Love, Happiness, and Success For Therapists

Therapists, it’s not a “maybe” to prioritize self-care - it’s part of our JOB! We can’t be of service to others (or have this be a sustainable career path) if we don’t. In this episode, we’re getting real about what self-care for counselors actually means in practice. Not the Instagram version but the deep daily practices that keep  you grounded, present, and well enough to keep showing up for others and for yourself. We’ll talk through how to recognize your personal red flags - those subtle dashboard lights that tell you something’s off - and what it looks like to build a sustainable self-care system around five essential pillars: space, physical well-being, mental clarity, social connection, and personal alignment. This is to help you reconnect with your own needs, create stronger boundaries between life and work, and remember why self-care isn’t a luxury in this field - it’s a clinical responsibility. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why Self-Care Is Essential for Counselors 04:52 Recognizing Early Warning Signs of Burnout 11:42 Building a Daily Self-Care System That Works 14:05 The Five Pillars of Self-Care for Counselors 30:05 Aligning Your Career with Your Values I know how easy it is to put yourself last when you're a helper. If this episode nudged you to start tuning back in to you, I made something I hope will help: Take the Flourish + Thrive Quiz. This free, research-informed quiz is designed to help you get real about where you’re thriving - and where your reserves might be running low. It’ll give you personalized insight into how you”re doing, along with reflection prompts to help you reconnect with your values and your “why.” Want a tool to help you take action, not just reflect? Come connect with me on LinkedIn, and I’ll personally send you my Self-Care Action Plan Workbook - the same one I use with my supervisees. It’s totally free, thoughtfully designed, and gives you a gentle structure to start building your own sustainable self-care system. Just message me and I’ll send it your way. And if you're sitting with something this episode brought up… let’s talk. This podcast is for you, and your voice matters here. You can share what’s on your heart, what support you’re craving, or what you’d love to explore in future episodes by filling out this quick form. I’d truly love to hear from you! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie BobbyGrowing Self

Can we really change our personalities? Dr. Dan Siegel says “NO” but also that nobody needs to. We can help our clients heal, grow, and unleash the fullest of their potential by helping them lean into who and what they really ARE. Crazy but true: We therapists are not taught how to work with personality in therapy. Unless you have a “personality disordered” individual (as we used to call it back in the day) we don’t tailor our interventions or our conceptualization to accommodate someone’s intrinsic way of being. Who else is ready to change this? (Lisa raises hand!) Well, help is here: In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Dan Siegel to explore his Patterns of Developmental Pathways (PDP) model: a science-based framework that weaves together neuroscience, attachment, and developmental psychology to help us understand personality more deeply and work with it more effectively. We unpack the nine core patterns, explore how to differentiate temperament from attachment conditioning, and look at how healing at the right level can help clients shift from limitation to possibility. Whether you’re new to PDP or already exploring it, this conversation will expand your clinical lens and give you tools you can use right away. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Freeing Personality from the Prison of Pathology 05:51 The Nine Patterns of Personality 25:59 Emotions, Energy, and the Body’s Personality Response 35:25 Mapping Personality to Clinical Strengths 44:59 Dr. Dan Siegel’s Personal PDP Pattern 01:04:15 Flexibility and Growth Through PDP Integration If this episode lit you up, I hope you’ll check out my Free CEU Trainings for Therapists! These on-demand workshops (each worth 1–2 CEUs) are designed to support your growth—both as a clinician and as a human. You can also stay in the loop about live CEU events, new podcast episodes, and exclusive resources by subscribing to my For Therapists newsletter. It’s the best way to get fresh ideas, practical tools, and meaningful support for the work you do. I’d love to connect with you on LinkedIn, where I share reflections, behind-the-scenes updates, and continue the conversations we start here. And if something from this conversation is staying with you, whether it’s showing up in your clinical work or sparking something new, I’d truly love to hear about it. This podcast is a space for us, so don’t be a stranger. Let’s talk! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self P.S. This is Dr. Siegel’s second time joining me on the podcast - don’t miss Episode #39, where we explore the foundations of attachment styles and how they connect to the PDP model.

This episode first aired on December 4, 2024 (Episode 44). We’re revisiting it because many therapists continue to experiment with coaching without realizing the risks. What begins as a way to broaden your work can expose you and your clients to real vulnerabilities if you’re not equipped with the right training. In this episode, I unpack the differences between therapy and coaching, the pitfalls of offering coaching without preparation, and what it takes to step into this role with clarity and confidence. Lots of therapists are adding “coach” to their title without going through coach training first. It may feel like a natural extension of therapy, but the reality is that coaching and therapy are not the same thing. And if you’ve ever wondered, do you need a license to be a life coach? - this episode will help you understand why the answer is complicated, especially for therapists. I’ll explore why calling yourself a coach without certification can put your practice, your reputation, and your clients at risk. I’ll walk you through the key distinctions between the two disciplines, the ethical and legal challenges therapists face when blurring those lines, and the steps you can take to integrate coaching into your work in a way that’s both professional and protective. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction: The Risks of DIY Coaching 01:59 Risks of Coaching Without Training 05:01 Why Coaching Certification Matters 09:06 Choosing the Right Coaching Credential (BCC vs. ICF) 14:09 Legal Issues and Protecting Your Practice 18:06 The Reputation of Uncertified Coaches 20:12 Evidence-Based Coaching and Client Outcomes 27:05 Free Resource: Therapist’s Guide to Coaching If this conversation resonates, I encourage you to explore Coaching Certification For Therapists (BCC-Accredited). This credential was designed specifically for therapists and builds on the foundation of our clinical training while aligning with the ethical standards we already uphold. Pursuing certification strengthens your competence, clarifies the boundaries between therapy and coaching, and equips you with evidence-based tools to create the kind of results your clients are truly seeking. I’d also love to keep this dialogue going with you. What questions came up for you while listening? Have you ever wrestled with how to draw the line between therapy and coaching, or whether it’s time to pursue additional training? Share your reflections with me. Let’s talk! And if you know another therapist who would benefit from this discussion, consider passing it along. That’s how we strengthen our professional community together. If this podcast resonated with you, please share it with your colleagues or professional network so we can keep supporting one another. And if we haven’t already connected, I’d love to meet you on LinkedIn and continue exchanging ideas and resources in real time. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self

What would happen to your clients if you died tomorrow? The New York Times recently highlighted just how devastating it can be when a therapist falls ill or dies without a plan in place. Clients are left confused, abandoned, and without the closure they deserve. It’s a hard question, but one every therapist has an ethical obligation to face. Psychologist Dr. Robyn Miller—Founder of TheraClosure, the first psychotherapist professional executor service—knows this firsthand. When her closest colleague became terminally ill, she stepped in as practice executor—supporting clients, managing records, and grieving her best friend all at once. That experience inspired her to help others create a professional will for therapists that protects clients, families, and the legacy of their work. In this episode, we explore why having a professional will isn’t optional—it’s part of our ethical duty as clinicians. We’ll talk about the logistics of professional wills, the emotional burden of asking loved ones to step in, and why a real plan is more than just a name on a form. So let me ask you: Do you have an ethical plan in place if you were suddenly unable to practice? Have you ever asked someone to be your backup—without realizing what you were really asking of them? What would it feel like to know your clients, your records, and your legacy are truly protected? We’re therapists. We know how to sit with hard things. Let’s not leave this one in the shadows. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Ethical Guidelines & Continuity of Care 05:03 When a Therapist Dies: A Colleague’s Story 08:49 Breaking the News to Patients 15:05 Patient Reactions & Clinical Risk 18:18 Business Logistics & Record Retention 23:06 Why Friends and Family Shouldn’t Be Executors 30:29 Costs & Contracting a Professional Executor 40:10 Continuity of Care Plan Options 44:46 TheraClosure: Professional Will for Therapists If this conversation stayed with you, I’d love for you to check out my Free CEU Trainings For Licensed Therapists. These resources are here to support you—not just in your clinical work, but as a whole person navigating a complicated profession. And if we’re not connected yet, please come find me on LinkedIn. It’s my favorite place to continue these kinds of conversations with thoughtful therapists like you. I also want to spotlight the incredible work of my guest, Dr. Robyn Miller. She’s the founder of TheraClosure, the first psychotherapist professional executor service, where she helps therapists create ethical plans for continuity of care. You can connect with Dr. Robyn on LinkedIn and follow her on Instagram. Lastly, I’d also love to hear what’s working for you, what could be better, and what’s on your wishlist for future episodes. Share your thoughts—let’s talk! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self

This episode first aired on January 31, 2024 (Episode 3). We’re revisiting it because deciding when to let a client go is one of the most nuanced — and often unspoken — challenges therapists face. The reflections in this conversation are just as relevant today as they were when it was first released, offering guidance, perspective, and a reminder that you’re not navigating these decisions alone. How do you know when to let therapy clients go? This can be a tough call to make! But to practice ethically, we all need to know when to make it. Our mission is to help people grow, heal, and create positive change in their lives. When we can’t fulfill that mission, for whatever reason, it’s important that we acknowledge that, with compassion and courage. But sometimes it’s not so straightforward. How do you know if your client is making progress? How do you know when you’re the right person to help them, and when you’re not? That’s what we’re talking about on this episode of Love, Happiness, and Success for Therapists. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 The Challenge of Letting Clients Go 03:05 Ethical Considerations in Therapy 05:05 Recognizing Client Progress and Stagnation 11:05 Making Thoughtful Referrals With Compassion 12:12 Empathy and Unconditional Positive Regard 15:13 Counter-Transference and Therapist Growth 17:17 Therapist Safety and Boundary Violations 20:24 Navigating Toxic Work Environments 24:00 When Therapy Turns Into Casual Conversation 27:05 Coaching vs. Therapy: Key Differences 31:01 Compassion, Responsibility, and Letting Go 33:09 Resources and Support for Therapists If this conversation resonates, I’d love for you to explore my Free CEU Training Library for Therapists. It’s filled with on-demand trainings to support your growth as both a clinician and a person. You’re also welcome to connect with me on LinkedIn so we can continue exchanging ideas and resources in real time. If you’d like ongoing support and inspiration, you can also join my newsletter created especially for therapists. It’s a space where I share weekly podcast updates, practical tools for your work, free resources, and encouragement for you in this meaningful — and often demanding — career. And I’d love to keep this dialogue going with you. What questions are on your mind after listening? What situations have challenged you in deciding whether to continue or refer a client? Share your reflections with me. Let’s talk! And if you know another therapist who might find this episode meaningful, consider passing it along. That’s how we build a stronger, more supportive professional community together! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self

Toxic mental health internships are quietly breaking down early career therapists before their careers even begin. In this episode, I’m talking with my brilliant friend and colleague Dr. Ambra Born about one of the hardest, least-discussed realities in our profession: what happens when training programs don’t protect their students. We’re opening up about what it’s like to feel overworked, underpaid, unsupported — and then told to be grateful for it. If you’ve ever felt undervalued in your early career… if you worked in a system that took more than it gave… if you’re still carrying the weight of being dismissed or diminished during training — I want you to know, you are not alone. Ambra and I get into the systemic issues that allow this to happen, the risks across different settings (yes, even private practice), and what a truly supportive training environment should look like. We also talk about what healing can look like if that wasn’t your story — and how becoming a mentor or advocate can be one of the most powerful ways to take your worth back. So let me ask you this: Have you ever looked back at your training and thought, “That wasn’t okay”? Do you catch yourself overgiving or saying yes when you should say no — because of how you were shaped early on? What kind of support do you wish you’d had? If that hits home, this conversation is for you. You deserved better. And it’s not too late. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 The Hidden Dangers of Mental Health Internships 01:35 Dr. Ambra Born on Supporting Early Career Therapists 03:36 Exploitation and Structural Issues in Training Programs 07:18 Why Medical Models Don’t Work for Therapists 13:31 Creating Human-Centered Training Environments 17:10 Financial Struggles and Systemic Barriers for Trainees 26:37 Red Flags of Toxic Training Sites 43:08 Healing and Advocacy: Building a Better Future If this episode struck a chord, I’d love to invite you to join my newsletter for therapists. It’s a community created just for us — with weekly podcast updates, free resources, thoughtful tools for your work, and support for you as a clinician and as a human. And if we’re not already connected, come say hi on LinkedIn! It’s where I share new episodes, behind-the-scenes reflections, and hear what’s on your mind. I also want to shout out the incredible work Dr. Ambra Born is doing. She’s the co-founder and executive director of Reaching Hope, a trauma-informed mental health nonprofit in Colorado. You can also follow them on Instagram at @reaching_hope_colorado. Lastly, I’d love to hear from you. What topics would you like to explore in future episodes? What support are you craving right now? Let’s talk! And if this episode meant something to you, share it with a friend or colleague. We make this profession stronger when we lift each other up. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self

This episode originally aired on February 14, 2024 (Episode 5), and we’re bringing it back because ghosting is one of those challenges every therapist encounters at some point in their career. It’s an important conversation worth revisiting, both for the insight it offers and the reminder that you’re not alone in navigating it. Have you ever been ghosted by a therapy client? This unfortunate experience is something that every therapist goes through eventually. And just like in any other relationship, when a therapy client ghosts, it can leave you feeling a little haunted. You might wonder if it was something you said, or worry that your therapy client is not okay. Most of all, you’ll be asking yourself — How can I avoid this kind of thing in the future? If you’ve been here before, then this episode is for you! We’re talking about why therapy clients ghost, how to process it when a client stops coming to therapy without saying goodbye, and how you can use this experience to grow, personally and professionally. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why Therapy Clients Ghost 01:15 The Role of Trust in Building Strong Client Relationships 04:49 Creating Emotional Safety and Open Communication in Sessions 07:20 Recognizing Relational Patterns That Lead to Ghosting 10:06 When Missteps and Ruptures Cause Clients to Leave 12:05 The Importance of Consultation and Professional Support 14:05 Why Clients Feel Stuck and How to Re-Engage Them 18:32 Therapy Limitations and the Shift Toward Coaching 20:30 Coaching vs. Traditional Therapy: What Clinicians Need to Know 24:15 Free Resources and Growth Opportunities for Therapists As you’re listening, remember you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. My Free CEU Trainings For Therapists is always available with on-demand resources designed to support both your clinical work and your personal wellbeing. You can explore it anytime, and if we’re not yet connected on LinkedIn, let’s change that. It’s one of my favorite spaces to continue these conversations with colleagues. And since this podcast is created with you in mind, I’d love to know what’s on your heart. What questions do you have, what topics do you want me to unpack in future episodes? Let’s talk! Share your thoughts with me, and if you know another therapist who would benefit from this conversation, send them this episode so our community of support keeps growing. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self

Ever notice how this work changes you in ways you never saw coming? I’m not just talking about your skills in the therapy room. I mean how it rewires your social life, shapes your relationships, and even shifts the way you see the world. In this episode of Love, Happiness, and Success for Therapists, I’m getting real about the pros and cons of being a therapist, from the hilarious moments (like when someone at a party freezes the second they hear what you do) to the harder stuff, like managing boundaries when friends overshare or feeling pressure to always have it “together.” We’ll talk about how this profession can deepen your compassion, expand your tolerance for life’s gray areas, and connect you to a bigger sense of purpose. We’ll also explore how it can leave you isolated, burnt out, or disconnected from your own feelings if you’re not paying attention. Most importantly, I’ll share why having real, non-judgy friendships with other therapists is essential for staying well in this work. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why This Work Changes You 02:03 Overcoming Therapist Isolation and Building Community 04:24 Social Shifts When People Learn You’re a Therapist 08:09 Setting Boundaries and Managing Oversharing 12:01 How Therapy Work Deepens Compassion and Understanding 14:03 Burnout Risks and Essential Self-Care Competencies 18:01 Identity, Pressure, and the “Have It All Together” Trap 21:08 Why Friendships with Other Therapists Matter 24:57 Positive Ways the Profession Transforms You So, how has being a therapist changed you? Have you noticed shifts in your social life or even in how you see yourself? Are you giving as much attention to your own well-being as you do to your clients? If this episode hits home, I’d love for you to check out my Free CEU Training Library For Therapists. It’s full of on-demand resources to help you strengthen yourself as a clinician and as a human. And let’s connect on LinkedIn so we can keep these conversations going. I also want to hear from you. Your feedback, your questions about past episodes, and the topics you’d love me to cover next are always welcome! Share your thoughts with me here. If this episode resonated with you, think of a colleague, friend, or fellow therapist who might appreciate it too, and pass it along so we can keep these meaningful conversations moving through our community! xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self

Is your therapy practice future-ready… or are your AI tools quietly writing your client notes — and maybe rewriting your ethics policy, too? If you’re a therapist trying to make sense of what the heck is going on with AI in our field right now, this episode is for you. Whether you’re using AI daily, avoiding it like a bad EHR platform, or somewhere in between, you need to hear this conversation. In today’s episode of Love, Happiness & Success for Therapists, I sit down with Dr. Rachel Wood. She's a licensed therapist with a PhD in Cyberpsychology. We talk about how AI is already reshaping the way we practice therapy — and why we, as ethical clinicians, need to step up and lead this transformation, not just react to it. We talk about the practical realities of using AI in therapy (yes, including note-writing), the invisible risks no one’s warning you about (AI hallucinations, anyone?), and how our clients — especially Gen Z — are forming deep, emotionally meaningful relationships with AI companions. It's happening right now… and it’s impacting your work, whether you see it or not. This is one of the most important, eye-opening conversations I’ve had all year, and I hope you’ll join us for it. Timestamps: 00:00 – Your New Role: Ethical Leadership in the Age of AI 01:17 – What AI Companionship Really Looks Like for Clients 04:11 – How Therapists Are Already Using AI (Whether They Realize It or Not) 09:15 – AI “Hallucinations” in Clinical Documentation (and Why It Matters) 1 7:36 – Informed Consent + Data Privacy: What You Need to Rethink Today 24:39 – “I’m Not Into AI” Isn’t Enough Anymore 26:02 – AI as Therapist, BFF, or Boyfriend? What’s Actually Happening with Clients 36:49 – Working With AI in Session: Ethical, Empowered Possibilities 40:00 – New Assessment Questions You Should Be Asking Your Clients 44:28 – What an AI Policy for Your Practice Needs to Include If this episode lit up your brain the way it did mine, you have to check out the Free CEU Training with myself and Dr. Rachel Wood. Therapists + AI: Navigating Ethics, Boundaries, and Client Safety. We go even deeper into the clinical realities of AI and therapy — including how clients are forming emotional bonds with chatbots, the ethical risks of AI-generated notes, and so much more about what all of this means for our practices, our clients, and our profession. You'll earn 1.5 CEU credit (by completing a short knowledge check), and get practical tools to: Update your informed consent Adjust your intake assessments Create AI policies for your practice Hold space for the big existential questions therapists are facing right now 👉 Access the Free CE Training here — and stay part of this incredibly important conversation This is just the beginning of the conversation. If you want more insights on ethical innovation, therapist support, and how to grow professionally without burning out, let’s stay in touch. I share industry news, updates on free CEU webinars, and info on the latest episode of the Love, Happiness, and Success For Therapists podcasts over on LinkedIn. We’re having great conversations — and I’d love to hear your thoughts on all of this. 👉 Connect with me here Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. If you found this episode helpful, would you share it with a therapist friend or colleague? We need each other more than ever as we navigate this strange, exciting, and important new frontier in mental health care.

This one is SO important... we're doing it again. After originally posting this episode earlier in the year, I've had so many messages from therapist colleagues about how helpful and important this info was, I wanted to put it back at the top. Additionally, I have created a free cheat sheet with the changes that I made to my own disclosure statement after recording this interview (because I too, learned a lot) and I'm happy to share this with you. DM me on Linkedin or just shoot me an email (drlisa@growingself.com). xo, Lisa = There's something none of us want to deal with, but absolutely need to be prepared for: getting subpoenaed to testify in court. The moment that letter lands on your desk, the panic sets in—What can I say? What can’t I say? How do I protect my client’s confidentiality while also following the law? And of course, the biggest worry of all: What if I mess this up? Breathe. I’m here to help! I brought in family law expert Rich Harris—an attorney who knows this world inside and out—to break it all down for you. In this episode, we’re talking about what to do when you get served with a subpoena, how to avoid big legal mistakes, and steps to safeguard yourself before this happens. Don't wait until you're in the hot seat—listen now so you can be prepared, protected, and empowered. Timestamps: 00:00 Getting Subpoenaed is So Stressful! 00:42 Meet Our Legal Expert: Rich Harris 02:05 Your First Steps After Receiving a Subpoena 03:22 Do You Really Have to Testify? Here’s the Truth 08:07 How to Protect Client Confidentiality Like a Pro 12:15 The #1 Mistake Therapists Make With Legal Cases 15:18 Subpoenas in Custody Cases—What You Need to Know 20:53 How to Challenge an Improper Subpoena 26:43 Scam Alert! The Dangerous Hoax Targeting Therapists 30:18 Court Testimony Tips: How to Stay Calm and Confident 34:21 What to Say (and Not Say) If You Have to Testify 41:52 Want to Become a Custody Evaluator? Here’s How! 47:16 Legal Resources I hope this episode helps ease any legal anxiety you might have.  There's more where that came from so let's stay connected. Subscribe to the podcast, and I can also keep you up to date with more helpful industry info with my newsletter: Sign up here  And hey—let’s stay connected on LinkedIn too! It’s a great space to stay in the loop, ask questions, and be part of a community of therapists who get it. Plus, you never know when that one post might save you from a professional headache down the road. Let’s connect —I’d love to see you in my network! Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby P.S. Know a therapist who could use this info? Share this episode with them!

Ever wondered how a coach with zero credentials is charging triple what you make—and people are lining up to pay them?! It's enough to make any seasoned, licensed, ethics-loving therapist want to throw their DSM across the room. In this juicy episode of Love, Happiness & Success for Therapists, I’m pulling back the curtain on why life coaching income so often leaves therapist rates in the dust.  Coaches are NOT more skilled or more capable of change work. They’re just playing an entirely different game. A game that rewards confidence, clarity, marketing savvy, and outcomes over credentials and clinical nuance. And guess what? You can learn to play that game too—without compromising your values, your license, or your integrity. I’m sharing: The major reasons coaches earn more than therapists (and how to shift that narrative) How to talk about your services in a way that commands higher rates (ethically) Why the coaching model unlocks new freedom, flexibility, and actual income potential And most importantly, how you can start using this knowledge to your advantage—today. If you’re a therapist who’s tired of being undervalued, underpaid, and boxed in by the medical model, I made this episode for you. Timestamps: 00:00 – Why Coaches Are In Your Lane (and Earning More) 04:01 – Coaching vs. Therapy: What's Really Different? 04:45 – Coaches Are Killing It (Here's Why) 08:43 – You Did the Work—So Why Are You Paid Less? 17:16 – Coaches Sell Outcomes. Therapists Sell... What, Exactly? 26:14 – The Marketing Mindset Shift Therapists Need 28:58 – Free CEU Resources to Get You Started 31:50 – The Invisible Impact of Therapist Identity 36:29 – What’s Ethical in Marketing? Let’s Talk. 41:39 – Getting Credentialed Changes Everything 52:03 – How Therapists Can Command Higher Rates Too If you’re serious about growing your income, expanding your impact, and doing it all without compromising your clinical integrity, now is the time to get your coaching credential. My BCC-accredited Coaching Certification for Therapists is designed exclusively for licensed professionals. You’ll learn evidence-based coaching models, how to ethically differentiate coaching from therapy, how to create offers that reflect your true value, and so much more. And here’s the exciting part: our next cohort starts soon (like, really soon). Don’t miss your chance to join this transformational experience.  👉 Head to my Coaching Certification For Therapists enrollment page to save your spot. Your future self will thank you for it when you’re doing the work that lights you up while attracting your dream clients, earning more, and achieving it all on your own terms. And if we’re not already connected, let’s fix that! Come say hi to me on LinkedIn and join a growing community of big-hearted clinicians who are reimagining what’s possible in this profession. I’d love to hear your story and support you in whatever way I can. Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby PS: If this episode sparked something in you, please share it with your colleagues, grad school friends, and therapist groups. Let’s help each other rise. 💪

Ever had a dream client vanish the second you said, “I don’t take insurance”?  In this episode of Love, Happiness, and Success for Therapists, I’m breaking down one of the most frustrating, deflating, and pivotal conversations we have in private practice: how to talk to therapy clients about insurance and self-pay therapy (without spiraling, apologizing, or selling yourself short). I walk you through exactly how to handle that record-scratch moment with clarity, confidence, and integrity—so you can stop losing ideal clients and start owning your value. We’ll explore why the insurance model was never built for growth work, how to frame your services outside of the medical model, and how self-pay therapy and coaching can be transformational for both you and your clients. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, this conversation will help you rethink the way you show up, speak up, and set yourself up for long-term success. Timestamps: 00:00 – The Insurance Dilemma 02:38 – Empowering Therapists: Navigating Insurance Questions 04:47 – Why Don’t Some Therapists Take Insurance? 06:03 – The Disconnect Between Client Needs and Insurance 07:11 – Ethical Considerations and Challenges 16:47 – Are Self Pay Therapy Clients More Motivated? (Yes. Here's why.) 18:11 – How to Stop Feeling Guilty For Charging Self Pay Rates 25:12 – How to Communicate Your Value 38:36 – Can I Build a Practice Without Taking Insurance? 39:58 – How to Become a Certified Coach as a Therapist 46:36 – Clarity and Confidence in Practice If you’re longing for a practice that aligns with your passion for growth work—it might be time for a new approach. In my BCC-Accredited Coaching Certification for Therapists, I guide licensed clinicians just like you to: Ethically expand beyond the limitations of the insurance model Work confidently with self-pay clients who are motivated and ready to change Learn the language, structure, and mindset of transformational coaching psychology Build a sustainable practice doing the work you actually want to do with your dream clients. This program rewards up to 50 CE hours. Come learn how to create a thriving, ethical, and fulfilling practice from someone who’s walked this road. 👉Enroll by 7/14 to take advantage of our current Expert Experience Summer Bonus: a free month of coaching client referrals to your private practice. Learn more here. And hey—if we haven’t connected on LinkedIn yet, let’s do so! I’d love to follow your journey, cheer you on, and swap notes on what’s working (and what’s not) in our evolving world of therapy and coaching. Come say hi and connect with me right here. Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. If this episode made you nod, scribble notes, or rethink your client scripts, share it with a fellow therapist or drop it in your favorite consultation group. Let’s rise together. 💛

Ever had a client look at you, desperate for help, and ask, “What should I do?” Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on a dilemma that I hear from therapists all the time: “My clients are stuck, they need direction, and they’re asking me for advice. But I’m supposed to stay neutral, right?”  On one hand, we want to help, but on the other, we’ve been trained to stay neutral and let the client find their own answers. So can therapists give advice? What’s the right move when your client is stuck and clearly craving direction? In this episode of Love, Happiness and Success For Therapists, we're diving into the inner conflict therapists face between sticking to our non-directive, empathetic listening style and providing the more concrete guidance that many clients are asking for. I’ll also show how evidence-based coaching can complement therapy in a powerful way and provide that direction in your sessions. You’ll get clear, actionable steps on how to navigate this tricky balance—without stepping outside of your ethical boundaries. You don’t want to miss this! Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: The Therapist's Dilemma 02:49 - What Is the Role of a Therapist? 06:35 - Why Do Therapists Struggle to Be More Direct? 09:16 - How to Balance Client Expectations with Therapeutic Boundaries 15:19 - Is Coaching the Solution? 20:24 - What's the Difference Between Therapy and Coaching? 27:38 - How Can Therapists Become Certified Coaches? 34:29 - Resources for Therapists and Coaches If you’re feeling inspired by what I’ve shared and you’re ready to give your clients the directive support that they need, I’d love to invite you to take the next step in your professional development with my BCC-Accredited Coaching Certification for Therapists.  This program is designed specifically for therapists like you who want to build coaching competencies while staying within the ethical boundaries of your practice. You’ll receive 30 CEU credits for completing the certification and walk away with the skills to deliver more actionable, client-centered guidance that will help your clients get the results they’re asking for.  👉 Transform your practice by learning how to coach. If you want to stay updated on the latest podcast episodes, learn about upcoming free CEU webinars, and be a part of a supportive professional network, I’d love to connect with you on LinkedIn! Find me at Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby. I share research, training opportunities, and news updates to help you grow, develop new skills, and thrive! Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com PS: If you found this episode valuable, think about someone in your professional community who could benefit from this conversation. Share it with them, and let’s keep the discussion going!

Therapists, what if I told you your photo, credentials, and carefully crafted bio might be sitting on a website you never signed up for—used to funnel therapy-seeking clients into fake therapy phishing scams?  I know you might be thinking, “That could never happen to me…” But it’s a rapidly increasing issue that’s affecting therapists across the country right this second. And it could happen to you too. In this episode of Love, Happiness and Success for Therapists, I’m digging into the disturbing world of fake therapy platforms, profile scraping, and the deceptive tactics being used by some online therapy sites.  Joining me are powerhouse investigative journalists Rebecca Ruiz of Mashable and Lauren Krouse of Everyday Health, who have been on the frontlines of uncovering how these scams operate (particularly, 7 Cups online therapy) and how they’re hurting both clinicians and clients alike. If you’re in private practice, or even just listing your services online, you must listen to this. Timestamps: 04:11 – The Moment You Realize: “That’s My Face—On a Site I Never Signed Up For” 08:32 – Chatrooms Masquerading as Mental Health Care 13:50 – Real Therapists, Real Rage: The Emotional Toll of Being Impersonated 19:45 – How Big Tech and SEO Are Silencing Ethical Therapists 27:12 – Take Back Your Identity: What You Can Do Right Now 36:07 – It’s Bigger Than 7 Cups: AI, Fake Licenses, and the Future of Therapy If you're now frantically Googling your name—please know that you are not alone in this. I’m committed to helping ethical therapists like you stay informed and protected in this rapidly evolving landscape. I talk about issues like these in my For Therapists Newsletter—which includes updates on new interviews with experts in our field, strategies for navigating the business of private practice, self-care tips for therapists, and updates on urgent news like the 7 Cups fake therapy situation.  You’ll always be in the loop with the latest on how to protect your practice, support your clients, and thrive in this evolving digital landscape. I hope you check it out.  👉 Sign up to get crucial updates just for therapists. And let’s stay in conversation. I share breaking updates, announcements about my free CEU trainings for therapists, and thoughtful discussions on LinkedIn almost daily. Connect with me there so we can continue to educate, advocate, and elevate this profession together. 👉 You can find me on LinkedIn here.  Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. If you found this article helpful, I hope you’ll take a moment to share it with a colleague or your professional community. This information could protect someone else’s career—or their clients’ well-being. Let’s keep each other safe out there. 💛

Have you ever gotten that really sweet message from a client saying, “Hey, I told my friend about you—they’re reaching out!” and felt… conflicted? On the one hand, it’s a huge compliment. On the other? It throws you right into the middle of an ethical tightrope walk. When therapy clients refer their friends, it can feel like walking a fine line between appreciation and professional chaos. In this episode of Love, Happiness, and Success for Therapists, I’ll share a behind-the-scenes story from my own practice where a client referred a friend—who happened to be their business partner—and how things unraveled when their relationship did.  I’ll also unpack the professional risks, the emotional tug-of-war, and the subtle ethical conflicts that can arise when our good intentions collide with real-world complexity. Plus, how to set therapeutic boundaries and redirect referrals. Timestamps: 00:00 - The Ethical Grey Area of Friend Referrals 03:49 - Handling Referrals from Clients 07:29 - Redirecting Personal Referrals 15:15 - Handling Unexpected Client Connections 19:00 - Practicing Ethical Boundaries 20:41 - Gray Areas and Subtle Ethical Dilemmas If navigating tricky situations like when therapy clients refer their friends makes you crave more thoughtful guidance, you’re not alone—and I’ve got you. Every week in my Newsletter For Therapists, I share real-world insights, practical strategies, and honest reflections just like this one to help you grow into the most grounded, ethical, and empowered version of your therapist self. It’s a space for support, connection, and learning—because you deserve to feel confident in your clinical decisions. 👉 Sign up for the newsletter here and let’s keep growing together. And hey, if this topic hit home for you, come connect with me on LinkedIn! Let’s keep the conversation going and build a professional community where we can show up, support each other, and thrive.  Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. — If you know a friend or colleague who'd benefit from this chat, send it over to them. It could be exactly what they need to hear to get out of a sticky situation.

Ever felt like you’re missing that one tool in your therapy toolkit that could help your clients truly heal and reconnect with their best selves? Well, in today’s episode of Love, Happiness and Success for Therapists, I’m chatting with Dr. Dick Schwartz, founder of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, about the power of IFS and how it can be a game-changer for your clients. IFS is more than just a therapy model—it's a transformative approach that helps clients access their own core Self, heal their internal wounds, and lead their lives with compassion, confidence, and calm. It's about connecting with the different "parts" of our psyche and fostering self-leadership.  You’ll leave this episode with a deeper understanding of IFS and how it can benefit both your clients and your practice. Whether you’re just starting out or already familiar with IFS, this conversation is packed with wisdom, insights, and actionable steps that you can start applying right away. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Internal Family Systems (IFS) 01:07 - Understanding the Core Concepts of IFS 06:03 - The Role of the Therapist in IFS 08:55 - Challenges and Insights in IFS Therapy 19:48 - Outcome Research and Broader Applications 25:12 - Legacy Burdens and Cultural Impact 29:14 - Resources and Training for Therapists 33:47 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts I learned so much from this episode, and I hope you did, too. My mission is to empower, inspire, and care for therapists like you by sharing meaningful conversations, evidence-based insights, and practical tools to help you thrive personally and professionally.  Let’s stay connected so I can keep you in the loop about new episodes, resources, and ideas that make a difference in your life. Sign up for my newsletter right here and join a community that’s all about lifting each other up. You give so much to others—it’s time someone’s here to support you. Also, if you found this helpful, pass it along to your professional community—we’re all in this together. ❤️ Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com PS: I’d love to connect with you on LinkedIn and be part of this amazing therapist community! Join me here: Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby on LinkedIn.

You’re a therapist, not a career strategist, right? That’s what I told myself for years—until the zillionth client sat across from me, looked me dead in the eye, and asked, “What should I do with my life?” Cue the record scratch. Let’s be real: we’re trained to hold emotional space, diagnose, treat, and heal — but when it comes to career development and professional identity? Most of us are flying blind. In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant Suzy Welch — NYU professor, bestselling author, and creator of the Becoming You methodology — to talk about how therapists can help our clients (and ourselves!) find professional clarity, direction, and purpose. We’re talking values alignment, cognitive aptitudes, career mismatches, and that giant existential "Now what?" moment clients bring to our couch. Timestamps: 00:00 - The Noble Work of Therapy 00:38 - The Career Coaching Gap in Therapist Training 01:09 - Meet Suzy Welch: Author, Educator, Career Strategist 02:57 - How “Becoming You” Was Born — and Who It’s For 05:27 - Values, Aptitudes & Purpose: A New Career Coaching Framework 08:24 - Why Most Therapists Are “Winging It” in Career Coaching (and how to stop) 13:10 - Values Mismatch at Work: The Invisible Career Saboteur 15:48 - Coaching ≠ Therapy: Why You Need Both Skill Sets 20:42 - How to Close the Values Gap for You and Your Clients 22:35 - Why Career Coaching Belongs in Therapy Rooms 23:55 - Real-World Tools for Therapists That Create Breakthroughs 25:19 - Becoming You Methodology: Tools, Testing & Transformation 26:26 - Career Discovery for Clients—and Yourself 30:18 - The Emotional Toll of Therapy & Why Specialization Matters 32:34 - Burnout, Vicarious Trauma, and Therapist Career Fit 36:37 - Your Career Deserves Purpose Too 42:37 - Where to Learn More: Trainings, Tools, and Next Steps If you’ve ever felt stuck when clients bring career questions into the therapy room, this conversation will blow your mind and expand your skillset. I’ve also got something for you to get clear on your own career path. I created a free CEU training, 4 Steps to Finding Your Niche as a Therapist to help support us therapists in our own professional development. It’s all about helping you get clear, confident, and aligned. Because before we coach clients through their next chapter, we have to write our own.  👉 You can sign up right here and earn 1 CEU credit when you complete the training and the knowledge check. And hey—let’s stay connected. You can find me on LinkedIn, where I share lots of behind-the-scenes insights, podcast updates, and the occasional nerdy therapist meme. Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. Know a therapist, coach, or clinician who would love this episode? Be a good colleague and share it with your professional community! 💌

Ever wonder how to truly help your clients build more secure attachment styles? This episode of Love, Happiness, and Success for Therapists is for you! I’m sitting down with the brilliant Dr. Daniel Siegel—one of the world’s leading experts in attachment science and childhood development. Together, we’re unpacking the latest research and ideas you can take straight into your practice. Dr. Siegel’s approach goes beyond the basics of attachment theory, blending personality, temperament, and attachment into a powerful framework that creates truly personalized client experiences. This episode is full of actionable insights that’ll not only expand your therapeutic toolkit but also inspire new ways of thinking about the work you do. ✨ Here’s a sneak peek of what we cover: 00:00 — Why Attachment Styles Matter More Than Ever 00:24 — Meet Dr. Siegel: The Mind Behind the Research 03:15 — Moving Beyond Theory: Practical Tools for Attachment and Development 04:30 — Yes, We’re Talking Enneagram in Therapy! 06:43 — Integrating Enneagram & Neurobiology—It’s a Thing 09:39 — Research-Backed Applications You Can Use Today 11:08 — How Personality & Temperament Shape Attachment Styles 15:54 — Real-World Strategies to Transform Your Practice If you’re ready to unlock new therapeutic strategies and create real breakthroughs with your clients, this is an episode you can’t miss. Hit subscribe now so you never miss a beat—and share this episode with other therapists who’d love these insights too. And let’s stay connected on LinkedIn! Join me here to keep the conversation going and be part of an amazing network of therapists.

You’re craving more freedom, better clients, and real income... but is private practice actually the dream you think it is? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to start a successful private therapy practice—and trust me, it’s not what most therapists expect. Whether you're yearning for more freedom, higher income, or a deeper impact, going solo can be amazing... if you make intentional, informed decisions from day one. I’ll walk you through the crucial questions every therapist needs to answer before jumping into private practice, share the pros and cons of insurance vs. private pay, and unpack the coaching-vs-therapy conversation that so many clinicians miss (at their own risk). This is the conversation I wish someone had with me before I started Growing Self. So consider this your honest, heartfelt, experienced guide to launching a practice that truly supports your life, your energy, and your goals. Timestamps: 00:00 – Do You Want a Private Practice or a Business? 02:15 – What Private Practice Really Involves 12:38 – Door #1: Insurance-Based Practice 17:59 – Door #2: Self-Pay Private Practice 25:10 – Marketing Mistakes Therapists Make 27:05 – Therapy vs. Coaching: Know the Difference 30:35 – What to Do Before You Launch 41:44 – How to Find Your Niche As a Therapist If you’re seriously thinking about starting a private practice, please don’t wing it. Join me in my free CEU training: 4 Steps to Discovering Your Niche as a Therapist. I created it to help you get crystal clear on who you are as a practitioner, who you want to serve, and how to attract your dream clients. It's everything I wish I’d known when I started my private practice. You’ll also receive one CEU credit for completing the training and acing the knowledge check.  👉 Access the Free CEU Training: 4 Steps to Finding Your Niche as a Therapist Also, if you’re in the messy middle of your professional evolution, or if you're just craving more real-talk conversations about the behind-the-scenes of life as a therapist—let’s stay connected. I hang out on LinkedIn more than I probably should (hey, it's where the smart, soulful professionals are). That’s where I share exclusive content for therapists, updates on my latest free CEU trainings, insights into private practice success, and the occasional nerdy deep dive into clinical ethics, coaching, or how to market yourself without selling your soul. I’d love to hear from you!  👉 Come find me on LinkedIn! Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobbywww.growingself.com P.S. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a colleague, your supervision group, or anyone else dreaming of going solo. Let’s raise the bar together.

What if your clients' biggest mental health breakthroughs didn’t come from the couch… but from their body’s cells? That’s the jaw-dropping question we’re exploring in this powerful episode about metabolic psychiatry—a revolutionary approach that connects brain health to metabolic health, and uses targeted ketogenic interventions to help clients fully recover from conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and more. I sat down with the brilliant Nicole Laurent, LMHC, a leading voice in metabolic psychiatry, to unpack how what’s happening in our bodies—particularly in our mitochondria—can have a bigger impact on mental health than we ever imagined. If you’ve ever felt frustrated that traditional talk therapy wasn’t enough for your clients, you need to hear this. Nicole’s work is game-changing—and yes, life-saving. Timestamps: 00:29 – What Therapists Are Missing About Mental Health 03:14 – What Is Metabolic Psychiatry, Really? 05:37 – Brain Fog, Insulin Resistance, and Mitochondrial Dysfunction 09:28 – My Personal Health Journey That Changed Everything 13:13 – Nutritional Psychology vs. Metabolic Psychiatry 15:08 – Why Ketogenic Diets Are So Powerful for the Brain 18:12 – Root Causes of Depression and Anxiety: A New Framework 21:57 – Nicole’s Transformation and The Birth of Her Practice 30:17 – Ketogenic Therapy in Practice: What It Actually Looks Like 30:42 – How Therapists Can Ethically Collaborate on This Work 34:54 – What a Metabolic Psychiatry Treatment Team Includes 36:49 – Debunking the “Chemical Imbalance” Myth 40:30 – Recovery Is Possible: Beyond Managing Symptoms 54:10 – Resources For Therapists If you loved this conversation and want more like it, be sure to sign up for my For Therapist’s weekly newsletter. It’s where I share new episodes, research highlights, thoughtful tools, and free professional development resources—all designed to support your growth and fulfillment as a clinician. You’ll be the first to know what’s new, what’s next, and how to bring it into your practice in a meaningful way. And hey—come connect with me on LinkedIn. I love connecting with thoughtful, forward-thinking therapists like you who are committed to evolving our field together. Send me a request, share your thoughts on the episode, and let’s keep the conversation going. Together, we can create a new era of therapy—one that honors both the mind and the body.  Xoxo Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby www.growingself.com P.S. If you know a friend or colleague who would love to learn more about metabolic psychiatry, send this episode their way. It could be the thing that changes their clients’ outcomes.