The Bad Therapist Show

Are you ready for the spring surge in therapy inquiries? I've noticed year after year that spring, not new years, is when people actually start taking action on their mental health. The weather shifts and people have the energy and motivation to invest in therapy.So in today's episode, I'm walking you through the three things you need to do right now to make sure your therapy practice is positioned to capture that increase in demand and book more therapy clients. We're talking about collecting reviews, doing a website check to catch those sneaky tech glitches, and taking the opportunity to upgrade your schedule so you're not just filling spots but building the business you actually want to run. Plus, I'm sharing marketing ideas for therapists that work and how to think about your therapy practice growth strategically, not frantically.By the end of this episode, you'll know exactly where to focus your energy before that spring momentum hits. Because honestly, the difference between a good year and a great year in your therapy practice often comes down to being prepared when opportunity knocks.Topics covered on marketing ideas for therapists:Why spring creates a natural surge in therapy inquiries and how this timing impacts your spring marketing effortsThe power of collecting fresh reviews and endorsements across Google My Business and Psychology Today to establish credibility for your therapy practiceConducting a complete website audit to ensure your contact forms, scheduling links, and professional information are all functioning properlyHow to strategically reassess your schedule and fill open spots with intention rather than desperation in your therapy practiceConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachResources from this episode:Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessGoogle Workspace (Professional Email) - Discount link Quote:"The beautiful thing about running your own therapy business is that you get to create something that you love, that you are really excited to build and to exist in." - Felicia

What if I told you that you don't have to wait until licensure to start a private therapy practice? In today’s episode, Annie shares her remarkable story about starting a private therapy practice as an associate therapist, something nearly everyone told her was impossible. Annie went from juggling part-time nanny work and struggling to keep two or three clients, to receiving 8–9 inquiries a month and building a nearly full caseload at her highest fee…all before getting licensed.In our conversation, she reveals the exact strategies that worked: redesigning her website using StoryBrand messaging to actually speak to her ideal clients, running Google Ads successfully when "everyone" said they wouldn't work, and learning to trust herself instead of all the external doubt and noise.If you're an associate therapist feeling scared, underpaid, or convinced that starting a private therapy practice isn't realistic for you right now, this episode is proof that with the right strategy and support, it absolutely is.More about Annie Patyk:Annie Patyk is an associate marriage and family therapist based in San Francisco, CA. She specializes in helping high-achieving women break cycles of anxiety, perfectionism, and self-doubt to build lives that feel authentic and aligned. Annie is passionate about helping her clients stay connected to their ambition while cultivating self-trust and honoring their deepest desires.Topics covered on How to Start a Private Therapy Practice:How Annie went from struggling with 2-3 clients she couldn't keep to getting 8-9 inquiries a month and building a nearly full caseloadHow redesigning her website using the StoryBrand framework became the foundation for successfully running Google AdsThe biggest shift she made in her consultation callsEveryone told her she'd never make enough money as an associate, but she decided to start a private therapy practice anyway and quit her nanny job in less than a yearThe difference between fear-based noise and the quiet knowing that comes from real intuitionThe financial reality of starting a private therapy practice - what client acquisition actually costs and how quickly you recoup your investmentConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachConnect with Annie:Website: anniepatyk.comEmail: annie.patyk.therapy@gmail.comResources from this episode:Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessRelated episodes:Handling Fee Objections: What to Say When a Therapy Client Says Your Fee Is Too Expensive [Ep 152]Therapist Consult Call: The Simple Fix to Boost Your Client Conversion Rates [Ep 89]Quote:“The main mediator between people who are successful and people who are not, is that they're able to be in that space of frustration and not knowing for long periods of time, and just keep going.” Annie Patyk

Do you ever catch yourself wanting to delete, shrink, or simplify something in your business that's actually working? Patterns in business can be sneaky like that!After my biggest year ever, adding 100K+ in revenue and watching my clients hit milestones like 30K months and full practices, I found myself wanting to disable pages on my website, strip things back, and get rid of what felt like "too much." It turns out, I was mislabeling complexity as messiness. That same impulse I have in my home to declutter everything? It had crept right into how I was running my business.In today's episode, I'm getting real about how I caught myself mid-sabotage and what I'm doing differently now. I'm also inviting you to look at your own stress responses because the thing you do when your business feels overwhelming might not be solving a real problem. It might just be giving your nervous system a quick hit of relief.If you're in a season of growth and things feel heavier than you expected, this episode is for you.Topics covered on Patterns In Business:Self-sabotaging patterns in business that were quietly working against meThe difference between fruitful complexity and actual disorganization in a growing therapy practiceYour nervous system can trick you into shrinking what you've built instead of learning to hold moreThe patterns in business you default to under stress often mirror what you do in your personal lifeThe important question I now ask myself before making any impulsive changesResources from this episode:Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessWhat Your Therapist Thinks: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatYourTherapistThinksConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachQuote:“ There are all sorts of ways that we can sabotage our success and our growth because we're uncomfortable with the success and the growth that we are experiencing.” - Felicia

How long does it actually take before you start seeing more traffic and inquiries from SEO on your therapy website?SEO blogging for therapists can feel like a slow-burn strategy, but it’s one of the most reliable ways to step off the social media hamster wheel. Waiting months for momentum can feel painful, especially when you want clients now. But I went from basically zero traffic to 7–10K visitors a month, and I’ve watched therapists inside my signature program, Liberated Business, experience the same shift once they committed to the long game.In today's episode, I'm breaking down what really happens in the first few months, how results compound between 6–12 months, and why many therapists feel the biggest difference around the one-year mark. I’ll help you figure out whether you should DIY your SEO or hire support, and how to spot red flags so you don’t waste money on someone who overpromises.If you’re a therapist who’s curious about SEO but overwhelmed, impatient, or unsure whether it’s worth it, this episode will give you realistic expectations and a clear path forward.Topics covered on SEO Blogging for Therapists: The realistic SEO timeline from early indexing to compounding trafficWhat keyword cannibalization is and how to stop competing with your own blogsSEO blogging for therapists success stories, including my own journey from zero to 7-10K monthly visitorsThe truth about how blogs work (hint: most people don’t read the whole thing)When it makes sense to DIY and when hiring will save you timeWhy SEO brings traffic but can’t convert clients for youMy favorite SEO blogging resources for therapistsConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachResources from this episode:Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessDevotional Sales Strategy: www.thebadtherapist.coach/shop/p/devotional-sales-practicePlace Digital (formerly Therapie SEO): https://grow.placedigital.com/the-bad-therapistWebsite templates for therapists: https://hold-space-creative-affiliates.peachs.co/a/felicia-feliciathebadtherapistcoachRelated episodes:SEO For Therapists: Future-Proofing Your Therapy Practice with Kristie Platinga [Ep 38]SEO and AI Marketing for Therapists in 2026: What's Working Right Now [Ep 144]Quote:"SEO blogging is a long game. Not a quick hit, but over six to 12 months and beyond, it can become a quiet, steady engine for 'I found you on Google' inquiries." - Felicia

Ever frozen on a consult call the moment someone said your fee was too expensive (I mean, who hasn't?) Handling fee objections is one of the most uncomfortable moments therapists face on consult calls, and if you've ever walked away from that conversation feeling guilty, confused, or tempted to slash your rates on the spot, this episode is for you!I'm breaking down what "too expensive" actually means when a potential client says it (it's not always what you think). I'll share how to tell the difference between someone who genuinely can't afford your fee and someone who's just unsure about investing in therapy. We'll talk about why being rock solid in your pricing matters and how your own money issues might be getting in the way. Plus, I'm giving you my favorite go-to response you can use word for word on your next call!This episode isn't about pressuring anyone into saying yes. It's about holding your boundary while staying warm, curious, and deeply caring. If you want to feel more grounded the next time money comes up on a consult call, tune in.Topics covered on Handling Fee Objections:Why "too expensive" is a subjective judgment and not an objective fact about your feeYour own assumptions can lead you to offer a sliding scale to clients who don't actually need itWhat I would do differently with my therapy fees if I could start overThe real reasons someone might say your fee is too expensive even when they can technically afford itMy favorite word-for-word response when handling fee objectionsGiving back in other ways helps you hold your fee without guiltResources from this episode:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsLiberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessConnect with Felicia:Instagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachQuote:"When someone says that your fee is too expensive, it's really important that we understand that this is a particular perspective. It's a judgment, it's a subjective judgment, but it is not a fact." - Felicia

Are you wrestling with whether to share your political beliefs publicly as a therapist? It’s a tough dilemma many of us face: How do you stay true to your personal convictions without compromising your professional responsibility? In today’s episode, I’m addressing a question by Becky, a group practice owner, who reached out to share her struggle with wanting to be transparent about her beliefs while staying respectful and ethical. So, how do we navigate the balance between authenticity and professionalism?Tune in as I walk you through the tough questions you need to ask yourself before deciding to go public with your views. We’ll explore how this decision could impact your clients, your business, and even your employees. Plus, I’ll share strategies for communicating your values in a way that maintains professionalism without alienating those who may think differently.Let’s unpack the challenges, reflect on your ability to work with clients across the political spectrum, and discuss how to stay true to yourself while upholding the ethical standards of our profession. You don’t have to figure this out alone.Topics covered on Sharing Political Beliefs Publicly: The ethical implications of therapists sharing political beliefsHow political transparency can affect your practice and client relationshipsBalancing personal convictions with professional responsibilitiesStrategies for communicating your values respectfully and professionallyUnderstanding your capacity to work with clients across the political spectrumResources from this episode:My email newsletter: https://ckarchive.com/b/lmuehmhn0l4wlid7kkm78c8lo4v00bgIndivisible: https://indivisible.org/ Submit your questions for the next episodeConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachQuote:"We need to be honest about our capacity to work with people across the political spectrum." - Felicia

What if you didn’t have to feel 1000% confident before hosting a profitable retreat? In this episode, I’m chatting with Sarah Lazarewicz, a therapist, Liberated Business graduate and first-time retreat host about what it looked like to lead her very first overnight retreat. She walked away with $3,000 in profit and a whole new level of confidence. But getting there? That's the real story.Before the retreat even happened, Sarah was deep in self-doubt. Imposter syndrome told her she wasn’t qualified. Money fears made her question whether anyone would actually sign up. And more than once, she considered canceling the whole thing and walking away from her dream (again).But Sarah didn't stay stuck in fear. She leaned into community support, worked through what was underneath the doubts, and chose to move forward anyway. The result was a beautiful, heartfelt experience that transformed not just her attendees, but her own belief in what she's capable of as a leader and business owner.If you've been sitting on a big vision but fear keeps holding you back, this episode will give you permission to do it messy, do it scared, and do it anyway.More about Sarah Lazarewicz:Sarah Lazarewicz (MSW, LICSW) is a somatic therapist and trauma specialist based in Minneapolis, MN. She specializes in helping adults recovering from unhealthy childhoods find greater connection and peace in adulthood. She is also passionate about supporting therapists, and leads retreats for therapists focused on preventing burnout and creating deep community among fellow mental health providers.Topics covered on Hosting a Profitable Retreat:The experiences that sparked Sarah’s vision for creating a community care retreat for other therapistsThe fears that arose after Sarah had already booked the retreat space and set the dateHow to move forward with hosting a profitable retreat when you're starting without an established audienceThe moment Sarah's co-facilitator had to step back just four months before the retreatThe role coaching and community support in Liberated Business played in Sarah's ability to stay committed to her visionThe difference between being a good leader and trying to control every detail of the retreat experienceSarah's advice for therapists who want to take the leap in hosting a profitable retreat or pursuing any big vision while feeling stuck in fearResources from this episode:Liberated Business program: https://www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessRelated episodes Building Blocks of a Profitable Retreat: How to Design the Perfect Experience [Ep 65]Connect with Sarah Lazarewicz:Website: laztherapy.comConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachQuote:"Do it messy. It's worth doing it messy. It's worth doing it afraid. You're probably never gonna get to the point where you're not afraid, but you can do something and be afraid and it can still go well." - Sarah

If you think a $20K month for solo therapists means working 60-hour weeks, hear this: the therapists I work with who are consistently hitting 20K months aren't running giant group practices or burning themselves out. They're solo clinicians with premium fees, clear niches, and one really effective marketing channel that actually works.In today's episode, I'm breaking down the real anatomy of a 20K month for solo therapists based on what my actual clients are doing month after month. I'm talking about the core pieces that add up to those numbers, the mindset shifts around charging what you're worth, and the specific moves you can make right now to start moving in that direction.Whether you're at 5K months or 15K months, there are probably just one or two bottlenecks in your business keeping you stuck. I'm going to help you figure out what those are and give you concrete next steps to open things up!Topics covered on 20K Month for Solo Therapists:The structure of a 20K month for solo therapists and the client loads that make it possible without working 60-hour weeksThe premium fee ranges my clients are charging and the mindset work you need to do before raising your ratesThe digital marketing channels that are actually driving consistent leadsThe specific bottlenecks in your business that are keeping you stuck at low revenue monthsThe skills you need to learn if you want to charge premium fees before your marketing is perfectThe cancellation and attendance policies that will help you hit a consistent 20K monthsResources from this episode:Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessHow Saying No to Clients Doubled Erin's Income to $14K/Month in 3 Months [Ep 148]How Dr Mikki Lee Used TikTok Marketing to Grow Her Private Practice and 4x Her Revenue [Ep 139]Related episodes My Secret to Turning 10 Min Intake Calls Into Paying Clients [Ep 7]Devotional Sales: My Sales Practice That Will Turn Consult Calls into Clients [Ep 56]Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachQuote:“At 20K per month as a solo practitioner, that is where you can really start to see your quality of life shift.” - Felicia

What if raising your therapy fees and saying no to clients more often could actually double your private practice income? That's exactly what happened to Erin Cantor, a play therapist in New York City who went from $8,000 to $14,000 per month in just three months of being in my signature program, Liberated Business.In this episode, I’m chatting with Erin about the specific changes she made that led to her rapid growth, why she requires three parent sessions before working with any child, and how learning to say no to clients became her biggest marketing strategy. Erin got ruthlessly clear about which cases to accept, raised her fees without apologizing, and implemented a firm cancellation policy faster than most therapists would dare. And the wild part? Her clients thanked her for it.If you've ever felt guilty about turning away potential clients or wondered whether you're charging enough for your expertise, this conversation will shift something for you. Erin's story proves that building a private practice on your terms isn't just possible; it's profitable.More about Erin Cantor:Erin Cantor, M.A., MSW, LCSW is a child play therapist and adolescent, adult and family psychotherapist working in private practice in New York City. A graduate of the three-year child and adolescent psychotherapy training program (CAPTP) at The William Alanson White Institute, she is also trained in Family Therapy from Ackerman Institute, and completed the one year infant observation program with the Anni Bergman Parent Infant training program (ABPIP) with Contemporary Freudian Society (CFS) and Institute for Psychoanalytic Training and Research (IPTAR). In addition to her psychotherapy work, Erin is also a clinical writer, presenter, and consultant.Topics covered on Saying No To Clients:Saying no to clients became the turning point that allowed Erin to double her practice income while working fewer hoursThe three immediate changes Erin made to her private practice that led to explosive growthHow Erin discovered her specialty in play therapy and high-conflict divorce cases was actually rare and valuable, not something every therapist doesThe moment Erin realized that saying no to clients she felt confused about was actually better for everyone involved, including the childThe surprising way that parents who declined to work with Erin became some of her best referral sourcesResources from this episode:Holdspace Creative: https://www.holdspacecreative.com/Liberated Business: https://www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessConnect with Erin Cantor:Website: www.erincantorlcswpllc.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-c-377181153Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachQuote:"I started to say no more, and I got to more yeses." - Erin Cantor

Are you a therapist dreaming of starting a therapy private practice but not sure where to begin? Then today's podcast episode is for you! Join me as I guide you through the essential steps to launching your therapy private practice. From registering your business and obtaining necessary legal documents to setting up a bank account and securing liability insurance, I've got you covered!But it's not just about the technicalities; I delve into the importance of establishing clear policies around fees and cancellations that work for you. Plus, I share insights on how to effectively market your therapy private practice and why having a professional website is crucial in today's digital age. This episode is your quick-start guide to making your dream of owning a therapy private practice a reality. Don't let uncertainty hold you back - tune in now and take the first step towards building your successful private practice!Topics covered on Starting a Therapy Private Practice in 2026:Legal, financial, and ethical considerations when starting a therapy private practice in 2024.Navigating the technical aspects of starting a therapy private practice.How you can create policies and practices that not only meet professional standards but also align with your personal preferences and lifestyle.What marketing strategies should you consider if you want to start a therapy private practice in 2024.Why having a website is crucial for a therapy private practice and how it can benefit you.Resources from this episode:Jane EHRSessions How to Build a Strategic Website That Will Bring More Clients to Your Practice With Sarah Busse [Ep 30]SEO For Therapists: Future-Proofing Your Therapy Practice with Kristie Platinga [Ep 38]How to Uphold Your Cancellation Policy Without Feeling Guilty [Ep 19]Growing Your Group Practice: Why Your First Hire Should Be A 'Mini-You' w/ Nicole McCance [Ep 124]Holdspace CreativePlace Digital Building a Storybrand book by Donald Miller Starting a Private Practice In Counseling ChecklistRelated episodes:Improve Your Website Instantly with This Simple Practice [Ep 29]My Secret to Turning 10 Min Intake Calls Into Paying Clients [Ep 7]How to Pick a Therapy Niche That Makes You Happy [Ep 4]Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:"There's actually a lot you can do to start your private practice that can all happen in a day and honestly in a matter of hours.” - Felicia

Want to transition into 2026 with real clarity instead of just another vague resolution? This New Year guided meditation will help you do exactly that! In today's episode, I'm walking you through an end-of-year reflection that honors both the wins and the hard moments of 2025. We're not bypassing anything here. We're celebrating what went well, grieving what didn't, and setting intentions for the year ahead.This isn't about being more productive or hitting arbitrary benchmarks. It's about recognizing that your private practice growth is deeply connected to your own healing and spiritual journey. I'll guide you through acknowledging where you are right now, reconnecting with the moments that felt nourishing this year, and holding space for the challenges that still need attention.Then we'll move into setting intentions that actually align with who you're becoming, not just what you think you should achieve. This New Year meditation meets you exactly where you are - whether you're feeling rushed, distracted, or already cozy and settled in.Topics covered on New Year Meditation:Accepting this present moment exactly as it is before trying to create any change in your private practiceCelebrating the wins from 2025 that made you feel proud and excited in your therapy businessYour business is actually a place where your spiritual practice has direct relevance and shouldn't be separated from your growth workThe New Year meditation for 2026 that aligns with both your conscious goals and your soul's evolutionConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:"You don't have to be perfect in order to shift. You can be in pain, and that's all right. That doesn't have to stop you from continuing to grow and to change and to make progress in all sorts of ways." - Felicia

I almost didn't make the changes that took my coaching business from "doing fine" to legitimately blowing up this year. I thought I needed to work harder but what actually moved the needle required me to do something that felt completely backward.This year I crossed the five-year mark in business, went back to therapy, hired help, and made ONE shift in how I communicate with my audience that changed everything. At least two people who joined my signature program, Liberated Business, told me they couldn't stand me when they first found my work. But now they're paying clients! In this episode, I’m reflecting on what actually changed behind the scenes during a $100K growth year — including the creative weekend trips that unexpectedly became a source of clarity, why letting myself evolve mattered more than doubling down, and what scaling a coaching business looked like for me at this stage.If you're wondering what it actually takes to scale a coaching business past multiple six figures without burning out, this one's going to surprise you! Some of what worked this year goes against what I thought I knew about growing a business.Topics covered on Scaling a Coaching Business:Scaling a coaching business required me to get way more "salesy," and this is why I'm not apologizing for it anymoreThe email strategy shift that finally got my ideal clients to say "yes, I'm ready," and it's probably not what you thinkI joined a group coaching container this year, and surprisingly it worked better for me than one-on-one supportThe non-therapist friend whose weekend trips helped me see what was actually genius about my program (when I thought I needed to do an overhaul)How going back to therapy changed the way I show up in my businessResources from this episode:Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyRelated episodes:2024 Recap: Key Takeaways from Running My Business This Year [Ep 92]Quote:"Some people are gonna see you out in the world doing your thing, and they're going to have mixed feelings about you, and that doesn't mean that you're doing it wrong." - Felicia

SEO for therapists isn't what it used to be. If you’re still marketing your private practice like it's 2020, it's time to change things up! Your potential clients aren't just googling "therapist near me" anymore. They're asking ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and Google's AI to recommend someone. And if you're not showing up in those AI answers? You're basically invisible.For today's episode, I invited Chris Moren, founder of Monraker.Ai, an SEO agency for therapists, to tell us what's changed and what we need to do about it. We chat about why your Google Business Profile matters more than ever, how one therapist got 22 reviews and now ranks #1 in his entire city, and the biggest mistake solo practitioners make when they're thinking about scaling to a group practice.If you've been relying on "good vibes" and word-of-mouth to build your caseload, this conversation is going to shift how you think about marketing. Because doing great work nowadays is the bare minimum, not a visibility strategy. So if you want to fill your caseload faster, understanding SEO for therapists is no longer optional.More about Chris Moren:Chris Moren is the founder of Moonraker.AI, an SEO agency focused on helping therapists grow their visibility on google maps and AI platforms. Before marketing, Chris was a massage therapist for over 15 years, providing chair massage to local businesses. Chris' goal is to help therapists boost their online visibility and connect with their ideal clients so they can build the practice of their dreams.Topics covered on SEO for Therapists:Why good vibes and great therapy skills won't fill your caseload (and what actually will)AI platforms like ChatGPT are making traditional SEO for therapists almost irrelevantThe one therapist who got 22 Google reviews in 2 months and what happened nextChris's top SEO tips for therapists who want more visibility fastWhy your Psych Today profile matters even if you've literally never gotten a lead from itWhat are zero-click searches and why Google doesn't want anyone leaving their site anymoreThe FAQ hack that's "overpowered right now" for showing up in AI answersDifferent ways to prove to Google you're a real, credible therapy practice Connect with Chris:Website: moonraker.aiInstagram: @chris.goes.viralConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyRelated episodes:Is SEO Dead for Therapists? What's Happening with AI & Digital Marketing in 2025 and Beyond [Ep 132]How Jim Kemp Built a Thriving Group Practice in Just One Year - Client Success Story [Ep 82] How to Build a Marketing Ecosystem That AI Can't Break [Ep 130]Quote:"The value of leads from an AI answer is massive. It's probably three to four times the value because of how high they convert...the client is pre-sold, so they're almost just coming to the website to find the booking link." - Chris Moren

Should you invest thousands in podcast production, or can you build a successful show from your closet? In today's episode, I'm continuing the conversation about how to start a podcast that actually grows your therapy business. I'm sharing the real, unfiltered truth about what's worked across my two very different shows - The Bad Therapist Show and What Your Therapist Thinks.From total DIY setups to high-production video podcasts, I break down the production options that fit different budgets and time constraints. I'll tell you about the failed attempt that never aired, the accountability hack that keeps me showing up every single week, and why it took two years before I started seeing serious returns. Plus, I'm spilling the strategies that got What Your Therapist Thinks featured on Apple Podcasts multiple times and already receiving sponsorship requests!So if you're wondering whether you need fancy equipment, an editor, or a huge budget to start your podcast, this episode will give you clarity on what actually matters and what you can skip.Topics covered on How to Start a Podcast: How to start a podcast with the right production approach for your budget, from total DIY to hiring a full production team.The failed podcast attempt at the end of 2022 that taught me exactly what not to do with editing and production quality.The realistic timeline for podcast growth and why it took two full years before The Bad Therapist Show started consistently converting listeners into paying clients.SEO optimization strategies for podcast titles and show notes that help new listeners find your episodes.Buzz-building tactics Kristie and I used that got us featured quickly.How to use opt-ins and email lists to turn podcast listeners into clients instead of just having people consume your content without ever contacting you.The sponsorship request I received for What Your Therapist Thinks.Resources from this episode:PodVision DescriptRiverside.fmCheck out my podcasting gear What Your Therapist Thinks podcastBest Therapist DirectoryRosemarie - Podcast Producer + Strategist www.evergreenpodcaststrategy.co.uk Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyRelated episodes:The Truth About Ketamine Therapy from a Licensed Psychologist Who Actually Provides It w/ Dr Shannon York [Ep 136]How to Start a Podcast That Gets You Therapy Clients (Not Just Downloads) [Ep 142]Quote:"This morning I opened up the WYTT inbox and I gasped because we had a sponsorship request from a brand whose website I was literally on the night before." - Felicia

Starting a podcast for your private practice sounds exciting until you're drowning in decisions about format, equipment, naming, and whether anyone will actually listen. I've been hosting The Bad Therapist Show for almost three years, and just three months ago, I launched a completely different podcast called What Your Therapist Thinks that's kind of blowing up.They serve totally different purposes in my business, and understanding that distinction is everything. In today's episode, I'm breaking down how to start a podcast that actually works for your private practice. I'm talking about why your show's purpose matters more than fancy gear, how to nail your concept and format, why your podcast name can make or break discoverability, and what I learned along the way that changed the game for my second show..I'm also getting real about the mistakes I made with my first podcast that I'd do differently now. If you're a therapist thinking about starting a podcast but feel stuck on where to begin, this episode will help you think through the decisions that actually matter.Topics covered on How To Start a Podcast:The difference between a podcast that nurtures your existing audience and one that reaches a massive new marketInterviewing competitors on your show is actually costing you moneyHow to structure your episodes insteadThe five-syllable rule for naming your podcast and why obscure titles work for some shows but might kill yoursWhat to think about before you ever hit record so your podcast actually serves a purpose in your business instead of just draining your bank accountHow to start a podcast that creates intimacy with potential clients in a way no other marketing tool can replicate. Resources from this episode:Listen to the What Your Therapist Thinks podcastVisit BestTherapists.comCheck out Felciia's podcasting gearJeremy Enns: https://jeremyenns.com/Rosemarie - Podcast Producer + Strategist: www.evergreenpodcaststrategy.co.uk Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyRelated episodes:Time Saving Tips for Therapists: The 5-Minute Note Method That Freed Up 10+ Hours Every Week with Doctor TK [Episode 129]How Six Figure Business Owners Spend Money in Business w/ Linzy Bonham [Episode 93]Quote:"Starting a podcast is within reach, and I think it's one of the best marketing tools out there because it is just so intimate. People feel like they're having a conversation with you." - Felicia

Are you ready for the holiday season, or is your private practice bracing for a financial slump The festive season often brings increased expenses and client cancellations, leaving many therapists scrambling to maintain their income. But it doesn’t have to be that way!In today’s episode, I’m breaking down actionable strategies to keep your private practice thriving during the holidays. From setting clear goals and planning your time off to adjusting your fees and policies, you’ll learn how to navigate this busy season without sacrificing your financial stability - or your peace of mind.I’ll also share personal insights on why therapy is so crucial during this stressful time of year and how you can effectively communicate with clients to meet their needs while protecting your boundaries. Tune in and discover how you can make this holiday season a successful one for both you and your clients.Topics covered on Preparing Your Private Practice for the Holidays:Preparing your private practice for the holidays and how to effectively communicate with clients about potential cancellations.Strategies to encourage clients to continue therapy during the holidays.Incorporating time off into your fee structure, ensuring financial stability while enjoying well-deserved breaks.How The Magic Sheets tool simplifies fee calculations, helping you to prepare your private practice for the holidays.Reassessing your financial goals and how to make 2025 your most successful year yet.Resources from this episode:Want the roadmap to making six figures in your therapy business? Learn more about The Fee Formula course!Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsRelated episodes Grow Your Private Practice with a 90 Day Sprint [Ep 101]How to Add $30k to Your Private Practice & Book Premium Fee Therapy Clients [Ep 115]Connect with Felicia:Instagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:“You don't need to wait for another thing in order to charge more money.” - Felicia

Did you work your ass off to hit a huge milestone, and now you feel more stressed, tired, and overwhelmed than before? The success hangover is real, and it's stopping ambitious group practice owners and mega successful solo practitioners like you from enjoying what you've built. You finally scale to multiple six figures, fill your calendar, buy that dream home, and instead of celebrating, you're buried under more responsibility, wondering, "Wait, is this it?"In this episode, I'm breaking down why this happens and what you actually need to do about it. We're talking about the systems and delegation that will save your sanity, the difference between actual rest and just numbing out on your phone, and how to stop being trapped in that buzzy, exhausted cycle even after you've "made it." I'm also sharing my favorite mindset practice for releasing all those fears that show up with success, and how to figure out what lights you up next.If you've been grinding hard and finally reached your goal but feel anything but fulfilled, this one's for you.Topics covered on Success Hangover:What a success hangover is and how it keeps you from growing further or enjoying what you've builtSystems and delegation strategies you need to implement as your practice grows more complexIdentifying what actually restores and refreshes you vs what just turns your brain off, and why choosing real rest is criticalThe mindset practice I use with clients to release all the anxious thoughts that swirl after a big up-levelThe ‘Buy Back Your Time’ framework for understanding which tasks to remove from your plate first based on income generation and personal fulfillmentResources from this episode: Buy Back Your Time by Dan MartelConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:“ At a certain point, you need to start delegating and leveraging the increase in income to start to buy back your time so that you can rest  and refocus your energy on continuing to grow your business.” - Felicia

What if the strategy that helped you grow your private practice didn’t come from working harder, but from finding one approach that works and sticking with it? In this episode, I sit down with my client Dr. Mikki Lee Elembaby, a New York-based psychologist who grew her private practice revenue from $5-6K a month to $17.5K in September. Dr Mikki shares how she turned TikTok into a top referral source by committing to one challenge, built a community with other ambitious therapists, and created a practice model centered on autism and ADHD assessments that gives her both financial stability and flexibility.Dr Mikki also opens up about the discomfort of getting visible, the three hours it took to post her first video, and why results come from focus - not perfection or hustle. If you've been spinning your wheels trying to grow your private practice, feel hesitant about social media, or wondering how to increase your income without burning out, this conversation will shift something for you. More about Dr. Mikki Lee Dr. Mikki Elembaby is a licensed psychologist and neurodiversity specialist based in New York City, where she provides comprehensive autism and ADHD evaluations for adults and children. After beginning her career as a school psychologist in the NYC public school system, she transitioned into private practice to create a more aligned career that allowed for increased flexibility and meaningful impact. Dr. Elembaby is passionate about supporting late-diagnosed adults as they navigate self-discovery, identity, and thriving beyond the label. Topics covered on Growing a Private Practice:The real challenges Dr Mikki had to face when growing a private practice with ADHD.The challenge Dr Mikki gave herself on TikTok that completely changed her referral pipeline.How having 1,300 followers can generate more clients than some accounts with massive audiences.The mindset shift that helped Dr Mikki set a goal to quadruple her income.The importance of focusing on one marketing strategy when growing a private practice with ADHD.What it means to be a villager in your community, not just someone looking for support.The reason why six months of structured coaching worked better for Dr Mikki's ADHD brain than short-term programs. Resources from this episode:Join the waitlist for Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessBook an in-person Intensive Day with Felicia: www.thebadtherapist.coach/ceo-dayConnect with Dr. Mikki Lee:Website: www.drmikkilee.comTikTok: @dr.mikkileeInstagram:@dr.mikkileeConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:"You also have to be a villager. You can't just have a village and not also be part of it and contribute." - Felicia

Are you leaving thousands of dollars on the table because you're afraid to raise your therapy rates? If you're asking yourself when you should increase your fees, I'm telling you right now: you probably need to do it. The hardest part about raising therapy rates isn't figuring out the math. It's getting past the anxiety around having those conversations with your clients.In today's episode, I'm breaking down exactly when to raise your therapy fees, how much to increase them by, and how to think through your risk tolerance so you can make a decision that actually works for your private practice. We're also talking about why this time of year is particularly strategic if you want to implement changes before 2026.Plus, I'll walk you through different fee-raise strategies and show you how to stop overthinking this decision that's costing you money every single day.Topics covered on Raising Therapy Rates:The signs that it's time to raise your therapy ratesThe different strategies for raising your therapy ratesWhen is the perfect time to raise your therapy rates?The Magic Sheets, a powerful tool that will help you figure out by how much you need to raise your therapy ratesHaving a limited cancellation policy is just as important as raising your rates (if not more important)Connect with Felicia:Instagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyResources from this episode:`Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsWant the roadmap to making six figures in your therapy business? Learn more about The Fee Formula course today!Related episodes How to Raise Your Fees & Take a Week off from Your Private Practice [Ep 2]How to Ethically Raise Your Therapy Fees [Ep 46]Quote:"If you are asking yourself if you need to raise fees, then that is already a strong indicator that you need to raise your fees." - Felicia

If you’ve ever caught yourself stuck in black and white thinking or feeling the pressure to be a good therapist, this episode might really land for you. I’m sharing my personal journey growing up in a deeply religious environment and how those early lessons about fear, guilt, and self-sacrifice still echo in my work today.We’ll talk about how patterns from fundamentalist upbringings can sneak into our professional lives, shaping our beliefs about money, worthiness, and what it means to help others. I'll open up about the challenges of leaving the church, the residue of old fears, and the ongoing process of finding nuance and self-compassion. If you’ve ever felt pressure to be the “perfect” therapist, felt guilty for wanting more, or wondered how your past might still be shaping your present… this one’s for you.Topics covered on Black and White Thinking:Growing up in fundamentalist churches and how it shaped my beliefsHow black and white thinking from religious environments can resurface in the lives of exvangelical therapistsThe myth that good therapists must be selfless and never care about moneyThe parallels between religious conditioning and professional expectations in therapyMy journey of leaving the church and the lingering patterns that followed meConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:“You can leave the church, but all of those patterns of thinking are still in you.” - Felicia