Texas Counselors Creating Badass Businesses

Ever felt that twinge of awkwardness when the topic of money arises in your therapy practice? Join us as we strip away the discomfort with my insightful guest, Jennifer, guiding you through the complexities of financial discussions in the counseling room. We're tackling the big questions head-on: How do you introduce your rates with confidence? What's the smoothest way to handle declined payments? And how do you maintain the integrity of your practice while being compassionate to those facing financial hurdles? Our conversation is a treasure trove of strategies for any private practitioner seeking to balance ethical considerations with the bottom line. This episode isn't just about the numbers; it's about fostering respectful, clear-cut relationships with your clients from the get-go. We'll share our combined wisdom on setting, discussing, and sticking to your fees and policies, including the sticky situations of no-shows and rate increases. Discover how to apply sliding fee scales ethically and fairly, the potential perks of pro bono work, and the value of mentorship in offering affordable services. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or embarking on your private practice journey, our exchange is designed to equip you with the tools you need to navigate these waters with ease and professionalism. With Jennifer's expertise, we're shining a light on the path to a financially and ethically sound practice.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Embark on a voyage through the transformative landscape of counseling with Dr. Tara Fox from Midwestern State University as our guide, uncovering the often-intricate journey from graduate student to Licensed Professional Counselor associate. In the heart of Texas, where the path to licensure is as sprawling as the state itself, Dr. Fox bestows upon us her knowledge, from the art of tracking clinical hours to finding that perfect supervisor who will champion your growth and align with your counseling ethos. Her astute advice doesn't stop there; for online students, she lays out a blueprint for building professional relationships that are both meaningful and enduring.As you navigate the waters of LPC supervision and licensing, it's paramount to find a supervisor who not only aligns with your professional aspirations but also provides a secure anchor for your developing practice. Dr. Fox shines a light on the questions you should be asking to gauge compatibility and supervision styles and underscores the importance of a strong, genuine connection. This chapter doesn't shy away from the realities of ethical practice and staying abreast of the ever-evolving professional regulations, ensuring you're well-equipped to apply for that coveted LPC Associate license in Texas with confidence.Lastly, we address the nitty-gritty of practical hours and the sometimes daunting transition from student to professional. For those wondering if school counseling practicum hours fit the bill for LPC requirements, we've got answers. And for those pondering the chicken-or-the-egg dilemma of finding a supervisor versus landing a job, we clarify the steps to ensure a seamless transition. Dr. Fox also arms you with a realistic timeline for acquiring your LPC associate license, sparing you from common pitfalls that could delay your start in this rewarding profession. Tune in for an episode rich with insights, poised to fortify your journey toward making a profound impact in the lives of others through counseling.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Navigating the financial and ethical tightrope of side hustles in the counseling field can be as complex as the human mind itself. This episode peels back the layers on the reality that many counselors face as 1099 independent contractors, where the pressure of financial instability can cloud clinical judgment and ultimately impact the quality of care provided to clients. We don't just talk about the stress of juggling multiple income streams, though. Our discussion opens up a toolkit of strategies, from the support of partners to alternate jobs, that can help solopreneurs balance their books and preserve the sanctity of their practice.Embrace the courage to tread uncharted career paths with us, as we also spotlight the importance of professional growth that resonates with personal fulfillment. You'll hear an inspiring story of a counselor who kneads her passion for baking into her therapeutic approach, illustrating that diversifying interests can lead to innovative and fulfilling career avenues. Let's challenge the norms of career progression and explore the ethical pursuit of side hustles that not only provide financial security but also enrich the lives of counselors and clients alike. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a novice in the field of counseling, this episode promises insights into maintaining integrity while building a multifaceted career.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Embark on a journey to seamless tax management with Dr. Olivia Wedel, a beacon of wisdom in the labyrinth of tax law for professional counselors. Feel the empowerment course through your veins as we dissect the essentials of record keeping, navigate the chasms between 1099 and W-2 positions, and unpack the ethical considerations that are pivotal to your practice. Dr. Wedel brings her rich tapestry of experience to the table, ensuring you'll come away with a toolkit brimming with strategies to make peace with the IRS and keep your financial health in check.Let's shift gears and explore the linchpin of business success: unshakeable organization and meticulous planning. Learn how honing your skills through training and education isn't just a career-booster; it's a lifeline for ensuring compliance with professional standards and laws. I'll illuminate the paths of setting competitive hourly rates and forecasting annual expenses, ensuring that every step you take in your private practice plants you firmly on the ground of prosperity. Finally, we chart the territory of business entities and tax preparation, where choices like PLLCs, LLCs, and S-Corps shape your fiscal landscape. With recent changes stirring the federal waters on worker classification, understanding these nuances has never been more crucial. Dr. Waddell and I will guide you through the maze, offering financial tips and sage advice for managing your practice's wellbeing, striking the perfect balance between deductions and solid business decisions. Tune in for an episode that transforms daunting tax tasks into a mastered craft, exclusively for our dedicated listeners.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

As our counseling practices flourish, we're faced with the critical task of balancing ethical standards with the burgeoning demand for our services. This episode promises to guide you through the thorny issues ranging from the use of client testimonials and navigating the pitfalls of Google reviews to ensuring compliance with HIPAA and House Bill 300. We tackle the potential for burnout during the delicate transition from agency work to private practice, and share effective strategies for self-care and professional sustainability. If you're curious about incorporating AI into your practice without overstepping ethical boundaries, you won't want to miss the wisdom imparted by guest expert Jenny Melrose, who also provides the opportunity for earning continuing education credits through her illuminating webinar.Navigating the murky waters of content creation is no simple feat in the mental health profession—misrepresenting your skills in pursuit of market appeal can lead to serious consequences. We'll confront the ethical quandaries in advertising, particularly concerning the accurate portrayal of one's expertise in sensitive areas like eating disorders. Struggling with client waitlists? We offer ethical and practical solutions to provide value while clients anticipate your services. Moreover, the complex journey of trademarking, as I've personally experienced with AchieveBalance.org, is demystified, showing how it integrates with ethical business expansion. This episode wraps with a call to uphold responsibility, especially in rural and underserved communities, while extending an invitation to collaborate and grow within our professional support network.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Ever felt like business numbers were a beast you couldn't tame? Fear not, because this time, I'm pulling back the curtain on the mystique of financial data, sharing the journey from trepidation to triumph. We'll explore the essential role of financial literacy in business success, using vivid metaphors to illustrate two distinct approaches: the precision of the 'driller' and the creativity of the 'butterfly collector'. Whether you're averse to arithmetic or a numbers nerd, I promise you'll walk away with the tools and confidence to tackle the analytics of your business like a pro.Strap in as we dive into the heart of client conversion rates within a therapeutic practice. You'll hear firsthand how to track the path from a curious caller to a committed client, and the stumbling blocks that can sabotage success. We'll equip you with strategies to fine-tune your communication, sharpen your client engagement, and leverage tech to make your practice as efficient as it is effective. This episode isn't just about crunching numbers; it's about crafting a thriving practice that stands out as an indispensable pillar in your community.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Unlock the secrets to ethically garnering Google reviews as a counselor with Dr. Kate Walker. This episode promises to guide practitioners through the complex terrain of client feedback, highlighting the importance of respecting professional boundaries while leveraging online tools for business growth. As we walk together, you'll gain insight into the ethical nuances that make the counseling profession unique, especially when it comes to managing your digital presence and ensuring your services are appropriately and effectively showcased.Navigating the landscape of Google My Business can be tricky for counselors wary of crossing ethical lines, but with Dr. Walker's expert advice, it becomes a path of integrity and professionalism. She details the steps to claim and maintain your business listing and why colleague reviews, rather than client testimonials, are the gold standard in our industry. You'll learn how to organize your marketing tools using platforms like Trello to safeguard client confidentiality while still promoting your practice wisely.Wrapping up the episode, the focus shifts to outcome surveys as a tool for refining your counseling services and reinforcing business success. Dr. Walker emphasizes the collection of anonymous client data to maintain privacy while highlighting your effectiveness and areas for improvement. She assures Texas counselors that an ethical approach to soliciting feedback not only upholds our duty to clients but also strengthens our practices, ensuring that these vital services continue to reach those in need with utmost integrity.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Let's face it, New Year's resolutions often lead us down a path of high hopes followed by an all-too-familiar sense of letdown. As Dr. Kate Walker, I've been there, but today I'm shedding light on a game-changer that's reshaping the landscape of personal and professional growth: fear setting. Inspired by Tim Ferriss and his powerful TED Talk, I'm taking you through a transformative process that goes beyond the usual goal-setting. It's about confronting the fears that stifle our progress and turning them into stepping stones for success. If you're ready for a fresh take on achieving your counseling career dreams, this episode is your ticket to breaking the cycle of unmet resolutions.In this powerful episode, I delve into the core of Tim Ferriss's fear-setting philosophy and how it's revolutionized my approach to running a business and embracing personal change. The idea of taking a sabbatical used to send shivers down my spine, but through strategic delegation and facing down my financial and control-related fears, I've unlocked a level of empowerment and innovation I never knew possible. From a modest two-week getaway to month-long solo journeys, I demonstrate the incredible rewards of calculated risks. Join me as I lay out the transformative steps to navigate your deepest fears, setting you on a course to a more fulfilling counseling practice and life.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Ever wondered how small healthcare businesses tackle the colossal task of HIPAA compliance? I'm Dr. Kate Walker, and I promise to guide you through the labyrinth of conducting an annual HIPAA audit, ensuring you're armed with the knowledge to protect your clients' sensitive information. This isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about understanding the vital role you play as a custodian of Protected Health Information (PHI), whether you're a licensed practitioner or not. Our discussion will demystify the complexities of HIPAA, alongside Texas' House Bill 300, to help you establish a robust self-audit system that doesn't just aim for perfection but prioritizes continuous improvement and adherence to crucial regulations.As your navigator through these murky waters, I'll illuminate the distinctions between systems that manage PHI and the significance of having ironclad policies, breach response plans, and a culture of accountability. Small healthcare business owners, listen up: it's time to embrace comprehensive training for all staff and integrate practice risk training into your routine. Remember, staying informed and prepared isn't just a best practice—it's your ethical and legal shield. So, join me, roll up your sleeves, and let's secure your practice's compliance and integrity together.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Embark on a marketing odyssey with us and Jenny Melrose, a virtuoso in speaking the language of client growth through SEO and keyword optimization. We dissect the code behind Key Performance Indicators and craft strategies tailored for clients on divergent timelines, from those in dire need to the ones still contemplating. As we map out our journey, akin to my impending trek across Spain, we share invaluable insights on how to position your business as the go-to solution in urgent scenarios and how to cater to the more reflective search habits of potential clients. You'll also learn the intricacies of tracking your digital footprint with tools like Pretty Links, ensuring every step of your growth is measured and accounted for.In the realm of client engagement, the conversation takes a deep dive into building relationships that last and improving your practice's visibility. We tackle the nuances of navigating the digital marketplace, from optimizing content that climbs the Google search ladder to engaging proactively in community activities for heightened visibility. Whether you're balancing the scales between cash payments and insurance claims, or curating content that resonates from the first click, this episode is your compass. Plus, we offer a candid look at redefining user experience with a personal tale about streamlining navigation on our own 'start here' feature, proving that sometimes the smallest tweaks make the biggest ripples. Join us as we share the blueprint for a thriving practice that stands out in a sea of online noise.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Embark on a journey to demystify the latest CE requirements for Texas LPCs with me, Dr. Kate Walker, as your guide. I promise, by the end of our discussion, you'll have a confident grasp on the 2024 changes, including the notorious "50% rule." This isn't just another rundown of regulations; it's an in-depth exploration designed to arm you with the strategies you need to effortlessly align your continuing education with the new professional standards. Whether you're concerned about navigating the updated September LPC rules or identifying the right providers, I've got you covered. Brace yourself for a wealth of practical advice on how the "50% rule" will affect your license renewal and how to steer clear of common pitfalls that could disrupt your professional development. There's no need to tackle the approval criteria for providers alone; join the conversation in our Facebook group to exchange insights and get those burning questions answered. With upcoming January trainings and my guidance throughout this episode of Step it Up Training, you're set to face these changes with confidence and your license renewal process with ease.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Embark on a journey with me, Dr. Kate Walker, as we craft a powerful marketing plan for the year ahead that's designed to not only captivate clients but also to cultivate a community of enthusiastic supporters. Tired of the same old marketing tactics that don't yield results? Strap in as we traverse the landscape of strategic planning, wielding tools like Trello to chart a course that's as organized as it is creative. It's not just about the hard sell; it's about nurturing relationships and offering solutions, becoming an integral part of your community's fabric. Hear firsthand how I fuse social media savvy with business growth strategies, and how you too can measure your marketing success despite ever-evolving platform policies.In this engaging session, we'll dissect the anatomy of setting and achieving your business goals, using Trello to keep our targets in sight and our performance on track. I'll reveal the secret to breaking down the year into phases of learning and growth, ensuring you're well-equipped in January and February before sowing the seeds of engagement come March. Pursuing a 10% conversion rate might seem daunting, but with tangible objectives like a weekly client count or an annual revenue target, the path to success is demystified. As we wrap up, I extend my heartfelt thanks to our community and remind you that the most significant investment you can make is in your own professional development. So, power up your ambition, and let's elevate your business to new heights together.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Stop what you're doing and think about your business finances—are they as separate from your personal life as your work wardrobe? If not, prepare to be equipped with everything you need to untangle that knot, just in time for tax season. I'm Dr. Kate Walker, and in our latest episode, I take you through the importance of having distinct business accounts and share a checklist that will transform your financial management from stressful to streamlined. Don't forget the incomparable Olivia Waddell will be joining me again sharing financial insights during our upcoming free webinar on March 28th.Prepare to be inspired as I divulge the journey of transitioning Kate Walker Training to an S corp, illuminating the pathway for your own business evolution. We'll also touch on setting clear, achievable goals for Q1, ensuring you kick off the year with a firm grip on your profits and a solid plan for your quarterly taxes. Whether you're a counseling professional or a business maven in another field, this episode is a treasure trove of actionable advice and heartfelt encouragement to take control of your finances and, by extension, your future success. Don't miss Olivia's powerhouse tips; they'll be the gift that keeps on giving throughout the fiscal year. So, grab your favorite note-taking tools, and let's set the stage for a financially savvy 2023!Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Get ready to take your professional practice to the next level as we guide you through the must-do's of starting 2024 on the right foot. I assure you, by the end of our conversation, you'll have every tool necessary to ensure your paperwork and online presence are not just spotless, but also fully compliant with the latest standards and regulations. As we cover everything from consent forms to social media policies and website content, expect no less than a masterclass in precision and compliance that will serve as your foundation for the year ahead.Navigating the intersection of technology and therapy, we confront the delicate topic of client interactions on social media, sharing strategies to keep those professional boundaries intact. With insights drawn from real-world scenarios, we discuss the importance of a well-crafted social media policy, designating a records custodian, and tactfully handling work with minors. Our conversation is rich with information that not only keeps your practice ethical but also amplifies client trust. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or a supervisor, this episode is your blueprint for maintaining a robust and transparent practice as we embrace the new year.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Discover the secrets to teaching supervisees how to conduct successful couple therapy with Dr. Kate Walker, as she unveils her distinct approach to couple intakes. If you're a therapist seeking to enhance your sessions, you're in for a treat! This episode is packed with techniques to ensure both partners feel heard, from the pivotal initial interview to the establishment of individual goals. Plus, Dr. Walker's three-point wrap-up offers invaluable feedback and actionable steps, improving your ability to navigate complex issues like addiction or domestic violence during intakes.Join us and gain insight into the intricate process of relationship assessment, especially when untangling the web of infidelity. Dr. Walker provides a compassionate roadmap for supporting the betrayed partner and emphasizes the 'how' of couple interactions over the 'what.' This episode is more than a lesson in therapy mechanics; it's a masterclass in adopting a systems perspective to be the calming influence that couples need. With Dr. Walker's guidance, learn how to create a timeline of significant events, use the Holmes and Rahe scale to understand stress, and actively involve couples in their therapeutic journey for a profound and lasting impact.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Hey there, badass! Tired of monotonous webinars and yearning for a breakthrough in your counseling career? Your search ends here. We've got a wealth of information to help you transition from the traditional modes of private practice to a smart, efficient, and ethical system. Our focus is to equip you to expand your practice while maintaining ethical standards, especially when adding therapists to your team. Together, we'll navigate the complexities of onboarding, training, evaluating, and paying associates, grad students, and other licensed professionals.Ever wondered how you could crack the code of appropriately structuring your pay for associates and grad students without compromising on ethics? We're dropping some major knowledge bombs on that front. We're dissecting the ethical implications of fee splitting, flat fees, and separate fees for supervision and bringing to light the potential pitfalls you need to avoid when paying associates for their services as well as for their supervision. This episode is a must-listen, designed to ensure you're not left in the lurch when dealing with these tricky situations.But wait, there's more! We're taking it up a notch with some stellar insights on expanding your marketing presence while sustaining your practice. Offering you an inside peek at our exclusive programs like the Step it Up membership, the Supervisor Training, and the Badass Basics program. Dr. Kate Walker will spill the beans about our mastermind groups that offer hands-on learning. This episode is brimming with unique insights that can revolutionize your counseling career. So, buckle up! It's time to break free from the mundane and step into the extraordinary.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Have you ever wondered how to streamline your counseling practice's onboarding process? Are you struggling to find high-quality continuing education courses that won't disrupt your work-life balance? I know from personal experience how chaotic and frustrating this process can be. That's why I'm going to walk you through the essentials of an employee onboarding process in this compelling conversation. In addition to this don't forget to check out the podcast episode with Ashley Hubbard who walks us through her policy and procedures manual. When I first started, I made a slew of mistakes. But with time, I learned and created  Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for my practice. I can't emphasize enough how crucial this is! The more your staff understands the protocols, the smoother everything runs. And guess what, it's not just about protocols, it's also about understanding the laws surrounding confidential information, specifically HIPAA. Especially for unlicensed staff, this can be a game-changer. Wondering about an example of a SOP might be? You'll also hear about my out-of-the-box 10-step process to turning a webinar into a course and eventually into a Continuing Education unit. All housed in a shared Google Drive, simple, organized, and efficient. Finding quality continuing education courses doesn't have to be a hassle anymore. Plus, there's a special bonus I'm offering for my 40-hour LPC/LMFT supervisor training course in October. Believe me; it's a golden opportunity. Don't forget to tune in; this episode is packed with practical know-how and tips that are sure to help you grow your practice.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Are you ready to transform your career in mental health? I've got exciting news about free webinars for Texas counselors and our Counseling Grant Giveaway - over $1,000 in practice grants for those serving rural and underserved communities! But that's not all. We'll also be unpacking the OER triad, discussing the importance of having a solid remediation plan before parting ways with a supervisor, and delving into the process of teaching ethical practices. Learn how to create effective remediation plans and manage situations when a supervisee doesn't live up to expectations. Whether you're a seasoned mental health professional or just starting your journey, listen in. Let’s make a difference in the mental health field together.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Ever wished there was a comprehensive tool that would enhance your interactions with your supervisees, offering transparency, structure, and efficiency? A guarantee sits here for you to discover just that in the form of a Supervision Onboarding Checklist. I'll walk you through both a graduate student and a post-graduate checklist. With grad students I'll talk about the importance of having an emergency contact, supervisee details, including school, internship name, professor's contact information, and vital training like HIPAA. Our chat covers how to turn these items into checkboxes, ensuring you don't miss out any important details and keep everything well-organized, along with highlighting the significance of a policy and procedure signature page.For post-graduate Associates, we'll move a step further and delve into the critical aspects of documenting specific dates related to your supervisee's work journey. From the starting and ending dates of their breaks to the crucial 18 months on-the-job training, we've got you covered. We'll also address tax classification and payment agreements for supervisees, along with the necessity of a release of information to other sites they might be working at. Additionally, we will shed light on the indispensability of HIPAA training, orientation, and malpractice insurance. With a look at the effective use of scheduling and time-tracking systems, this episode is packed with strategies to elevate your supervisory role to the next level. Tune in as we decode these invaluable tools for you!Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.

Ready to turn your introductory client calls into confirmed sessions with ease? Join Dr. Kate Walker as she reveals her "Call that Books a Client" training, a powerful strategy that's been meticulously crafted to bolster your client conversion rates. Whether you're starting fresh or aiming to polish your established cash-based practice, this episode is brimming with tangible advice to sharpen your intake process. Discover the subtle yet critical aspects of scheduling, like pinpointing the perfect consultation times for various client demographics, and learn why scripting your calls could be the game-changer you need for consistency and success. Plus, for those juggling the complexities of larger practices, I've got a treasure trove of resources including episode 45 of Texas Counselors Creating Badass Businesses that promise to streamline your operations.Take a front-row seat as we explore the art of improving client booking rates through a blend of personal touch and technology. I'll guide you through the nuances of setting up consultations that resonate with potential clients, utilizing scheduling software for seamless interactions, and best practices for meetings that leave lasting impressions. This isn't just about filling your calendar; it's about nurturing relationships and planting seeds for future referrals. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this episode will equip you with insights to elevate your counseling services above the rest, fostering growth and client commitment within your practice.Get your step by step guide to private practice. Because you are too important to lose to not knowing the rules, going broke, burning out, and giving up. #counselorsdontquit.