today gives a transparent look at his experience in this transition. Join us to learn more!

    Our Featured Guest

    Dr. Corey Wilks

    Dr. Corey Wilks is a good friend and licensed psychologist who joins us for an open and honest look at his transition from therapy to coaching.  In giving a glimpse into the circumstances and perspectives that led him to make this decision and shift his career, he shares how his career goals have changed over the years, what autonomy means to him, and why it is important. We wrap up by discussing mistakes that therapists often make in this career change and the drawbacks to leaving a traditional career in mental health.

    Corey's Website 

    You’ll Learn:

    Corey’s career goals back in grad school—and how they have changedUnderstanding autonomy, freedom, and why these are Corey’s top prioritiesCorey’s realizations about therapy, wellness, and burnoutConsiderations in making the shift to entrepreneurshipThe biggest mistake people make in turning from therapy to coachingThe difference in coaching as a much more solo-based endeavor than therapyCorey’s advice to a therapist considering becoming a coachThe distinction between the roles of therapist and coach—and how Corey navigates “the line”

    Resources:

    Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

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  • I want to take this opportunity to talk about a big decision we made recently to shut down and archive our 10,000-member STC Facebook group. In this session, I intend to pull back the curtain and give an authentic glimpse into the thought process and motives behind this move. In early August, about a month ago, we made this decision concerning our Facebook group that has been in existence since 2015. I never expected the group to grow as it did, and it required a great deal of time and energy to maintain the group at a high level of engagement. The reality is that decisions like this are multi-layered and complex.

    Join me in this episode as I discuss the factors in this decision. 

    You’ll Learn:

    The six major considerations in making this decision:

    The impending season of caregiving for aging parents and the role of business in my family lifeMy original goal for STC and my changing definition of success (“Do I want the successful version of this?”)The sustainable cadence and level of social engagement I’ve found with the STC podcast, YouTube, and the STC newsletterManaging a large Facebook community takes a lot of emotional bandwidth and leadership.The realization that I can’t be everywhere on social media and need to “do less but in a better way”My manageable strategy and goals for social media posts on discovery platforms and relationship-deepening platforms

    I’m still alive, well, and active on social media! Please find me on YouTube and LinkedIn!

    Resources:

    Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

  • Today’s session is all about rebranding. We are taking a behind-the-scenes look at how different circumstances might affect the business you’ve established and force you to rebrand. Should you view this kind of pivot as a failure? Absolutely not! Let’s explore this topic together.

    Our Featured Guest

    Kevon Cheung

    Kevon Cheung is the founder and head teacher at Small School. He was a previous guest on the podcast several years ago, and I’ve taken his Build in Public Mastery Course to help overcome my fears about posting on social media. I learned a lot of helpful information about creating effective posts on LinkedIn, YouTube, and the STC podcast. Kevon’s wisdom and practical knowledge have helped me lean into vulnerability in many areas. In light of his rebranding from Public Lab to Small School, Kevon shares the pain and difficulties in business building and rebranding, why he felt the need to rebrand, and what he teaches in his online “small courses.” He also explains where he sees course creators stumbling the most. 

    Small School

    You’ll Learn:

    The painful parts of Kevon’s rebranding process (Changing your identity and “rebuilding what you’re known for”)Kevon’s thoughts about working through the inevitable feelings of failure when a change became necessary (How to reframe your mindset about a pivot)The biggest mistake course creators makeKevon’s #1 piece of advice for entrepreneurs and course creatorsKevon’s reasoning behind his “all in” attitude about online coursesKnowing when to add a course as a new offering (Have you validated your expertise with your audience?)Where course creators stumble the most–and why the goal is to create an experience that connects, surprises, and delightsKevon’s perspective on what a “small course” is

    Resources:

    Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • Today’s session covers the unusual topic of securing contracts from different agencies for mental health services. This aspect of therapy work is not what we normally think about as clinicians, but the connection between private practice and federal funding for programs that can be a wonderful niche. Whether you’ve ever thought about this topic or this is brand new to you, today’s conversation will be food for thought about opening new doors and opportunities in the therapy world. Join us to learn more!

    Our Featured Guest

    Dr. Ajita Robinson

    Dr. Ajita Robinson is a dear friend, a highly respected colleague, and a sister in the faith. She has secured many millions in government contracts both for her private practice and in coaching other clinicians to do the same. In sharing her wealth of knowledge today, Ajita explains how to build relationships with government agencies and the top three things she looks for in available contracts. She shares the biggest mistakes our colleagues make in securing contracts and her unusual perspective on contracts that appear to already be given out. We wrap up our discussion with a transparent look at how Ajita’s strong faith influences her work and impacts the contracts she pursues. 

    Website 

    You’ll Learn:

    How working in marginalized communities led Ajita to pursue contracts with local and federal governments–and solved a problem she was passionate aboutHow Ajita leveraged what she knew firsthand about social programs, combined with her research skills, to access available systemsWhere a clinician should begin in forming connections and relationships that lead to government funding opportunitiesHow state-level certifications position a clinician for government contracts and can assist in the corporate contracting marketWhy the biggest barrier to securing government contracts is mismanaging money and not having your books in orderWhat business insurance is required to become a government subcontractorThe top three things Ajita considers with any contract opportunity: the scope of work, payable terms, and whether the contract is renewable or notHow Ajita has been able to strategically position herself to recover contracts when they have fallen through for othersThe biggest mistakes our colleagues make around securing government contracts: they think they aren’t qualified to pursue them, they aren’t open to partnering with others, and they get stuck in DIY-modeHow Ajita’s Christian faith aligns with the contracts she pursues, how she operates as a therapist, and how she functions as a Black, female business ownerAn overview of The Purposeful and Profitable Therapist Summit, an annual conference focused on diversifying income scheduled for July (2024) in Washington, DC 

    Resources:

    Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

    Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

    https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

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  • As I’ve learned and grown as an entrepreneur, I have tried to study and learn from those who are further along on the journey. I’ve come to understand that I can learn as much from their hard lessons and challenges as I can from their successes. Today’s session is based on a podcast interview I listened to a couple of months ago. It featured Ali Abdaal and Sahil Bloom, two online creators who have built 7-figure businesses and audiences of over 6 million followers. In their insightful interview done in two parts, they talked a lot about life and business; I’m sharing seven lessons I picked up from them that I’m implementing in my business and personal life. 

     You’ll Learn: 

    7 Lessons I Learned from Ali and Sahil:Change the wealth scoreboard.Don’t define self-worth based on net worth. A new definition of success bases “wealth” on health, relationships, and the time I have for the things I enjoy.Set daily non-negotiables.Live with intention by identifying 3-5 things that must happen each day for me to be at my best.Friends over followersThe quality of my relationships greatly impacts my health. Schedule time to connect with genuine friends.More growth equals more haters.Sharing my message attracts people with a lot of pain, so I should default to empathy.Don’t be a slave to social media. Be careful about posting pictures of kids and sharing revenue numbers. This is difficult to navigate while still establishing credibility and the human connection that people crave. Build micro-businesses.These can generate cash flow with minimal involvement.An example: having an in-house agency along with doing a podcast.Connection over mass contentWith AI, content is easier than ever to create, but connection and authenticity help others know, like, and trust me. 

    Resources:

    Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

    Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

    https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • Today’s session covers a topic that many clinicians are pondering. Many, like me, are having conversations with themselves in their heads about the available opportunities and the most efficient and ethical ways not to be left behind as technology presents new options in our field. The issue is how we can navigate the world of mental health tech startups that are available to join us to support our good work. Examples of what these startups provide are electronic health records, website design, marketing, and more. The truth is that the pandemic changed everything and catapulted the tech startup world into the range of billions of dollars. Don’t miss my enlightening conversation with today’s guest!

    Our Featured Guest

    Michael Fulwiler

    Michael Fulwiler is Head of Brand Marketing at Heard, a company that assists therapists with bookkeeping and financial needs. I’ve come to rely on Mike’s expertise as a good friend as I navigate the aspects of STC, trying to be a protector of our field while staying in alignment with my values. In this session, Mike and I discuss the mindblowing numbers around the multitude of mental health tech startups and how clinicians can be informed about which ones are most likely to succeed or fail. We also discuss the vitally important topic of client data privacy and the top three considerations we should have before signing up for a product or service. 

    Heard Website

    You’ll Learn: 

    How to view tech startups in the mental health industry in terms of “headwind” and “tailwind” tendencies since the COVID-19 pandemicWhat the data shows about tech startups: 90% will fail!Why the big risk also comes with big opportunities in the startup worldWhat happens when a clinician contracts with a mental health tech startupWhy client data privacy is a valid concern when working with a tech startup (Hear Mike’s advice about watching out for red flags!)Top three considerations for a therapist about a tech startup:How they handle the data Whether or not there is a mental health professional on their team who helps with decisions and developmentHow compensation for therapists is structuredMike’s advice about doing your due diligence when contacted by a tech startupAn overview of Mike’s work and mission at Heard and what they provide for therapists

    Resources:

    Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

    https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • To keep you informed, this will be the last session before I take a summer break. Along with taking time for much-anticipated rest, I’ll be busy with my family and many STC-related projects! STC will still be here, though, as we run replays of our best episodes for you during this time. I look forward to returning in a few weeks with another great season of podcast sessions for you! 

    As I prepare to see clients very soon in my return to private practice, I’ve been given unique opportunities to do two talks related to mental health for folks near my childhood home of Dallas, Texas. Through a childhood friend, I became connected to a nonprofit there and was asked to share my personal experience with mental health. As a high-achiever, I grew up as a South Asian kid in the US, struggling with anxiety and depression. It was REAL and led me to see a psychologist, prompting my love for psychology and changing the course of my life. I shared my story with parents of high-achieving kids through this nonprofit and led a Q & A session with them; it was truly one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I was subsequently asked to do a second talk with another organization on a similar topic, focusing on risk factors for kids/teens growing up in hyper-competitive public and private schools. These kids are in what I call “the gilded pressure cooker,” feeling enormous pressure to achieve almost impossible feats. In today’s session, I want to share the three biggest lessons I’ve learned as a result of these unexpected opportunities to talk about the intersection of my experiences, passions, and callings. 

    You’ll Learn: 

    My three biggest takeaways after doing these talks:Leaning into social media platforms, podcasting, and teaching workshops has helped me refine my speaking skills and learn to enjoy public speaking. (I’ve learned to silence my ever-present inner critic!)Doing talks like these takes a LOT of work and planning. (These were pro bono talks, but I will charge a fee in the future because of the multiple hours required. I don’t want to focus on revenue but on reach)For every talk I do in the future, I will capture the email addresses of the audience members to expand my community. (Adding people to your email list takes them from a “rented” audience on social media to an “owned” audience.)My thoughts and plans for the future in creating community, products, and services for this niche of families of high-achieversThis is a new area for me, but I would love to connect with more groups and organizations around this topic of high-achieving kids and their parents. If you have a contact for me, please email me!

    Resources:

    Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

    sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

    Try Upheal!

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  • More is not always better. We often find that what we are chasing in our pursuit of success is not what we thought it was. Entrepreneurship for private practice clinicians naturally attracts many high achievers and recovering perfectionists, so we need to take a pause and periodically reassess and redefine what success looks like. Join us for a closer look at this important topic!

    Our Featured Guest

    Jeanetta Garrison, LCSW

    Jeanetta Garrison is an anxiety therapist in private practice in Charlotte, NC. She is the perfect person to share insights into today’s topic. In this episode, Jeanetta shares a personal story about what she learned about money during her childhood, along with how we navigate our aspirations and what we go after to achieve success. We wrap up with a discussion of knowing what is “enough” and being cautious about who we follow after as mentors and examples. 

    Crown Counseling & Consulting

    You’ll Learn:

    Common characteristics of entrepreneurs in private practiceJeanetta’s family story of how she learned about money from her upbringingHaving big hearts of service sets us up to allow boundaries to be crossedThe need for clarity in communication with clients about cancellations and no-showsChasing the proverbial “carrot” to reach successJeanetta’s advice: “Remember your WHY and center your head, heart, and spirit around it.”Think about your success in terms of what you are sacrificing for it!Navigating the ebbs and flows that are inherent in entrepreneurshipHow Jeanetta grounds herself with what is “enough” for her in her businessThinking about money in terms of what it symbolizes to us (“All money is not good money.”)

    Resources:

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

    https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • One of the most common questions I’m asked is about the gear needed to begin podcasting. I will honestly admit that it’s a difficult decision when you’re just starting because you want reliable equipment that does a great job, but you are also hesitant to break the bank for it. As you progress, several factors complicate the choices of gear, such as how you conduct guest interviews and whether you have a co-host. In today’s session, I’m walking you through four common podcasting scenarios and the gear I recommend for each. All of this information is compiled in the Buying Guide found inside our Healthcasters course. 

    You’ll Learn:

    My gear setup as I started the STC podcast in 2015 with a teeny, tiny budgetMy advice for beginning podcasters: “Don’t go out and purchase all the gear I mention, but go with the basics as you focus on building and honing your storytelling and interviewing skills.”Four podcasting scenarios and the recommended equipment:1- A single host with solo episodes and guest interviews via the Internet.I recommend the Samsung Q2U dynamic mic, Koolertron mic shock mount, OnStage foam windscreen, pop filter, mic stand, and Rode PSA mic arm.2- A single host who interviews guests in person.In addition to the basic equipment in Scenario #1, I recommend a 2-3 camera set-up (very expensive!), Calendly to coordinate interviews, 2 tabletop stands/mic arms, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for recording, and XLR cables.3- Co-hosts who connect and interview guests via the Internet.I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host, along with a recording platform, like Zoom or Ecamm Live.4- Co-hosts who get together in-person to interview guests in person. This is a dream set-up, but it is very expensive and complicated. I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host and guest (Yes, that is at least three of everything!), along with the Rodecaster Pro (the Rodecaster Pro II or Pro Mini), 32 GB SD card, and XLR cables.My advice: “Start with a lean setup. My current gear costs around $5000, but I didn’t upgrade for several years when I started out.”Check out the free workshop, Using Podcasting to Grow Your Business.

    Resources:

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

    https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • If you’ve ever thought about writing a book, you’ve realized that the process is intimidating. Just knowing where to begin and how to proceed pose big challenges. We are tackling this topic with today’s guest and uncovering the things nobody tells you about writing a book. Join us to get real and learn more!

    Our Featured Guest

    Raj Lulla

    Raj Lulla is a StoryBrand Certified designer and strategist. He and his partner, Ben Lueders, are the co-owners of Fruitful Design & Strategy, where they “create and grow compelling brands.” Raj has spent the last few years writing a book called The Caring House, and he joins us to dive deeper into the book-writing process. He shares why he chose to write a fiction book, how he approached the publishing aspect, and the financial outlay for a project like this. We wrap up with Raj’s perspective on the things no one tells you about marketing a book and Raj’s best tips for anyone who wants to write a book. 

    Fruitful Design and Raj Lulla

    You’ll Learn:

    Raj’s choice: fiction vs. nonfiction?Big questions to confront around the grief-processing journeyRaj’s idea for The Caring House as part of his personal healing processWriting to answer the question, “What is this book for?”Narrowing your purpose to the “most important thing”Understanding the publishing dilemma: a traditional publisher, indie/hybrid publishing, or self-publishing? Differences in the pitching/publishing process between a fiction vs. nonfiction bookFinancial considerations in the book-writing processDetails about the “print-on-demand” publishing option and the hard work required to market a self-published bookRaj’s advice to aspiring writers

    Resources:

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

    https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • Podcast sponsorship is often seen as the “golden goose” of podcasting. We started working with sponsors on STC a few years ago, and they have generated over $95k to this point. However, I’ve learned that relying solely on sponsorships is not the wisest stance because your success rides the ebbs and flows of another company’s marketing budget. I’m very grateful for the sponsors who have worked with us, but I don’t want to depend on them for the main source of income for STC. Today, I’m sharing three ways you can make money from your podcast from Day One, without having to depend on securing sponsors down the road. Join me for a closer look!

    You’ll Learn:

    The increasing responsibility I feel to be a good steward in today’s podcasting environmentThree ways to make money from your podcast from Day One:One-on-one work–I share how to use analytics to pinpoint your niche and impact to specialize your focus and offerings. (I use and recommend Fathom Analytics.)Scalable work–This includes things you can continue to do for the next 8-10 years, like paid speaking engagements, coaching groups, therapy groups, writing books, and establishing a “private podcast” feed. Online courses–The time and energy investment comes on the front end, but they become an asset into which you can invite others.It’s best to view podcast sponsorship as “the cherry on the top” that may come to you, but not as the financial foundation to depend on from month to month.Our free podcasting workshop can help you launch your podcast! 

    Resources:

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

    https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • Hosting a retreat sounds like a great idea, right? When you stop and think about all the logistical and financial details, that’s when many fears and questions come to the surface. Perhaps the biggest fear is whether enough people will pay for your retreat to make it a success. Join us as we dive into this topic with today’s expert guest!

    Our Featured Guest

    Megan Gunnell

    In addition to being a business owner, author, and triathlete, Megan Gunnell is a Clinical Social Worker who has been hosting 1-day retreats, workshops and weekend/week long retreats for 20+ years.

    She hosted her first one at a local community center–complete with harp music! From these humble beginnings, Megan’s retreats have evolved into weekend retreats and international retreats that started in 2012 in Costa Rica, Italy, France, and other places around the globe.

    In this episode, we discuss why therapists find it so appealing to consider hosting a retreat, along with common fears related to the risk of hosting your first retreat.

    Megan explains how to find suitable venues that offer 100% refund options and points out the important legal and logistical considerations. We wrap up our conversation by discussing retreat marketing, which is vital to the success of your retreat. Megan shares what she has learned along her journey as a retreat host. 

    Megan's Website and Thriving Therapists ® Facebook Group

    You’ll Learn:

    Megan’s inspiration to expand beyond private practice into hosting retreatsMegan’s #1 lesson learned: Start small and grow later.The attraction of retreats? They are transformative spaces for people to pull away from everyday life and reinvigorate their passion and purpose.The major differences between private practice work and group retreats as income sourcesLegal considerations around liability, disclaimers, emergencies, etc.Megan’s low-risk tips for hosting retreats:Start small with a test audience and test venue with a half-day or one-day retreat.Look for 100% refundable venues through a certain date prior to the event.Do the math and “beta-test” your audience.Making your retreat a profitable ventureFinding 100% fully refundable venues—and why international properties are desirableMegan’s top marketing strategies for retreats:Be very clear about your intentions. (Who is this for, and what is the purpose?)Think about your runway. (Make sure it is long enough to “land the plane.”)Build a warm excitement with your audience around the date for open registration.Handling the cancellation or rebooking of your retreat with flexibility and transparency

    Resources:

    Want to launch your podcast? Check out our free podcasting workshop

    https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

    Try Upheal!

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  • About a month ago, I shared that I’ve decided to go into private practice, in addition to keeping STC running and growing. There are three main reasons for this decision: I miss the therapy room, a clinical arm to my business is a wise move, and I’ll be able to more strategically diversify my income. I think this venture will offer new opportunities for the future that are beneficial in many ways, but, to be honest, this decision has brought me some anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

    I’m addressing these issues with my wonderful therapist, and I’m doing all the things that we therapists tell our clients to do. My worries and fears are probably normal for someone who feels the pressure to be successful in multiple businesses and endeavors. In today’s solo session, I’m sharing my insights on finding my private practice niche. Join me for a closer look!

    You’ll Learn: 

    What is a niche, and how did I choose my niche for private practice? Who do I want to work with?My top four insights on finding my private practice niche:Niches are living and breathing things that evolve over time.Family and friends will always recommend people outside your niche.There is a relational component to marketing beyond your website.Even though my niche focuses on tech and business founders, working within other branches of these niches will add diversity to my work. (These last two insights come from my friends, Raj Lulla and Ben Lueders, the founders of Fruitful Design.)

    Resources:

    Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

    https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

  • Today’s session is all about brainspotting, a powerful and fascinating psychotherapy technique that I have personally found to be helpful. Specifically, we discuss the technique as it is used to help performance athletes. Join us to learn more!

    Our Featured Guest

    Thad Frye, LCSW

    Thad Frye is a licensed clinical social worker in Boulder, CO. As a certified brainspotting consultant, Thad has gone through multiple levels of training in this therapy technique. In our conversation, Thad explains why he was motivated to pursue training in brainspotting after previously focusing his work with families through hospice care and end-of-life journeys. He describes the technical aspects of brainspotting and how he uses it in his work with athletes, specifically in those with the “yips,” a puzzling phenomenon of the loss of an ability.

    Thad Frye Counseling and Brainspotting Coaching for Athletes

    You’ll Learn:

    Why Thad pursued training in brainspotting in 2016 as a way to serve families betterHow Thad experienced the somatic connection with his personal grief in new and real ways during his brainspotting trainingHow brainspotting differs from EMDRTechnical aspects of “inside window” and “outside window” reflexes within brainspottingHow different clients might respond during a brainspotting sessionHow training phases are structured in the brainspotting certification processWhy Thad chose to use brainspotting with performance athletesHow Thad uses brainspotting with athletes who experience muscle-guarding and the “yips”

    Resources:

    Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

    https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • Today’s session covers a topic that many clinicians are pondering. Many, like me, are having conversations with themselves in their heads about the available opportunities and the most efficient and ethical ways not to be left behind as technology presents new options in our field. The issue is how we can navigate the world of mental health tech startups that are available to join us to support our good work. Examples of what these startups provide are electronic health records, website design, marketing, and more. The truth is that the pandemic changed everything and catapulted the tech startup world into the range of billions of dollars. Don’t miss my enlightening conversation with today’s guest!

    Our Featured Guest

    Michael Fulwiler

    Michael Fulwiler is Head of Brand Marketing at Heard, a company that assists therapists with bookkeeping and financial needs. I’ve come to rely on Mike’s expertise as a good friend as I navigate the aspects of STC, trying to be a protector of our field while staying in alignment with my values. In this session, Mike and I discuss the mindblowing numbers around the multitude of mental health tech startups and how clinicians can be informed about which ones are most likely to succeed or fail. We also discuss the vitally important topic of client data privacy and the top three considerations we should have before signing up for a product or service. 

    Heard Website

    You’ll Learn: 

    How to view tech startups in the mental health industry in terms of “headwind” and “tailwind” tendencies since the COVID-19 pandemicWhat the data shows about tech startups: 90% will fail!Why the big risk also comes with big opportunities in the startup worldWhat happens when a clinician contracts with a mental health tech startupWhy client data privacy is a valid concern when working with a tech startup (Hear Mike’s advice about watching out for red flags!)Top three considerations for a therapist about a tech startup:How they handle the data Whether or not there is a mental health professional on their team who helps with decisions and developmentHow compensation for therapists is structuredMike’s advice about doing your due diligence when contacted by a tech startupAn overview of Mike’s work and mission at Heard and what they provide for therapists

    Resources:

    So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist. 

    But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients. 

    Simplified SEO Consulting is a team of mental health professionals who genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process.

    Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo.

    **Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any online, DIY SEO courses, and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

    Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

    https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned...

  • Many of us have thought about creating continuing education courses and wondered how the process works and what factors are involved. Who better to learn from than someone who has done this successfully? Being successful at CEU course creation takes innovation, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Join us for informative insights from today’s guest!

    Our Featured Guest

    Matthew Bierds

    Matt Bierds, from Duke City Counseling, is a licensed professional counselor, course creator, and professional speaker who does in-person and virtual counseling and LPC supervision in Texas and New Mexico. As far back as ten years ago, Matt realized that the world of online education was expanding, and he knew there were interesting opportunities for LPCs in the area of online courses. After jumping into this arena, Matt went through a “failing forward” phase before making a few tweaks and creating a course for LPC supervisors. In today’s session, Matt shares the lessons learned along his fascinating journey and the mistakes and successes that have brought him to where he is today. 

    Matt's Website

    You’ll Learn:

    Matt’s wisdom: “I learned the hard way that selling general continuing education courses online is pointless and a waste of time and money.”The value in pivoting and niching down when something isn’t workingDiscovering the sweet spot: How Matt created a course designed for a specific person in a specific situationCourse creation is successful when you see the need and solve the pain point.Matt’s path to building trust and cultivating repeat customersThe progression and development of Matt’s 40-hour course and 6-hour refresher coursesThe challenges in maintaining compliance and navigating changes in licensing requirementsCourse creation challenges: creating content and incorporating more video interaction and student engagementMatt’s biggest mistakes and successes in marketing his courses

    Resources:

    So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist. 

    But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients. 

    Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo.

    **Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any online, DIY SEO courses, and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

    Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

    https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

  • To keep you informed, this will be the last session before I take a summer break. Along with taking time for much-anticipated rest, I’ll be busy with my family and many STC-related projects! STC will still be here, though, as we run replays of our best episodes for you during this time. I look forward to returning in a few weeks with another great season of podcast sessions for you! 

    As I prepare to see clients very soon in my return to private practice, I’ve been given unique opportunities to do two talks related to mental health for folks near my childhood home of Dallas, Texas. Through a childhood friend, I became connected to a nonprofit there and was asked to share my personal experience with mental health. As a high-achiever, I grew up as a South Asian kid in the US, struggling with anxiety and depression. It was REAL and led me to see a psychologist, prompting my love for psychology and changing the course of my life. I shared my story with parents of high-achieving kids through this nonprofit and led a Q & A session with them; it was truly one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I was subsequently asked to do a second talk with another organization on a similar topic, focusing on risk factors for kids/teens growing up in hyper-competitive public and private schools. These kids are in what I call “the gilded pressure cooker,” feeling enormous pressure to achieve almost impossible feats. In today’s session, I want to share the three biggest lessons I’ve learned as a result of these unexpected opportunities to talk about the intersection of my experiences, passions, and callings. 

    You’ll Learn: 

    My three biggest takeaways after doing these talks:Leaning into social media platforms, podcasting, and teaching workshops has helped me refine my speaking skills and learn to enjoy public speaking. (I’ve learned to silence my ever-present inner critic!)Doing talks like these takes a LOT of work and planning. (These were pro bono talks, but I will charge a fee in the future because of the multiple hours required. I don’t want to focus on revenue but on reach)For every talk I do in the future, I will capture the email addresses of the audience members to expand my community. (Adding people to your email list takes them from a “rented” audience on social media to an “owned” audience.)My thoughts and plans for the future in creating community, products, and services for this niche of families of high-achieversThis is a new area for me, but I would love to connect with more groups and organizations around this topic of high-achieving kids and their parents. If you have a contact for me, please email me!

    Resources:

    Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

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    Mentioned in this episode:

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  • As I’m moving back into clinical work, I’m compelled to do more clinical-related podcasts. Today’s session fits that bill as it delves into psychedelic psychotherapy, an area of clinical work that is exploding with interesting potential. There is a lot to navigate within this topic; join us to learn more!

    Our Featured Guest

    Keith Kurlander

    Keith Kurlander is the co-founder of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute (IPI) and the co-host of the Higher Practice Podcast. The IPI is the largest training provider of clinicians in psychedelic psychotherapy. In this conversation, we explore psychedelic psychiatry, the drugs available for use, and the causes of the recent surge in this field. We also discuss the practical cautions and considerations for therapists. 

    Keith's Website and The Integrative Psychiatry Institute

    You’ll Learn:

    A simple definition that helps us understand psychedelic psychotherapyCauses of the recent surge of interest in this field and a briefing on the history and current researchThe current mental health crisis is changing the landscape of mental health care!Right now is an opportune time for therapists to get on board with psychedelic psychotherapy and get their training.The differences between traditional talk therapy modalities and psychedelic psychotherapyA glimpse into the often uncomfortable intensity of a psychedelic psychotherapy sessionThe logistics of a psychedelic psychotherapy session around the length of sessions and payment/insurance parametersCommon psychedelic psychotherapy medications: ketamine, psilocybin, and LSDThe type of client who is well-suited for psychedelic psychotherapy

    Resources

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

    sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

  • More is not always better. We often find that what we are chasing in our pursuit of success is not what we thought it was. Entrepreneurship for private practice clinicians naturally attracts many high achievers and recovering perfectionists, so we need to take a pause and periodically reassess and redefine what success looks like. Join us for a closer look at this important topic!

    Our Featured Guest

    Jeanetta Garrison, LCSW

    Jeanetta Garrison is an anxiety therapist in private practice in Charlotte, NC. She is the perfect person to share insights into today’s topic. In this episode, Jeanetta shares a personal story about what she learned about money during her childhood, along with how we navigate our aspirations and what we go after to achieve success. We wrap up with a discussion of knowing what is “enough” and being cautious about who we follow after as mentors and examples. 

    Crown Counseling & Consulting

    You’ll Learn:

    Common characteristics of entrepreneurs in private practiceJeanetta’s family story of how she learned about money from her upbringingHaving big hearts of service sets us up to allow boundaries to be crossedThe need for clarity in communication with clients about cancellations and no-showsChasing the proverbial “carrot” to reach successJeanetta’s advice: “Remember your WHY and center your head, heart, and spirit around it.”Think about your success in terms of what you are sacrificing for it!Navigating the ebbs and flows that are inherent in entrepreneurshipHow Jeanetta grounds herself with what is “enough” for her in her businessThinking about money in terms of what it symbolizes to us (“All money is not good money.”)

    Resources:

    Want to launch your podcast?

    Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

    https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

    Want to launch your online course?

    Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Selling the Couch Newsletter

    Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

    Try Upheal!

    Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.