The Connected Therapist | Private Practice, Clinical Skills, & Business Growth

Welcome back to The Connected Therapist Podcast!One of the best things about private practice is that we get to decide what success looks like for ourselves. And what works for us in one season of life might look completely different in another.In this first episode back, I’m sharing a little about how my own private practice has evolved over the years, from seeing a handful of clients in the evenings to building a daytime-only practice that includes individual and couples therapy, clinical consultation, and business support for other therapists.We’re talking about what it means to build a practice that supports not only your financial needs and clinical growth, but also your relationships, interests, and life outside of work.Growth doesn’t always mean doing more. Sometimes it means getting clearer about what matters most and making intentional choices about what we say yes to and what we let go of. And this changes depending on our season of life. Questions for ReflectionI’d love for you to spend a little time considering these questions:* What does a thriving private practice look like for me in this season of life? Not what it should look like or what someone else is doing, but what I actually want.* What parts of my practice are still serving me well, and what might no longer be working? Consider your schedule, caseload, clinical work, business systems, and the support you have around you.* What’s one small change I could make to bring my practice into greater alignment with the life I want to live?Remember, you don’t have to wait until you’re burned out to make changes, and you don’t have to get everything right the first time. Your practice can continue to evolve alongside you.Stay ConnectedThe Connected Therapist is a space for therapists in private practice to continue growing clinically, feel more confident navigating the business side of practice, and find meaningful connection along the way.Join the newsletter, follow along on Instagram, or explore opportunities for consultation and community here.Mentioned in This EpisodeSimplePractice: I’ve used SimplePractice to manage my own practice for years. You can try it for free and get 50% off your first four months through my affiliate link.This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a commission if you sign up. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

In this episode, we’re joined by one of our own community members, guest Linder Dwyer, a Licensed Professional Counselor and private practice owner in Austin, Texas, who shares her personal journey of finding connection and support in our community and membership.Whether you’re craving support, feeling stuck in isolation, or just curious about what it’s like inside our membership, this episode gives you a glimpse into the power of shared space and mutual growth. JOIN THE COMMUNITY:If this conversation resonates and you’re looking for a space to feel more grounded, inspired, and supported as a therapist—you don’t have to do it alone. Learn more at www.theconnectedtherapist.org/membershipWhether you’re building a practice, navigating burnout, or simply want to grow alongside people who get it, our membership is here to support you with consultation, business/goals and growth, personal support, and connection.   About Our Guest: Linder Dwyerhttps://www.connectioncounselingaustin.com/Linder offers therapy for people pleasing women and empowers them to become a bolder version of themselves. She specializes in anxiety, relationships, and self-esteem. https://www.instagram.com/connectioncounseling/ Our Affiliate: Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: The Community + MembershipGet the newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

So many therapists dream of private practice — the flexibility, autonomy, and freedom to do meaningful work on your own terms. But what’s the truth behind the dream?In today’s episode, we are breaking down the real-life expectations vs. reality of running your own therapy practice.Whether you're just starting out, building your caseload, struggling with the business aspects of your practice, or wondering if private practice is right for you, this episode will give you a look at:The myth of total flexibility — and what “freedom” really looks likeHow income works in private practice (and what people often miss)Why burnout doesn’t magically disappear when you’re your own bossMarketing truths: clients won’t just come because you build a websiteThe emotional and practical skills needed to build a sustainable practicePrivate practice can be deeply fulfilling — but it’s not effortless. This episode will help you make more informed, empowered choices about your career path. Our Affiliate: Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: The Community + MembershipGet the newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

In this episode, we're diving into one of the most important — and often overlooked — parts of the therapeutic process: the termination session. Whether therapy is ending because goals have been met or life circumstances are shifting, how we close out our work with clients matters.You'll learn:What termination sessions are and why they’re essentialCommon reasons therapy might end — and how to talk about itWhat a thoughtful, intentional last session can includeHow clients and therapists can navigate the emotions of goodbyeTips for creating meaningful closure, even when endings are unplannedHere are some key elements you might include:Review of progress: Revisit the goals you set and the growth you've experienced.Highlight key insights: Discuss meaningful takeaways, tools, or breakthroughs.Acknowledge challenges: Talk about any unfinished work or lingering questions.Discuss future support: Plan for next steps, relapse prevention, or potential follow-up.Explore emotions: Make space for grief, gratitude, anxiety, or relief — all are valid.Celebrate the work: Honor the courage and effort it took to show up and engage. You might include some sort of meaningful ritual or reflection piece during this time.Say goodbye: Name the ending and express appreciation for the relationship. Contract for any future reaching out if this is part of your practice.Our Affiliate: Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: The Community + MembershipGet the newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

In this episode, we dive into the essential elements of a first therapy session—how to build connection, uncover your client’s deeper "why" for seeking therapy, and begin contracting to co-create a strong foundation for working together and treatment planning. Whether you're a new therapist or a seasoned clinician looking to refresh or reflect on your intake process, this conversation offers practical strategies, sample language, and a flexible framework to make your first sessions more intentional and impactful.What You'll Learn:Why and how the first session sets the tone for the therapeutic relationshipHow to help clients articulate their deeper hopes or reasons for starting therapyA flexible framework to structure your first sessionClinical considerations for meeting clients where they are Our Affiliate: Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: The Community + MembershipGet the newsletter  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

In this episode, we dive into one of the most important but often overlooked parts of building a thriving therapy practice: the intake call. Whether you're a new clinician or a seasoned therapist refining your systems, this conversation will help you feel more confident, clear, and grounded in how you approach these early conversations with potential clients.You'll learn:The true purpose of an intake call (and what it's not)What to say and ask during the callHow to spot red flags and determine client fitCommon mistakes to avoidTips for showing up warm, professional, and boundaried Reflection Questions for TherapistsUse these to refine your intake process or in supervision/consultation:How do I want clients to feel after an intake call with me?What information do I truly need to gather on the call—and what can wait?Where do I tend to overgive, overshare, or overfunction on intake calls?Have I clearly defined who I’m a good fit for—and who I’m not? Do I know what my fee structure/availability is before getting on the calls? What is one small shift I could make to feel more grounded and boundaried in these calls?Do my current policies reflect what I can sustainably offer?How do I handle it when I realize I’m not the right fit for a client? Our Affiliate: Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: The Community + MembershipGet the newsletter  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

Loneliness has officially been declared an epidemic due to its significant impact on both mental and physical health—and therapists are not immune. In fact, despite being in a profession centered on connection, many therapists quietly experience deep loneliness and isolation.In this episode, we explore the reality that therapists need community too. Whether it’s through peer consultation, authentic friendships inside and outside the field, or intentional emotional support, connection is a vital part of our resilience, our well-being, and our ability to show up fully for others.We’ll talk about the research on loneliness and burnout in the mental health profession, the emotional and clinical benefits of community, and why friendships outside of therapy circles matter more than we often realize. You’ll also hear about the space we’ve created for therapists to connect, reflect, and grow—together.  Reflection Questions:Where in my life am I feeling most connected right now? Where am I feeling most isolated?Do I have people I can be fully myself with—without explaining, fixing, or performing?What kind of community do I most need right now?What gets in the way of me reaching out or letting others in?What’s one small, doable step I could take this week to move toward connection?Resources: Vivek Murthy's book, The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely WorldVivek Murthy on the Rich Roll Podcast Our Affiliate: Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: The Community + MembershipGet the newsletter  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

As therapists, we're trained to hold space for others—but what about holding space for ourselves?In this episode, we explore the deeply human practice of setting boundaries with ourselves—not from a place of perfection, but with self-compassion and care. We talk about the habits that quietly lead to burnout—like overbooking, saying yes when we need to say no, people-pleasing, and ignoring our own signals—and how internal boundaries can help us create more spaciousness, presence, and sustainability in our life and work.We'll also share why boundaries aren’t one-and-done—they’re living, breathing, and always evolving. We’ll explore how to regularly check in with ourselves, make room for what we need, and honor our shifting capacity with kindness and intention.If you’ve ever felt like you “should” be doing more or struggle to give yourself permission to rest, reflect, or check in, this conversation is your gentle nudge to come back home to yourself and re-evaluate what you need and what is and isn't in alignment with your values.  Possible Reflection Questions: What are the subtle ways I tend to override my own needs in service of others?Where in my week do I consistently feel drained—and what boundary might help protect my energy there?What stories or beliefs come up when I consider saying no, taking a break, or doing less?When was the last time I checked in with myself about my current capacity? What did I notice?What does self-compassion look like for me on a hard day or when I have neglected or overridden my own boundaries?Where might my boundaries need to shift right now to reflect who I am and what I need in this season?How can I create regular space (even 5 minutes) to listen inward and tend to my own limits with care? Resource: Setting Boundaries that Stick by Juliane Taylor Shore Partner: Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: The Community + MembershipGet the newsletter  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

In this episode, we explore one of the most important and often tricky parts of being a therapist: setting and holding boundaries with clients. We’ll talk about the difference between internal boundaries and external boundaries and why both are essential for sustainable, ethical practice. We’ll also dive into common challenges therapists face and explore how to reset boundaries with clarity and care when they’ve gotten blurry. Consider reflecting on the following questions: Where am I overextending or holding resentment?What part of me feels uncomfortable setting limits—and what does that part need?What do I need to shift in my practice (or what boundaries do I need to set) to honor my own system and needs? What boundaries/guidelines do I feel unclear on in my practice that I need to spend time clarifying so that I can communicate them to my clients?  Resource: Setting Boundaries that Stick by Juliane Taylor Shore Partner: Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: The Community + MembershipGet the newsletter  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com

Many therapists resist niching down because they worry about limiting their opportunities (or they are concerned they will be bored just seeing one issue or concern). But the truth is, defining your ideal client actually makes it easier to build a practice you love while attracting the right people who need your help. In this episode, we’re breaking down why having a clear niche helps you prevent burnout, market your services authentically, and create a sustainable, fulfilling practice.If you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure about how to position yourself in your private practice, this episode is for you! What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The biggest myths about niching down (and why the opposite is true)How to define your ideal client in a way that feels naturalWhy clarity in your niche makes marketing feel effortlessSimple ways to communicate what you offer and how it benefits your clientsHow to make it easy for potential clients to start working with you Resources: Episode 7: Growing Your Therapy Practice: Practical Tips and Strategies for Getting More ClientsFree Workshop: Identifying Your Niche: Attract Clients Who Truly Align With You (April 3 12-1pm CST on Zoom) Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card   Next Steps:Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.Leave us a written review wherever you are listening. Let's Connect: Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/Join the community: https://theconnectedtherapist.org/membership/Get the newsletterWorkshop: https://jenalleytherapist.myflodesk.com/niche   This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theconnectedtherapist.substack.com