Good Enough Counsellors

Many therapists show up consistently on social media — sharing tips, encouragement, and reflections — but miss the one type of post that actually brings enquiries.In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I share the simple reminder from my coach that helped me get new clients straight away. It’s something most therapists know deep down, but we often avoid because it feels uncomfortable: telling people clearly what we offer.You’ll learn why this “sales post” mistake is so common, how to reframe it as an act of service, and simple ways to make it a regular part of your marketing.And at the end of the episode, you'll hear about October awareness dates that you can use for creating posts that get enquiries.Takeaways:The question my coach asked that stopped me in my tracksWhy therapists often avoid posting about their servicesHow new followers see you differently from long-term onesA simple way to batch and schedule posts that bring enquiriesOctober themes and awareness days you can use for inspirationIf you’d like more support with your marketing, come and join me in Therapy Growth Group, where we’re starting the next round of my 12 Action Steps to Attract New Clients. These are simple, 15-minute weekly actions designed to help you build your practice without overwhelm.Inside the group, you’ll also get:Live weekly coaching callsA supportive therapist communityA full list of social media ideas for every day of the monthSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

In today's episode, I’m joined by trauma therapist, supervisor, and trainer Maaike Beech. With over 18 years of experience in the field, Maaike shares her personal journey into trauma work and the vital lessons she's learned along the way - from understanding why talking about trauma doesn’t always lead to healing, to how we can create the safety clients need before any processing begins.We explore the real risks of re-traumatising clients, what makes trauma therapy different from general talking therapy, and how therapists can protect their own well-being when doing such emotionally intense work.What we cover in this episode:Why traditional talking therapy isn't always enough for traumaThe most common misconceptions therapists have about trauma workWhat to do when your clients don't seem to be improvingHow to build safety before trauma processingHow trauma lives in the nervous system - and why that mattersSelf-care strategies for trauma therapistsIf you've ever felt unsure about working with trauma - or worried you're not doing it "right - this episode is here to reassure and resource you. Maaike speaks with such compassion and her insights are grounded in both expertise and lived experience.Maaike is an experienced trauma therapist, supervisor and trainer. She runs the Beech Trauma Academy where she teaches her Therapeutic Safety and Trauma foundation diploma. Learn more HERESetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

Many new counsellors worry they aren’t “sorted enough” to be a good therapist. But what if being real about your struggles is actually what helps you connect most with clients?In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I’m joined by Samantha Lee, counsellor, trainer, and creator of the Me, Myself & I inner child course. Sam shares how she moved past the myth of the perfect therapist and built a successful private practice by showing up authentically – both with clients and on social media.We talk about:Why the idea of the “perfect therapist” is a damaging myth – and how embracing your humanity makes you more relatable.How to use social media as a therapist without being boring or “too professional.” Sam explains how sharing her poetry grew her following and helped clients feel safe.Inner child work for therapists and clients – why it’s powerful, and how it helps us understand our reactions and build resilience.What private practice success really looks like. Sam explains why you don’t have to see 20+ clients a week to be a successful counsellor, and how to pace yourself without burning out.Self-care for therapists – including practical ways Sam looked after herself while managing family life, grief, and building her practice.Sam’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to be perfect to be a good therapist. By being open and authentic, you can build deeper client relationships, attract followers who resonate with you, and create a private practice that works for your life.Find Samantha HERE on Facebook, and for her course and further details, HERE on her website.If this conversation has resonated with you, please share it with another therapist or leave a review on your podcast app - it helps more therapists find Good Enough CounsellorsSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

When you’re building a counselling private practice, there are times when it feels hard to keep going - especially when the clients aren’t coming in as quickly as you’d hoped.In this episode, I’m sharing how to draw on your resilience so you can keep moving forward, even in challenging times.Takeaways:Why past challenges can become a source of strength in your businessHow to reconnect with the deeper reasons you became a counsellorPractical ways to keep yourself motivated when marketing feels slow to workThe role of community and support in sustaining your energy and confidenceWhether you’re just starting out or you’ve hit a quiet patch, this episode will help you find your footing again and remind you why your work matters - both to your clients and to you.Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comcounselling, practice development, challenges, resilience, motivation, support, private practiceThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

What if you don’t believe you can be a private practice therapist? In this episode, Fi Hewkin shares her journey from doubting her abilities to building a successful therapy practice. We talk about overcoming imposter syndrome, making your profile sound like you, and why there’s room for everyone - even in a crowded market.When Fi Hewkin first considered becoming a therapist, she was convinced she couldn’t do it. Growing up being told she wasn’t academic, leaving school with three O-levels, and believing she’d never be “professional enough,” private practice felt out of reach.In this episode, she shares how, despite years of self-doubt, she slowly built her confidence - and her private practice. From that first directory profile that didn’t sound like her, to embracing her authentic self (complete with pink hair and DMs), Fi’s story is an honest and encouraging look at what it really takes to succeed.We talk about:How Fi shifted from “I can’t do this” to running a thriving practiceWhy making her profile sound like her changed everythingThe importance of authenticity in therapy marketingOvercoming the fear of charging clients and raising feesBalancing a busy client load and recognising personal limitsPractical marketing steps Fi used to get clients (and what she avoids!)How running a low-cost community project keeps her groundedIf you’ve ever thought, “I’m not good enough to make this work,” this conversation is for you.Find Fi at her website or her Facebook pageSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, we’re diving into the third “C” of social media success for therapists: Community.It’s tempting to think of social media as just another marketing tool, but for many people, it’s a lifeline - a place to feel seen, connected, and understood. And as therapists, we have a unique opportunity to create that safe space online.Takeaways:Why community is one of the most powerful ways to attract therapy clientsHow giving (not numbers) is the heart of community-buildingThe mindset shift that helps you get past the “cringe factor” of sharing your workWhy showing your real, imperfect self builds trust and connectionHow engaging with others (even in small ways) helps grow your reachThe importance of not broadcasting, but building relationships onlinePost ideas for September 2025September Awareness Days:World Suicide Prevention Day – Wednesday, 10th September 2025National Inclusion Week – Monday, 15th to Sunday, 21st September 2025Buy a Book Day – Sunday, 7th September 2025Live Creative Day & Colouring Day – Sunday, 14th September 2025World Gratitude Day – Sunday, 21st September 2025Fight Procrastination Day – Saturday, 6th September 2025Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

What happens when a CBT therapist with ADHD decides to rewrite the rules on mindfulness? In this episode, I’m joined by Liezl Laidlaw of Rewire Therapy — a therapist who combines mindfulness, CBT and personal insight to support ADHD clients in ways that actually work.We talk honestly about how traditional approaches can fall short, and how small shifts in language, structure and permission can make a huge difference.Whether you’re a therapist who works with ADHD clients, or someone who struggles to make mindfulness or CBT work for you — this episode is packed with ideas to explore.Takeaways:Why traditional mindfulness often fails ADHD clients — and how to adapt itHow CBT can be made more ADHD-friendly (and why “homework” might be a trigger)The power of curiosity and play in therapeutic work with neurodivergent clientsHow to gently bring mindfulness into therapy — even with resistant clientsWhy therapists might benefit from mindfulness themselves, especially between sessionsConnect with Liezl and find out about her course at Rewire TherapySetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywords:ADHD, CBT, mindfulness, neurodivergence, therapy, self-compassion, private practice, mental health, therapy growth, menopause, emotional well-being, neurodivergent therapists, neurodivergent clientsThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I’m joined by Becky Willoughby of Willow Therapy Tring to explore a gentler way of growing a successful therapy practice — by focusing on connection, community, and care.Becky shares how she’s built a thriving practice by focusing on connection — not sales tactics. We talk about her court-appointed work with children and families, how creative, somatic, and energetic approaches shape her sessions, and why her therapy space plays such a key role. She also reflects on slowing down in the second half of life to avoid burnout and stay true to her values.Takeaways:How Becky built a thriving private practice without hard sales tacticsThe power of nurturing relationships and community connectionsUsing social media for genuine connection, not constant sellingWhy having a warm, welcoming therapy space makes such a differenceInsight into Becky’s court-appointed work with children and families during divorceHow creative, somatic, and energetic approaches support deeper therapeutic workThe role of sensory elements, like touch and environment, in helping clients feel safeWhy word of mouth and a good website are still Becky’s strongest referral sourcesThe value of slowing down in the second half of life to avoid burnoutSimple tips for becoming more visible as a therapist in a way that feels authenticIf you're looking for a gentle approach to build your private practice - rather than chasing algorithms - this episode is for you.Find Becky here: Willow Therapy Tring and on Facebook and InstagramSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywords:private practice, counselling, aromatherapy, somatic therapy, social media, therapy space, client empowerment, self-care, personal growth, authenticity, slow living, family therapy, child therapy, therapist advice, burnout prevention, therapy practiceThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

It’s that time of year when client bookings often dip, inboxes go quiet, and self-doubt starts to creep in. But a summer slowdown in private practice doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong — in fact, it’s totally normal.In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I talk about the seasonal nature of therapy work, why comparing month to month can give you a false picture, and what you can actually do when things get quiet. Whether you’re brand new to private practice or have been around for years, this episode will help you respond rather than panic.We'll explore how to use summer downtime to your advantage, tackle those tricky inner critic thoughts, and get practical about marketing — without needing to be salesy. Takeaways:Why summer slowdowns are common and how to spot seasonal patterns in your practiceHow to track your client numbers meaningfullySimple actions you can take right now to attract more clients — many of them freeWhy high-touch marketing often works faster than relying on directories or SEO aloneHow to reframe self-doubt and use your time well when you’re feeling discouragedGentle encouragement to try reaching out, even when it feels scaryOriginally released in summer 2024, this episode still holds true — and seasonal fluctuations means it may be relevant to you this month. You may also like to listen to the Companion episode, number 25 on Creative Solutions to Slowdowns.The Find Your Next Five Clients course mentioned in the episode is still available to members of Therapy Growth Group.And if this episode helped you, please consider leaving a review or sharing it with a fellow therapist. It really helps more people find the show.Chapters00:00 Navigating Seasonal Fluctuations in Private Practice04:01 Strategies for Addressing Gaps in Your Schedule09:21 The Power of High-Touch Marketing13:13 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear of Rejection16:08 Practical Steps for Growing Your Private PracticeKeywordsprivate practice, slowdown, client numbers, seasonal fluctuations, marketing, client gaps in schedule, high-touch marketing, word-of-mouth referrals, summer slump, growing private practiceSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

Do you ever feel like you’re posting into the void - wondering if anyone’s even noticing your content? In this episode, I explore how consistent posting can quietly but powerfully help you build trust, connection, and visibility over time.Drawing on personal stories (including one about Chub Rub shorts!), I’ll show you why consistency works - even when it feels like nothing’s happening. Plus, I’ll share tips for staying consistent, from batching and scheduling to repurposing your best content.The episode also includes help for your August social media posts.Takeaways:Why consistent posting helps build trust with potential clientsHow social media works like the therapy relationship: show up regularlySimple ways to make consistency easier (even if you're busy)Why repurposing content is smart, not lazyHow long-term visibility pays off, even years laterIf you’ve been struggling to stay motivated with your posting, this episode will help you reconnect with why it matters - and how to make it work for you.August Social Media Awareness Days:Family-related Days:A-Level Results Day (UK): Thursday 14th August 2025GCSE Results Day (UK): Thursday 21st August 2025International Youth Day: Tuesday 12th August 2025Sisters Day: Sunday 3rd August 2025 (First Sunday in August)Gay Uncle Day: Saturday 10th August 2025 (Second Saturday in August)Son and Daughter Day: Monday 11th August 2025Middle Child Day: Tuesday 12th August 2025Relaxation & Summer Mood Days:Lazy Day: Sunday 10th August 2025Relaxation Day: Friday 15th August 2025National Beach Day: Saturday 30th August 2025Pet-related Days:International Cat Day: Friday 8th August 2025Spoil Your Dog Day: Sunday 10th August 2025Black Cat Appreciation Day: Sunday 17th August 2025Creative/Engagement Opportunities:World Photography Day: Tuesday 19th August 2025World Photography Week: 12th–26th August 2025 Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywords:social media marketing, consistency in marketing, building visibility online, private practice growth, social media for therapists, content creation strategies, marketing for counsellors, effective posting strategies, social media algorithms, engagement on social media, creating a social media schedule, batching social media posts, marketing for mental health professionals, therapist marketing tipsThe information...

Jeremy Sachs joins me to explore how identity, masculinity, and shame shape male survivors’ healing — and what therapists need to know.In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I’m speaking with therapist and author Jeremy Sachs about his upcoming book, An Intersectional Guide for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse and their Allies: Masculinity Reconnected (Routledge, July 2025).Drawing on years of experience running recovery groups for men, boys, and trans survivors, Jeremy brings a deeply compassionate and intersectional lens to a subject often left in the shadows.We talk about how myths about masculinity, cultural shame, and systemic failure can all affect whether survivors seek help — and how they experience it. Jeremy also shares practical reflections for therapists and allies who want to work more effectively with male clients.⚠️ Content warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual abuse, trauma, and the failings of healthcare and justice systems. Please listen with care.Takeaways:Why Jeremy wrote this book — and how male survivors shaped each chapterWhat we mean by masculinity, and how cultural expectations harm survivorsThe role of shame, silence, and developmental trauma in male experiencesHow Black men and trans men may face unique stigma and barriers to careWhat “intersectionality” looks like in real therapeutic workWhy disclosure is complex — and how therapists can respond with empathyThe idea of “sexual selves” and how Western norms disconnect men from their bodiesWhat transformative justice is — and why some survivors seek it outside systemsThe essential role of allyship and community in recoveryYou can find Jeremy and order his book here: https://jeremysachs.comSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.com

If you want to attract more clients to your private practice, your therapist profile needs to show people that they’ll be safe with you.In this episode, we’re talking about how a simple inclusion statement can make the difference between someone reaching out — or quietly clicking away. I share a personal story about almost contacting a therapist, and why I didn’t, and explore what therapists can do to show they’re truly inclusive.I’ll walk you through why these statements matter, what often holds us back from writing them, and what you can include — even if you’re still learning.If you’ve ever wondered how to make your practice more welcoming and visible to people from marginalised communities, this one’s for you.Takeaways:Why inclusion statements help the right clients feel safe enough to reach outWhat silence on your profile might be saying (without you realising)Common fears therapists have about getting it wrong — and why it’s okay to start smallSimple ideas for what to include in a statement that feels genuineReal-life examples of inclusive therapist websites that workSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comLinks referenced in this episode:jennifersnowcounselling.co.ukpsychodynamictherapybirmingham.co.ukKeywords:inclusive therapy practices, diversity in counselling, creating an inclusive therapist profile, client safety in therapy, understanding LGBTQ+ clients, therapy growth strategies, anti-racist therapy practices, writing an inclusion statement, addressing privilege in therapy, promoting equality in therapy, therapist-client relationship dynamics, best practices for inclusive therapyThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

It's natural to be anxious when setting up and running a private practice - it's both a sign of being passionate about helping people and a reflection of the roller coaster ride of self-employment. In this episode, I'm joined by Laura Knight of See Clear Anxiety Counselling, who shares how she's learned to manage and move beyond anxiety, and how that experience now shapes the way she runs her successful practice.Laura talks about letting go of perfectionism, staying grounded in uncertain times, and how she has built a business that works for her - all while supporting clients with anxiety too.Whether you're in the early stages of private practice, or facing a wobble, this episode is full of calm, practical encouragement.Takeaways:How to transition from a part-time to a full-time practiceStaying steady when client numbers dipThe value of focusing on what's within your controlUsing live videos to build trust and visibilityHow to move from anxiety to confidence as a therapistFinancial planning to ride out the quieter sessionsFee Calculator: access the Fee Calculator mentioned in the episode HEREConnect with Laura Knight:🌐 Website: https://www.seeclearcounselling.co.uk📘 Facebook: See Clear Counselling – Anxiety Specialist📸 Instagram: @seeclearcounselling📧 Email: laura@seeclearcounselling.co.uk👥 Dorset Counsellors Network: Facebook Group or email Laura to joinSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywordsprivate practice, growing private practice, counselling directory, marketing for therapists, private practice tips, online counselling, video marketing for therapists, self-care for therapists, counselling business strategies, overcoming anxiety in business, financial management for therapists, establishing a counselling practice, networking for therapists, private practice success

Feeling disheartened by low engagement on your posts? Wondering if it’s even worth using social media when no one seems to be watching?In this first episode of a 3 part series, we’re digging into the content side of social media for therapists in private practice — what to post, how to make it meaningful, and why even quiet followers might be paying more attention than you think.You’ll learn:Why visibility isn’t the same as validationThe 50/30/20 rule for balancing engaging, informative, and promotional contentHow stories, hashtags, emojis, and reels can gently boost your reachWhat your page insights can teach you (even if they feel discouraging)And if you're looking for ideas about what to post over the summer months, this episode also includes campaign ideas using awareness events, such as:Bereaved Parents MonthNational Picnic MonthWorld Listening DayInternational Self-Care DayNon Binary People's Awareness WeekThis episode is full of practical tips — and a whole lot of reassurance.Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywordssocial media for therapists, content creation tips, engaging social media posts, growing private practice, therapy marketing strategies, social media engagement, building an online presence, mental health content ideas, posting on social media, therapist social media tips, summer campaign ideas, therapy growth group

In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I’m joined by the brilliant Jeanine Connor -psychodynamic psychotherapist, author, and editor of the BACP Children, Young People and Families Journal. Jeanine describes the realities of working with adolescents, exploring how the Netflix series Adolescence and media stories fuel fear about young people. Having worked with transgender young people for over 20 years, Jeanine also offers her insights into working with this client group. We also chat about how to hold space for young people in therapy, laugh about memorable moments with teens, and reflect on why this work is so vital.Takeaways:Where the Netflix TV series Adolescence went wrongWhy banning smartphones misses the pointWhat the discussion on boys and the Manosphere forgetsHow Gen Z’s views on gender and sexuality challenge old assumptionsSupporting young people’s mental health in a world of constant changeWhy trans youth need respect and affirmation, not fear and bansYou can find Jeanine via her website: jeanineconnor.com or on LinkedIn.Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywords:transgender issues, LGBTQ youth, Gen Z perspectives, adolescent mental health, manosphere, psychotherapy for young people, Adolescence, gender identity exploration, supporting transgender youth, parental guidance for LGBTQ issues, youth and technology, therapy for teenagers, understanding modern adolescenceThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, we'll explore how to craft a therapist directory profile that truly resonates with clients.Takeaways:Why most profiles get skimmed - and how to fix yoursThe key mistakes therapists make (and how to avoid them)How to show clients that you "get" themUsing clients' language to connect instantlyA simple framework to identify your niche without stressHow to write with empathy and attract the clients you love working withBy the end, you'll feel more confident and ready to write a profile that really attracts the people you're here to help.If you're ready to attract the clients you'd love to work with, join the "Make Your Profile Work" training this June inside Therapy Growth Group. We'll walk through what to include and write your profile together with feedback. Sign up HERESetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywords:counselling profile writing, private practice growth, therapist marketing strategies, how to attract clients, effective therapy profiles, therapy marketing tips, private practice marketing, therapist profile mistakes, writing for therapists, niching for therapistsThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

Has your therapy profile been gathering dust? In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, Josephine Hughes shares why writing your directory profile once and forgetting about it means you may be missing out — especially if you want to attract more of the right clients.From updating your photo to adding a short video, Josephine offers practical encouragement and simple tweaks to help your profile feel more relevant, more accurate, and more effective. You’ll also learn how to use feedback from real enquiries to refine your message — and why refreshing your profile regularly can boost your visibility on directories.Takeaways:Why updated profiles are favoured in search resultsHow an old photo (or Covid era profile) could affect client trustThe value of introductory videosHow client feedback can enhance your profileA realistic way to keep your profile up to date without the overwhelmResources mentioned:Access the Therapist Profile Toolkit HEREEpisode 28: Recording a Video for Directory ProfilesEpisode 22: Directory Profiles: Photo Tips to Get NoticedSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I’m joined by Sharon May, founder of Kingsclere Counselling Service.Sharon shares her inspiring journey from working alone in a single upstairs room on her family farm to building a thriving group practice of 14 therapists. We talk about the moment she took the leap to expand (far earlier than she expected), and how she weathered the pandemic just as her practice had begun to grow.But this episode is about more than business. Sharon opens up about imposter syndrome, trusting her gut, and how her values help her navigate big decisions. She also talks about doing a Masters in psychotherapy — and the research that followed into the mental health of farm wives, which led to her being awarded a prestigious Nuffield scholarship to study the topic around the world.Takeaways:That having courage means experiencing fear, tooWhat Sharon learned from running a teamThe importance of being value-led to grow a counselling service that’s rooted in communityWhat Sharon's research reveals about the hidden emotional burden carried by women in agricultureWhy imposter syndrome often means you’re doing better than you thinkWhether you’re building a private practice, exploring a niche, or just wondering what your next step might be, this conversation is packed with honesty, insight and encouragement for all those people who secretly think they're not good enough.Connect with Sharon via her website HERE. She'd love to hear from you if you're interested in rural mental health issues or have farming experience.Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywords:courage, mental health, counselling, private practice, therapy, overcoming fear, farmer mental health, group practice, professional development, imposter syndrome, vulnerability, agricultural mental health, therapist collaboration, personal growth, work-life balanceThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

In this Social Media Monthly episode of Good Enough Counsellors, Josephine explores how therapists can use AI (like ChatGPT) to make content creation easier, faster, and more authentic. She shares her personal experience of using artificial intelligence for idea generation, writing help, hooks, post repurposing, alt text, and even image creation. Josephine also shares cautions about how to use AI without losing your authentic voice. Finally, she gives practical examples of how to use AI tools for upcoming June social media dates, including Loneliness Awareness Week.Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by social media or just curious about how AI can lighten your workload, this episode is packed with encouragement and realistic practical tips to help busy therapists.Takeaways:How Josephine uses AI tools like ChatGPT in her own content process and how you can do so tooWhy AI is brilliant for ideas but bad for fact-checkingHow to prompt AI to suit your tone (and how NOT to make it sycophantic!)Cautions about common “AI giveaways” in social media postsHow to repurpose posts across Facebook, Instagram, blogs, and podcastsTips for using AI to generate alt text and create engaging visualsJune 2025 social media awareness dates, including a deep dive into Loneliness Awareness Week posts across 4 therapy nichesLinks referenced in this episode:OpenAI.comlonelinessawarenessweek.orgJosephineHughes.comSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comKeywords:AI social media strategies, using ChatGPT for content creation, social media content ideas, social media marketing tips, AI tools for content generation, social media engagement techniques, best AI tools for therapists, AI for blog post ideas, creating engaging social media posts, social media calendar for therapists, AI for therapy growth.The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.

In this powerful and eye opening episode, I’m joined by Cat Chappell and Jo Reader - together known as The Fat Counsellors - to talk about fat phobia in therapy and why it’s essential for therapists to explore their own internalised biases.We discuss how anti-fat attitudes are embedded in society, how these messages seep into the therapy room, and what it takes to create fat-positive, compassionate spaces for all clients. From myth busting around BMI and health to examining the roots of body based discrimination, this conversation is both personal and deeply informative.Whether you’re new to this work or already on the journey, this episode will challenge your thinking and offer practical ways to show up better for your clients - and yourself.TakeawaysHow fat phobia shows up in therapy roomsThe impact of internalised diet culture on therapists and clientsWhy BMI is not a reliable health measureThe historical roots of anti-fat biasUnderstanding thin privilege and body shameCreating truly inclusive spaces for clients of all sizesWhat therapists can do today to start unpacking their own body image beliefs