All Things Private Practice Podcast

Are you a therapist or entrepreneur feeling boxed in by traditional one-on-one client work?In this episode, Patrick Casale and Gabrielle Juliano-Villani talk about the necessity of diversifying income for mental health professionals—especially those who are neurodivergent or just burned out by endless back-to-back sessions.3 key takeaways:Diversification = Freedom & Sustainability: For many of us, sticking to the same routine is draining. Multiple streams of income aren’t just exciting—they’re pivotal for staying creative, sustaining energy, and protecting your mental health.Embrace Experimentation & Let Go of “Shoulds”: It's a journey. From group practice to online courses, coaching, or retreats, pivoting your career takes time, trial and error, and a willingness to release the pressure of how things "should" be done. Start small, experiment, and don’t be afraid to fail forward.Authenticity Wins Over Vanity Metrics: Social media is full of smoke and mirrors. Real connection and engagement come from authentic storytelling—sharing self-doubt, being honest about the process, and tapping into the real transformation you offer, not flashy highlights.More about Gabrielle:Gabrielle Juliano-Villani is a licensed clinical social worker, consultant, coach, entrepreneur, and educator based in Sarasota, FL. She has been in the mental health field for over a decade specializing in stress, chronic health conditions, and trauma.After realizing her own burnout in 2021, she sold her thriving group practice and made it her mission to educate others on the impact stress has on our everyday lives. Gabrielle pulls from her experience as an EMDR and Polyvagal Informed therapist to utilize mind/body approaches to help others implement everyday strategies to manage stress and live their best lives.Gabrielle is an international speaker, retreat leader, and has been featured in Authority Magazine, The Daily Om, Bustle, and the Everyday Woman TV Network. When she's not working, Gabrielle is teaching Zumba, surfing, or reading a psychological thriller at the beach.Gabrielle's Website: gabriellejulianovillani.com–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:HeadwayHeadway makes taking insurance as a group practice easy. They're the only platform built for in-network groups that gives you the tools, support, and stability you need to offload admin and take insurance as a team. With better reimbursement rates, faster credentialing, and biweekly payments you can count on, Headway empowers your group practice to focus less on claims and more on your clients. Visit https://resources.headway.co/atpp to see how Headway can help you scale your team without the stress.The Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.AlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streams

Throughout your entrepreneurial journey, it's important to take moments to reflect on what you’ve built, where you’re heading, and what truly brings you energy. In this solo episode, I opened up about the messy magic of pivoting, evolving passions, and the vital importance of giving yourself permission to grow in new directions.After years of building communities, running retreats around the globe, and coaching clinicians to “Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway,” it’s clear that our journeys rarely go as planned. And that’s okay.3 key takeaways:It’s Normal for Passions to Evolve: If the spark fades or your interests shift, that’s not failure. Growth isn’t linear.Zoom Out and Acknowledge Your Journey: Take time to recognize how far you’ve come, even if it feels like you’re standing still. Every pivot is part of your story.Give Yourself Permission to Pause: It’s courageous to rest, reflect, and admit something no longer serves you. Grief and relief can coexist in letting go.You’re not alone if you’re navigating uncertainty or sitting with grief about retiring some hard-won entrepreneurial roles. I’m right there with you—learning to honor my energy, trust intuition, and celebrate each imperfect step forward.–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:AlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsThe Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.

Patrick Casale and Michael Ashford, the director of marketing for The Receptionist for iPad, a TEDx speaker and communications coach, a TEDx speaker himself, and an author, talk about a topic that couldn’t be more relevant in today’s climate. They discuss how curiosity, open conversation, and a willingness to step outside our bubbles are essential, not just for healthy workplaces, but for thriving as business owners and humans.3 key takeaways:Lean Into Discomfort for Growth: There’s power in having uncomfortable conversations—whether with colleagues, clients, or even those we disagree with. Real progress and understanding often begin with a willingness to engage rather than retreat to our echo chambers.ASK-then-SEE Approach: Michael shared a tangible framework for communication:ASK: Assume positive intent. Set aside your ego. Know you can’t know everything.SEE: Search yourself (reflect on your own beliefs and biases). Explore other perspectives. Exchange curiosity—talk to people from different backgrounds and viewpoints.Expand Your World—Even Locally: You don’t need to travel internationally to break out of your echo chamber. Engage with new communities close to home. Curiosity and openness to new perspectives enrich us both personally and professionally.Whether you’re in private practice, leading a team, or just navigating a divided world, embracing curiosity and respectful dialogue is a game-changer.More about Michael:Michael Ashford is a communications explorer and a tireless optimist. He has spent years researching leadership, conflict communications, and how to overcome political and social polarization in an effort to chart a path to help us bridge divides, communicate well, and find more common ground. Michael is the Director of Marketing at a Denver-based software company, The Receptionist, as well as a podcaster, a two-time TEDx speaker, and what he calls an "independent journalist" as a shoutout to his former career as a newspaper editor.Website: michaelashford.com–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:AlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsThe Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Vinita Menon, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of The Thrive Collective, discuss her unique blend of insights around neurodivergence, cultural context, and the universality of our human experience.Dr. Menon shares her journey from being the “only one of her kind” growing up in the U.S., to becoming a fierce advocate for those who don’t neatly fit into boxes—especially within Autistic, ADHD, and Indian women’s communities.3 key takeaways:Culture and Neurodiversity Intertwine: Support must be culturally sensitive. What works in one cultural context may not in another—and nuance is key when offering advice or care.Connection over Jargon: At the heart of her approach is the drive for every individual to feel seen, supported, and connected. Fancy terms aside, we’re all searching for acceptance and belonging—regardless of our backgrounds.Breaking Boxes, Building Bridges: Whether as an entrepreneur, a woman navigating career and family pressures, or someone with a neurodiverse brain, many of us share that underlying question: “Am I good enough?” It’s not about hustling more, but finding spaces, strategies, and communities where we’re truly understood.If you’re interested in how intersectional identities shape our mental health journeys—or want to understand what more thoughtful, personalized care looks like—this episode has a lot to offer.More about VinitaDr. Vinita Menon is a seasoned clinical psychologist, clinical supervisor, nationally certified school psychologist, and professional coach. She has co-founded The Thrive Collective, a hybrid psychology practice that provides compassionate, evidence-based therapy and evaluations for children and adults. She integrates family and school professionals into treatment, ensuring holistic and effective care for her clients. She offers 2 clinical intensives for ADHD and autism for adults. As an EAP provider for executives at a multinational firm and a coach, Dr. Menon specializes in culturally sensitive support for Indian women navigating unique challenges. She co-founded The Thrive Mind to expand the reach of those services. Social Media:@thrivecollectivepsychology@thethrivemind@drvinitamenonWebsites:https://mythrivecollective.com/adhd-intensivehttps://mythrivecollective.com/autism-unlockedhttps://thethrivemind.co/be-savvy–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:AlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsThe Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.

In this episode, host Patrick Casale and guest Alicia Murray, the founder of Therapist HQ, talk about the journey from clinical work to business ownership. Alicia shares her real story of leaving a “secure” job at the VA to start her own private practice just as the pandemic hit, the self-doubt that comes with these transitions, and how she’s built a thriving group and a supportive community for therapists.3 key takeaways:Authenticity over Perfection: Being true to yourself (even if it means swearing or not fitting the “perfect therapist” image) attracts your ideal clients and community. Don’t dilute your personality for approval—you’ll find your people by being real.Self-Doubt is Normal: Even seasoned professionals experience self-doubt, especially when stepping into business ownership. Alicia’s story shows that the journey to private practice is rarely linear, and moments of uncertainty are part of the process.Align Your Practice With Your Values: Building a practice (or any business) is about more than finances—it’s about designing your career so it fits your life, not the other way around. Whether it’s a 6 am start or a midday workout, structuring your schedule around what matters to you is key for long-term happiness.More about Alicia:Alicia Murray is a therapist turned business consultant and the founder of The Therapist HQ.Since 2016, I've been on this therapy journey, launching my private practice in 2020 and growing it into a thriving group practice with five therapists and an admin. I'm passionate about helping fellow therapists create and grow their own private practices because I remember feeling completely alone when building mine. At The Therapist HQ, I provide accessible resources that focus on both financial success AND quality of life, believing in freedom, flexibility, and making a livable wage while doing the clinical work you truly enjoy.Social Media: @thetherapisthq on Instagram, TikTok, and FacebookI have a free private practice audit and startup checklist, as well as a complete practice launch kit. Grab them here: stan.store/The_Therapist_HQ–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland, for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summitLeadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:The Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsAlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.

In this episode, Patrick Casale speaks with Dr. Donna Oriowo, an award-winning DEI advocate, international speaker, and certified sex and relationship therapist, as she discusses the complexities of self-esteem, particularly for Black women navigating supremacist and patriarchal cultures. Her perspective on self-esteem being shaped by collective experiences, rather than just individual actions, is powerful and eye-opening.3 Key takeaways:Self-esteem is not created in a vacuum: Dr. Donna reminds us that our sense of self-worth is deeply influenced by generational, cultural, and systemic forces—it's not simply a personal failing if you struggle.Authenticity carries risks—especially for marginalized identities: Being "yourself" isn’t always safe, and the ongoing negotiation between authenticity and safety can be exhausting. It’s crucial to acknowledge the price people pay just to exist as themselves.Community is essential for healing and growth: Dr. Donna encourages us to seek out affirming relationships and supportive spaces, reminding us that self-esteem and healing aren’t solo journeys—they’re collective processes.More about Donna:Dr. Donna Oriowo (oreo-whoa!) LICSW, CST, is an award-winning DEI advocate, international speaker, and certified sex and relationship therapist in the Washington D.C. metro area. Dr. Donna is the owner of private practice, AnnodRight, which specializes in working with Black women on issues related to colorism and texturism and its impacts on mental and sexual health. Dr. Donna specializes in working with Black women to feel Free, Fabulous, and F*cked! She is the author of Cocoa Butter & Hair Grease: A Self-Love Journey Through Hair and Skin and the host of a biweekly community space for Black women called In My Black Feelings. Dr. Donna collects inspiring quotes, eats donuts, loves pasta, travels to learn, gives COVID-safe handshakes, warm hugs, and (figurative) knocks on the head. Donna's book is called: Drink Water & Mind Your Business: A Black Woman's Guide to Unlearning the BS and Healing Self-EsteemDr. Oriowo served as DEI Co-chair and Communications Steering Committee Chair for AASECT. She is a member of the Women of Color Sexual Health Network (WOCSHN). She can be found on social media @Dr.DonnaOriowo. OR you can visit her on the interwebs at DonnaOriowo.com.Instagram: instagram.com/dr.donnaoriowoTikTok: tiktok.com/@dr.donnaoriowoThreads: threads.net/@dr.donnaoriowoGrab her book: drinkwaterbook.com–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland, for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summitLeadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:The Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.AlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streams

In this episode, Patrick Casale speaks with Erica Smith about creating equitable and accessible workplaces in private practice. Erica shares candid, real-life stories of navigating the mental health field as someone living with chronic illness, and discusses the imperative of designing work environments that are truly supportive and accessible.Top 3 takeaways:Accessibility Goes Beyond Ramps: It means considering everything from office seating and safe, convenient entryways to virtual work options and clear communication about what your space does (and doesn't) offer.Culture Starts with Transparency: Erica models being upfront with staff and clients about values, policies, and decision-making—including the challenges and financial realities of running an equitable group practice.Intentionality Drives Inclusion: From pronouns on the website to supporting community initiatives and hosting know-your-rights cards in the lobby, every detail signals who you want to welcome and support in your practice.More about EricaErica, a North Carolina native and clinical social worker, specializes in trauma, particularly interpersonal violence, racial trauma, and chronic/invisible illness, drawn from her personal experiences. She was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and then Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) at age 12 in 2003—also the year she experienced the sudden loss of her father—followed by Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)  later in life. These events spurred her desire to help others, leading to international volunteering, non-profit work, and over 10 years as a therapist. Navigating chronic illness and being a Black woman taught her strategies to adapt and advocate. She now leads Whole Mentality, a Raleigh-based group practice focused on accessible and affirming mental health services.From Solo to Collective: Leading an Equitable Therapy Practice - for group practice consultation: itsericakendra.com/consultationWebsite: wholementality.comSocial media: @wholementality and @itsericakenddra–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland, for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summitLeadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:The Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsAlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Nicole McCance talk about her proven 5-step method for scaling a group practice—perfect for anyone feeling stuck at an income ceiling, burned out, or simply wondering what the next level looks like for their private practice.3 Key Takeaways:Systemize First, Hire Second: Before you build your team, get everything out of your head and document your systems. As Nicole says, if you don't systemize before hiring, you'll end up as the "chief question answerer"—not a true CEO.Marketing Matters—But Do It Right: Digital marketing (especially Google Ads) is essential, but make sure your website and ads are synced, specialty pages are clear, and hire experts when needed. Don’t waste money on marketing that doesn’t connect.Retention is Your Secret Weapon: Booking clients for multiple sessions and following up consistently (even after no-shows or cancellations) can increase your sessions by up to 20%. Simple steps = big impact.Whether you're dreaming of scaling, preparing your practice as an asset, or just want more freedom as an owner, Nicole’s guidance offers a fresh roadmap using practical strategies.More about Nicole:Nicole is a Psychologist (retired) turned Business Coach for therapists scaling to a group practice.  She expanded her private practice to 55 therapists and multiple 7 figures in 3 years (with toddler twins at home). Nicole sold her clinic in the 4th year and then retired as a Psychologist in her 5th year. She now teaches therapists how to help more people, make more money, and have more freedom following her proven method. The McCance Method: mccancemethod.comSocial MediaInstagram: instagram.com/nicole.mccancemethodFacebook Group: facebook.com/groups/947689352498639Podcast: mccancemethod.com/podcastSign up Nicole’s FREE Masterclass: How to Build a 7-Figure Group Practice → mccancemethod.com/webinar-free-masterclass-from-solo-to-superteam–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland, for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summitLeadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:The Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsAlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.

In this episode, I talk with Rachel Murdock, a burnout prevention specialist, group practice owner, and former FBI employee who bravely walked away from a "golden handcuffs" career to reclaim her well-being and design a life on her own terms. Her story is an empowering reminder that sometimes betting on yourself is the best investment you can make.Here are 3 key takeaways:Burnout isn’t just about workload—culture matters. Toxic organizational structures, lack of boundaries, and constant demand can erode even the most passionate professionals. Sometimes, the hardest part isn’t the job itself, but the noise of the system you're in.Permission to pause can change everything. Rachel emphasizes that we’re at our best when we step back, take breaks, and intentionally reset. Small, regular pauses (even just 15 minutes!) help rejuvenate your nervous system and protect your long-term health.Your impact is meaningful, but your well-being matters more. Organizations will survive when you move on. Choosing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. There’s power in letting go of the idea that you have to sacrifice your own needs for the mission.If you’re feeling stuck, burnt out, or scared to make a change, Rachel’s journey proves you can honor your passion, set boundaries, and thrive beyond traditional structures.More about Rachel:Rachel Murdock, MS, LPC, LCPC, is the owner/clinician providing mental health counseling in private practice with Beyond the Storm Behavioral Health, LLC. She is a licensed counselor in Missouri, Kansas, and Iowa, and supervises clinicians obtaining licensure in Missouri and Kansas. Her practice specializes in mental health counseling for first responders and individuals experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, or post-traumatic stress, and survivors of abuse.Rachel does wellness checks for various first responder agencies to promote psychological resilience, psychoeducation about trauma and coping skills, and provide resources and referrals as part of a statutory mandate in Missouri (590.192), requiring all sworn peace officers and dispatch personnel to meet with a program service provider every three to five years. Prior to January 2023, Rachel was a Supervisory Child/Adolescent Forensic Interviewer (SCAFI) with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Victim Services Division, Child Victim Services Unit, and held this position for seven months prior to her resignation, which led to her reopening her private practice. From November 4, 2012, to July 3, 2022, she was a Child/Adolescent Forensic Interviewer (CAFI) in the same unit. Prior to joining the FBI, Rachel was a forensic interviewer at The Child Advocacy Center, Inc., in Springfield, Missouri.  During her career as a forensic interviewer, Rachel conducted almost 3,000 forensic interviews of alleged victims of/or witnesses to an incident. Rachel has studied forensic interviewing, children’s memory and suggestibility, process of disclosure, and trauma responses of victims for over 20 years.Rachel has published on topics such as definitions of child abuse and neglect, the disclosure process in child abuse victims/witnesses, forensic child psychology, dynamics of compliant victimization, internet exploitation, suggestibility, and trauma. Her manuscripts all appear in peer-reviewed journals or book chapters, and Rachel has presented locally, nationally, and internationally about these topics since 2006.Rachel has testified in state and federal hearings and trials during her career as a fact and/or expert witness.Rachel is a faculty member with Avila University’s Graduate Counseling Psychology program and an adjunct faculty member Missouri State University’s Department of Psychology, where she created a course, Psychology of Child Abuse and Exploitation, and co-authored a textbook regarding issues of compliant victimization, dynamics of child abuse, process of disclosure, and other topics related to child abuse. Rachel has taught this course for almost twenty years. Additionally, she taught other courses related to child and adolescent development during her tenure as a faculty member with the department.Social Media:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachelnmurdockFacebook: facebook.com/share/1AyqzVimcTInstagram: instagram.com/beyondthestormkc–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland, for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summitLeadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:The Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsAlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.

In this episode, Rachel Bentley shares her journey of building a thriving group practice and launching the Next Level Private Practice Summit, emphasizing the power of community, collaboration, and taking risks despite self-doubt or fear of imperfection. She and Patrick Casale discuss the importance of consistency, authentic connection, and embracing vulnerability to grow personally and professionally in private practice.Here are 3 key takeaways:Embrace Imperfection and Take Action: Rachel shares how perfectionism and self-doubt almost stopped her from launching her summit. The key isn't to wait until everything is perfect, but to take the leap and iterate as you go. Progress beats perfection!Build Community Through Collaboration (Not Competition): Both Patrick and Rachel emphasize the importance of collaboration over competition in our industry. There’s plenty of space for everyone to succeed, and true growth happens when we support each other.Consistency is Critical: Whether you’re launching an event, offering a course, or opening up your practice to new clients, showing up consistently matters more than doing everything flawlessly. People usually need to see your message multiple times before they take action.More about Rachel:Rachel Bentley, MA LPC, is a trained IFS Level (2)+ therapist, trained IFIO therapist, and clinical supervisor. Rachel is a Private Practice Consultant, and she hosts retreats and summits to assist private practice owners in starting and growing their private practices. Rachel is the Founder and CEO of COR Counseling and Next Level Private Practice.COR Counseling is a private practice that centers around trauma-informed and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. COR is a 40-therapist group with physical locations in E Lansing and Ann Arbor, MI. COR also serves clients across Michigan (via Telehealth).Next Level Private Practice assists therapists in all levels of Private Practice to include 1) Therapists that are starting out in developing their own practices 2) Solo practice owners that wish to develop additional revenue streams and/or grow into group practices 3) Group practice owners that are seeking ways to make their practices sustainable.Rachel will host the Next Level Private Practice Summit in the Fall of 2025. This summit will be a (safe) place and space for therapists and practice owners to connect, learn, and build their private practices. Learn more about the summit and Next Level's offerings (here): nextlevelprivatepractice.comRegister here for the Next Level Private Practice Summit, and use code Nextlevel50 for $50 off registration: nextlevelprivatepractice.com/summitLearn more about COR Counseling: corcounselingmi.comNEXT LEVEL Facebook Group: facebook.com/share/g/15oQgGm7PVNEXT LEVEL Facebook Page: facebook.com/nextlevelprivatepracticeNEXT LEVEL Instagram: instagram.com/nextlevelprivatepractice–––––––––––––––––––––🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube✈️ Learn about Retreats🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community–––––––––––––––––––––Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad, Alma, & All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 Retreats! ✨ The Receptionist for iPadThanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option.✨ AlmaThanks to Alma for sponsoring this episode.Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.✨ All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026.Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland, for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway!Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summitLeadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergentBeyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streamsMentioned in this episode:The Receptionist for iPadI want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. From new patients faced with an empty lobby and no idea where to find their therapist to clinicians with a session running over time and the doorbell ringing, some of the most anxiety-ridden moments of a therapy appointment happen before a session even starts. The Receptionist for iPad, helps you tackle some of that pre-appointment apprehension and anxiety. The Receptionist for iPad is an easy-to-use digital client check-in system that helps your visitors check in securely to their appointments and notify their practitioners of their arrival via SMS, email, or your preferred channel. No more confusion, and less lobby checking or having clients sign in on paper logbooks. It can even help you upgrade and update your demographic information for your clients as well and even validate parking. Start a 14-day free trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link and you'll also get your first month free if you decide to sign up.AlmaI want to thank Alma for sponsoring this episode. Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals who are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Visit helloalma.com/ATPP to learn more.All Things Private Practice — 2025 & 2026 RetreatsAll Things Private Practice has some amazing retreat experiences coming up in 2025 and 2026. Join us in Edinburgh, Scotland for the second Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit from July 14th to 17th, 2025! We have an incredible lineup of 12 speakers and offer 12 MBCCEs. If you're a leader or aspiring to start a group practice, join our Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete, from September 6th to 11th. In 2026, we have two retreats in Queenstown, New Zealand. The first is for Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs from March 1st to 8th, and the second retreat, Beyond Private Practice, focuses on moving beyond one-on-one therapy and creating alternative income streams from March 15th to 22nd. Spaces are limited, so check the links to sign up today. Doubt yourself, do it anyway! Doubt Yourself, Do It Anyway Summit in Scotland: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/scotland-july-2025-summit Leadership Retreat in Chania, Crete: https://www.empoweredescapes.com/greece-retreat-2025 Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-neurodivergent Beyond Private Practice in Queenstown, New Zealand: https://www.allthingspractice.com/new-zealand-income-streams