The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy

What Do You Have to Offer? How Describing Your Ideal Client Might Be Repelling Good Enough Clients Curt and Katie chat about common mistakes therapists make when writing their websites and directories — especially using “ideal client” language that may turn away the very clients they want to help. They explore how to write therapist website copy that’s client-centered, inclusive, and more effective for attracting referrals. Key Takeaways: Describing ideal clients too rigidly can unintentionally alienate potential referrals Language should reflect client experiences and therapy process — not just therapist preferences Blog posts are a flexible, strategic way to expand on specialty areas without over-niching Websites should be regularly updated to reflect current practice and make contact easy Listen to the full episode and access resources:https://therapyreimagined.com/podcast Join the Modern Therapist Community:https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Mindfulness, EMDR, and Wearable Tech: An Interview with Dr. Steve Dansiger Curt and Katie chat with Dr. Steve Dansiger about integrating mindfulness into EMDR, what therapists often get wrong about mindfulness, and how wearable technology might enhance trauma healing. Steve shares his journey from punk rock drummer to EMDR trainer to tech innovator—and how sound and vibration may support grounding, resourcing, and trauma reprocessing. About Our Guest: Dr. Steve Dansiger Dr. Steve Dansiger is a clinical psychologist, EMDRIA-approved EMDR consultant, longtime mindfulness practitioner, and co-founder of HapTech Holdings. He is the creator of the MET(T)A Protocol and co-author of multiple books on EMDR, trauma, addiction, and mindfulness. Steve’s work spans clinical practice, innovation, and international teaching, bringing together ancient wisdom and cutting-edge tech. Key Takeaways: Therapists and clients often misunderstand mindfulness as “clearing the mind.” Mindfulness is already embedded in EMDR and helps stabilize and prepare for trauma work. Starting with just 1–2 minutes a day can be effective, especially with neurodivergent clients. Wearable tech using sound and vibration may help ground and resource clients in session and beyond. Therapists need to maintain their own mindfulness practice to model and teach it effectively. For full show notes, transcripts, and more episodes: 🔗 www.mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: 🌐 Linktree Creative Credits: 🎙 Voice Over by DW McCann 🎵 Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Rethinking Oppositional Defiant Disorder—Children Reacting to the System Around Them Curt and Katie chat about Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), reframing it as a response to systemic and environmental stressors rather than a characterological flaw in children. They explore diagnostic challenges, systemic bias, and treatment considerations that support children and families more holistically. This episode is designed to help therapists critically assess and intervene when working with oppositional or defiant behaviors. Course Available for CE Credit:One unit of continuing education is available for this episode at moderntherapistcommunity.com. Listen, purchase the course, pass the post-test, and earn your certificate! Key Takeaways: Understand how ODD criteria can be misapplied without systemic context Identify the impact of trauma, neurodivergence, and racism on misdiagnosis Apply a functional, family systems-based approach to treating oppositional behaviors Learn which interventions are evidence-based—and which to avoid Recognize the importance of treating ODD like an adjustment to environment, not a lifelong label Link to Full Show Notes:Full references, transcript, and resource list at mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – groomsymusic.com Voice Over by DW McCann – facebook.com/McCannDW

How Virtual Clinical Supervision is Changing the Field: An Interview with Rachel Ledbetter, LMFT Curt and Katie chat with Rachel Ledbetter, LMFT, CEO and Co-Founder of Motivo, about how virtual supervision is transforming therapist training and professional development. We explore how technology can remove barriers for prelicensed clinicians, improve the supervision experience, and create space for mentorship beyond administrative oversight. Rachel also shares insights on the future of AI in mental health and what supervisors can do to better support early career therapists. Guest Bio:Rachel Ledbetter is the CEO and Co-Founder of Motivo Health, a pioneering platform dedicated to transforming the landscape of mental health care by facilitating virtual clinical supervision for behavioral health professionals. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Rachel's personal experiences navigating the licensure process have profoundly influenced her mission to remove barriers for aspiring therapists. Through Motivo, she continues to make a lasting impact by supporting the next generation of therapists and ensuring that quality mental health services are accessible to all. Key Takeaways: Supervision should focus on developing a clinician’s unique identity—not just administrative tasks. Virtual supervision increases access and continuity, especially for rural and underserved areas. Motivo actively tracks licensure requirements and verifies supervisor qualifications. AI can ease therapist burdens (e.g., documentation) but shouldn’t be used to raise productivity quotas. Supervisors are more effective when they support both professional development and self-of-the-therapist work. More info and full show notes at mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community:https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – groomsymusic.com Voiceover by DW McCann – facebook.com/McCannDW

Why It’s Hard for Therapists to Be Friends Curt and Katie chat about why therapists often struggle with friendships—especially with non-therapists. They explore the impact of emotional labor, overidentifying as caretakers, and the challenges of setting boundaries and expressing needs in personal relationships. Key Takeaways: Therapists often default to caretaking in friendships, especially if they have a history of being “the helper.” Emotional exhaustion from client work can make socializing difficult. Confidentiality and identity boundaries limit what therapists can share about their day. Friendships become healthier when therapists drop the therapist role and prioritize reciprocity. Intentional communication and boundary-setting help create sustainable relationships. More information and transcripts available at:https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community:Linktree Creative Credits: Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano Voiceover by DW McCann

Special Episode: Modern Therapist's Consumer Guide on Relias Curt and Katie talk with Candace Wallace, Chief Customer Officer at Relias, about how this tech-enabled platform supports therapist training, infrastructure, and regulatory compliance. Candace explains how Relias helps practices of all sizes reduce admin burdens, improve staff retention, and compete in a changing behavioral health landscape. This episode is part of our Modern Therapist Consumer Guide, where we explore tools and services designed for therapists and their clients. About Our Guest:Candace Wallace is the Chief Customer Officer at Relias, overseeing Customer Success, Renewals, Support, and Professional Services. Since joining in 2013, she’s led several key teams and now focuses on delivering customer value at scale. With degrees in Archaeology and Religion from Baylor University, Candace’s career path includes both compliance consulting and a deep commitment to healthcare systems transformation. Key Takeaways: Relias reduces administrative burdens to improve patient care Solutions are tailored to solo, small, and large practices alike Training, leadership development, and compliance tracking in one platform Helps therapist-led organizations stay competitive and grow sustainably Started with small providers—continues to focus on accessible, effective tools For full show notes and transcripts, visit:https://www.mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community:Linktree Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCannMusic by Crystal Grooms Mangano

Title: How to Launch Therapy Intensives in Private Practice: An Interview with Steffeny Feld, LCSW Description:Curt and Katie chat with Steffeny Feld, LCSW, Therapist and Creator of the Intensive Design Lab, about how therapists can bring therapy intensives into private practice. We explore how therapy intensives differ from traditional therapy, how to structure and prepare for intensives, clinical considerations for both clients and clinicians, and why this model can be particularly supportive for highly sensitive or neurodivergent therapists. About Our Guest:Steffeny Feld is a Therapist, Copywriter, and the Creator of the Intensive Design Lab where she supports therapists of all backgrounds and modalities to launch therapy intensives in private practice. Steffeny believes that therapy intensives are powerful and transformative for clients and the clinicians who offer them. She supports therapists to bring intensives into their practice so that they can work less and earn more while helping clients heal. Steffeny lives in St Louis, Missouri with her partner and 4-year-old son, Felix. Key Takeaways: Therapy intensives offer a distinct therapy format, not just longer sessions. Therapists must assess client readiness and window of tolerance carefully. Intensives can support therapist sustainability, especially for highly sensitive and neurodivergent clinicians. Practical considerations include session structure, pacing, and client comfort. Therapy intensives provide an opportunity for deep clinical work and income diversification. Link to Transcripts and Full Show Notes: https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits:Voice Over by DW McCann - https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano - https://groomsymusic.com/

Curt’s Guide to Life: Real-World Advice for Therapists Navigating Their Careers Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy chat about the practical and meaningful life lessons Curt has gathered throughout his career as a therapist, supervisor, and leader. From networking and curiosity to flexibility and reputation, this episode offers real-world advice for therapists trying to build sustainable careers. Key Takeaways: Network laterally with peers at similar stages Stay curious—your clinical focus may evolve Learn by doing, not just studying Be kind and human in all professional interactions Protect your reputation—it’s everything Full show notes and transcript available at mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mtsgpodcast Podcast Homepage: https://therapyreimagined.com/modern-therapists-survival-guide-podcast-episodes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TherapyReimagined Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined/ Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com

How Therapists Can Responsibly Support Disaster Mental Health: An Interview with Dr. Shannon Goodhue, LCSW, PhD Curt and Katie chat with Dr. Shannon Goodhue about how therapists can ethically support disaster-impacted communities. We explore how disaster mental health differs from traditional therapy, why most people don’t need long-term services, and how trained professionals can provide stabilization and support in both local and national crises. Shannon outlines the American Red Cross training process, the structure of deployments, and the importance of understanding when to step in—and when not to. About Our Guest:Shannon Goodhue is the Senior Program Manager, Disaster Mental Health at the American Red Cross, overseeing the nationwide DMH team. With a PhD in International Psychology, a background in trauma and grief therapy, and past roles in D.C. disaster planning, Shannon brings deep experience in crisis response and ethical care. She’s also a former volunteer firefighter/EMT and currently lives in Virginia with her family. Key Takeaways: Disaster mental health is not the same as therapy Most survivors recover without mental health services Therapists must be trained and vetted before entering shelters Prevention and resilience-building are critical parts of crisis care Red Cross deployments can be virtual, local, or national More information and transcripts: mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community:https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits:Hosted by Curt Widhalm and Katie VernoyMusic by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.comVoice Over by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW

How Therapists Can Support Community-Building in Immigrant and Marginalized Populations: An Interview with Adriana Rodriguez, LMFT Curt and Katie chat with Adriana Rodriguez, LMFT, about how therapists can support clients from immigrant and marginalized communities in building and maintaining safe, affirming relationships. They explore cultural responsiveness, identity, risk appetite, and how therapists can expand their awareness and approach beyond individualistic norms. Guest Bio:Adri Rodriguez, LMFT is a therapist, educator, and host of Entre Tías y Amiguis Podcast. Their work focuses on generational healing, identity, and resilience through culturally grounded and justice-oriented approaches. Key Takeaways: Community is built on safety, belonging, and mutual understanding. Risk appetite and intersectionality must shape how clients engage with community. Therapists can use their online presence as a safety signal. Staying informed without burnout is a clinical responsibility. More Info:Full show notes and transcript available at mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community • Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann: facebook.com/McCannDW Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano: groomsymusic.com

The Business of Therapy: Surviving Economic and Industry Disruptions Curt and Katie chat about how therapists can adapt to the changing business landscape of private practice, including fewer client inquiries, economic challenges, and increased competition. We share practical strategies for maintaining a sustainable therapy practice, improving marketing efforts, and building strong referral networks. Transcripts and additional information for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we discuss running a private practice during times of economic uncertainty We’ve heard a lot about the real-time challenges that therapists are facing in a changing business landscape. With a drop in inquiries, increased financial pressures on clients, and greater competition from virtual and AI-based services, private practice clinicians are feeling the pinch. We explore how to adapt your business model, rethink marketing strategies, and prioritize networking and flexibility to weather the storm and build a more resilient practice. What is the current state of private practice therapy businesses? • A drop in referrals and inquiries: Therapists are seeing fewer new client inquiries, especially compared to the pandemic boom. • Economic pressures on clients: Some are requesting fee reductions or shifting to less frequent sessions, even when practices are technically full. • Rising competition: Therapists are competing not just with other clinicians, but also with VC-backed platforms and AI services. What can private practice therapists do to navigate the current business climate? • The need for adaptability: Offering in-person and virtual options, adjusting your fee structure, and being flexible can help retain clients. • Business evolution: It’s more important than ever to regularly assess your practice’s expenses, operations, and marketing strategy. • Standing out in a crowded market: Specializing in specific modalities (like DBT or EMDR) and diversifying your service offerings (e.g., walk-and-talk therapy) can help. • Networking and community support: Building strong referral networks and staying connected with colleagues is essential in today’s climate. • Sustainability for therapists with additional needs: Flexibility can also support therapists who are neurodivergent or living with chronic illness. Key Takeaways from this podcast episode for therapists • Monitor your referral trends and be proactive about filling client gaps—even if your caseload seems full. • Adjust your practice model as needed—offering hybrid sessions or reduced fees may help sustain your income. • Reevaluate your expenses and time investments (marketing, admin, documentation) for a more efficient practice. • Stay current and visible by evaluating SEO, trying Google Ads, and maintaining a strong online presence. • Network consistently—both online and in-person—to build a robust referral stream. • Don’t be afraid to evolve. Practices that are nimble and responsive to change are more likely to succeed long-term. Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Special Episode: Modern Therapist’s Consumer Guide on Buying Time, LLC Curt and Katie talk with Bibi Goldstein, of Buying Time, who provides virtual assistant services for therapists. Bibi shares her journey from starting a personal assistant service in 2007 to evolving into a comprehensive VA company. She emphasizes the importance of delegating tasks, using systems like QuickBooks and scheduling software, and maintaining consistent social media presence. Bibi's team provides comprehensive support, including bookkeeping, social media management, and email inbox management. Bibi stresses the importance of regular communication and flexibility to meet clients' needs. Curt and Katie highly recommend Buying Time for its efficiency and quality of service. This episode is part of our Modern Therapist Consumer Guide, where we explore innovative tools and services built for therapists and their clients. In this podcast episode we talk about how to effectively incorporate business systems and delegate to a Virtual Assistant company like Buying Time, LLC We talk with Bibi Goldstein about her business philosophy, strategic advice for therapists, and the services offered by her virtual assistant company, Buying Time. Interview with Bibi Goldstein, Buying Time 0:01:00 - Introduction 0:04:06 - Company Origin Story 0:11:46 - Advice for Therapists on Business Operations 0:16:34 - Social Media Strategy vs. Implementation 0:20:00 - Delegation and Task Management 0:34:14 - Virtual EA vs. Virtual Assistant 0:36:17 – How to vet a potential Virtual Assistance Company 0:40:04 - How to Sign Up with Buying Time 0:43:20 - Contact Information Curt and Katie Chat – Our review of Buying Time 0:45:24 – Katie and Curt talk through our impressions of Buying Time: We view Buying Time as an exceptional virtual support service that goes beyond typical administrative assistance, offering strategic guidance and practical solutions for therapists and entrepreneurs. A Special Offer for the listeners of Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide podcast from Buying Time Buying Time has put together a free Systems Inventory Checklist to help all of us to uncover hidden expenses and optimize spending in your practice. Go to buyingtimellc.com/mtsg to get your free checklist now! Relevant Links: • Website: buyingtimellc.com/mtsg • Email: service@buyingtimellc.com • Social Media: @buyingtimellc Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano http://www.crystalmangano.com/

Understanding Sexual Trauma and Hookup Culture in Therapy with Gay Men: An Interview with Michael Pezzullo, LMFT Curt and Katie chat with Michael Pezzullo, LMFT, about providing affirming and trauma-informed therapy for gay men. We explore common misconceptions therapists hold, the complexities of hookup culture, and how sexual trauma often shows up in subtle and misunderstood ways. We also look at how clinicians can better navigate issues of consent, drug use, and boundary violations when working with this population. Transcripts and more information for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we explore affirming, trauma-informed therapy for gay men We invited Michael Pezzullo to the podcast to discuss the often-overlooked nuances of working with gay men in therapy. From hookup culture to sexual trauma, Michael breaks down what therapists need to understand to avoid causing harm or misinterpreting client behavior. His perspective emphasizes the importance of clinical humility, cultural knowledge, and a collaborative approach. Common Therapist Mistakes When Working with Gay Men What Therapists Need to Understand About Hookup Culture, Risk, and Drug Use Addressing Sexual Trauma and Boundary Violations in the Gay Community Helping Gay Men in Building and Enforcing Boundaries Navigating Presenting, Shame, and the “Velvet Rage” Creating a Safe and Affirming Space for Gay Clients Using Social Media and Influencers as Cultural Education Therapist Takeaways Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Therapy Insurance and Billing Trends for Private Practice in 2025: An Interview with Sanjana Sathya Curt and Katie chat with Sanjana Sathya, co-founder of Thrizer, about the current landscape of mental health billing and insurance. Drawing from the 2025 State of Mental Health Insurance and Marketing report, Sanjana shares insights from hundreds of clinicians on reimbursement trends, hybrid practice models, and strategies for reducing administrative burden. They explore how therapists can make sustainable choices about private pay, insurance, and out-of-network billing — all while preparing for future changes in the mental health field. Transcripts and more information for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode, we talk about how insurance is working for therapy right now Therapists in private practice must make choices between insurance, private pay, or hybrid billing. They all have pros and cons that can shift as the economy and insurance reimbursement rates change. We talked with our partner, Sanjana Sathya from Thrizer about a survey they conducted to identify what the state of insurance is now. ·       Survey insights on therapist billing models ·       Pros and cons of accepting insurance as a therapist ·       Exploring private pay and hybrid models for therapy practices ·       What is out-of-network billing and how can therapists use this model to best effect? ·       How therapists can choose a trustworthy billing service ·       How to future-proof your therapy practices Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/

Navigating Incel Culture: Therapy Approaches for Manosphere Clients Curt and Katie respond to all the discussions that popped up about the Netflix series Adolescence and its portrayal of a 13-year-old boy accused of murder. We chat about the complexities of working with clients labeled as "incels." We also explore the importance of understanding the impact of that label (especially when clients are not self-identified as “incels”), internet culture - particularly the manosphere, and the challenges therapists can face when working with clients holding these beliefs.  Transcripts and additional information for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com! In this podcast episode we discuss working with clients labeled as "incels" Curt and Katie explore the focus on “incels” in the discussions about the Netflix series Adolescence. We dive into the nuances of understanding internet subcultures and how therapists can effectively work with clients influenced by the manosphere, while also addressing concerns about suicidality, homicidality, and therapy strategies. What is an "Incel" and where does that term fit into the evolution of the manosphere internet community? Challenges in therapy with clients from the manosphere (incels, red pill, men's rights groups) The intersection of autism and the incel community in therapy Safety concerns: Suicidality and homicidality in clients from manosphere communities Strategies for effective therapy with clients from the incel/manosphere communities Key treatment goals when working with clients from the incel community Stay in Touch with Curt, Katie, and the whole Therapy Reimagined #TherapyMovement: Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits: Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/