The Bad Therapist Show

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: a...

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

Have you noticed everyone’s talking about ketamine-assisted psychotherapy lately? Have you wondered what it’s really like for clients? In this special episode originally aired on the What Your Therapist Thinks Podcast, I’m sitting down with Dr. Shannon York, a New York–licensed psychologist who specializes in KAP therapy, to give you the real, unfiltered inside scoop.We’re diving into what really happens in a session (beyond the highlight reels), why this treatment isn’t the “miracle cure” it’s sometimes made out to be, and how it can genuinely help people heal when done right. Shannon also breaks down the key difference between getting ketamine at a medical clinic versus working with a trained therapist, who shouldn’t try this approach, and why the prep and integration work are just as important as the medicine itself.And yes, we’re tackling the questions you’ve seen floating around Reddit but haven’t quite dared to ask… like, can you talk during treatment? and what does a “breakthrough” even mean?We also touch on dosages, safety concerns, and why your supportive person probably shouldn’t start chatting about pharmaceutical engineering while you’re in an altered state. Shannon gives us the straight talk about Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy: it's one tool in the toolbox, not a magic wand.More about Shannon: Dr. Shannon York (she/her) is a queer licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of In Alignment Wellness, a virtual therapy practice serving clients in Florida and New York. She specializes in providing identity-affirming care tailored to individuals navigating the complexities of people-pleasing behaviors, 2SLGBTQIA+ identities, and polyamorous and kinky relationships. Dr. York supports clients through individual and group therapy on their journey of recovering from emotionally immature parents and systemic oppression. Topics covered on Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy:The key differences between medical ketamine treatment and ketamine assisted psychotherapy.The three neurobiological ways ketamine helps.Why KAP requires at least four therapy sessions before starting any medication.My personal experience with ketamine and why trust and safety are absolutely essential.Breaking down what "set and setting" means and how to prepare your physical and mental space.Shannon explains why people with a history of psychosis or active addiction need extra caution with KAP.Common myths about ketamine assisted psychotherapy and why recent celebrity news creates misconceptions.This episode is for entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a licensed therapist or call your local crisis line for support.Resources from this episode:Watch the What Your Therapist Thinks podcast on YouTube www.youtube.com/@WhatYourTherapistThinksListen to the What Your Therapist Thinks podcast www.pod.link/1837783166?view=apps&sort=popularity   Follow the podcast on InstagramBestTherapists.com - a directory that vets mental health professionals so therapy-seekers can focus on fit, not quality.Connect with Shannon York:Website:

What if you could double your practice revenue without adding a single new client to your already full calendar? In today's episode, I'm breaking down why so many therapists hit a $100K ceiling and stay stuck there, even when they're excellent at what they do.If you've been getting by on reputation and word-of-mouth referrals, you're about to discover why that strategy falls apart when you're ready to scale to $150K or $200K. I share the two non-negotiable systems that took my business from constant income fluctuations to multiple $30K months this year alone. You'll hear the real story of what happened when my inquiries exploded and why I can no longer manage my own inbox. We're talking about the difference between random good months and consistent high revenue, plus the unexpected challenge that comes when your marketing actually starts working.So if you're tired of crossing your fingers and hoping referrals keep coming, this episode shows you exactly what needs to change in your business right now. I'm getting specific about what works, what doesn't, and why being a great therapist isn't enough anymore if you want to double your practice revenue.Topics covered on Double Your Practice Revenue:Why the strategies that got you to 80K won't help you double your practice revenue to 150K or 200KThe exact marketing system I use that took my business from random good months to five months at or near 30K this year and how you can apply it to your therapy businessWhat really happens when your marketing starts working and why more inquiries can actually become a problem you didn't see comingThe specific system you need to stop wasting hours on people who will never book with youWhat you need to do differently from other therapists if you want to double your practice revenue potential without burning out or working longer hoursConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyResources from this episode:Join the interest list for Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberated-business Related episodesHow to Build a Marketing Ecosystem That AI Can't Break [Episode 130]Quote:"Luck can get you pretty far. Being a great therapist can get you pretty far. But when it comes to consistently hitting those higher income levels, you need more than that." - Felicia

What if I told you my coaching business started completely by accident? I spent years trying to make wellness workshops and recovery coaching work - but none of it stuck. All along the way, something else was happening. My therapist colleagues started asking me for help with their practices. Before I knew it, I had three paying clients and thought, "holy crap, there's something going on here."In today's episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on exactly how I went from struggling to gaining traction with multiple business ideas to building what I have now–one-on-one coaching, international retreats, and scalable programs. I'll tell you about the moment someone handed me more money than I'd ever received at once, why the pandemic became my unexpected business accelerator, and the one non-negotiable factor that made all the difference (it's not what most business gurus tell you).If you’ve been toying with the idea of stepping beyond your therapy practice but feel stuck or scared, this episode will give you the clarity (and the kick) to see what’s actually possible when you start a coaching business the right way.Topics covered on Starting A Coaching Business:How I tried multiple business ideas including wellness workshops at tech companies and recovery coaching before finding my nicheThe story of my first $9,000 coaching client and how that changed my perspective on what was possibleHow the pandemic created both challenges and unexpected opportunities when I decided to start my coaching businessWhat really determines success when starting a coaching businessThe difference between people who succeed quickly versus those who take years to build momentumConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:“ The fastest way to make progress is to start now and do the scary thing.” - Felicia

Have you been spinning your wheels for weeks (or even months) trying to choose your therapy niche so you can finally move forward with your website? Plot twist: you might not need a website at all - at least, not yet.In this episode, I share why starting on social media (instead of your website) is the smartest move when you’re stuck in indecision. You’ll learn how its “temporary” nature actually makes it the perfect testing ground for your niche and messaging, and how the rapid feedback loop  helped me build my business.I’ll also bust the myth that you can “waste time” on the wrong niche, open up about the messy parts of my own marketing journey, and show you how experimenting led me to clarity and clients. Plus, I’ll walk you through building a simple marketing ecosystem that nurtures people who may not be ready to book today but will remember you when the timing is right.If you're ready to stop overthinking and start experimenting with your therapy niche, this episode will give you permission to take imperfect action.Topics covered on How to Pick A Therapy Niche:Why a website can actually slow down your marketing progress when you're unsure how to pick a therapy nicheThe surprising reason social media’s short shelf life makes it ideal for testing your therapy nicheThe truth about "wasting time" on the wrong nicheWhat my digital marketing journey taught me about discomfort, visibility, and growthHow to create a marketing ecosystem that keeps you top of mind with future clientsConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyResources from this episode:Liberated BusinessRelated episodes:Choosing a Therapy Niche That Aligns with Your Values & Passion [Ep 14]How to Pick a Therapy Niche That Makes You Happy [Ep 4]How to Build a Marketing Ecosystem That AI Can't Break [Ep 130]Quote:“ The fastest way to clarity is through action, not endless planning.” - Felicia

Is SEO for therapists completely dead now that AI is taking over? I brought back my friend and collaborator Kristie Platinga to answer this burning question that's keeping so many of us up at night. After watching my website clicks drop and hearing therapists panic about ChatGPT replacing Google, I knew we needed to have a real conversation about what's actually happening with marketing right now.Kristie breaks down why Google still dominates and introduces the concept of "search everywhere optimization", because showing up on just Google isn't enough anymore. We get into the nitty-gritty of how AI pulls recommendations from across the entire internet, why your Google reviews matter more than ever, and what specific steps you can take to build your online presence even if marketing makes you want to hide under a blanket.I also share my own journey from being that therapist who thought "I'm good at my job, I don't need to market" to finally understanding why SEO for therapists and digital visibility directly impact whether people choose to work with you. This conversation gets real about what it takes to compete in 2025.More about Kristie Platinga:Kristie Platinga is the founder of Place Digital, a marketing agency for therapists, coaches, and wellness practitioners.Topics covered on SEO for Therapists:Why SEO for therapists isn't dead despite what everyone's saying about AI taking over everythingHow search everywhere optimization is replacing traditional SEO for therapists and why showing up on podcasts, social media, and directories matters more than just GoogleChatGPT and AI tools pull from the entire internet to make recommendations and what that means for therapy practice visibilityReal examples of getting recommended in AI overviews and how that leads to new clients finding your private practice and contentWhy Google reviews are now almost as powerful as backlinks for getting recommended by AIThe reality that publishing a website isn't enough anymore, you need a complete marketing ecosystem to competePractical steps for building your online presence even if marketing feels uncomfortable or overwhelming as a therapistResources from this episode:"What Your Therapist Thinks" podcast: www.youtube.com/@WhatYourTherapistThinks and website https://www.besttherapists.com/podcast Moz: www.Moz.comChatGPT: www.ChatGPT.comGoogle Business: www.business.google.comConnect with Kristie Platinga:Website: https://grow.placedigital.com/the-bad-therapist Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: a...

Ever wonder what other therapists are really thinking? Well, now you can find out.I’ve just launched a podcast with my friend Kristie Platinga, founder of Best Therapists, where actual licensed therapists open up about what they’re really thinking, while answering the internet’s most burning mental health questions. And by ‘burning questions’ we mean the stuff people post anonymously on Reddit in the middle of the night.Each week on What Your Therapist Thinks, you’ll hear expert therapists break it all down, from emotional numbness and trauma to self-worth and healing. And they aren’t holding back. They’re sharing what they really think, including the things they’d never actually say in session. If you’re a therapist in private practice, this is a fascinating peek into the conversations your peers are having and a chance to see how other professionals approach the questions and dilemmas our clients are posting about.Subscribe and follow the show wherever you listen to podcasts so you don’t miss an episode!Resources mentioned in this episode Website https://www.besttherapists.com/podcastYouTube www.youtube.com/@WhatYourTherapistThinksApple Podcasts + Spotify www.pod.link/1837783166?view=apps&sort=popularity   BestTherapists.com - a directory that vets mental health professionals so therapy-seekers can focus on fit, not quality.Connect with Kristie Platinga:Website: https://grow.placedigital.com/the-bad-therapist Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing Money

Are you exhausted from the endless demands of running your private practice? Preventing burnout in your private practice doesn't require another complicated strategy or expensive solution. In today's episode, I'm sharing one surprisingly simple tool that's probably been right in front of you all along.While we often talk about raising fees and being intentional with scheduling, I want to get back to something even more basic, something so simple that most therapists overlook it completely. This practice takes just minutes, costs nothing, and can happen right between sessions. It's helped me stay grounded when the demands of running my own business feel overwhelming, and it's given me the clarity to make better business decisions when I feel stuck. I'll walk you through the exact exercise I used to teach my clients that you can now use for yourself.Plus, I'll share why this particular approach cuts through that feeling of being trapped in your private practice when nothing seems to be working anymore.Topics covered on Preventing Burnout in Your Private Practice:Why the simplest practices are often the most effective for preventing burnout in your private practice, even though we tend to overlook themThe specific sensory practice I used to teach my clients that now keeps me grounded in my own businessFeeling stuck in your practice might have nothing to do with your actual circumstancesThe connection between pleasure and creative problem-solving in your private practiceConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyResources from this episode:What Your Therapist Thinks podcastQuote:"Having these moments are going to make you feel like you are in your life instead of watching your life from afar." - Felicia

Is your website traffic dropping even though you're doing everything right? Building a marketing ecosystem is more critical than ever as AI reshapes how clients find therapists online. I'm seeing it firsthand; my website gets higher impressions than ever, but fewer clicks because AI summarizes my content directly in search results. It's frustrating, right? But here's the good news: this shift isn't the end of marketing for therapists. It's actually a chance to create something stronger and more sustainable for your private practice.Tune in to today's episode as I share exactly what's happening with zero-click searches, why relying on one marketing channel leaves you vulnerable, and how to build a marketing ecosystem with multiple touchpoints that work together. You'll hear about my own five-year journey building this business, what worked, what didn't, and the specific steps you can take starting today, even if marketing makes you uncomfortable. So if you're ready to stop worrying about algorithm changes and start building a private practice that thrives no matter what tech throws at us, this episode is for you!Topics covered on Marketing Ecosystem:The story of a therapist who relied only on networking and what happened when they got sick and needed extended time offA breakdown of what a marketing ecosystem looks like and which channels you should consider building firstMy own two-year journey with SEO + podcasting and when they really started taking offHow to choose marketing channels based on whether you have more time or more money right nowThe uncomfortable truth about why we resist certain marketing strategies and how I overcame my own resistanceA reflection exercise to map your current marketing ecosystem and identify where you're over-relying or underperformingConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyRelated episodesMarketing Mindset Shifts You Need to Make to Fall in Love With Marketing [Ep 5]Marketing for Therapists: How to Connect with Clients by Addressing Their Problems [Ep 58]Quote:“ When you invest in a marketing ecosystem that leverages multiple channels, meaningful relationships, and your own strengths, you're protecting your practice against the ups and downs of tech and trends.” - Felicia

Are you spending your weekends catching up on notes when you could be living your life? In today's episode, I'm talking with Doctor TK about time-saving tips for therapists that completely changed how she runs her practice.She went from spending hours on documentation to creating what she calls the "5-minute clickable note" and it all started when she was working across from a mall and wanted more time to shop! Doctor TK shares exactly how she condensed 15-page intakes into 2 pages and built systems that freed up so much time, she was able to create multiple revenue streams.But here's the kicker: most therapists want to jump straight to passive income without fixing the holes in their first boat. We dive deep into why your private practice needs solid systems before you can successfully add another revenue stream, plus Doctor TK gets real about how she cut her revenue by 50% so she could be more present with her kids.If you're tired of drowning in documentation and want to build a business that supports your life (not the other way around), this conversation will show you exactly where to start.More about Doctor TK:Doctor TK is a clinical psychologist who runs her virtual therapy practice while traveling the world with her husband and two kids. She’s also a private practice business mentor and has coached over 3000 therapists! If you follow Doctor TK online you know she’s always talking about ways therapists can save time, create additional revenue streams and live their best life.Topics covered on Time Saving Tips for Therapists:Doctor TK's 5-minute clickable note method that replaced hours of documentation with a simple template system.Time saving tips for therapists including how to create templates for your five most-used therapy strategies and why this one system can reclaim tens of hours monthly.Why fixing your private practice systems before adding revenue streams prevents both businesses from sinking.The real reason Doctor TK cut 50% of her business revenue and why 2023 became her best year despite earning less money.Doctor TK's journey from county correctional facilities to building a multiple six-figure coaching business for therapists.The employee to CEO mindset shift therapists need to build generational wealth and live abundantly.The life wheel exercise and intention-setting strategies for designing a first-class life on your own terms.Connect with Doctor TK:YouTube: @DoctorTKInstagram: @doctortkpsychConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:“

Ever felt guilty for wanting to make good money as a therapist? That's good therapist conditioning at work, and it's probably destroying your practice. Good therapist conditioning is a toxic belief we absorb in grad school, from supervisors and from society that tells us we should sacrifice ourselves for our work. It's that uncomfortable feeling when you talk about money, that guilt when you put yourself first, that fear that other therapists will judge you for wanting financial stability.In today's episode, I'm showing you how to spot good therapist conditioning in your own practice and, more importantly, how to slay it. I'll share real stories from therapists who went from shaking in their boots about raising fees to consistently filling their practices with full-fee clients. We'll talk about why financial health is actually part of your clinical effectiveness and why you don't need anyone's permission to thrive. If you're tired of being overworked, underpaid, and feeling guilty about wanting more, you're in the right place! It's time for you to build a practice that supports your life.Topics covered on Good Therapist Conditioning:Why good therapist conditioning starts in grad school and gets reinforced everywhere you lookThe toxic belief that caring about clients and making good money are mutually exclusiveThe "bad therapist" exercise that will crack open your money blocks immediatelyReal stories of therapists who raised their rates without losing a single clientThe hidden ways good therapist conditioning shows up in your life and businessResources from this episode: Kasia Urbaniak’s Book: https://www.kasiaurbaniak.com/unbound-book Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessThe Fee Formula: www.thebadtherapist.coach/feeformulaConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:"Bad therapists know something that other therapists don't. They know it's possible to do good work and have a life that is deeply pleasurable and financially stable and spiritually aligned." - Felicia

How many clients should you see in a day as a private practice therapist? If you're wrestling with this question, you're definitely not alone—and today I'm breaking it all down with honesty, permission, and just a little bit of math.Most therapists revisit this question throughout their career, wondering what's normal, what's sustainable, and what they actually need to make their practice work financially. I'll share why the typical 15-20 clients per week might not be your magic number, and why I chose to see 6-7 clients over just three days (hello, four-day weekends!). We'll explore why starting with your energy levels and lifestyle needs matters more than industry standards, and I'll flip the traditional math on its head - instead of picking a fee and cramming in clients to pay bills, we'll calculate what fee you need based on your ideal schedule.Plus, I get real about why having fewer clients can actually benefit both you and them, because nobody wins when you're seeing 50 clients and showing up frazzled. This is about building a private practice that supports your life, not one that consumes it.Topics covered on How Many Clients Should You See in a Day:The typical number of clients most full-time therapists see weekly and how that translates to daily schedulesMy personal preference for condensed schedulesDesigning a schedule that works specifically for you, not what others expectFlipping the traditional fee-setting math and explaining how to calculate fees based on your ideal client loadThe quality versus quantity debate and why fewer clients might mean better therapyResources from this episode:The Magic Sheets: www.thebadtherapist.ck.page/revenue-stimulator Liberated Business: www.thebadtherapist.coach/liberatedbusinessThe Fee Formula: www.thebadtherapist.coach/feeformula Connect with Felicia:Instagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:“The only person you need to please is you and then your clients.” - Felicia

Are you running yourself ragged while trying to scale your group practice? In today's episode, I sit down with my client, Lauren Worley, owner of Foothill Psychotherapy, who transformed her business from $18,000 to $25,000 in monthly revenue - without sacrificing her sanity. Lauren shares the raw truth about being an "accidental group practice owner" and the wake-up call she needed to stop putting everyone else first. You'll hear exactly how our year-long coaching journey helped her shift from throwing darts at the wall to making strategic decisions as a true CEO. We get real about the financial realities of running a sustainable group practice, why marketing matters (even when you hate it), and when to say no to hiring someone you really like.If you're drowning in admin tasks, skipping your own paychecks, or using your clinicians as sounding boards, this episode is for you. Lauren's story shows what happens when you finally put your oxygen mask on first and build a business that cares for both your clinicians AND you.More about Lauren Worley:Lauren is the owner of Foothills Psychotherapy, a group practice in Burbank, CA that is providing compassionate, client-centered care for teens, adults, and relationships of all kinds. She manages a team that specializes in using Brainspotting, EMDR, and talk therapy to help clients reclaim balance, set boundaries, and live more empowered lives. She is a certified Brainspotting therapist and consultant and loves seeing LGBTQ+ teens and supporting their families.Topics covered on Scaling Group Practice:The transformation from accidental to intentional group practice ownershipHow putting yourself last affects decision-making and business sustainabilityThe financial reality of hiring therapists and what expenses to considerThe reason why marketing cannot be completely outsourced if you are scaling a group practiceMaking tough hiring decisions based on business needs rather than personal connectionsThe return on investment from spending on coaching and business developmentConnect with Lauren Worley:Website: www.foothillspsychotherapy.comConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:"When I first started, I had no oxygen mask. I would hear myself saying it to my clients, I would hear myself saying it to my clinicians and in my head saying, 'Hmm, Lauren, what about yours?'" - Lauren Worley

Are you caught in the telehealth vs. in-person therapy debate? In today's episode, I tackle the question that’s on many therapists' minds: do you really need to have an office to succeed in private practice?Since the pandemic shifted our industry toward virtual sessions, many of us have gotten comfortable working from home. But there's a growing number of clients specifically seeking in-person therapy experiences. So I'm sharing my own journey with telehealth and why having a physical office space might be worth considering - even if it’s just for one day a week. From the unexpected marketing advantage of Google Business Profiles to the benefits of work-home separation, I'll break down the pros and cons without sugarcoating the realities.Whether you're committed to your virtual practice or feeling the pull to return to an office setting, this episode offers a no-nonsense look at what might work best for your private practice and lifestyle.Topics covered on Do You Really Need to Have an Office to Succeed in Private Practice:Telehealth therapy transformation during the pandemicBreaking down how a Google Business Profile can dramatically increase your private practice's visibility for freeMy personal experiences with office rental arrangements and subletting strategies that can reduce overhead costsHow therapists can position in-person sessions as premium services with higher pricingTesting the waters before fully committing to a physical officeResources from this episode:Google My BusinessWhy Therapist Reviews Are Better Than Paid Ads - Your $0 Client Attraction Plan [Episode 123]Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:"Having an office can boost your visibility, help you serve a wider range of clients, and create new business opportunities, but it's not a requirement for success." - Felicia

Growing a group practice starts with your very first hire, but who should that person be? In today's episode, I sit down with Nicole McCance, and we get real about the mistakes that can make or break your expansion plans.Nicole sold her group practice for multiple seven figures after scaling to 55 therapists in just three years! She shared why your first hire should be a "mini-you" who matches your therapeutic style and energy, ensuring clients get a consistent experience. We discussed real-life strategies for transitioning clients to new therapists, why couples therapists are revenue gold mines, and the best way to screen candidates. Plus, we explore why creating solid systems not only makes your daily operations smoother, but also significantly increases your group practice's value if you ever decide to sell.If you're dreaming of working less while earning more in your therapy business, this episode is for you. Nicole's stories about her own hiring mistakes will save you tons of headaches and money!More about Nicole McCance: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: https://mccancemethod.com/ Topics covered on Growing A Group Practice:Nicole's journey from solo practitioner to growing a group practice with 55 therapists.Why your first hire should be a "mini-me" who matches your energy, personality, and therapeutic modality.When to diversify beyond mini-me hires and how to use market data to guide these decisions.The screening questions you should ask potential hires before spending time interviewing them.How systems and consistent processes create safety for both clients and therapists.The financial value of documented systems and operations manuals when selling your group practice.Connect with Nicole McCance:Podcast:  The Business Savvy Therapist PodcastFree Masterclass - How To Build A 7-Figure Group Practice: https://mccancemethod.com/webinar-free-masterclass-from-solo-to-superteamConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:"In order for you to be a CEO, you have to let go...

Do therapist reviews feel like an ethical minefield for your private practice? Let me help you cut through the confusion! In this episode, I'm talking about how reviews can make or break your visibility online - whether you're a brand new therapist or you've had your practice for years.You'll learn exactly where to get reviews (Google Business Profile isn't your only option!), who you can ethically ask for testimonials (hint: it's not always off-limits to ask clients), and a simple monthly system that takes minutes to maintain. I'll give you the exact script to use when asking for reviews so you don't sound awkward or desperate. Plus, I'll show you why local reviews matter more than ones from across the country, and how to make sure your reviews sound authentic instead of keyword-stuffed. This is truly one of the most cost-effective marketing strategies available to private practice therapists today. And the best part is you can start implementing this strategy immediately after listening. Tune in and watch your visibility skyrocket!Topics covered on Therapist Reviews:Why therapist reviews have become crucial for practice growth in 2025 compared to just 10 years ago.The specific platforms where you should focus your review-gathering efforts for maximum visibility.Ethically navigating the review process without violating your licensing board's regulations.My simple template for requesting therapist reviews that doesn't feel awkward or time-consuming.Creating a sustainable review system that takes just minutes each month to maintain.Resources from this episode:Yelp: www.yelp.comGoogle My Business: www.google.com/businessPsychology Today: www.psychologytoday.comHow to create email templates in GmailWhat to Do When a Therapy Client Threatens to Leave a Negative Review [Ep 50] Connect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyQuote:"Having a solid Google business profile with great reviews can be one of your most cost-effective ways to get more eyeballs on your business." - Felicia

Do you ever wish that you could just take a week off from seeing your clients? I’m not talking about taking a longer break for holidays and vacations, but taking a week off so you could step out of the employee role and step into your entrepreneurial self. If the answer is yes, then this episode is for you! If you are waiting for a secret roundabout way for you to take a week off without raising your fees, sorry, but it doesn’t exist. I know that you’re probably cringing when you hear the term ‘raising fees’, but the reality is that most therapists need to raise fees for their services and that’s exactly what I will teach you in this replay podcast episode! Tune in to learn about how to set up your practice so you can earn enough money to take time off, how to use the time off and invest it into growing your business, how to let clients know that you are raising your fees, tips on healing your money blocks, and much more!Topics covered on Raising Fees:The first step you need to take so you can take a week off from seeing clientsHow to determine whether you need to raise your feesA free tool that helps you figure out what you should be charging for your servicesCommon money blocks that stop you from raising your feesWhy we devalue our labor and the labor of our fellow therapistsThis one mistake many therapists make when raising feesWhy you need to start having regular CEO dates My tips on healing your relationship with moneyResources mentioned in this episode: My Journey of Becoming 'The Bad Therapist’’ [Episode 1] The Bad Therapist Magic SheetsThe Money Witch - Jessie SusannahConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachFacebook group: Healing MoneyRelated episodes you might also enjoy:How to Ethically Raise Your Therapy Fees [Episode 46]Why You Can't Rely On This Method To Make More Money In Private Practice [Episode 61]Quote:“The truth is not that people won't pay that amount of money. The truth is that we are unwilling to do the work so that we could have what we want and we...

Money conversations in therapy are often avoided, but why are we so comfortable discussing trauma, sex, and family dynamics while tiptoeing around finances? In today's episode, I tackle the elephant in the therapy room: should you ask your clients how much money they make?I've been there too - feeling weird about bringing up finances with clients. But I realized this avoidance wasn't serving them or me. Money shapes our clients' reality and our work sustainability. I’m sharing my favorite approaches to introduce money conversations in therapy that build rapport rather than damage it. Plus, we explore how to normalize money talk from intake forms to ongoing sessions, and why understanding your clients' financial circumstances is crucial for effective sliding scale implementation.If you've ever felt uncomfortable discussing fees or noticed resentment creeping into your therapeutic relationships, this episode will give you straightforward guidance on creating financial transparency that benefits everyone involved. Let's get honest about money in therapy!Topics covered on Money Conversations in Therapy:The importance of having clear criteria for sliding scale fees to avoid resentment and confusion.Real-life examples for you to introduce money conversations in therapy.The benefits of exploring clients' family history with money.Counter-transference that may arise when having money conversations in therapy.How to prioritize your own financial needs without feeling guilty.Resources from this episode:The Fee Formula: https://www.thebadtherapist.coach/feeformulaLiberated Business: https://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 you might enjoy:Breaking Taboos: How to Talk About Money with Your Therapy Clients [Episode 47]Quote:"It's super weird that we talk to our clients about all sorts of very intimate topics, and then we get so weird around money." - Felicia