I’m Jane and I’m an ex counsellor that now works with other counsellors to grow their private practice, hence the name of the show.
I’m the author of the Grow Your Private Practice book and also run the Grow Your Private Practice Club, where counsellors can get together and learn all about marketing
Okay, that’s the official stuffy 'about me' bit out of the way, because honestly, it’s so much more than that.
The truth is, the thing that really drives me, is helping people - people like you - to get more freedom and choice into your life so can work when you want to, how you want to and with the issues that you’re passionate about.
And importantly, to get paid properly to do so.
Because you have the freedom and choice to run a thriving practice whilst also creating a fulfilling life for both yourself and your family.
If you want that too, please click subscribe. I hope you enjoy listening.
Why People Stop Going to Counselling – And Never Come Back
Have you ever found yourself wondering why a client came to one or two sessions… and then never booked again?
It's one of the hardest parts of being a counsellor. Your mind starts trying to fill in the blanks. You replay conversations, question yourself and wonder whether there was something you missed.
But what if you've been asking the wrong question?
In this episode, we're looking at a different way of thinking about clients who don't continue with counselling. One that could change how you view those experiences, reduce some of the self-doubt that so many counsellors carry, and even influence the way you talk about yourself on your website.
If you've ever questioned yourself after a client didn't return, I think this episode might give you a fresh perspective.
Links mentioned🌱 Write Your Homepage
If you'd like a homepage that helps the right people recognise they've found someone they can imagine talking to, you can find out more here:
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/write-your-homepage/
☕ Buy Me a Coffee
If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support it, you can buy me a coffee here.
➡️ Buy Me a Coffee
And check out all my free and paid resources HERE
Have You Lost Your Mojo?Have you ever found yourself thinking, 'I just can't be bothered anymore'?
Perhaps you're putting things off, struggling to get motivated or wondering whether you've simply fallen out of love with private practice. Maybe you've even caught yourself thinking, 'Shall I just pack it all in and go and get a 'proper' job?'
If so, you're definitely not the only one.
In this episode, I'm talking about those times when your motivation seems to disappear and everything suddenly feels like hard work. More importantly, I'm sharing the one question that's helped me look at those moments in a completely different way.
It might just change the way you think about your own 'lost mojo' too.
Mentioned in this episode🌱 The Complete Support Package
Three months of personalised support to help you build strong foundations, get found by more of the right clients, and grow your private practice with confidence.
➡️ Find out more: The Complete Support Package
☕ Buy Me a Coffee
If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support it, you can buy me a coffee here.
➡️ Buy Me a Coffee
And check out all my free and paid resources HERE
Have you ever wondered whether your website makes as much sense to your future clients as it does to you?
One of the things I've noticed after reviewing hundreds of counselling websites is that it's surprisingly easy to forget what it's like not to know what we know. We naturally write using the language we've spent years learning, often without realising that some of those words can leave potential clients feeling uncertain or out of their depth.
In this episode, I'm sharing a simple way to look at your website through your future client's eyes. It's a small shift, but it can make it much easier for people to understand what you do, what your qualifications actually mean and whether you're the right counsellor for them.
In this episode, we cover:* Why websites that seem perfectly clear to us can feel very different to potential clients. * The question I ask whenever I write about qualifications or counselling approaches. * How to describe your counselling approach in language your future clients will understand. * Why reducing uncertainty makes it easier for people to take that first step. * A simple change that could make your website work much harder for you.
Mentioned in this episodeStart Here: Explore my free and paid resources, services and membership:
Write Your Homepage
Grow Your Private Practice Membership
☕ If these episodes have helped you and you'd like to say thank you, you can buy me a coffee here: Buy Me A Coffee
You've spent time creating a professional website. It looks good, you've explained what you do, and you're proud of how it represents your practice.
So why aren't more people getting in touch?
In this episode, I'm exploring one of the biggest misconceptions about counselling websites. It isn't always the design, your qualifications or even your SEO that's stopping people from contacting you.
Instead, we'll look at what might really be happening when someone lands on your website and leaves without taking the next step.
If you've ever wondered why your website isn't bringing the enquiries you hoped for, this episode is for you.
In this episode we'll explore:
Whether you're creating a new website or improving the one you already have, this episode will give uou a few things to change to keep them around
🌱 Read the accompanying blog:
Why Good Counselling Websites Still Don't Get Enquiries
Write Your Homepage (1:1)
If you'd like my help creating a homepage that helps the right clients feel confident enough to get in touch, you can find out more here:
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/write-your-homepage
☕ Enjoyed this episode?
If you'd like to support the podcast, you can buy me a coffee here:
https://buymeacoffee.com/janetravis
Running a private practice teaches us all sorts of practical things. We learn about websites, marketing, SEO, blogging, Google Business Profiles... the list goes on. But what if some of the biggest lessons have nothing to do with marketing at all?
This week, I share something that happened during the recent UK heatwave that completely caught me by surprise. After missing a podcast episode for the first time in 255 weeks, I found myself asking why taking a break felt so uncomfortable - and the answer wasn't what I expected.
It led me to think about the way our businesses can reveal old beliefs, habits and patterns we've been carrying around for years without even realising it.
If you've ever struggled with guilt, boundaries, people-pleasing, procrastination, or simply feeling as though you should always be doing more, I think you'll find something to relate to in this episode.
In this episode, we explore:* What a heatwave unexpectedly revealed about me. * Why taking time off felt much harder than I thought it would. * The little voice in my head that I'd somehow never questioned. * What running a private practice can teach us about ourselves. * One simple shift that can change the way we respond to the challenges in our business.
Why this mattersIt's easy to think our biggest challenges in private practice are about marketing, confidence or finding more clients. Sometimes they are. But sometimes they're pointing us towards something much deeper. The more we understand ourselves, the easier it becomes to build a business that feels sustainable, authentic and genuinely works for us.
Links and resources🌱 Read the accompanying blog: The Unexpected Personal Growth That Comes with Private Practice
🌱 Explore The Vault – my free library of resources for counsellors:
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/vault/
🌱 Find out more about how we can work together https://www.janetravis.co.uk/start-here
Have you ever spent ages thinking about your homepage, your blogs or your directory profile... and then completely forgotten about your contact page?
You're not alone.
Most counsellors put a lot of effort into getting people to visit their website. But when someone finally decides they might want to get in touch, what happens next?
In this week's episode, I'm talking about one of the most overlooked pages on a counselling website - your contact page.
In this episodeWe explore why your contact page matters far more than many people realise, and some simple ways to make it feel more welcoming, reassuring and helpful for potential clients.
You'll discover:
You may discover that one of the easiest ways to improve your website isn't getting more visitors at all - it's helping the visitors you already have feel ready to take the next step.
LinksRead the accompanying blog:
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/your-contact-page-the-most-overlooked-page-on-your-website-and-how-to-improve-it/
Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership:
https://www.growyourprivatepractice.co.uk
Start here:
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/start-here/
Have you ever had that experience where you attend a training course, read a book or listen to a podcast and realise you already know most of it?
That's what sparked this week's episode.
It's easy to assume that if something feels obvious to us, it must be obvious to everyone else too. But what if that's not true? What if some of the things you've stopped noticing are actually some of the most valuable things you know?
In this episode, I'm exploring why experienced counsellors often underestimate their own knowledge, how familiarity can disguise expertise, and why the insights that feel most ordinary to you may be exactly what somebody else needs to hear.
In this episode we talk about:* Why expertise rarely arrives with a fanfare * The marketing training that made me realise how much I'd learned * The lightbulb moments that stayed with me from TA training * Why clients often remember things that counsellors take for granted * How familiarity can hide the value of what you know * A question I'd love you to spend some time thinking about
Links☕ Support the podcast (and the occasional cappuccino): Buy Me a Coffee
🌱 Grow Your Private Practice membership
🌐 Jane Travis
For all my free and paid resources, Start Here
Do you ever get the feeling that everyone else has somehow worked it all out?
That they're more confident, more organised, more successful, and somehow managing to keep up with all the things you're convinced you should be doing?
Perhaps you've found yourself thinking:
'I should have sorted my website by now.'
'I should be posting more.'
'I should know what I'm doing by now.'
If any of that sounds familiar, you're not alone.
In this episode, I'm exploring a word that fascinated me when I worked as a counsellor, and one that I still hear all the time in conversations about private practice and marketing.
It's a tiny word, but it often carries far more weight than we realise.
We'll look at what might be hiding underneath those thoughts about websites, blogs, visibility and confidence, and why so many capable counsellors end up feeling as though they're falling short.
And somewhere along the way, I'd like to ask a question that might change how you think about your private practice:
Who decided you were behind in the first place?
In this episode* The counselling question I used to ask whenever I heard a client use a particular word * Why private practice can become a breeding ground for unrealistic expectations * The hidden comparison sitting underneath many marketing worries * A simple idea that might help you see your progress more clearly
Links and Resources📖 Related blog:
From Self-Doubt to Self-Confidence: 8 Strategies for Therapists to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
📚 The Vault - Free resources for counsellors
For all my free and paid resources, Start Here
☕ Enjoying the podcast?
If you'd like to support the show, you can buy me a coffee using the link below. Every contribution helps me keep creating free blogs, podcast episodes and resources for counsellors in private practice.
Buy Me A Coffee
If you've ever looked at another counsellor's website and thought:
"That sounds really professional. Maybe I should say something like that."
… you're not alone.
Most counsellors learn how to be counsellors before they learn how to market themselves, so it's only natural that we look around at other websites and directory profiles for clues about what we're "supposed" to say.
The trouble is that when everybody uses the same language, potential clients can struggle to work out who they're looking at and whether that counsellor is the right fit for them.
In this episode, I'm exploring why phrases like safe, confidential and non-judgemental aren't the problem in themselves, but why they may not be enough to help potential clients understand what makes you different.
We talk about:
Mentioned in this episodeWrite Your Homepage
If you're struggling to turn what you know into website copy that helps potential clients recognise themselves and get in touch, you'll find details of my Write Your Homepage session here: Write Your Homepage
Buy Me a CoffeeA huge thank you to Kate for recently buying me a coffee (and cake!).
If you've found the podcast helpful and would like to support the time that goes into creating these episodes and blog posts, you can buy me a coffee here: Buy Me A Coffee
Related readingCan You Help Your Clients... And Do They Know It?
What if the reason marketing feels so hard… is because you’ve been trying to do it in a way that doesn’t actually fit you?
Because so many counsellors believe they need to be:
And this conversation goes in a very different direction.
This week, I’m joined by the fabulous Melitta Campbell, award-winning business coach, TEDx speaker, and author of Value Whispering.
We talk about the kind of marketing that feels more human, more relationship-driven, and far more sustainable for people who don’t want to spend their lives trying to be the loudest person online.
There’s also a really interesting part of the conversation where we accidentally drift into talking about sales… and why counsellors may already be far better at those conversations than they realise.
This episode is for you if:
Links & Resources* Melitta’s free chapter of Value Whispering * The Art of Value Whispering podcast * Melitta Campbell website * Connect on LinkedIn
There are some blogs you sit down and plan, and then there are the ones that keep coming back when you’re trying to switch off.
This episode is about one of those.
It started with something I kept noticing about counsellors, and the more I saw it, the harder it became to ignore. Not just what people were struggling with, but what they were making it mean about themselves… and how much weight that was carrying.
I didn’t set out to write a blog about it. I just found myself wanting to say something to those people.
This is about what happened next, and why I nearly didn’t share it.
🔗 The open letters I mentionedIf you want to see the kind of blogs I’m talking about, these are the ones that came from moments like that:
An open letter to therapists with mental health issues
An open letter to new counsellors and therapists
An open letter to the counsellor who’s finding marketing hard
Dear Santa
🌱 Want to try writing one?This month’s Framework First walks you through exactly how to write this kind of blog, step by step: Framework First Blogging Method
👋 New here?If this is the first time you’ve come across my work, this is the best place to start: Start Here
If you’ve come across terms like E-E-A-T or YMYL recently and thought…
“I feel like I should know what that means…”
You’re definitely not alone.
In this episode, I’m joined by Theo Ruby - someone I’ve worked with for years and regularly refer people to when they need help with the tech and SEO side of their website.
We’re talking about what’s actually changing when it comes to Google… and why, for once, it’s actually good news for counsellors.
What we cover in this episodeWe talk about:
Why this mattersThis isn’t about trying to “keep up with SEO.”
It’s about something much simpler.
👉 helping the right people find you
👉 helping them recognise themselves in what you write
👉 and making it easier for them to feel confident reaching out
And actually…
Most counsellors are already doing parts of this.
It’s just about being a bit more intentional with it.
A simple example we talk aboutInstead of writing:
“Anxiety can be managed using…”
You might say:
“In my work with clients, I’ve found…”
Same idea but now you’re showing:
And that’s exactly the kind of thing Google is starting to prioritise.
One key takeawayThis is the bit I really want you to take away:
You don’t need to:
You just need to:
👉 show more of what you already bring to your work
Helpful links* Theo’s guide to E-E-A-T: EEAT for Therapists: A Practical Guide to E-E-A-T and YMYL * Join our FREE live workshop with myself and Theo on 14th May : Make Your Private Practice Website Stand Out Online
About Theo RubyTheo Ruby has spent 8 years working exclusively with private practice owners across the UK. He helps therapists, counsellors, and hypnotherapists attract the right clients through SEO, website design, and digital marketing.
Theo knows the mental health sector well. He understands why generic marketing advice rarely fits a private practice, and he builds his work around the specific needs of each practitioner. Having supported hundreds of practice owners, he brings grounded, practical experience to every project. His approach is clear, straightforward, and focused on results that matter. Find out more at theoruby.com.
There are a few things I see on counselling websites all the time.
They’re not big, obvious mistakes. In fact, they’re usually things you’ve added because you’re trying to do things properly - be clear, professional, and helpful.
But the way they show up can quietly change how your website feels to someone who’s already unsure about reaching out.
And that small shift?
It can be enough to make someone hesitate… or leave.
In this episode, I’m talking through three of the most common things I see - the kind that don’t look like a problem on the surface, but can make your website feel heavier, more formal, or just a bit harder to connect with.
If your counselling website isn’t bringing in as many enquiries as you’d expect, there’s a good chance one of these is sitting there.
What we touch on:* The kind of wording that can make your website feel more “official” than you intended * Why timing matters just as much as what you say * A small shift that can change how safe your website feels to a potential client
Mentioned in this episode:I’ve been exploring this idea a bit more here - how trying to say too much on your counselling website can actually get in the way:
👉 Why your counselling website might be trying to do too much
If this has you thinking about your own website…If it feels like something’s not quite landing , like you’re saying all the “right” things but it’s still not connecting - this is exactly what we work through inside Write Your Homepage.
We take everything that’s currently a bit muddled and turn it into something clear. Clear enough that the right person lands on your page and thinks, ‘that’s me’.
With love,
Jane xx
How do you feel when you hear the word 'niche'?
Because for a lot of counsellors, that’s the moment things start to feel… harder.
What sounds simple on the surface can quickly turn into overthinking, second-guessing, and feeling like you need to get it 'right'.
And that can be where everything stalls.
So ithis episode, I’m sharing something I’ve noticed over the years, and why I’ve stopped using the word 'niche' altogether.
Because the problem isn’t always what we think it is.
Inside this episode:* Why this one word can stop people in their tracks * What’s really going on underneath the hesitation * The shift that changes how your marketing starts to land * A different way to think about who you want to work with
If this sounds familiar…If you’ve ever found yourself going round in circles trying to 'figure out your niche', this episode might give you a different way of looking at it.
✍️ Want help putting this into words?If you’d like support getting clear on who you love working with and turning that into something that actually connects with clients, check out Write Your Homepage
🔗 Links:* Read the blog version * Explore more resources
Stay connected:* Follow the podcast so you don’t miss the next episode.
Links & next stepsIf this episode has you thinking, “oh… this feels different… this feels possible”… then this is exactly the work we do together.
My Write Your Homepage session is where we take all those thoughts swirling around your head and shape them into something clear, honest, and recognisable to the right clients.
Because you don’t need to become someone else to make your marketing work.
You just need help putting into words what you already know (even if it doesn’t feel like it yet).
👉 Take a look and see if it feels like the right next step
And if you’re not quite ready for that, that’s completely okay.
Start here instead
There’s something that doesn’t quite add up in counselling...
We’re trained to be a blank slate…
and yet we’re also trying to build connection, trust, and a sense that someone feels understood before they even reach out.
So where’s the line?
In this episode, I’m joined by Rainbow Tomes, a counsellor, coach and trainer who describes themselves as a ‘mum on a mission’.
Their work is shaped by lived experience, a strong sense of purpose, and a drive to challenge the systems that don’t always support people in the way they should.
This is a really honest conversation about personal disclosure, visibility, and what it means to be ‘human’ in this work… without losing sight of boundaries.
So if you’ve ever found yourself wondering how much of yourself to share, this one will give you plenty to think about.
What we touch onThe tension between being a ‘blank slate’ and building real connection
What personal disclosure actually looks like in practice
The difference between what you share in a session and in your marketing
Why the therapeutic relationship can’t be one-sided
Stepping into visibility (even when it feels uncomfortable)
Systemic harm, grief, and why naming things matters
🔗 Links & ResourcesRainbow specialises in disenfranchised grief and loss, supporting experiences that are often unseen, unacknowledged, and too often not talked about.
She is the host of the Talking Grief podcast, where she explores these types of conversations in more depth
She is also the founder of The Mental Health People Ltd.
She trains and coaches leaders in more relational, human-centred approaches to mental health and performance. Her work is grounded in a humanistic, integrative approach, incorporating Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Alongside this, she runs a private practice, Rise with Rainbow.
Connect with her on LinkedIn
Start here - my free and paid resources (free resources)
There’s nothing wrong with most counselling websites.
They’re thoughtful. Careful. Full of good intentions.
And yet… people still leave.
In this episode, I’m talking about something I see all the time, websites that are trying to say too much. Not because you’ve got it wrong, but because you care, and you want to get it right.
I share what’s really going on when someone lands on your homepage, why adding more can actually make it harder for someone to choose you, and what to shift so the right clients can actually recognise themselves.
If you’ve ever looked at your website and thought, ‘this sounds fine… but something’s not quite working’, this will help you see why.
OverviewWe’re getting into:
Links & next stepsIf this episode has you looking at your homepage a bit differently, this is exactly what I help with in my Write Your Homepage sessions.
It’s a focused 90-minute session where we take what you’ve already written and shape it so the right people can actually see themselves in it, and feel ready to reach out.
There’s currently an introductory price available until 11th April.
👉 Take a look and see if it feels like the right next step
If you’re not quite ready for that, you can explore more free support here:
👉 Start Here
There are a lot of counsellors out there.
And if you’ve ever looked at your website and thought,
this sounds fine… but it doesn’t really sound like me,
this episode will likely hit close to home.
Because clients aren’t choosing based on qualifications alone.
They’re choosing based on something much harder to define,
but much easier to feel.
In this episode, I’m exploring what’s really going on when someone is deciding who to work with, why two counsellors who look similar on paper can create completely different reactions, and how small shifts in your wording can change everything.
If you’ve ever wondered why people land on your website and don’t reach out, this will give you a different way of looking at it.
Overview What clients are actually responding to when they choose a counsellor * Why being ‘technically right’ in your wording isn’t always enough * The subtle differences that make someone think ‘this person gets me’* * Why counselling isn’t one-size-fits-all, and why that matters in your marketing * How your website shapes the decision before you ever speak to someone
Your next stepIf you’re listening to this and thinking,
‘I don’t think my website is doing that…’
That’s exactly what I focus on in my Write Your Homepage sessions.
We look at how your words are coming across, what your ideal client is picking up on, and how to shape your homepage so it helps the right people feel understood and ready to get in touch.
👉 Find out more about Write Your Homepage
👉 Or, if you want to explore a mix of free and paid support, you can start here
Counsellor or Clone: Breaking Through the Monotony of Online DirectoriesIf your directory profile sounds like everyone else’s, this might be why...
If your counselling directory profile isn’t bringing in enquiries, it might not be what you think.
Because often, it’s not about your qualifications…
or your experience…
or even your approach.
It’s because your profile sounds like everyone else’s.
In this episode, I’m sharing why so many counsellors end up blending in on online directories, and what’s really going on when potential clients scroll past without reaching out.
Because when someone is looking for a therapist, they’re already feeling uncertain, overwhelmed… and often a little vulnerable.
So what makes them stop and think:
👉 “This is the person for me”?
And just as importantly… what makes them keep scrolling?
We’ll explore what might be holding your profile back (even if you’ve put a lot of thought into it already)…
And I’ll walk you through a simple step you can take to start changing how your profile connects - something you can put into practice straight away.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your directory profile is really doing its job…
This is well worth a listen.
Want some extra help?If you’re listening and thinking “I know this needs work, but I don’t know what to change”…
That’s exactly what I help with inside Directory Revival.
👉 https://www.janetravis.co.uk/directory-revival/
I talk a lot about connection in marketing.
How you build it, how you show it, and how it helps potential clients feel comfortable enough to reach out.
But there’s another way of looking at this: one that doesn’t get talked about as much.
And it might explain why someone can read everything you write… and still not take that next step.
In this episode, I’m exploring the know, like and trust factor, but from a slightly different angle. One that fits with the realities of being a counsellor, and doesn’t rely on sharing more or stepping outside your boundaries.
If you’ve ever felt like your marketing is ‘working’ on paper but not quite leading to enquiries, this might give you a different way of understanding why.
What you’ll take away:1. A different way of thinking about know, like and trust in your counselling marketing 2. Why connection on its own isn’t always enough 3. What people are really picking up on when they come across your website or content 4. A simple way to look at your own marketing with fresh eyes 5. Where tools like AI can help, and where they can make things feel a bit less like you
A small shift you can try:There’s one simple question you can ask yourself after listening that can change how your marketing comes across.
I’ll talk you through it in the episode.
More info about The Armchair Test: The Armchair Test: The One Quiet Shift That Will Transform ALL Your Marketing
“Would I Feel Safe With You?” How Clients Really Choose a Counsellor
Want to go a bit deeper?If you’d prefer to read and reflect on this in your own time, I’ve also shared a blog version of this episode.
👉 You can find that here:
[INSERT BLOG LINK]
Need support with your marketing?Inside the Grow Your Private Practice membership, I support counsellors with the practical side of marketing — from your website to identifying your ideal client, blogging, mindset, and everything in between.
So if you’d like some guidance and support with this, you can find out more here:
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/thevault/
Follow so you don’t miss what’s nextIf this is the kind of thing you’ve been thinking about, make sure you follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes.
Many therapists worry about not getting enough clients in private practice.
But there’s another fear that rarely gets talked about.
What if you get too many?
In this episode, I explore a thoughtful email from therapist Laura, who is hesitant about marketing their practice - not because they don’t want clients, but because they are worried about over-committing and under-delivering.
We look at why this concern shows up for so many therapists, how it can influence your marketing decisions, and why avoiding visibility can sometimes lead to the feast-and-famine cycle in private practice.
And most importantly, we talk about what actually protects your workload and wellbeing.
Resources mentioned:
Scripts for Business Boundaries (free resource)
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/thevault/
You might also find these episodes helpfulWhen You Can’t Say Yes: Navigating Email Enquiries with Empathy
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/when-you-cant-say-yes-navigating-email-enquiries-with-empathy/
Demystifying the Fear of Success
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/demystifying-the-fear-of-success/
And for all my free and paid resources, START HERE
You don’t need more time to blog.
You need it to stop feeling so big.
If you’re a counsellor who keeps meaning to write but never quite gets there, this episode explores what’s really getting in the way, and how to make blogging feel doable again.
And if you’ve ever wished someone would just hand you the structure so you could get on with it, I’ll also share how Framework First Blogging Method — my £9/month mini membership — gives you a ready-to-use blogging framework on the first Monday of every month.
Because often, it’s not the writing that’s hard.
It’s figuring out how to shape it.
And for all my free and paid resources, Start Here
How to Organise Blog Posts and Keep Track of Your ContentDo you know exactly what blog posts you’ve written?
Could you find the right one quickly if a potential client needed it?
Or does your content feel scattered, hard to see at a glance and harder to use?
In this episode, I’m talking about how to organise blog posts and keep track of your content so your blog becomes something you can actually use, not just something you keep adding to.
And I’ve created a FREE Blog Library Tracker to help you do exactly that.
Inside this episode, we explore:
If your blog feels more like a pile or random posts than a resource, this episode will help you bring structure to it.
Get the Free Blog Library TrackerI’ve created a simple Blog Library Tracker you can use to organise your posts and keep everything in one place.
You’ll find it inside The Vault, my free resource library for counsellors and therapists in private practice.
👉 Access The Vault HERE
Support the PodcastIf you find this podcast helpful, you can support the show by buying me a coffee.
☕ Buy me a coffee HERE
Have you ever started a blog post full of energy… only to abandon it halfway through?
If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you.
We’re not talking about laziness, discipline or “needing to try harder.” We’re talking about what really happens in the middle of a blog post - the moment where doubt creeps in, decisions multiply, and suddenly it feels easier to step away than to finish.
In this episode, I explore:
If you’ve got half-written drafts waiting for you, this one might feel uncomfortably familiar.
Links & ResourcesFramework First – support to help you finish what you start
Buy me a coffee – if you found this helpful
There’s a lot of pressure to be visible all the time.
Post more. Show up more. Keep going.
But what if the marketing that actually works for you doesn’t need you to be constantly ‘on’?
In this episode, I’m talking about a steadier way to get found. The kind that keeps working long after you’ve finished writing.
If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a calmer way to build your practice — this one’s worth a listen.
You don’t need to be everywhere.
You need to be recognised.
LINKSCheck out The Framework First Blogging Method
Free and paid resources
If you found this useful and fancy fuelling the next episode, you can buy me a coffee here buymeacoffee.com/janetravis
Could Email Counselling Be the Quiet Hero of Therapy?With Chloe Foster – Email Counselling Academy
Correction: In this episode I incorrectly called Chloes business 'The Email MARKETING Academy', which was wrong. It's 'The Email COUNSELLING Academy': they work using email counselling, not email marketing.
Also, my sincere apologies to Chloe for any mistakes I made with their pronouns in the recording.
Do you think counselling has to mean sitting face-to-face (or screen-to-screen) with a client?
Well, in this episode, I’m joined by Chloe Foster (they/she), founder of the Email Counselling Academy, who shares why working by email might be the flexible, powerful alternative you didn’t know you needed.
Whether you're looking for a way to work around family life, want to support clients who open up better in writing, or you're just curious about doing therapy differently — this conversation will get you thinking.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
🎧 Hit play to explore whether this quietly powerful format could be the perfect fit for you — and your clients.
About ChloeChloe Foster (they/she) is the founder and principal tutor at Email Counselling Academy (ECA). They also have a private practice called Sussex Rainbow Counselling, founded in 2016, where they offer email counselling as well as video and phone counselling to clients.
With a first-class degree in Education, Chloe loves teaching and training. Over their counselling career they’ve trained hundreds of counsellors to become more confident working with LGBTQ+ clients through their work with the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS), Onlinevents, The Counselling Tutor, and several universities/colleges and counselling charities.
Today, having worked as an email counsellor since 2018, Chloe enjoys sharing the skills they’ve honed with fellow counsellors through their specialist training courses in email counselling at ECA which are mapped to BACP competences for OPT and have been awarded quality check status with the NCPS.
Find her E-book — Email Counselling — An introduction for Counsellors:
You can get 30% discount using the code JANE26 (valid until 30 April 2026)
Blogging can feel surprisingly confusing, especially when you care about getting it right.
In this episode, I’m talking about why writing can feel heavy and muddled for therapists, even when you’re thoughtful, experienced, and genuinely good at your work. If blogging has ever left you questioning yourself, abandoning drafts, or wondering why it feels harder than it ‘should’, this one will likely feel familiar.
In this episode, we explore:1. Why blogging often feels confusing, not because you can’t write, but because you’re trying to hold too much at once 2. How ‘it depends’ thinking, which works beautifully in therapy, can make writing harder 3. Why trying to speak to everyone can leave you stuck mid-post 4. How confusion can quietly turn into self-doubt 5. What helps blogging feel lighter again, without forcing yourself to push through
This is a reflective episode, designed to offer relief, reassurance, and a different way of understanding what’s really going on when blogging feels hard.
Links and next steps1. Find out more about the Blogging Clarity Session (introductory offer available for a short time) 2. Explore more support for ethical, human marketing at janetravis.co.uk 3. Check out my FREE and paid resources HERE
If this episode resonated, you might want to follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes.
Perfectionism in Writing, and the Goal That Actually HelpsYou already understand perfectionism. You’ve probably talked about it with clients many times.
But when it shows up in your own writing, that understanding can disappear very quickly.
In this episode, I look at perfectionism from a different angle – not as something that just makes writing harder, but as something that can stop you improving at all.
I share what happened when I first started blogging, why knowing the theory didn’t help in the moment, and the one goal that’s helped me keep going without waiting to feel ready.
If writing ever feels harder than it needs to be, this episode will make sense.
Want support while you practise, rather than pressure to get it right?
You can find out more about the Grow Your Private Practicemembership
And for all my FREE and paid resources, check out my Start Here page
If you’ve ever wondered whether all that blogging is actually doing anything - especially when things feel quiet - this episode might feel like a deep breath.
Because sometimes the hardest part isn’t the writing - it’s sitting with the silence afterwards.
In this episode, we’re gently lifting the curtain on what might really be happening behind the scenes when nobody comments, nobody emails, and nobody says, “Hey that helped.”
And we’ll talk about the one mindset shift that can take you from anxious, second-guessing writer… to grounded, steady voice your future clients quietly trust.
In this episode:
Mentioned in this episode:
Do you ever wonder whether your blog actually helps anyone?
That doubt is common and it makes sense. Blogging is often talked about as “marketing”, but there’s something more important happening underneath.
In this episode, we look at how your blog can quietly support someone who’s struggling, and help them take the first step towards counselling even before they feel ready to reach out.
You’ll hear about:
Your words don’t have to be perfect.
They just need to help someone feel a little less alone.
And that’s often what gives them the confidence to say, “I think I’m ready.”
Mentioned in this episode:
If marketing feels harder than it used to (especially on social media), you’re not imagining it.
So what is currently working?
In this episode, I’m talking about the quieter, more sustainable strategies that are actually helping counsellors stay visible and build trust in 2026.
After nearly 20 years of doing this, I’ve seen trends rise and fall. And I’ve also seen what holds steady, what keeps working even when the platforms, algorithms, or advice all change.
Whether you’re feeling a bit jaded with social media, wondering where your time’s best spent, or just want to feel clearer about your next steps, this one’s for you.
In this episode:1. Why social media feels harder now (and why that’s not your fault) 2. What does still work for counsellors in 2026 3. How to use strategies like blogging, Google Business Profile, and guesting effectively 4. Why consistency matters more than doing everything 5. How to make space for visibility that feels grounded, not overwhelming
Mentioned in this episode:1. Buy me a coffee - support the show with a one-off thank-you 2. Start Here page - all free and paid resources in one place 3. Episode 230 - deep dive into Google Business Profile 4. Grow Your Private Practice Membership - ongoing support, hands-on help with blogging, and short, doable trainings 5. Framework First - monthly blogging support for £9/month 6. The Directory Revival - 1:1 support you to improve your directory listings so they lead to real client enquiries. 7. Episode 225: The Armchair Test: The One Quiet Shift That Will Transform All Your Marketing 8. Episode 226: “Would I Feel Safe With You?” How Clients Really Choose a Counsellor 9. Episode 216: Do Counsellors Really Need a Niche to Start Blogging? 10. Episode 185: Are You Getting Clients from Your Online Directory Listing?
If social media leaves you feeling drained, confused, or just not like yourself, you're not alone.
In this episode, I’m sharing a simple, free, and often-overlooked way for counsellors to get found by more of the right clients without needing a website or being all over social media.
You'll learn:
Whether you're just starting out or looking for a gentler way to grow your private practice, this is a great place to begin
🎧 Listen now and take your first step towards being found - calmly, sustainably, and in a way that works for you.
Mentioned in this episode:
Do you need a perfectly planned-out content strategy to stay consistent? Or can you just show up, speak from the heart, and see what sticks?
In this episode, I'm joined by my brilliant friend and fellow therapist Sarah (aka The Binge Eating Therapist) as we get honest about how we each approach content creation — and how different those approaches are.
We’ve both been creating weekly content for year with blogs, podcasts, YouTube, and in this chat, we’re pulling back the curtain on:
Whether you’re thinking about starting a blog, podcast, YouTube channel, or just want to share more consistently, this episode is here to remind you:
There’s no one “right” way to do this. You get to make it yours.
About SarahSarah Dosanjh is a psychotherapist and author of the bestselling book I Can’t Stop Eating. After her own recovery from binge eating disorder she has gone on to specialise in helping others do the same. She has appeared on various media outlets such as BBC breakfast, Sky’s Roundtable and BBC Radio One, as well as amassing over 3 million views on YouTube.
Connect with Sarah:
Mentioned in this episode:
If marketing your counselling practice feels like a wobbly, messy, “what-the-heck-am-I-doing” kind of experience… this episode is for you.
Because today, we’re not talking strategy or content plans. We’re talking about you - the human behind the posts. The one quietly trying to make it work while wondering if you're getting it all wrong.
In this open letter, I’m sharing a personal message to the part of you that’s second-guessing, doubting, and wondering if you're cut out for all this “visibility” stuff.
Spoiler: You are.
We’ll talk about:
If you’ve ever felt like the only one struggling to “get it right,” this episode is your gentle reminder that you’re not alone, and that slow doesn’t mean stuck.
Mentioned in this episode:
Ever feel like you’re doing all the right things… yet nothing seems to be moving fast enough?
In this episode, we’re peeling back the curtain on the slow, quiet build that nobody talks about but every thriving private practice is built on.
If you’ve ever wondered why other counsellors seem to be racing ahead while you’re still trying to find your rhythm, you’re not alone. And no, you’re not doing anything wrong. In fact, you might be closer than you think.
Inside this episode, we explore:
If you need a little encouragement, a little direction, and a big sister voice reminding you that you absolutely can do this - this episode is for you.
Come and feel a bit lighter about it all.
Mentioned in this episode:
Over the years I’ve had messages from therapists saying the podcast has been their companion on dog walks, in the car, or when they’re feeling stuck and need a nudge. If the show has been that for you and you’d like to support it, you can now Buy Me a Coffee.
It helps keep the lights on and the episodes flowing, one brew at a time.
👉 Buy Me a Coffee
Have you ever worried you’re too boring, too ordinary, or not “expert enough” for clients to pick you?
You’re not alone and you’re not seeing what clients actually look for.
Because when someone is scrolling through counsellor profiles, they’re asking one quiet question: “Would I feel safe with you?”
That’s The Armchair Test and it matters far more than perfect blogs, fancy qualifications or polished bios.
In this episode, we explore:
Links and resources:
Over the years I’ve had messages from therapists saying the podcast has been their companion on dog walks, in the car, or when they’re feeling stuck and need a nudge. If the show has been that for you and you’d like to support it, you can now Buy Me a Coffee.
It helps keep the lights on and the episodes flowing, one flat white at a time.
👉 Buy Me a Coffee
When someone searches for a therapist, they’re not scanning for qualifications, they’re searching for a feeling:
“Will I feel okay with you?”
“Can I tell you something hard and not feel judged?”
That’s what I call The Armchair Test, and once you understand how it works, you’ll never look at blogging (or marketing) the same way again.
In this episode, we explore:
Mentioned in this episode:
Over the years I’ve had messages from therapists saying the podcast has been their companion on dog walks, in the car, or when they’re feeling stuck and need a nudge. If the show has been that for you and you’d like to support it, you can now Buy Me a Coffee.
It helps keep the lights on and the episodes flowing, one brew at a time.
👉 Buy Me a Coffee
You’re doing all the right things, more CPD, new qualifications, more training, but your counselling practice is still quiet.
So what’s going on?
In this episode, we’re exploring the hidden trap many counsellors fall into — using learning as a way to feel productive when marketing feels uncomfortable.
If you’ve ever thought,
“Once I’ve done this next training, then I’ll work on my marketing…” this one’s for you.
We’ll unpack:
You don’t need another certificate.
You need clarity, connection, and confidence in your marketing and this episode will help you start right where you are.
Links & Resources
Ever feel like everything you could possibly say about self-care, stress, or slowing down has already been said?
As a counsellor, you want to share ideas that genuinely help people but when every blog and social post seems to repeat the same advice, it’s easy to worry that your writing won’t stand out.
In this episode, we’re talking about how to make your counselling blogs feel fresh, human, and authentic even when you’re writing about familiar topics.
You’ll learn how to go deeper than surface-level “tips,” write in a way that connects, and use your real voice to build trust with the people who need you most.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Links & Resources
You close the laptop after your final session. The house is quiet.
And even though you’ve spent all day talking, you haven’t actually connected with anyone.
That quiet ache you sometimes feel? That’s loneliness. And it’s more common than counsellors admit.
In this heartfelt episode, we’re talking honestly about what it’s like to work alone in private practice - the isolation, the silence, and the subtle way it can creep in.
We’ll explore:
You don’t need to overhaul your diary or become a social butterfly. Just one coffee, one chat, one small step can make a big difference.
You’re a counsellor but you’re a person too. And you were never meant to do this alone.
Links & Resources:Find '11 Simple Steps to Master Smalltalk' in The Vault: A library of free resources to help you grow your private practice with confidence and ease → Sign up for free
Overthinking doesn’t always feel like fear, sometimes it looks like planning, researching, or endlessly tweaking things instead of actually starting.
In this episode, we’re exploring what overthinking really looks like for counsellors and coaches, how it shows up in sneaky ways, and what to do when you feel completely stuck.
I’m also sharing a personal story about getting stuck in naming my own program, and the moment I finally realised I wasn’t being strategic, I was just avoiding.
If you’ve been circling an idea without ever getting it off the ground, this one’s for YOU.
You’ll hear:
And if you’d like support with moving from “stuck in your head” to hitting publish on your blog, my Grow Your Blog membership is here to help.
Learn more: janetravis.co.uk/framework-first
And for more of my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
You hold space for everyone else - clients, family, friends. From the outside, it looks like you’re coping. But inside? You’re tired in a way that rest doesn’t touch.
In this episode, I share my own story of counsellor burnout, the subtle signs you might be missing, and a few gentle ways to support yourself when you’re running on empty.
Because burnout doesn’t always look like collapse. Sometimes it looks like silence, stillness, or sighing at another message you can’t face replying to.
If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you.
What You’ll Hear:* Subtle signs of counsellor burnout * My personal experience during lockdown * 5 gentle, sensory ways to support yourself * Encouragement if you’re feeling flat, foggy, or disconnected
Links & Resources: Explore Grow Your Blog + Framework First* * Related episodes on burnout with amazing guests: * Compassion fatigue and burnout: What therapists need to know, with Howard Baumgarten * Therapist burnout: How to spot it and take action, with Charlie Hyde * And for more of my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
Many counsellors feel awkward about charging, or even apologetic when talking about their fees. In this episode, I share my own experiences from being told off by an electrician friend for undervaluing myself, to walking up Lincoln’s Steep Hill every week to pay for counselling when my self-esteem was at rock bottom.
We’ll explore:
If you’ve ever struggled with the money side of private practice, this episode is here to remind you: you don’t need to apologise for charging.
Resources & Links:
You might also like:
Walking into the gym after a long break can feel so hard.
You look around and everyone seems to know what they’re doing - toned, confident, striding on machines that look more like torture devices than exercise equipment.
Meanwhile, you’re tugging at your leggings, feeling out of place, and wondering if it would be easier to give up and buy a big box of Maltesers on the way home.
That’s exactly how marketing your private practice can feel.
You see other counsellors with slick websites, polished blogs, or big social followings and you think, “I don’t belong here.”
But remember, just like in the gym, every single one of them had to start somewhere.
In this episode, I’ll show you why blogging is the treadmill of marketing: reliable, adaptable, and the perfect first step to get you moving.
Just like the treadmill builds stamina, strength, and confidence for everything else in the gym, blogging gives you the solid foundation you need for the rest of your marketing.
You’ll learn:
So if you’ve been standing at the edge of your marketing 'gym', comparing yourself to everyone who looks like they’ve got it together, this episode is your nudge to step onto the treadmill and just get started.
👉 And if blogging feels overwhelming, that’s exactly why I created Grow Your Blog. It’s designed to help you start, stay consistent, and build your confidence, whether you’ve written zero blogs or fifty. Find out more here
And for more of my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
Procrastination doesn’t mean you’re lazy; it means your energy is stuck.
In this episode, I share why getting stuck feels so frustrating (especially when you compare yourself to other counsellors who seem to be doing it all), and how you can see it in a completely different way.
You’ll discover:
If you’ve ever found yourself tidying your desk, scrolling social media, or avoiding that important task, this episode will help you move forward with more ease and confidence.
LinksCome and join us inside The Grow Your Private Practice membership. A safe, supportive space where you’ll find practical tools, step-by-step guidance, and a community that gets it.
And if you’d like to explore more free and paid resources to help you along the way, you can start right here: janetravis.co.uk/start-here
You’ve probably been told:
“You need a niche before you can start blogging.”
It sounds responsible. It feels strategic.
But for many counsellors? It becomes a fancy-sounding form of procrastination.
In this episode, we’re busting one of the most persistent blogging myths out there, the idea that you can’t start sharing your voice until your niche is perfectly figured out.
If you’ve been staring at a blinking cursor, endlessly tweaking your website or bio instead of actually writing… this one’s for you.
We’ll cover:
✅ Why “niche first” can quietly keep you stuck
✅ What to do if you don’t feel 100% clear on your niche yet
✅ How blogging can actually help you discover who you’re meant to serve
✅ And the mindset shift that can finally get you writing again
NOTE: This episode was created using the DragonSlayer Framework from Framework First, my monthly, low cost blog support membership where we bust unhelpful marketing myths and make blogging doable (and way less daunting) for counsellors.
So if you’ve been waiting for clarity before you start… maybe this is your sign to stop waiting and start writing.
🎧 Listen now — and let’s get you unstuck.
Resources Mentioned:Framework First Blogging Method - A low-cost, step-by-step method for blogging once a month with ease
→ Blogging for Counsellors | Monthly Writing System to Attract Clients
Other blogs and podcast episodes:
And for more of my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
What if your next big breakthrough in private practice isn’t a brand-new strategy, but simply making the most of what you’ve already got?
In this episode, I’m sharing 10 small-but-mighty areas to check in on. The kind of practical tweaks that can bring more ease, more focus, and yes… even more client enquiries.
Most counsellors skip this kind of business reset. They keep pushing forward, adding more to their plate and end up stuck.
But you don’t have to. With a little reflection (and some cushion-and-throw-style updates), you can refresh your practice without starting from scratch.
We’ll explore:
This isn’t about doing everything. It’s about making a few focused changes that move your practice forward.
🎧 Listen in and give yourself the reset you’ve been waiting for.
If you find yourself opening just one more tab before writing a blog post, this episode is for you.
Many counsellors fall into the research trap, thinking more information will make blogging easier. But what if that habit is actually slowing you down and watering down your voice?
In this episode, I’m sharing how counsellors should approach blog research in a simpler, more sustainable way so you can stop second-guessing and start writing with more ease and confidence.
🎧 Hit play to learn a more effective way to blog and find out if this is the writing habit that’s quietly draining you.
Links and Resources Mentioned:Framework First Blogging Method - A low-cost, step-by-step method for blogging once a month with ease
→ Blogging for Counsellors | Monthly Writing System to Attract Clients
And for more of my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
If you’ve ever avoided hitting publish because your blog felt “too short,” you’re not alone. Many counsellors get stuck on word count, but focusing on blog length too soon can actually stop you from getting found by clients.
In this episode, I share:
Whether you’re new to blogging or ready to improve your private practice marketing, you’ll leave this episode with the confidence to publish without worrying about “perfect” length.
Links and Resources Mentioned:Framework First Blogging Method -A low-cost, step-by-step method for blogging once a month with ease
→ Blogging for Counsellors | Monthly Writing System to Attract Clients
And for more of my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
What does giving up ironing have to do with counsellor marketing? More than you’d think!
In this episode, I talk about the invisible “shoulds” we carry, especially around marketing and how they quietly eat up your time, energy, and confidence.
We’ll look at some of the most common ones counsellors follow (often without realising), and I’ll share how to replace them with something that actually works for you.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Why “being professional” doesn’t mean being bland * What consistency can really look like for counsellors (no daily posts needed) * The link between personal disclosure and building trust * What to do if you don’t have a niche yet * Why swearing might* just be your secret marketing weapon (thank you, Beccy Upton) * How to save time and still show up without the burnout
Links & Resources Mentioned:Framework First Blogging Method
A low-cost, step-by-step method for blogging once a month with ease
→ Blogging for Counsellors | Monthly Writing System to Attract Clients
Listen to Becca Upton’s Episode
Authentic marketing for counsellors who’d rather be themselves
→ Authentic Marketing for Therapists Who’d Rather Be Themselves, with Becca Upton - Grow Your Private Practice, with Jane Travis
Further Reading on Personal Disclosure & Storytelling:
Want to blog with less pressure?
Check out my two-part blog series on redefining consistency for counsellors.
And for more of my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
You sit down to write a blog with a helpful idea in mind…
But suddenly you’re deep-cleaning the fridge, questioning your niche, and wondering if you should just start a podcast instead.
Why is it so hard to actually start writing?
In this episode of the Grow Your Private Practice Show, we’re talking about how to get into a state of writing flow – where the words come easier, your inner critic quiets down, and blogging doesn’t feel like such a slog.
You’ll hear:
Whether blogging’s been sitting on your to-do list for weeks or you’re stuck overthinking every word, this episode will help you finally find your rhythm.
🌱 Want help making blogging easier?
Introducing Framework First Blogging Method
This is a low-cost (£9/month), offer designed for therapists and counsellors who want to write faster and get found by more of the right clients.
Or come join us inside the Grow Your Private Practice membership, where we write together in real-time and ditch the perfectionism for good.
For more of my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
You sit down to write a blog post with a warm, helpful idea in your heart… and suddenly it sounds like a CPD presentation.
Formal. Polished. Slightly robotic.
Why does “Professional Mode” take over the second you start typing?
In this episode of the Grow Your Private Practice Show, we’re talking about why so many counsellors struggle to sound like themselves when they write, and how to change that.
You’ll hear:
Whether you’re just starting your blog or feel stuck in formal-speak, this episode will help you write with more warmth, more trust, and more you.
Want help sounding more like you in your content?
Check out The Framework First Blogging Method. Your low cost (£9/month), low-pressure mini-membership for counsellors who want to publish one meaningful, client-connecting blog post each month without the writer's block or drama.
Join us inside the Grow Your Private Practice membership.
Or check out my free and paid resources
If marketing makes you want to hide under a blanket, this episode is for you.
In this refreshingly honest chat, I break down why marketing isn’t just a “nice to have” in private practice, it’s essential. But don’t worry, there’s no jargon or pushy tactics here. Just real talk about why visibility matters, how to make marketing a regular part of your week (without burning out), and the mindset shift that changes everything.
You’ll discover:
Plus, I share the small-but-mighty move you can make this week to attract more of the right clients with way less faff.
Ready to treat marketing like the lifeblood of your business (in a way that feels good)? Let’s get into it.
__________________
Resources mentioned in this episode:
'How to attract clients by helping, not selling' – Free inside The Vault
'How To Avoid the Feast And Famine Cycle in Your Private Practice'
'Why your private practice should NOT be on every social media platform'
'How to Get Found by Your Ideal Therapy Clients'
👉 Want help with your therapy directory listing?
Check out The Directory Revival - my 1:1 service to help you attract more of the right clients, with less stress.
You became a counsellor to help people, but what happens when someone says they can’t afford your full fee?
Do you offer a concession? A sliding scale? Say yes and quietly resent it – or say no and feel guilty?
In this episode of the Grow Your Private Practice Show, I dive into one of the most emotionally loaded decisions counsellors face: whether or not to offer concessions in private practice.
No judgment. No one-size-fits-all answer. Just a proper, honest conversation about the messy middle ground between compassion, sustainability, and valuing your time.
We’ll cover:
Whether you currently offer reduced fees or not, this episode will help you reflect, reset, and make a choice that feels right for you – not just your clients.
✨ Related episodes:
The Hidden Impact of Money Issues in Private Practice, with Cathy Towers
Should You Offer Therapy Clients a Free First Session?
🌱 Want support with boundaries, pricing and private practice marketing?
Come join us inside the Grow Your Private Practice membership
Repurposing your content is supposed to make marketing easier… but does it ever feel like more work?
You’re not alone.
In this episode, I’m joined by social media manager and Instagram expert Sally Birks, who shares how to repurpose your content in a way that feels simple, aligned, and human – not robotic or repetitive.
We talk about how to:
Whether you’re new to repurposing or you’ve tried it before and felt stuck, this episode will give you permission to do it your way – and a whole new way to think about your existing content.
About SallySally Birks is a CPD-certified social media manager and strategist who helps founders turn their content into consistent clients. Through her signature blend of magnetic messaging, strategic content planning, and done-for-you management, Sally empowers business owners to sustainably grow their businesses without burning out or spending all day on Canva.
After leaving a stable career to travel solo, build a remote business, and live abroad, Sally now brings real-world experience, empathy, and clarity to her work. She’s passionate about helping business owners reclaim their time, amplify their expertise, and build brands that generate revenue even when they’re offline
Connect with Sally:
Instagram @SocialsBySally
Website Sally Birks
And you can work with Sally Birks HERE
🎧 Listen now to learn how to make your marketing feel lighter and less time-consuming.
Ever feel like marketing is made for loud, confident people – and definitely not for introverts like you?
You’re not alone. And you don’t have to fake it or force it to get found by more clients.
In this episode, I’m talking about how blogging can be a calm, confidence-building way to market your private practice, especially if visibility makes you want to hide under a blanket.
We’ll explore how blogging:
So if the thought of producing videos for social media makes you break out in hives, but you do want to grow your practice in a way that feels good, this one’s for you.
__________________
More help for youCheck out episode 7, where I chat with Fifi Mason about using introvert superpowers to attract more clients. And she should know, she's both an introvert AND works with introverts!
👉 Listen to 'Using Introvert Superpowers to Attract More Clients, with Fifi Mason'
The Vault – my free library full of practical, counselling-friendly blogging (and other) resources. 👉 Get instant access to The Vault
Need more support? Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership for monthly blogging workshops, prompts, Q&A calls, and a warm community that gets it. 👉 Click here to join us
Running a business as a counsellor is never simple, but what about when life throws you even more to carry?
In this honest conversation, I’m joined by Laura Robinson, a marketing mentor and copywriter who’s grown a thriving practice while parenting neurodivergent kids, managing chronic health challenges, and tuning out hustle-culture noise.
Laura shares her Suit Yourself First philosophy: where your business and marketing flex around you, not the other way around.
We talk about:
If you're a counsellor navigating work and real life - grief, burnout, overwhelm, or just general messiness- this episode offers validation, calm, and a new way forward.
Expect honesty, humour, and the reassurance you didn’t know you needed.
About LauraLaura is an online marketing mentor and experienced digital copywriter.
Over the last 10 years, she has helped hundreds of business owners create and sell 1-1 services, courses, memberships, and group programs.
She’s taught thousands of people around the world through the copywriting training she created for international business organisations including Female Entrepreneur Association, Enterprise Nation, and Membership Academy.
She is also the author of the Comfy Business Playbook, and the creator of the Comfy Business Newsletter for people who want a business that flexes around their other life challenges, priorities, and adventures.
She champions a Suit Yourself First approach to marketing, where decisions are based on what the business owner wants, rather than guessing the preferences of a hypothetical ideal client.
Links & Resources: Get Laura’s free Comfy Business Playbook* and check out her other free and paid resources: https://worditude.co.uk/podcast/ * Visit Laura’s website: worditude.co.uk
Want more support? Check out my free and paid offers, including my brand new FREE resource: www.janetravis.co.uk/start-here/
Hit play and let Laura show you that there’s no one right way to build a business – especially when life gets messy.
Feeling unsure about what to write on your FAQ page? This episode of The Grow Your Private Practice Show reveals how to make your FAQ page warm and welcoming, which helps potential counselling clients feel informed, reassured, and ready to book.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Think of your FAQ page as more than a formality. It's a quiet conversation with someone who’s nervous but hopeful. This episode will help you turn that moment into a meaningful connection.
Access your free FAQ page resources inside The Vault: https://janetravis.co.uk/thevault
🎧 Tune in now to start writing an FAQ page that works for you and speaks to your future clients.
Feeling stuck in the world of therapy marketing? Wondering how to stand out without feeling fake? In this episode, we sit down with Becca Upton, the no-BS therapist, to chat about how she turned her authentic voice into her biggest business asset.
Key Highlights:
Join us for an honest, down-to-earth chat about what it really means to market yourself as a counsellor today.
About Becca UptonBecca is The No BS Therapist - straight-talking, sweary, and realistic. She supports overthinkers and chronic worriers in their 20s and 30s to quiet their mind and enjoy life without the anxiety and mind racing. Her work includes counselling, a membership of no BS guided audios, and talks and training.
Hit play and get inspired to share your real self with the world!
If you’re a counsellor, you probably didn’t train to become a marketer or to feel like you’re in some sort of marketing talent show, trying to prove yourself to everyone.
The whole idea of “attracting clients” can feel… off. Like you’re tap dancing for attention, competing with other counsellors, and constantly performing.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to.
Today, I’m sharing a small but powerful mindset shift that can make marketing feel easier and more aligned with your values. No convincing, no manipulation, no performance.
Let’s talk about shifting from attracting clients to simply getting found by the people who already need you.
What We’ll Cover:
💛 Why “attracting clients” feels so uncomfortable for therapists
💛 The common fears around visibility and marketing
💛 The subtle manipulation in traditional marketing and why it doesn’t sit well
💛 How shifting to getting found by therapy clients changes everything
💛 Real-life examples to help you feel the difference
💛 Simple, practical ways to start getting found without feeling salesy or pushy
💛 Why blogging is a perfect fit for therapists wanting to build trust and visibility
Key Takeaways:
✅ You’re already enough, you don’t have to prove or perform
✅ Getting found is about trust, not tactics
✅ Visibility fear is real, but you can show up in a way that feels safe and authentic
✅ Marketing doesn’t have to be manipulative; it can be a gentle, human way to serve and connect
Connect with Me:
If this episode sparked something for you, I’d love to hear about it!
Send me a DM on Instagram @growyourprivatepractice or email me at jane@janetravis.co.uk.
If you’re ready to start getting found but not sure how, reach out. I’m here to help.
And if you'd like to checkout my free and paid resources, take a look at my Start Here page
Listen & Subscribe:
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss a new one. And if you’re feeling generous, a review or share with a friend means the world!
We all know journaling can be a powerful tool for reflection and healing but what if the words just won’t come? Or what if journaling feels like another task you’re “failing” at?
In this episode, I sit down with Creative Arts Counsellor, Julie Kuhn to explore a different way of journaling.. one that uses colour, movement, and playful marks instead of words.
We talk about how creative journaling can help you (and your clients) reconnect with yourself, let go of perfectionism, and process emotions in a way that feels freeing and pressure-free.
And if in the Grow Your Private Practice membership, keep an eye out. Julie will soon be running a creative journaling workshop where we’ll explore this together.
About Julie Kuhn:
Julie Kuhn is a Creative Arts Counsellor who blends traditional therapeutic approaches with creativity, nature, and expressive journaling to help people step into their true selves. She works with individuals who are ready to break free from people-pleasing, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with who they really are gently but powerfully.
She runs monthly workshops inside the Creative Counsellors membership and has contributed to Creative Counselling with Adults (The Creative Counselling Collection).
With a deep belief that healing doesn’t have to happen in neat sentences, Julie’s work centres around playful, out-of-the-box techniques that support self-awareness, emotional expression, and personal growth.
Creative journaling is at the heart of her practice, offering a pressure-free, empowering way to process emotions when words alone aren’t enough.
Julie regularly shares her expertise through monthly workshops inside the Creative Counsellors membership, inspiring therapists to explore creativity in their own work.
She has also contributed two creative interventions to Creative Counselling with Adults, part of The Creative Counselling Collection curated by Tanja Sharpe.
Whether she’s holding space for clients or guiding fellow therapists, Julie invites people to rediscover their voice, creativity, and inner strength, one playful mark at a time.
Connect with Julie:
Instagram: @counsellorjules
Website: Counselling For You Cornwall
LinkedIn: Julie Kuhn creative arts counsellor
Grab Julies FREE Journaling Workbook HERE
For details of Julies monthly creative art journalling workshops with the Creative Counsellors membership, click HERE
Links to followJoin the Grow Your Private Practice Membership
Explore 1:1 services to get unstuck:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
The Complete Support Package: Ready to take your practice to the next level? Let's make it happen together!
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
When I started this podcast, I wasn’t sure I’d even make it past 12 episodes.
Now? We’ve hit 200.
In this special episode, I’m sharing the honest, behind-the-scenes lessons podcasting has taught me about confidence, creativity, and growing a private practice.
Whether you’re thinking of starting something new or scared to take the next step.. this one’s for you.
Plus, I’m celebrating 200 episodes and 7 years of Grow Your Private Practice with a special anniversary offer: join the membership for just £7 for your first month.
Listen in, feel inspired, and maybe… treat your next idea as an experiment too.
Links to followJoin the Grow Your Private Practice Membership - £7 for your first month (offer ends 5pm 9th May 2025)!
This is what's happening in May;
Explore 1:1 services to get unstuck:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
The Complete Support Package: Ready to take your practice to the next level? Let's make it happen together!
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
What if what’s holding you back from getting more clients isn’t your website or your pricing but your mindset, boundaries, or fear of visibility?
In this special anniversary episode, I’m sharing the 7 biggest lessons I’ve learned from 7 years of helping counsellors grow their private practices.
These are the lessons that make marketing feel simpler, more human, and way less overwhelming.. the ones that help you take action (even when it feels scary), build confidence, and start getting found by more of the right clients.
Whether you’re just starting out or feeling stuck in a rut, this episode will help you reconnect with what matters most.
🎉 And to celebrate the 7th anniversary of the Grow Your Private Practice membership, you can join for just £7 until 9th May 2025.
Links to followJoin the Grow Your Private Practice Membership - £7 for your first month!
This is what's happening in May;
Explore 1:1 services to get unstuck:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
The Complete Support Package: Ready to take your practice to the next level? Let's make it happen together!
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
Do you keep putting off your marketing tasks even though you really want to grow your private practice?
You’re not alone.
In this episode, I'll share a simple, low-pressure habit that’s helping therapists break the procrastination cycle and finally take consistent action: the Get It Done Hour.
It’s one hour, one task, and no faff – a gentle but powerful way to build momentum without burnout.
You’ll learn why it works, how to start your own Get It Done habit, and 10 simple marketing tasks you can tackle in your next session.
Links to followFocusmate
The Complete Support Package
Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership for support, systems and accountability
Explore 1:1 services to get unstuck:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
Does your inner critic have the mic again, saying things like “You’re not ready,” “You don’t know enough,” or “Who do you think you are?”
Yes… me too sometimes.
In this episode, we explore how to turn down the volume on THAT voice and start tuning into your inner cheerleader instead.
The one who reminds you that you’re already enough, that you’ve done hard things before, and that you can do brave things, even if you're doing them scared.
You’ll learn practical ways to reconnect with encouragement, build confidence, and feel more supported especially when you’re stepping outside your comfort zone.
Links to followThe Complete Support Package
Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership for support, systems and accountability
Explore 1:1 services to get unstuck:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
Feeling overwhelmed with marketing your private practice? Discover the underlying reasons therapists struggle with marketing and learn actionable strategies to overcome them.
Tune in for insights that can help you attract more clients without adding to your workload to find time to market your private practice.
Spoiler: it’s often not about time at all.
If marketing feels heavy, overwhelming or just something you keep putting off, this one’s for you.
Let’s shift the story you’re telling yourself, and take back your power.
Links to followJoin the Grow Your Private Practice membership for support, systems and accountability
Explore 1:1 services to get unstuck:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
Feeling overwhelmed, running on empty, or just craving a bit of headspace?
You’ve probably recommended mindfulness to clients, but are you giving yourself that same care?
In this episode, I’m joined by counsellor and mindfulness teacher Karen Lafferty for a grounded, practical chat about how mindfulness can support you in both your work and your wellbeing.
This isn’t about clearing your mind or lighting incense. It’s about simple ways to feel more present, less frazzled, and more able to show up for yourself as well as your clients.
Whether you’re mindfulness-curious, cautious, or already on the path, this episode will help you slow down, breathe, and remember that you’re allowed to take up space too.
Who is Karen Lafferty?Karen is a BACP Accredited online counsellor and supervisor, dedicated to guiding individuals through grief and other life transitions.
With a person-centred, integrative approach, she fosters a compassionate and safe space for clients to explore their emotions and develop personalised strategies for healing and growth.
As a BAMBA Registered Mindfulness Teacher, Karen is qualified to teach mindfulness practices, including the Mindfulness Association’s Mindfulness Based Living Course.
Her commitment to creating a nurturing environment empowers clients to navigate their unique paths towards well-being and transformation.
Links to followFree gift + course from Karen:
Connect with Karen:
Other links mentioned:
Need support with blogging or marketing your private practice?
🌱 Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership for monthly support, guidance, and community that helps you show up and get found (without burning out or selling your soul).
Or browse all my free and paid resources: START HERE
Feel like blogging just isn’t working for you or that you’re not cut out for it?
In this episode, we’re busting 4 common blogging myths that hold counsellors back.
From “I can’t write” to “no one reads blogs anymore,” I’ll walk you through what’s actually true and how to blog with more confidence, clarity, and connection.
Whether you’ve dabbled in blogging or are just getting started, this episode will help you stop second-guessing yourself and start writing in a way that feels good and gets results.
Links to followEp 169: The Therapist's Guide to Blogging for Practice Growth
Ep 40: From 'I Can't Write' to Published Author with Zoe Clements
Polly Clover’s post on whether people still read blogs
Inside the Grow Your Private Practice membership, I help counsellors blog with confidence so they have fewer “why do I even bother?” moments. Check here for more details
Explore 1:1 Services:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
Let’s be honest, marketing your counselling practice can feel really uncomfortable.
Like you’re standing in the middle of a crowded room, waving your arms, and shouting, “Pick me! Pick me!”
And that just feels soooooo wrong.
But here’s the thing - you don’t have to “sell yourself” at all. There’s a small but powerful tweak that makes marketing way easier.
In this episode, I’ll walk you through:
✨ Why marketing feels so icky for counselling
✨ The simple shift that makes it feel natural
✨ How blogging can help you market with less stress
✨ Why this approach works (and why you shouldn’t stop there)
Marketing doesn’t have to be painful. Let’s make it work for you, not against you.
Links to followJoin the Grow Your Private Practice membership
Explore 1:1 Services:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
If you’ve ever held back from talking about the benefits of counselling because you’re afraid of making promises you can’t guarantee, this one’s for you.
It makes sense. You’re an ethical counsellor, and counselling isn’t a quick fix. But the problem is that potential clients need some reassurance before they take that first step.
They’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, maybe even hopeless. They want to believe counselling can help, but they’re not sure. And if your marketing is vague or filled with clinical jargon, they’ll move on.
So, if you struggle to put into words how counselling helps (without overpromising), listen in.
Links to followMy previous blog 'Can you help your therapy clients (and do they know it)'
My book coach Dale Darley
Buy my book
Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership
Explore 1:1 Services:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back
And if you're looking for additional resources, check START HERE
Do you find yourself cringing at the thought of calling yourself an expert?
You're not alone.
Many counsellors struggle with this, often brushing off compliments from clients with, "Oh, but you did all the work!"
But avoiding the 'E' word could be holding you back.
It impacts your confidence, makes it harder to attract clients, and ultimately affects your income.
So if you’ve been holding back from stepping into your expertise, this episode is for YOU.
Let's get you seen, valued, and fully booked.
Links to followJoin the Grow Your Private Practice membership
Explore 1:1 Services:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients.
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back. These services light me up, and I love seeing the transformation in my clients.
And for all my free and paid resources START HERE
The online world is noisy, and grabbing attention can feel like an uphill battle. But there’s one timeless tool that still works just as well today as it did thousands of years ago - storytelling.
In this episode, I’m joined by seasoned storyteller and journalist Jackie Wilson to explore how storytelling can transform your marketing, helping you create deep and lasting connections with your audience.
Jackie is the founder of BrickHouse, a content creation company, and has over 30 years of experience as a journalist, writer, and media trainer across three continents. She’s spent the last decade helping business owners harness the power of storytelling to stand out and connect with their audience.
Connect with Jackie
Brick-House.UK
Links to followRead more about storytelling in blogs:The Power of Storytelling in Your Blog
Need help with blogging for your private practice? Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership for support, ideas, and guidance to make content creation easier and more effective
For all my free and paid resources, START HERE
Do you ever feel like you’re falling behind in private practice? Like no matter what you do, there’s always more you should be doing?
Well, you’re not alone. But the good news is, you don’t need to do everything: you just need to focus on doing a little better than yesterday.
In this episode, I share a simple but powerful mindset shift that will help you let go of overwhelm, take meaningful action, and finally start seeing progress.
If you’re tired of feeling stuck, this is for you!
Links to followUzoma, improving her home by 1% every day
How to stop comparing yourself to other therapists
How to stay productive, even on low energy days
For all my free and paid resources START HERE
AI tools like ChatGPT are everywhere but how can therapists use them effectively for blogging without losing their unique voice?
In this episode, I break down exactly how I use (and don’t use) ChatGPT in my content creation process.
AI is a fantastic tool but it can’t replace you. Your personality, experience, and warmth are what make your blogs connect with potential clients.
So let’s talk about how to use ChatGPT the right way - as a sidekick, not a substitute.
Links to followJoin us in the Grow Your Private Practice membership and up your blogging game so you get found by more of your ideal clients.
For all my free and paid resources www.janetravis.co.uk/starthere
And check out my blog 'The power of storytelling in your blog'
One of the greatest perks of running your own business is that you’re the boss, which means you get to call the shots.
Whether it’s changing your niche, adjusting your hours, or exploring new ways to work, the possibilities are endless.
In this episode, I share how adapting your private practice can reignite your passion, boost your well-being, and open doors to new opportunities.
I also share the recent pivots I’ve made in my own business to lean into what I love most - helping therapists master blogging and writing.
You’re in control, and your practice can evolve to reflect your needs and passions.
Links to followEpisode 165: Is Walk and Talk Therapy Right for Your Practice? with Eileen Fisher
Join the GYPP Membership: www.growyourprivatepractice.co.uk
Explore 1:1 Services:
Directory Revival: I’ll help you tweak your directory profile to attract more clients.
Get Focused, Take Action: Dive deep into your niche, website copy, or anything else holding you back. These services light me up, and I love seeing the transformation in my clients.
And to find out more of my free and paid resources: www.janetravis.co.uk/starthere
Ever wondered why your directory listing isn’t bringing in clients or if it’s even worth the investment? With fees increasing and more directories popping up, it’s easy to feel unsure about whether your listing is working for you.
In this episode, I’ll share practical tips to help you stand out, attract clients, and make your profile work harder using my 3 C’s test: Connection, Conversational, and Competent.
Plus, I’ll introduce my new 1:1 service, The Directory Revival, designed to help you turn your directory listing into a client-magnet.
If your listing isn’t delivering, don’t miss this episode!
Links to followGet your profile working hard for you with The Directory Revival
Episode 154: Counsellor or Clone? Breaking Through the Monotony of Online Directories
Episode 68: Therapist Directories: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Episode 13: A Deep Dive Into Online Directories for Therapists
And for more of my free and paid resources: janetravis.co.uk/starthere
Subscribe for more tips to grow your private practice and make your marketing work for you!
Imagine building a private practice that feels as unique and authentic as you are - where you set the rules, design the schedule, and attract clients who light you up.
In this podcast(and blog), we’re diving into how to create a business that truly works for YOU, so you can start thriving on your own terms.
So if you want to build a private practice that works for YOU, let’s go!
Links to followEp 181 From Blank Slate to Authentic Voice: Why Your Marketing Needs to Show Who You Are, with Caz Binstead
The Artists Way, by Julia Cameron
750words.com
Simon Sinek, Start With Why
Ep 177 How you can MASSIVELY increase your confidence as a therapist
Ep 169 The Therapist’s Guide to Blogging for Practice Growth
Free and paid resources
Do you fear making mistakes and worry about being judged, criticised, embarrassed or shamed?
Well of course you do - no one wants that! But these fears can make your stomach churn and hold you back because despite your best efforts, mistakes happen.
I’ve had my fair share - like last week when I accidentally published the unedited podcast episode.
Let’s just say it wasn’t my finest hour.
So today, I’m sharing what happened, how I handled it, and why making mistakes in public isn’t as scary as it seems.
So if fear stops you from blogging, posting, or marketing, this episode is for you.
Links to followFor more of my free and paid resources janetravis.co.uk/starthere
Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership and get the tools, support, and confidence you need to attract your ideal clients.
In this episode, we’re diving into the hidden costs of working with wrong-fit clients and how it impacts your energy, confidence, and practice growth.
I’ll share my personal experiences, the red flags to watch for, and actionable tips to attract your ideal clients instead.
If you’ve ever felt drained or doubted your skills after a session, this episode will help you identify why and show you how to create a thriving practice filled with clients you love working with.
Links to followEpisode 177: How You Can MASSIVELY Increase Your Confidence as a Therapist
Episode 181: From Blank Slate to Authentic Voice: Why Your Marketing Needs to Show Who You Are, with Caz Binstead
For more of my free and paid resources: janetravis.co.uk/starthere
Don’t forget to subscribe for more tips to grow your private practice with ease!
Are you marketing your private practice but feel like something is missing? You’re not alone. Many therapists struggle to bridge the gap between professional boundaries and showing their authentic selves.
In this episode, I sit down with Caz Binstead to explore why authenticity is essential in modern marketing and how you can move away from the outdated ‘blank slate’ model.
Together, we discuss practical ways to let your personality shine through while maintaining professionalism.
If you’ve ever wondered how to attract clients who truly resonate with you, this episode is a must-listen.
What We Cover:* Why the ‘blank slate’ model creates barriers instead of trust * How thoughtful self-disclosure can make your marketing more effective * The ripple effects of showing up authentically—for you and your clients * Breaking stereotypes in the therapy profession * Real-world examples of marketing that feels genuine and impactful
About Caz Binstead:Caz Binstead is a therapist, supervisor, and author with extensive experience in helping therapists build ethical, authentic practices. From co-leading #TherapistsConnect to publishing her book Relational Ethics in Psychotherapy and Counselling Private Practice: Solidarity, Compassion, Justice, Caz is a passionate advocate for relational marketing and thriving private practices.
Resources:* Caz’s book on Amazon * Follow Caz on Instagram * Learn more about Caz’s work
Links to followOur previous podcast How clear boundaries help you grow your private practice, with Caz Binstead
For my free and paid offers CLICK HERE
In this episode, I’m exploring whether it’s possible to make a good living as a therapist (spoiler: YES, it is!) and sharing 8 actionable steps to help you thrive in private practice. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, these tips will give you clarity, focus, and confidence to take your business to the next level.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by marketing, struggled with mindset issues, or wondered if private practice is really sustainable, this episode is for you.
Links to followBlog: Why There’s No Better Time to Be a Therapist
Episode 114: 8 Ways to Make the Most of Your Time
For more of my free and paid resources: janetravis.co.uk/starthere
Don’t forget to subscribe for more practical marketing tips and strategies to grow your private practice!
The festive season is almost on us, and while for many it's full of twinkly lights and Baileys, it can also be a tricky time for many people.
That’s why, in this episode, I’m sharing 5 Christmas blog topics you can write to help your readers navigate the challenges the season can bring.
From coping with loneliness to managing tricky family dynamics, these blog ideas will not only provide valuable support to your audience but can also boost your visibility—and the best bit? You can repurpose them every single year!
So let’s get cracking on how you can create helpful, evergreen Christmas content for your private practice.
Links to followLast week's podcast The Power of Storytelling in Your Blog
Join us in the Grow Your Private Practice membership and up your blogging game so you get found by more of your ideal clients.
For all my free and paid resources www.janetravis.co.uk/starthere
In this episode, I'm sharing how storytelling can transform your blog from informative to unforgettable.
Learn why stories create connection, build trust, and make your content more relatable.
Discover tips on using everyday experiences and examples to make your blog engaging and memorable.
Perfect for therapists looking to connect with readers on a deeper level.
Links to followThe training I did at The Berne Institute
Running On Empty by Jonice Webb PhD
Zoe Clements' book 'But I should be fine'
Zoe Clements' blog Learn How To Say No
Why You Don’t Need All the Answers in Your Blog by Jane Travis
When saying no isn't enough by Jane Travis
Why eating like a toddler will help you to lose weight by Jane Travis
Need more help with storytelling or blogging? Join our monthly Content Creation Cafe in the Grow Your Private Practice membership for tips, Q&A, and workshops to boost your blogging skills.
Check out my free and paid resources
One of the biggest challenges therapists face is feeling confident in their work – whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience. And that dreaded imposter syndrome? It can follow you at every stage!
So, if you're ready to build genuine confidence, not just in your skills but in the clients you work with, stay tuned.
Because today, I’m sharing why choosing to work with clients and issues you truly resonate with can be a game-changer. No more “fake it till you make it”; instead, let’s dive into how to grow your confidence authentically.
Links to followFor more of my free and paid resources janetravis.co.uk/starthere
My adoption therapist Caroline Spiers
How to use CPD for personal, professional and business growth, with guest John Wilson
In this episode, I’m sharing five simple, actionable marketing tips you can use today to give your private practice a boost—without taking up too much of your time. As much as marketing is a long-term commitment, who doesn’t love a quick win now and again?
If you’re feeling stuck or just need a little marketing push, these ideas will help you get noticed by more clients.
I also offer a service called The Directory Revival, where I review your profile and provide actionable feedback to help you attract more clients. CLICK HERE to find out more and book.
Links to followRelated Episodes:
Ep 154: Counsellor or Clone? Breaking Through the Monotony of Online Directories
Ep 68: Therapist Directories: The good, the bad and the ugly
Ep 13: A deep dive into online directories for therapists
Ep 83: 10 tips to make your profile pic stand out
For more of my free and paid resources janetravis.co.uk/starthere
Want to dive deeper into marketing strategies that work? Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership today!
Don’t forget to subscribe for more practical marketing tips to help grow your practice!
Do you ever feel like you need to know everything before you can write a blog post? Does self-doubt or imposter syndrome hold you back from hitting "publish"?
If so, you're not alone! In this episode, I’m busting the myth that you need to have all the answers to write a successful blog. I'll share why embracing imperfection is actually more beneficial and how it helps you connect with your audience in a meaningful way.
Whether you're a seasoned blogger or just starting, this episode will show you how to confidently write from a place of curiosity, honesty, and authenticity.
Get ready to let go of the pressure of perfection and start creating content that resonates with your readers!
Links to followSaying No to People: When Saying No Isn't Enough
Denise Duffield-Thomas on Being a Contributor, Not a Guru
For my free and paid resources janetravis.co.uk/starthere
One of the questions I often get asked is - how long should a blog be?
And surprisingly, it's not as straightforward as it sounds.
So if you think you have to write an epic, all-singing, all-dancing, 2,000-word blog to get noticed, stick around, because today, we’re breaking down why, when it comes to blogs, length isn’t everything; it’s what you do with it that counts!
(Sorry, I'm such a child!!)
So, how long should a blog post be?
Links to followFor my free and paid resources janetravis.co.uk/starthere
You’ve put in the hard work to become a therapist, and it’s only natural that you want to attract lots the right clients so you can help more people and earn more money.
But sometimes, without even realising it, we can unwittingly send the wrong message or make it more difficult for clients to connect with us, which results in us effectively pushing clients away.
Not good, right?
So, let's take a look at how therapists accidentally push clients away—and, of course, what to do instead.
____________________
If you’re not sure how to get into the heads of your ideal clients, I have some good news for you…
This October, the Grow Your Private Practice membership reopens, and I’m so excited to welcome new members! Whether you’re just starting out with marketing or feeling stuck and overwhelmed, Grow Your Private Practice can help you take the next step with confidence.
How Will Grow Your Private Practice Help You?
The Quarterly Action Plan: Get a clear, step-by-step plan for what to do next—no more feeling lost or overwhelmed. October’s QAP is on 8th October, ready to get you off to the best start.
The Content Creation Cafe: monthly workshop to take action to get your blogs and social media written and out there, working hard for you.
Pick My Brain: Monthly Q&A, and your chance to speak directly with me to get questions answered and remove those blocks that are holding you back.
The Course Library: a comprehensive library with courses, workshops, challenges, etc to boost your skills
Why Take Action Now?
If you’ve been telling yourself you’ll do it later, consider this your friendly nudge, because October is the perfect time to take action and start building the practice you’ve always dreamed of. End the year on a high note, and make October the month you move from planning to doing.
For more details and to join CLICK HERE
Links to followFor all my free and paid resources CLICK HERE
We’ve all heard it—creating content is a great way to grow your practice, whether it’s blogging, podcasting, or making videos. But what can you really expect from it? What does putting yourself out there actually lead to?
In today’s post, I’m diving into a conversation with Sarah Dosanjh, who has experienced first-hand the tangible results of content marketing through both her YouTube channel, with 45K subscribers, and co-hosting the 'Life After Diets' podcast.
Sarah’s story shows how producing content opens doors you didn’t even know were there.
So, if you’re curious about what producing content can do for you, take a listen as we explore the tangible benefits content creation has brought to her private practice—and how it could do the same for yours.
Who is Sarah Dosanjh?Sarah Dosanjh is a psychotherapist and author of the book I Can’t Stop Eating. After her own recovery from binge eating disorder she has gone on to specialise in helping others do the same.
She has appeared on various media outlets such as BBC breakfast, Sky’s Roundtable and BBC Radio One, and amassing over 2 million views on YouTube.
Sarah's resources
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist/
Life After Diets podcast: https://thebingeeatingtherapist.com/life-after-diets-podcast/
Website: www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com
Sarah's book I Can't Stop Eating is available on Amazon
Links to followFor my free and paid offers CLICK HERE
Join the membership and get started on your blogging journey CLICK HERE
Are you a therapist considering starting a YouTube channel, but unsure where to start?
Well, this is your lucky day because we have successful YouTuber Sarah Dosanjh, AKA ‘The Binge Eating Therapist’ to share some of her substantial knowledge and experience.
Sarah grew her channel to 45,000+ subscribers by niching down and embracing her authentic voice.
In this podcast, we dive into Sarah’s journey—from her initial fears about narrowing her focus to the surprising success of connecting with her audience through video.
Whether you’re curious about content creation, YouTube monetisation, or simply how to manage criticism online, Sarah’s insights are invaluable for therapists looking to grow their practice.
Let’s explore how you can do the same in this, the first of a 2 part interview.
Who is Sarah Dosanjh?Sarah Dosanjh is a psychotherapist and author of the book I Can’t Stop Eating. After her own recovery from binge eating disorder she has gone on to specialise in helping others do the same. She has appeared on various media outlets such as BBC breakfast, Sky’s Roundtable and BBC Radio One, as well as amassing over 2 million views on YouTube.
Sarah's resources
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheBingeEatingTherapist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist/
Life After Diets podcast: https://thebingeeatingtherapist.com/life-after-diets-podcast/
Website: www.thebingeeatingtherapist.com
Sarah's book I Can't Stop Eating is available on Amazon
Links to followAnd in the meantime check out Sarahs guest podcasts:
The reality of consistency, with Sarah Dosanjh
How having a niche diversified my business, with guest expert Sarah Dosanjh
Making Videos for Social Media: A Therapist’s Guide
For my free and paid offers CLICK HERE
You’re about to write a blog and an annoying little voice in your head laughs and says ‘You don’t know enough to write a blog, who do you think you are?’. Ouch!
Or you’re about to post on social media and that voice shows up again and says ‘why on earth would people take any notice of you, you’ve got nothing interesting to say’
Yup, that's your imposter syndrome lying to you again
Boy it hurts and yes, it can hold you back. But here’s the thing - it doesn't have to. Stick around as we explore managing imposter syndrome as a therapist, and I share 8 Ways to Silence the Inner Critic
Links to Follow:____________________
Join the 'Attract Therapy Clients by Blogging (Even if Writing Isn’t Your Thing)' event with Onlinevents
Grab this episodes free resource: 20 Affirmations to silence imposter syndrome
For all my free and paid resources go to janetravis.co.uk/starthere
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for any therapist looking to grow their practice.
But with so much noise and competing advice out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when it comes to marketing.
The good news? You don’t need to become a marketing guru to make an impact.
One of the most effective and ethical ways to attract clients and establish your credibility is through blogging.
Blogging allows you to share your knowledge, connect with potential clients, and build trust—all while staying true to your values as a therapist.
Whether you’re new to blogging or looking to refine your strategy, this guide will show you how to create content that not only resonates with your audience but also drives growth for your practice.
Ready to see how blogging can be a game-changer for your therapy practice? Let’s dive in.
Links to follow:'Attract Therapy Clients by Blogging (Even if Writing Isn’t Your Thing)' is run with Onlinevents and is an hour a day over 17th, 18th and 19th September.
This event is on a Pay What You Want basis, making price not a barrier to growth.
For more details and to book go to janetravis.co.uk/blogforclients
____________________
For all my free and paid resources go to janetravis.co.uk/starthere
I’ve talked a lot about the importance of consistency AND the power of taking breaks when you run a private practice
And I’ve also talked about the importance of self care and the need to change, grow and develop.
So today I’m sharing why, after 168 consistent weekly episodes, I’ve decided to hit pause on the podcast.
LinksFREE and paid resources
Post-Christmas, everything feels a bit... off, doesn't it? The excitement of the festive season is behind us, and we're left with cold weather and what feels like an eternity until spring
And there's this gnawing anxiety about whether your therapy practice will weather the storm of the cost of living crisis. Fun times, right?
But before we decide to hibernate until spring, I've been toying with an idea. Let's call it the 'work diet.' It's about doing a Marie Kondo on our professional lives, keeping only what truly 'sparks joy'—or, you know, actually benefits our practice—and ditching the rest. Because maybe, just maybe, simplifying is the secret to not just surviving but thriving right now.
So in this episode I share 5 simple ways to conserve your valuable energy for both you and your practice.
Do you take advantage of video in your marketing, whether that’s on your website, social media, YouTube or somewhere else?
There’s no denying it, video has become increasingly important in marketing. So if you’re thinking of utilising the power for your own practice but don’t know where to start this is for you.
_____________________________
If you don't use video on your marketing, could it be that you…
If you answered yes to any - or all of those, this is the episode for you, because we are exploring making videos for social media and I’m delighted to have therapist and YouTuber Sarah Dosanjh here as my guest.
Sarah wrote the book ‘I can’t stop eating’ and co-hosts the podcast ‘Life After Diets’.
But she has her own successful YouTube channel ‘The Binge Eating Therapist’ since 2019, and as such knows a thing or two about using video.
Today Sarah shares some advice about
So take a listen - I think you’re going to like this one!
_______________
See, I told you she’s great! And I’m feeling so motivated, in Q2 (April - June) I am going to focus on starting to produce video and get more comfortable with it.
There, I said it out loud. So are you going to join me? Hop on over to my socials and let me know.
So if you’ve been thinking about dipping your toe into video, I hope this has inspired you to take the plunge too.
About Sarah DosanjhSarah Dosanjh is a TA psychotherapist and author of the book ‘I Can't Stop Eating’. She is passionate about helping those struggling with binge eating and/or body image to find peace and freedom around food.
And if you are in or around Bournemouth or are happy to travel there, Sarah is offering to help you 1:1 to get started.
So if that sounds good to you, or you want to check out her YouTube channel, podcast, book, training or anything else, check out her 'How I Can Help' page
Sarah has been a guest on my podcast before - so check out ep 81, ‘The Reality of Consistency’, and ep 37, ‘How Having a Niche Diversified My Business’.
...And just a note, the lapel mic Sarah talked about is no longer on Amazon, so look for a lapel mic that connects directly to your phone
When you think of therapy, what comes to mind? Maybe 2 people sitting facing each other talking. But that’s not going to work for everyone.
So today I’m going to explore walk and talk therapy with therapist Eileen Fisher.
We’ll take a look at her experience of offering this type of therapy so you can consider whether it’s something you want to offer in your own practice - or even for your own therapy.
We talk about:
Eileen has such a calm and reassuring voice, I could talk to her all day.
So over to you, is this something you’d be interested in doing?
Well if you are and you’d like a chat with Eileen, she offers a power hour where you can get together and get your questions answered.
And as she mentioned, if you are in the Greater Manchester area, you could even have your chat while on a walk - how cool is that? CLICK HERE to learn about walk and talk therapy for therapists
About Eileen FisherEileen is a TA therapist who works with adults in Cheshire and Greater Manchester.
Her practice is a mix of online, face-to-face and walking clients. She sees clients face-to-face at her office in Wilmslow and walks with people at nearby locations.
She started walking with people in 2018, and now walking therapy is integral to her practice.
Eileen now offers walking therapy training to therapists interested in working with clients in this way. If you'd like to learn more visit Eileen Fisher Therapy HERE
I hope you found this podcast as interesting as I did, and if you decide to offer walking therapy, I'd love to know!
And remember to hit subscribe so you don't miss a episode.
January is traditionally a time reflect on the previous year and make plans for the coming one.
So to get things moving, I’m going to talk about the benefits of setting intentions.
We’ll look at the difference between an intention and a goal, why an intention might be a better choice for you and how to decide what yours is.
I’ll also share some of my own intentions for 2024.
Sounds good? Ok, lets gets stuck in and take a look at your 2024 private practice roadmap!
Links3 Differences Between Goals and Intentions https://theempowermentdynamic.com/3-differences-between-goals-and-intentions-2
The Private Practice Success Roadmap LIVEI am delivering the Private Practice Success Roadmap LIVE over the first 6 months of 2024.
We look at:
This gives you all you need to get clear and confident with your marketing - and remember, we are looking at what’s right FOR YOU - there is no one size fits all answer.
And the beauty of delivering this live is you’re not alone! You’ll do doing this along with a supportive community
I’ll be delivering it in small, manageable steps which will stop that nasty overwhelm AND you’ll get that accountability, which will keep you motivated.
Also, because it's being delivered live, you will be able to ask all your questions as we go along, both in the member community and in monthly dedicated Pick My Brain calls.
Can’t make the calls live? Don't worry, everything will be recorded so you can catch up at a time thats convenient for you.
Oh, and you get a CPD certificate for all training you complete.
I’m buzzing about this, because yes, it’ll be great for you, but also I’ll be there with you, and that’s what I love doing most of all. Delivering live workshops, getting to know members and helping them grow their confidence - and hearing about their successes is why I do this.
This is a live programme is led by me personally and will give you all you need to get clear and confident on your marketing message, but there will even be occasional guest experts to come and share their wisdom.
This change came about because I knew I needed to get intentional about how I spent my time, and because I had to make the most of the time I have available in order to practice really fundamental self care.
So, if you’ve reached the end of 2023 and feel frustrated that you didn’t get as much done as you’d hoped, this is for you.
Or if you’ve lost your mojo and feel dissatisfied, this is for you.
Or if you’ve been getting overwhelmed by how long your to-do list is, this is for you.
Beat the price increase
Oh, and also the price for the membership is increasing. If you join now on an annual membership it's £450, which includes 2 months free, so you save £90.
Or you can pay monthly, which is £45 a month.
The price is increasing on 10th Jan and will be £50 a month or £500 for the year, which saves you a not to shabby £100
So if you’ve been on the fence about joining, this is literally the best time to do it,
Oh, and if you’re not really sure, join and take a look around. If you join and realise its not for you, no problem, just email me and I’ll repay you in full, no questions asked. It’s a no brainer really because there is no risk.
You can find out more and join at Grow Your Private Practice
Have you noticed how the dream of Christmas and the reality of Christmas rarely look the same?
So how can you extend all that goodwill to include yourself?
Because you deserve all the good stuff too!
So in this episode, we check out how to get some real counsellor self-care this Christmas.
We look at
So this year, make sure Santa has you on his 'nice' list, and take it easy.
Links2 part self care blog mini series 'Therapist Self Care: Why it’s vital for you and your clients', and 'Real Therapist Self Care: 22 Practical Ways to Increase Self Care'.
How being a people-pleaser can affect your private practice – and what to do about it
This episode is the last of a 4 part mini-series where I talk with neurodivergent therapists, about their experience of running a practice.
They may have autism, ADHD, be dyslexic or a combination of these things.
Today I have Carly Radford with me, who shares her experience of running a private practice while having autism and ADHD.
This includes her diagnosis experience, misconceptions about autism, and the challenges of masking and hiding in the neurodiverse (ND) community.
She also delves into managing autistic burnout, the significance of a conducive work environment, and hurdles in organisation, time management, and productivity.
Additionally, Carly offers tips for those at the beginning of their neurodivergent self-discovery and neurodivergent business owners, emphasising the importance of self-compassion and embracing sensitivity for a more authentic existence.
I learned such a lot from our talk, and something that particularly resonated with me was how she manages autistic burnout, and this has changed my own working practices. I often have a critical voice buzzing around in my head telling me I’m lazy and suchlike, so I found how she prioritises her needs inspirational - thank you Carly.
In the new year (2024), Carly is running an adult late-identified autistic group with another therapist and is planning to speak more about the above topics on her social media channels.
To follow her work you can find her on Instagram, so go and say hi! : @the_sensitivity_therapist and tiktok: @sensitivity_therapist
About Carly Radford.Carly is an integrative psychotherapist who predominately works with trauma, anxiety, high-achievers and more increasingly, neurodivergence.
She is passionate about working with these difficulties through the lens of highly-sensitive nervous systems, cultivating self-compassion and embracing our sensitivity to lead to more authentic ways of being in the world.
Carly has a particular interest in supporting those at the the start of their neurodivergent self-discovery and in working with neurodivergent business owners, so if that sounds like you, drop her a line at info@luminarytherapies.com
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This is the last of the Neurodivergent Voices in Therapy mini series, and I hope you’ve found it useful. I certainly have.
I feel so honoured to have had such inspirational people here sharing their experiences.
I’d like to thank Carly Radford, Chris Oxborrow, Eve Menezes Cunningham and Tracy Clark for talking with me. I’ve learned lot - and especially around my own self care needs.
So go check them out on social media and say hi 😀
Thanks for listening to The Grow Your Private Practice Show. If you've found value in this content, I’d be really grateful if you could share this podcast with your therapist colleagues and friends.
Word of mouth is a powerful way to spread the word and help me reach more therapists who could benefit from this content.
So take a moment to tell your friends about the show and invite them to tune in. You never know how much of an impact you can make! Thank you for your support, and let's continue to grow together.
This is the third of a 4-part mini-series where we explore running a private practice when affected by autism, ADHD, dyslexia or a combination of those things.
This week I am talking with Tracy Clark about running a practice with dyslexia.
I’ve known Tracy for some time: she used to be a member of the Grow Your Private Practice membership, and I couldn't be happier to have her as a guest in the Neurodivergent Voices in Therapy series.
Tracy is a neurodivergent therapist who supports and works alongside neurodiverse young people, adults and couples.
Today we talk about:
About Tracy ClarkTracy says:
"I am a neurodivergent therapist who supports and works alongside neurodiverse young people, adults and couples.
Within my working week I can be found working 2 days a week in a charity in the central belt of Scotland and the rest of the week in my private practice. I am also a supervisor of trainee therapists as well as qualified therapists.
My interest in working alongside neurodivergent individuals comes from both a personal perspective as well as a professional capacity, also as a supervisor being able to support other therapists.
I have also delivered workshops in this area, as well as being invited to chat with the lovely Jane Travis now twice on this topic, which is very close to my heart.
More awareness, more conversations means embracing the amazing uniqueness of human beings.
For some downtime and self-care I also offer doodle workshops check out the links for more information, as well as workshops with CTUK (Counsellors Together UK) or Onlinevents."
LinksConnect with Tracy on LinkedIn
Website
How making a typo changed Tracys business
How can I help you? Here are my free and paid resources
Welcome to this, the second of my 4 part mini-series, Neurodivergent Voices In Therapy.
In this series, I had the pleasure of speaking with 4 amazing therapists about how their neurodivergence impacts them as private practitioners.
We explore what it’s like to run a practice when you have autism, ADHD, dyslexia or a combination of those things.
So if you are neurodivergent, or know people that are, this is for you.
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I'm delighted to say that this week I have Eve Menezes Cunningham with me.
I’ve known Eve for some time, she was also in the Grow Your Private Practice membership, and I can tell you she is one of the kindest people you will ever have the good fortune to meet.
And I am delighted to have her as a guest in the Neurodivergent Voices in Therapy series.
Eve specialises in all things self-care (she describes it as ‘ Self-care for connecting with and taking better care of your highest, wisest, truest, wildest, most joyful, brilliant and miraculous Self - how cool is that?!)
I could talk with Eve for hours, because we are quite different in our outlook - Eve is a very spiritual person, and I’m not spiritual at all, so I always learn so much a lot from her.
She is an author, therapist, supervisor, master NLP practitioner, advanced EFT practitioner, experienced yoga teacher, and more (read 'About Eve below).
Self-care and ADHDIn this podcast, we chat about:
...and more.
About Eve Menezes CunninghamEve is a very busy person! She is the author of 365 Ways to Feel Better: Self-care Ideas for Embodied Wellbeing. She also runs Feel Better Every Day (aka selfcarecoaching.net).
Integrating a wide range of therapies, coaching and supervision, she specialises in all things self care especially around trauma, anxiety, stress, sleep issues and finding more purpose, meaning and joy.
Eve offers free resources via selfcarecoaching.net and runs the Extra Embodied (Wellbeing with Eve) online membership (evemc.substack.com) with exclusive content live coaching calls each week helping people integrate self care practices into their daily lives.
Eve’s work incorporates traditional talk therapy and coaching as well as somatic (body based) and energy approaches for a holistic approach.
She is a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) Senior Accredited Supervisor and Past Chair of BACP Coaching, an Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) Accredited supervisor and counsellor, EFT International Accredited Mentor and Advanced EFT Practitioner, a Yoga Professionals UK Experienced Yoga Teacher and NLP Master Practitioner.
She has been on the editorial team for Rapport, ANLP’s NLP journal, since 2007. Eve’s work been featured in titles including Psychologies, Therapy Today, Coaching Today, the FT, Guardian, Evening Standard, Metro, Telegraph and Daily Mail.
A member of IACP's editorial committee, she edited the Summer 2022 edition of the Irish Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Based in Westport, on the west coast of Ireland, Eve works online and by telephone with clients and supervisees across the UK and Ireland with some nature based outdoor sessions in Westport.
So go and say hi to her!
Welcome to this, the first of my 4 part mini-series, Neurodivergent Voices in Therapy
In this mini-series, I had the pleasure of speaking with 4 amazing therapists about how their neurodivergence impacts them as private practitioners.
We explore what it’s like to run a practice when you are affected by autism, ADHD, dyslexia or a combination of those things.
In the first of this mini-series, I’m delighted to have Chris Oxborrow with me, and we talk about some of her experiences of running a practice with ADHD.
We look at how to manage some challenges being neurodivergent may bring, and also what positive aspects they have.
We explore:
About Chris OxborrowChris describes herself as a neurodivergent Psychotherapist who specialises in working predominantly with high-achieving personalities, but also with neurodivergent clients and those navigating menopause (sometimes all 3!).
She supports clients to discover their authentic sense of themselves and how their needs can be met with more compassion and self-acceptance.
From Jan 2024 she will also be working as a Menopause and HRT Educator, supporting clients to discover how they want to manage their menopausal experience and how to access appropriate HRT-related health care.
Check out Chris's website Beyond Counselling and you can contact her at
chrisoxborrow@beyondcounselling.org
If you are a counsellor or therapist, how long will it take to grow your practice?
Answering a question from Neil, we I explore how complex this question is, and share some tips.
Links:
Podcast episodes mentioned:
Ep 154 Counsellor or Clone: Breaking Through the Monotony of Online Directories
Ep 156: How to stop comparing yourself with other therapists
And some podcasts to help with time management:
Ep 24 Managing Your Diary With Time Blocking
Ep 56 How to achieve more in less time
Ep 114 How to Make the Most of your Time and Get Things Done
And for more on how I can help you grow your practice janetravis.co.uk/starthere
Ever heard of the term "post and ghost"?
If you're scratching your head or even if you're guilty of doing it (we've all been there 😉), my latest podcast episode is a MUST-LISTEN!
I sat down with Instagram expert Sally Birks @socialbysally who shed light on the implications of hitting 'post' and then disappearing. We explored:
1️⃣ Why consistent engagement is KEY to growing your practice.
2️⃣ What happens when you don’t respond to comments.
3️⃣ How to get started, and what to post
4️⃣ Simple strategies to stay present and connect authentically.
If you're serious about making the most of your online presence but are unsure how to get started, this episode is golden.
If you want even more practical help, come and join the 10-day ‘Quick and Easy Social Media Challenge’.Every day I’ll share a simple, effective task which will not only help you grow, it’ll start a social media habit, so you never 'post and ghost' again.
In this challenge, I share with you exactly what to do on your social media for 10 days. This will save you a ton of time AND get you the results you’re looking for.
Each day there will be a simple task for you to complete, and if you complete the tasks, you will be entered into a draw to win a 30-minute coaching session with me, worth £75.
You not only learn how to:
But you’ll also leave with LOADS of ideas you can use going forward, so you can make this a habit.
How does that sound?
Well if you’re interested in joining me, this challenge is available as part of the Grow Your Private Practice membership, and runs from 16th October 2023 - 27th October 2023.
So if you’ve been struggling to attract more clients and you’ve been thinking of joining, now is the perfect time.
Because not only will you have access to everything in the membership, you can join in the challenge and get those results.
And remember, if you only want to join for a month to do the challenge, you can do that, stay for as long - or short as is right for you.
Will I see you there?
Join The Grow Your Private Practice Membership HERE
It's human nature to compare ourselves with others. But this can have a detrimental effect on you, your confidence and your self-esteem.
And as a practice owner, this can also impact the success of your business.
So what can you do if comparisons are knocking your confidence? How can you stop comparing yourself to other therapists?
In this podcast I share:
So take a look at why it's not usually helpful, and how to stop comparing yourself to other therapists
Links:Check out my free and paid resources here janetravis.co.uk/starthere
Question - do you follow a system when you receive an email enquiry from someone that you can't work with for some reason?
Maybe you're at capacity, or their issue is outside your competence, or something else.
To be honest, I think probably most people don't, but you could be missing a trick. By having a system, it reduces stress, saves time and serves that client better.
So today, I explore what to do when you can't say yes to enquiries so you can make the process easier for you, and more professional and helpful for the client.
LinksTo access my free and paid resources, CLICK HERE
Online directories can be a great way of attracting more therapy clients, but how can you stand out among all the other counsellors on there?
In this episode, I share some ideas about how to inject your personality into your bio, so it's easier for your dream clients to reach you.
All without any worries about personal disclosure
LinksGrow Your Private Practice membership
Free resources
The pros and cons of a free first session are debated regularly amongst therapists, but the truth is, there simply isn’t a definitive right or wrong answer. Quite literally, it's your business and up to you how you choose to run it.
But that’s not very useful when you’re trying to work out what to do!
So let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons involved to help you make your choice about whether to offer therapy clients a free first session
Links:7 Steps to turning an enquiry into a booking
CLICK HERE to see all my free and paid resources
There are two times in the year that have that 'new start' vibe: January and September, and both are excellent moments for a ‘stocktake’ of your private practice.
So today, I’m doing a September reset and sharing with you a guide to refreshing your private practice so you start the last quarter with a bang.
Welcome to this, the last of this series of 'Highlight Reels', where I shared 4 of the most popular podcasts of the last 12 months.
And today, we look at mindset, because if you're a therapist and you want a successful private practice, then your mindset is vital.
But what do I even mean by mindset?
Why is it so important?
And how can you go about improving yours?
In this episode, I explore why your mindset is vital if you want a successful practice.
I also share some questions for reflection and tips for improving yours.
And check out some of my other podcasts about mindset below.
Links to follow
NOTE I said in the podcast I'd share links to my podcasts on mindset, but I hadn't realised there were so many! I've recorded 112 episodes and probably 30% are to do with mindset in some way because it's so important.
So I recommend browsing through my previous podcasts to see the mindset episodes.
And for more resources, both free and paid, click here -> janetravis.co.uk/starthere
The fear of failure is clear and obvious, but the fear of success is confusing. I mean, you WANT to be successful, right?
The fear of success is sneaky. Without you even being aware it's there, it causes you to self-sabotage and put a spoke in the wheel of your success and hold you back.
How frustrating is that?
So today I'll be demystifying the fear of success, and sharing 7 ways to stop getting in your own way.
Links To FollowThe Grow Your Private Practice membership
If you need help growing your private practice, check out my free and paid resources here
Episode 112 Why Your Mindset is Vital if you Want a Successful Practice
The Grow Your Private Practice Show was launched in July 2020, and in this time it's covered a wide variety of subjects about how to grow your practice and attract more clients.
But it's not just about attracting more clients, it's also about YOU and how to build your business to suit your own needs.
And part of that is managing mindset issues and practising robust self-care, something that can end up too far down the to-do list.
So today, I'm sharing one of the most popular episodes with you, an open letter to therapists with mental health issues.
So this is for you if you struggle with your own mental health issues.
As a therapist, you know how difficult life can be and how prevalent mental health issues are.
But in the recent past, on top of these existing issues, we've all had to process some frankly major world issues - the pandemic, war, climate chaos, financial insecurity... a whole lot of unpredictability and fear.
That's a lot to cope with. And as a therapist, you aren't immune to it.
So how can you cope as a therapist running a private practice when struggling with your own mental health issues?
LinksIf you need help growing your private practice, check out my free and paid resources here
The Grow Your Private Practice Show was launched in July 2020, and in this time it's covered a wide variety of subjects about how to grow your practice and attract more clients.
So today, I'm sharing one of the most popular episodes with you, all about how to enjoy the marketing process.
So this is for you if marketing feels like a chore you keep putting off, like it's something you are forced to do to attract clients, but you wish you didn't have to.
Maybe you HATE the thought of having to ‘sell’ yourself, or the thought of being visible brings you out in a rash?
Well if that sounds familiar, this episode is for you because it doesn’t have to be that way.
Forcing yourself to do something you hate is NOT the way to do something well. It's possible to enjoy your marketing, and when you enjoy your marketing, you do it more, get better at it and as a result, it’s more effective.
Which means more clients, better outcomes and increased income.
So you not only enjoy your marketing but naturally get the results you want.
Don’t believe me - then listen up, and I'll show you how.
LinksJoin the Grow Your Private Practice membership growyourprivatepractice.co.uk
Not sure who your dream clients are and how to attract them? Check out this 3 part mini-series 'How to attract your dream clients'
2 podcasts with Fifi Mason about marketing as an introvert Visibility: Shifting the focus and Using introvert superpowers to attract more clients
FREE Guide: Attract more clients by helping instead of selling
Check out my resources to help therapists to attract more clients HERE
Here we are at part 3 of the 'How To Attract Your Dream Clients' mini-series, where I share practical ways you can use The Empathy Exercise to stand out and attract clients.
And this is where it gets fun!
So take a look at how I take one aspect of The Empathy Exercise and turn it into copy for your website, directory, blog and social media.
LinksThe Grow Your Private Practice membership
Blogs on Self Care for People Pleasers
Come say Hi! on LinkedIn or Instagram
Resources for counsellors and therapists
Welcome to this, the second of 3 parts of the mini-series 'How to Attract Your Dream Clients'.
When it comes to marketing your private practice - or any business for that matter - it's crucial to have an understanding of your clients: What are their fears, worries and issues? What are their hopes and dreams?
And importantly, what do they want from therapy?
Because when you know this, you can create marketing materials - your website, social media, blogs etc - that will attract them as clients.
But how do you do that?
Well in this episode I introduce you to The Empathy Exercise, and how it will help you to read your clients mind.
Links to followIs CPD impacting your Imposter Syndrome?
How to use CPD for personal, professional and business growth, with guest John Wilson
Welcome to this, the first of a 3 part mini-series all about how to attract your dream clients.
And to get started, it might surprise you that when it comes to attracting your dream clients, it all starts with YOU.
What do YOU want? What are your desires, needs, interests, and passions?
Because you are building a business, and the beauty of that is you can turn this into your dream business, where you work with your dream clients, and work in the ways you believe, you work the hours that suit you, and you run it how YOU choose.
This can take some getting used to if you aren't used to it, especially if you’re used to having a boss telling you what to do.
But growing your practice into something that suits you is what makes all the work worth it. It's fulfilling and will make you feel content and satisfied. It’s life-changing.
So let’s explore you.
LinksFor free resources and other goodies, go to janetravis.co.uk/start-here
Check out and join the Grow Your Private Practice membership
Remember those New Year Resolutions from January? How are they going for you?
Well in this episode, we’re going to have a super simple 6-month review to help you see where you are now, where you want to be in 6 months' time, and how to make that happen.
LinksHow to navigate a crisis in your private practice
Grab your free resources here
Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership
It doesn’t matter what business you’re in - accountant, web designer, window cleaner - there will always be clients that let us down, or despite doing all you could, things don't happen the way you thought.
And what makes it worse is the crappy stuff tends to come in clusters.
Navigating slow periods in your private practice?
In this episode, I share 7 things to do in a quiet spell
LinksHow to Avoid the Feast and Famine in Your Private Practice
The Grow Your Private Practice Membership
The Grow Your Private Practice Book
Ever wondered how to set the right price for your therapy services?
In this episode, we delve into this intriguing topic that often puzzles therapists.
So join me and explore putting a price on therapy and look at why your fees matter in ways you may not have already thought of, including the importance of avoiding the 'budget therapist' label, and learned about Goldilocks pricing.
Links to followDiscover my FREE resources at janetravis.co.uk/start-here
Get The Grow Your Private Practice Book
Join the membership growyourprivatepractice.co.uk
Ep 66 Do you feel guilty charging for therapy? https://www.janetravis.co.uk/do-you-feel-guilty-about-charging-for-therapy/Ep 55: The hidden impact of money issues in private practice, with Cathy Towers
https://www.janetravis.co.uk/the-hidden-impact-of-money-issues-in-private-practice-with-cathy-towers/
Ep 135 Thriving, Not Just Surviving: Navigating the Cost of Living Crisis in Private Practice, with Miranda Palmer https://www.janetravis.co.uk/navigating-the-cost-of-living-crisis-in-private-practice-with-miranda-palmer/
Ep 137 The Value of Therapy: How Words Impact Your Attitude Towards Charging Clients [With Examples] https://www.janetravis.co.uk/charging-clients/
I thoroughly enjoyed training to be a therapist, and couldn't wait to start a practice of my own.
But once I became qualified, I realised how uncomfortable it felt to do the marketing necessary to attract clients.
How could I promote myself whilst staying within personal disclosure boundaries?
How could I be visible without it compromising my client work?
And now that my business is all about helping other therapists to grow their practice, I am aware of them going through exactly the same difficulties.
So today, I chat with Lindsey Bryan-Podvin about these conflicts that arise and we talk about how therapy training can hold you back as a private practitioner - and what you can do to market yourself effectively while not crossing any ethical boundaries.
In this episode, we cover:
I hope this opens up an area to explore, because the more comfortable you are with marketing, the more successful that marketing will be.
About Lindsay Bryan-PodvinLindsay Bryan-Podvin (she/her) is a biracial financial therapist and wellness expert, speaker, and author of the book "The Financial Anxiety Solution."
She’s a practising LMSW since 2012, and she uses a shame-free approach to help people get their minds and money in balance by focusing on the intersection of money and mental health.
While financial literacy is important, she champions the belief that money is rooted in emotions and impacted by the systems around us.
She has a degree in sociology and a Master’s in Social Work with certificates in Financial Social Work and Financial Therapy.
She lives with her partner and their dog on the occupied land of the Anishinaabe also known as Michigan.
So go say hi to her on Instagram HERE
Links:Listen to our previous podcast episode 103 How to cope with financial anxiety, with Lindsay Bryan-Podvin
Episode 37: How having a niche diversified my business, with guest expert Sarah Dosanjh
And if you need some extra help attracting clients and marketing your practice, check out the Grow Your Private Practice membership and see how it will help you.
If you're a therapist in private practice, your website is an important tool to help attract the right clients to you.
So if you are ready for your first website, or you already have a website and now realise it's not quite what you need, this is for you.
In this episode, I chat with website and digital marketing consultant Theo Ruby about building and developing your therapy website.
We discuss, amongst other things:
Links to followYou'll find Theo Ruby HERE
Theo’s Digital Marketing Glossary
My podcast ‘Demystifying Marketing Terms’
‘From I can’t write to published author’ with Zoe Clements
6 reasons you must have a website with Sarah Gershone
5 commonly held website myths that could be holding you back, with Sarah Gershone
And 4 mistakes that make your website copy ineffective, with Kat Love
Your Website Blueprint is part of the Grow Your Private Practice membership
Starting in private practice can feel hugely exciting. After all, you've probably been working up to this point for many years. All that training, learning, reading and soul searching has led to this point.
And now here you are, ready to take action.
But somehow the excitement has transformed and now you feel overwhelmed, intimidated and apprehensive. That tingle of excitement has morphed into more of a 'did I accidentally sit on a bed of stinging nettles' sensation.
This isn't what you ordered!
So if any of that sounds familiar, here is my open letter to new counsellors and therapists...
LinksAdvice from counsellors for therapists starting in private practice
Tell me, how do you feel when a potential new client contacts you?
Do you feel in control and confident?
OR maybe you lack confidence and don’t really know how to handle it?
Well if you identify more with the second scenario, this episode if for you, because today we’re going to talk about taking initial phone calls from potential clients to increase the chance that they make an appointment and become your client.
So here are 7 steps to turning an enquiry into a booking so you know EXACTLY what to say.
Links:Voicemail For Therapists: 6 ways to improve your message and hang on to that client
Watch the Therapy Rebrand webinar
8 Ways to Make the Most of Your Time and Get More Done
Why smooth on boarding helps the therapy process, with Kim Simmons
Grow Your Private Practice membership
If you’ve ever considered podcasting to attract more clients but don’t really know where to start, then this episode is for you, because I have the fabulous Philip Brett King with me to discuss the benefits of podcasting and whether it is right for you.
Because podcasting is massive.
And since the pandemic, 40% more people listen - so that’s around 19.1 million in the UK, and globally a massive 464.7 million.
That’s mindblowing!
I started my own podcast on 8th July 2020 and this is episode 137 - with the majority being weekly until January this year when unfortunately my dad became ill and died, so I've reduced it to fortnightly for a while.
And I’ve seen how it’s benefited my business in many ways.
Not only that, it’s fun to do! I’ve interviewed some amazing guests, including todays guest Phil from My Podcast Assistant, who is my podcast editor.
So if you’ve ever considered starting a podcast and like the thought of helping people whilst also growing your business - and increasing your income, then this is your lucky day.
We chat about:
So if you’ve been toying with the idea, you’re going to love this
About Philip Brett KingPhil says:
“My goal is to help people sound amazing online!
25 years ago I was singing and fronting a Rock band, playing gigs in some of London's best live venues. But eventually wound up marketing for associated newspapers and having to hang up my bass guitar and microphone... and trying to fit into society.
However, life threw me a curveball in 2016 and I found the crazy underworld of voiceover and started growing a side hustle as a Voice Actor.
Two years later an ultimatum from my job pushed me to hand in my resignation and go headfirst into becoming a full-time freelance voice actor; recording my voice for top brands around the world..and I haven't looked back!
But it didn't stop there. 2019 brought the pandemic and podcasting really started to take off. Also, everyone started working online using Zoom, but they didn't sound too good.
So I started my brand My Podcast Assistant utilising my years of experience as a musician and voice actor to help others create great-sounding podcasts and to sound amazing online.”
Check Phil out at My Podcast Assistant
Say Hi on Instagram HERE
Grab his free resources and take the ‘Podcast Equipment Quiz’ HERE
And grab one of my own freebies HERE
How do you feel about charging your therapy clients, raising fees or even enforcing boundaries about payment for missed sessions?
I think for many therapists, dealing with the money side of having clients can feel tricky - and I know it was for me.
So if that sounds familiar to you, listen up because in this episode I’m going to share a ridiculously simple change that transformed how I feel about charging clients.
Check out my FREE resources HERE
If you found this episode helpful, remember to subscribe and leave a review. A cheeky 5 stars would be amazing, thank you
Is the cost of living crisis making you feel insecure in your private practice? Maybe you worry no one will be able to afford therapy? Or clients are asking to come less frequently?
Perhaps you need to increase your fee in order to manage your own rising expenses, but worry about putting people off?
If so, you are not alone. However, today I have the amazing Miranda Palmer with me talking about thriving, not just surviving: navigating the cost of living crisis in private practice.
We discuss:
And a reminder that after the last few years, the reality is that there are more people today that need mental healthcare than ever before.
About Miranda PalmerMiranda Palmer, LMFT, loves helping therapists bridge the gap between what it takes to be a great therapist who gets great clinical outcomes and what it takes to run a successful therapy practice. She has helped thousands of therapists from around the world make the mindset shifts that allow a more effortless application of marketing strategies that grow a private practice that is not just financially sustainable, but that gets great clinical outcomes.
Miranda and her business partner Kelly Higdon, also a licenced therapist founded ZynnyMe, to empower private practice owners to serve at their highest and best, improve clinical outcomes through business planning, and to break the statistic that mental health clinicians are the worst paid Masters’ degree.
Kelly and Miranda provide coaching and training through their Private Practice Community, the Business School Bootcamp for Therapists, and educational webinars, and have helped thousands of clinicians from around the world.
LINKS TO FOLLOWLearn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/
Website: zynnyme.com
Blog: zynnyme.com/blog
Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda
Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/
Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms:
Apple Podcasts
Google Podcasts
Spotify
Book: Therapist Burnout: Your Guide to Recovery and a Joyful, Sustainable Private Practice
Do you know what your clients want from therapy?
Maybe that sounds like a strange question, but it's important to consider because if you don’t truly understand what their needs are, how will you know what to say in your marketing to attract them?
So let's explore this fundamental marketing principle of features vs benefits and discover what's the difference, and why you need to know.
And if you need help understanding what to say on your website and other marketing, come and join the Grow Your Private Practice membership, and remove the guesswork. www.growyourprivatepractice.co.uk
In last week's episode, I talked about why my word of the year for the Grow Your Private Practice membership is EASE
If you haven't had a chance to listen, basically, I invited you to explore how you can enjoy your marketing, and make the process easier for you.
But I realised there's something in my own business that goes against this, so I’ve decided to make a change.
So what changes have I made and why?
And how can you simplify your own businesses too?
LinksThe membership Grow Your Private Practice
Podcast episodes mentioned:
Episode 58 'Directories, the good, the bad and the ugly'
Episode 5 '6 steps to turning an enquiry into a booking'
Episode 22 'Demystifying the fear of success and 7 ways to stop getting in your own way'
Episode 112 'Why your mindset is vital if you want a successful practice'
Episode 116 'What content can therapists create to attract more clients,' with the authors of Content Fortress Martin and Lyndsay
Episode 89 '6 reasons why you MUST have a website', with Sarah Gershone
Episode 42 'Why your private practice shouldn't be on every social media platform'
My editor Phil, from My Podcast Assistant
Does marketing your private practice feel like a chore you keep putting off? Something you are forced to do to attract clients, but you wish you didn't have to?
Maybe you HATE the thought of having to ‘sell’ yourself, or the thought of being visible brings you out in a rash?
Well if that sounds familiar, then this episode is for you because it doesn’t have to be that way.
Forcing yourself to do something you hate is NOT the way to do effective marketing. I want to put to you that It IS possible to enjoy your marketing. And when you enjoy your marketing, you do it more, get better at it and as a result, it’s more effective.
So you can not only enjoy your marketing but naturally get the results you want.
Don’t believe me - then listen up.
Links
Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership before 8 pm UK time on 31st January 2023 and beat the price increase.
It's just £35 a month. Or save more with an annual membership and get 2 months FREE
From 1st February 2023 the price will be £45 a month, so don't miss out - join now! growyourprivatepractice.co.uk
Visibility: Shifting the focus
Using introvert superpowers to attract more clients
FREE Guide: Attract more clients by helping instead of selling
What happens when you hit a crisis in your business?
Well, I've just experienced this personally and today I want to share what I've learned.
We are going to look at this from the perspective of both having a client in crisis and you having a personal situation.
And there's a trigger warning as I’ll talk briefly about bereavement today.
Before I start, I want to let you know I’m not coming at this subject from the point of view of a supervisor offering advice, more from the human perspective.
______________
If you’ve been thinking about joining the membership but didn't know about the price increase so missed out, I have some good news for you…
I'm delaying the price increase for the membership.
Join before 8pm UK time on 31st January 2023, you can join at the previous low monthly fee of £35.
The price will increase again on 1st February to £45 a month - which still represents great value, but if you want to grow your practice this year, it makes sense to join now.
And you can save even more by taking an annual membership as you will get 2 months free.
So why join the membership?
Because you will get focus, direction and support. I will help you cut through the noise so you can focus on the things that will really make a difference so you attract more clients more easily.
The membership will reduce the confusion and overwhelm so you can take the steps needed to move your practice forward.
So if you want to grow your practice but are unsure what exactly to do, come and join us.
And remember, if you join and realise it’s not right for you within 14 days, just let me know and I will refund you, no problem. So theres no risk.
Check it out and join at Grow Your Private Practice
I can't lie - I really HATE most New Year resolutions. I think they are too punishing! So often they talk about ‘New Year, New You’, which I fundamentally disagree with I don't believe anyone needs to become a whole new you, as you are already pretty cool as you are.
However, I like the SPIRIT of New Year's resolutions.
I’m a big fan of personal development. There are always things in our lives that we can learn or improve to enrich ourselves or your therapy practice. Ways to make it work better for both you and for your clients.
So with this in mind, here are 5 empowering new year resolutions for therapists that are both realistic and will help you (and your practice) grow.
Links:The Grow Your Private Practice Membership
Episode 95, The simple trick to overcome imposter syndrome
Episode 24, Managing your diary with time blocking https://www.janetravis.co.uk/managing-your-diary-with-time-blocking/
Well, it's almost Christmas, so what would you put in a letter to Santa?
Here's my letter, and as I've been (mainly) good this year, I have my fingers crossed he will grant my wish because my wish is to do with you, a wonderful therapist.
Take a listen - what would you add?
Links:Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership before 8pm 3rd January 2023 to beat the price increase. Click here --> Grow Your Private Practice
If you’re a regular listener, or if you have the Grow Your Private Practice book, you’ll know that I run the Grow Your Private Practice membership. In the membership, I provide training and workshops to help you grow your practice and attract more clients more easily.
So you might have wondered if the membership is a good choice for you - what it includes, what to expect and how will it help YOU
So today, I’m going to share with you 5 reasons why the Grow Your Private Practice membership is NOT right for you so you can make an informed choice about whether to join.
Links to follow
Join the membership growyourprivatepractice.co.uk
Episode 116 What content can therapists create to attract more clients?
3 years ago, on 5th December 2019, I published the Grow Your Private Practice book.
However, I struggle with seriously bad imposter syndrome. I never produce anything without that mean, evil voice sneering at me and saying no one would want to listen to me and that I’m not good enough in a hundred different ways.
It’s exhausting.
So how did I overcome imposter syndrome and publish a book, and how can YOU stop imposter syndrome from holding you back?
I’ll tell you.
LinksMy book coach Dale Darley
Episode 1: Action is the antidote to fear
Buy the Grow Your Private Practice book
You're a therapist, so you know how prevalent mental health issues are.
But on top of existing issues has been the pandemic, war, climate chaos, financial insecurity... and a whole lot of unpredictability and fear.
That's a lot to cope with.
So how can you cope as a therapist running a private practice when struggling with your own mental health issues?
If you are struggling, you are most definitely not alone.
Here is an open letter to therapists with mental health issues.
If you're a therapist, does social media ever seem a bit complicated to you? Maybe you just don't know what to say, or it takes ages to write a post?
If that sounds like you, then you're going to LOVE this!
Because I'm going to share a quick social media post that will help you to connect with followers.
So take a look at this simple to produce and effective introduction post that you can use today.
Links to followFREE download: 37 social media 'hooks' to stop the scroll
The Grow Your Private Practice membership
Are you ready to try something new?
Did that attract your attention? Well, that’s because I started this podcast with a hook - something to attract your attention and encourage you to read on.
Because social media is a brilliant - and free - way to attract clients, but people need to SEE what you write in order for it to make an impact and grow your practice.
And here’s the thing: It’s a busy world out there. People are busy. And people are lazy too.
So if your want people to read what you’ve written on social media - or video, or blogs or anything for that matter then you have to get their attention, and you have to get it quickly.
You have to ‘stop the scroll’
So take a listen, and see for yourself how easy it can be.
FREE GuideAnd if you want to get started today, you can grab my FREE download '37 social media 'hooks' to stop the scroll'.
Do you write blog posts but find they don't get read? Frustrating, right? But the internet is a very busy place, and people on the internet are a bit - well, lazy! It’s not enough to just write a blog - it needs to entice readers in and spark curiosity. If it isn't attractive and easy to read, people will click away. So if you want your blog to get more readers, take a listen as I share 8 fool-proof formatting tips to get more people to read your blog post. And if you want to learn how to blog, or up your blogging game, join us in the Grow Your Private Practice membership.
Is it time to stop holding yourself back? Unlike the fear of failure, which is clear and obvious, the fear of success is confusing. I mean, you WANT to be successful, right? But the fear of success is sneaky, and without you even being aware it's there, it causes you to self-sabotage and put a spoke in the wheel of your success and hold you back. How frustrating is that? So today I'll be demystifying the fear of success, and sharing 7 ways to stop getting in your own way. Links To FollowThe Grow Your Private Practice membership FREE guide: Your Clients Journey Into Therapy Episode 112 Why Your Mindset is Vital if you Want a Successful Practice
Your voicemail message makes the difference between someone becoming a client, or calling the next person on their list. So make this process as easy and welcoming for people as possible. Here are 6 ways to improve your message and hang on to that client. Links to follow:Ep 78 ‘Why smooth onboarding helps the therapy process, with Kim Simmons' https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/crisis-services/getting-help-in-a-crisis/ (Minds crisis page) Grow Your Private Practice https://amzn.to/3ez6K8A (The Grow Your Private Practice book)
Are you the sort of person that springs out of bed, enthusiastic and ready to take on the day? No, me neither. So if you are feeling unmotivated and lethargic, check out this short Highlights Reel series sharing the most popular podcasts I've produced about self-care. In this, the last of the series I share 10 simple ways to get motivated to your private practice - because let's face it, we all need a little help sometimes. And if you need some extra help, come and join us in the Grow Your Private Practice membership and let's make a real difference
Being a therapist is a wonderful thing. I was a counsellor for 14 years and I loved it. But boy, it’s hard work. Listening to what clients are saying, watching for what they aren't saying, noticing body language and silences, and bearing witness to pain and cruelty they have experienced. It’s hard work at the best of times, but we’ve just been through a devastating few years. As a therapist, you are there for your clients and holding space for them, AND dealing with everything that’s happening in your own life. So yes, there has been a relentless amount of change and stress we’re all experiencing. This episode is a must listen, because I have a guest expert that is not only a therapist and author, he gives talks about compassion fatigue and burnout. Howard Baumgarten is a Therapist with his own practice in Lakewood, Colorado and who has vast experience of helping counsellors both grow their practice and take better care of themselves. He’s an author - he wrote https://amzn.to/2TzQlWR (Private Practice Essentials) A podcaster - check out https://www.psychbizpodcast.com/episodes/ (Psych Biz) where he produces shows with friend of the show Sarah Gershone. And he’s a public speaker and wellness trainer too covering topics such as Compassion Fatigue, Burnout Prevention, Resilience, Stress Management, and Conflict Resolution. So he wears a lot of different hats. In this podcast he talks about: The addictive nature of doing more Moving into the process of self-care The difference between burnout and compassion fatigue
He says ‘Untreated compassion fatigue will almost certainly lead to burnout. And prolonged burnout can lead to depression'. This is serious stuff. Take a listen, and look after yourself. About Howard Baumgarten Howard Baumgarten is a Licensed Professional Counselor, author, consultant, speaker, wellness and small business-training expert, and owner of a mental health private practice in Lakewood, Colorado. He is the founder of Smart Practice Central, a healthcare business-building platform that values intelligent, ethical, and clinically minded practice development, and provides clinical practice business consultation and training to private practices and healthcare agencies. Howard has lectured throughout the US on the integration of mental health, wellness and business, focusing on practice development, working within managed care systems, the impacts of the Affordable Care Act on mental health care, and work/life balance. He is the author of Private Practice Essentials published in 2017. In 2003, he developed and implemented the first practice building business curriculum in a graduate level-counselling program in the country at the University of Colorado, where he taught this curriculum for twelve years. Howard routinely consults and trains businesses and organizations across a variety of industries in work/life wellness, including managing stress, building resilience, creating balance, burnout prevention, teamwork, conflict resolution and other topics. He has been quoted for his work with physicians and healthcare professionals around burnout prevention in Medical Economics Journal. He is the former Director of Network Relations for Westside Behavioral Care, Inc., a clinical group practice he helped build into one of Colorado’s largest outpatient behavioral health practices. Howard’s work has led him toward a passion for researching and understanding compassion and human resilience, thus creating his practice model of “Integrative Resilience Theory,” an approach to change and growth in which cultivating compassion is a key component. When not counselling, lecturing, teaching, researching, writing, presenting or consulting, you can find Howard hiking on a mountain top, skiing downhill, running on a trail, travelling, and spending time with his friends and family. Listen to his podcast Psych Biz where he produces shows with friend of the show Sarah Gershone....
Let me ask you - how are you? I mean how are you really? Because we’ve all been through a rough few years, and as a therapist as well as having your own stuff to deal with, you also hold space for your clients. And let’s not mince words, because as much as you love your job, this can be a heavy weight to bear. There has been a relentless amount of change and stress we’re all experiencing. So I wanted to share some resources to help you. So I’m sharing 4 of the most popular self-care podcasts I’ve published. Last week in episode 117, I shared how to stay productive, even on low energy days - so if you are anything like me and have high energy days and get loads done, and also low energy days where it feels like you’re walking through treacle, take a listen. It is also available in blog form if you prefer reading, so just go to janetravis. co.uk/117 This week, I’m re-sharing a hugely popular podcast with guest Charlie Hyde. We discuss how burnout is something that can creep up on you, so it's important to know what some of the signs are so you can protect yourself. And we share our own experiences of burnout along with some practical tips and ideas to protect ourselves. We discuss choices, how to recognise our needs and give ourselves permission to do whatever it is that’s needed, without guilt. So if you feel exhausted, take a listen About Charlie HydeCharlie is a Consultant recovering from Burnout; her YouTube channel and blog, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsnbvYvHTpfxSibsrD047bA (Today Years Old) is the phoenix from the ashes of Burnout. On these, she talks about how you can overcome Burnout, how to get back onto the career bandwagon after Burnout and how you can spot the signs to avoid it in the future. She’s always open to chat and you can reach her through LinkedIn. Connect with Charliehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsnbvYvHTpfxSibsrD047bA (Today Years Old) https://youtu.be/g6bcRf-kdiU (My interview with Charlie on stress awareness day) https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-hyde-179a1058/ (LinkedIn)
I’m recording this mid-September 2022 and boy, it’s been a tricky couple of years - worldwide, but here in the UK, we were going through Brexit when covid hit, we have a war in Europe, climate change seems to be really coming home to roost. The cost of living crisis and eye-watering energy price increases have impacted all but a minority. Politically - well, where do I even start! National and international politics have been (and still are) - let’s say ‘unsettled’. In the UK, we’ve been rocked by Scandals in government that lead to a change of leader and 2 days after she takes the job, the queen dies. I liked the queen, but no matter what your views are on the monarchy, this represents a big change when, to be honest, I suspect many of us are just wanting to just relax into something comforting and familiar. So many things have happened, so many significant changes. And you will have your own story too, as we all do. Highlights Reel So I’ve put together 4 of the most popular podcasts I’ve produced to do with self-care to help you at this time. A couple from me and a couple from guests, so there should be something that will be interesting for you. And in this first one, I share with you a podcast that’s practical, sharing how to stay productive, even on low-energy days. So if you have days when everything just feels too much like hard work, take a listen. It could revolutionise the way you work. Here's how to stay productive, even on low-energy days Links to follow: Naomi Dunfords original blog https://ittybiz.com/stay-productive/ (How to stay amazingly productive even on low energy days) Episode 12, https://www.janetravis.co.uk/your-business-your-rules/ (Your business, your rules) Grow Your Private Practice Membership
If you’re going to invest your time into writing a blog (or producing other content) then you want to make sure you get results. And the result you ultimately want is regular client enquiries so you can sustain a consistent client base and ditch the’ feast and famine’ stress in your business. Sounds good. But how do you know what that is? What blogs can you produce to attract clients?
Though actually, it’s more than that. The question really is ‘How can you attract the right clients for you?’.
Because you don’t want just any client. Can you imagine if all the clients you attracted had an issue that you just didn’t like working with?
No, you want to enjoy the work you do, feel fulfilled, work with issues you feel passionately about and use the modalities you love. You want clients that are a good fit for you because that means your clients are more likely to really engage with the process and ultimately get the transformation they want in order to move on with their lives. It’s a win/win situation
And the way to do that is through the content you produce.
In this episode, I have 2 of the best blogging experts around - Martin Huntbach and Lyndsay Cambridge, co-authors of https://amzn.to/3cNzkC2 (Content Fortress).
The tagline on the book is ‘A simple content strategy to help you attract customers you’ll love to work with’.
And I have to say, I have enjoyed blogging for years, but I picked up some real gems from this call. So if you already write or are thinking about starting, this episode is for you.
We talk about What to focus on when you’re just getting started blogging, What content won’t work well for therapists, How blogging regularly will boost your practice And how it will elevate you in a crowded market
Who are Martin and Lyndsay?
They are authors of the best-selling book https://amzn.to/3cNzkC2 (Content Fortress) and directors of https://jammydigital.com/ (Jammy Digital) - an award-winning agency that helps entrepreneurs get more sales from their websites.
While running their web design agency, Martin and Lyndsay discovered how to use content to get more leads and sales. But having experienced just how difficult it is to balance running a business and family life, Martin and Lyndsay learnt how to use content to attract higher-paying, better clients who were eager to work with them.
They now dedicate their time to helping other business owners do the same.
Episodes about bogging: Episode 75: How to brainstorm ideas for blogs and social mediq Episode 73: Letting go of perfectionism when blogging Episode 69: 9 Tips to get more readers on your blogs Episode 17: 10 reasons why blogging will attract more counselling clients
I've made the controversial decision to freeze the price of the Grow Your Private Practice membership. But: Why have I made this decision? Why is it controversial? And what should you consider about your fees?
In this episode, I explore whether you should increase, reduce or freeze your prices during the financial crisis. And I share why I decided to freeze the membership fee. So if you're unsure what your pricing policy should be at this time, take a listen. Links To Follow:Join the membership growyourprivatepractice.co.uk Ep 114: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/i-dont-have-time-to-do-my-marketing/ (Help! I don't have time to do my marketing ) Ep 70: 'https://www.janetravis.co.uk/therapist-burnout-how-to-spot-it-and-take-action-with-charlie-hyde/ (Therapist burnout and how to spot it and take action)’ with Charlie Hyde Ep 58: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/compassion-fatigue-and-burnout-what-therapists-need-to-know-with-howard-baumgarten/ (Compassion fatigue and burnout: what therapists need to know)' with Howard Baumgarten Ep 32: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/easy-ways-to-give-back-to-charity-without-reducing-your-fees-or-working-for-free/ (5 easy ways to give back to charity (without reducing your fees or working for free))' with Sophia Giblin Ep 31: 'https://www.janetravis.co.uk/increasing-prices-the-pain-free-way/ (Increasing prices the pain-free way)' Ep 101: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/the-cost-of-living-crisis-its-impact-on-your-clients-your-practice-and-you/ (The cost of living crisis: Its impact on your clients, your business and you)
If you're busy and are struggling to find time for marketing, here are 8 tips for being more productive and growing your private practice when you're short on time. In this 'Jane Explains' episode, I answer Gail's question about what to do when you have other commitments in your life and are short of time to devote to marketing. Links: Episode 24: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/managing-your-diary-with-time-blocking/ (Managing your diary with time blocking) Episode 56: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/how-to-achieve-more-in-less-time/ (How to achieve more in less time) Episode 42: Why your private practice should not be on every social media platform Brain FM Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership
Do you know your client's journey into therapy? Over the last 20 years, there has been a huge change in the way people buy things. It used to be that people saw an advert and bought the thing, but with the advent of the internet, the buying process has become much more sophisticated. So what is the process for your potential clients? And why is it so important for you to know? In this episode, I look at how the buying process has changed and the difficulties people can have choosing a therapist. I share the 4 stages of the client's journey into therapy and some inspiration to help you produce useful content. And I share a FREE resource - The Clients Journey Into Therapy Let's take a look at the client's journey into therapy and how you can use this to help them choose you. NOTE: Many of my podcasts are also available as blogs, so if you prefer reading, go to janetravis.co.uk/blog
If you're a therapist and you want a successful private practice, then your mindset is vital. But what do I even mean by mindset? Why is it so important? And how can you go about improving yours? In this episode, I explore why your mindset is vital if you want a successful practice. I also share some questions for reflection and tips for improving yours. And check out some of my other podcasts about mindset below. Links to follow NOTE I said in the podcast I'd share links to my podcasts on mindset, but I hadn't realised there were so many! I've recorded 112 episodes and probably 30% are to do with mindset in some way because it's so important. So I recommend browsing through my previous podcasts to see the mindset episodes. And grab my free guide 'How to attract therapy clients by helping now selling'
If a new client leaves a kiss (X) on the end of their message, should you respond in kind? Or is that unprofessional? And if you don't, might they feel awkward or rejected in some way? So how DO you navigate a kiss on correspondence? Take a listen to this months Jane Explains episode where I answer this listener's question. I explore: Why do people leave a kiss on correspondence Whether you are overthinking What should you do if it happens
Do you have a question you’d like me to answer for you? Don't waste time trying to work things out on your own, contact me with your question and I might answer you on a podcast. Just email me at jane@janetravis.co.uk or send a DM on my socials - you can find me on https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetravis/ (LinkedIn) or https://www.instagram.com/growyourprivatepractice/ (Instagram) And I'm always happy to receive a X at the end 😚 A reminder If you are a Grow Your Private Practice member, you’re never on your own. There are 3 ways to get help: The Facebook community is there 24/7 to get support from myself and other members Pick My Brain - monthly live event to help make your life easier Power Hour (exclusive for members at an extra charge) - whenever you want or need it to take a deep dive into an aspect of growing your practice. It will reduce stress and save hours of pondering - and procrastination! Not a member yet? If you’re ready to take your practice to the next step, check out the membership below and get started now. Visit Grow Your Private Practice So all that's left to say is have a fabulous rest of the day, and a big ole kiss to you XXX
Ok, confession time: My name is Jane, and I swear a lot. It’s true, I love a good profanity! But when it comes to marketing, does it help to connect with the right people or is it simply unprofessional for a therapist? It’s an interesting subject and it might just surprise you. In this episode we explore: 🤬 Your attitude to swearing 🤬 Should you swear in your marketing 🤬 The pros and cons 🤬 Tips for casual communication without swearing
I’d be really interested in learning your views on this, so please let me know. You can find me on Instagtam at https://www.instagram.com/growyourprivatepractice/ (@GrowYourPrivatePractice) or Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetravis/ (HERE) Links to follow 'Let's change the public perception of counselling' webinar Episode 3: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/drop-psychobabble-more-clients/ (Drop the psychobabble, get more clients)
How do you feel about marketing your practice? Do leap out of bed, grab the notebook you called ‘ideas’ and allow your creativity to come out to play? Or does the thought of ‘selling’ yourself make you break out in a cold sweat?
Ok, they might be a little extreme, but if you identify more with 2 than 1, then we need to talk! Because I’m going to talk about how you can attract more clients, but not by clever sales tactics, just by helping more people. How does that sound. Too good to be true? Well it's not, I and many businesses do it and it’s called content marketing. So take a listen as I explain what it is and why it's so good for therapists. Do you write blogs? Links to follow:To get your FREE guide to attract more therapy clients by helping instead of selling, click here www.janetravis.co.uk/help My previous blog, Self-Care for People Pleasers If you're ready to take the next step to grow your practice, join the Grow Your Private Practice membership HERE and get started today
If I had a pound for every time someone asks how to get therapy clients, I’d be a very happy lady! Because it's first question people ask when they start in private practice. It's understandable, and it seems like a simple question - but it’s not quite as straightforward as it might seem. So today we’re going to take a look at how to get therapy clients. And if you're looking for how to attract clients but you worry about having to be salesy, grab my free guide 'http://janetravis.co.uk/help (How to attract more therapy clients by helping not)http://janetravis.co.uk/help ( selling)'
No one likes people seeing our mistakes. It’s embarrassing, right? And although you KNOW that making mistakes is an important part of the learning process, you would still prefer not to do it in public. So here’s what happened when I managed to make an embarrassing mistake in public a couple of weeks ago. Yup, I published the unedited version of this show, complete with mistakes and swearing - a real head/desk moment. ...though it’s quite funny, so I hope it makes you laugh! This mistake reminded me of something that happened with Grow Your Private Practice member Tracy Clark, which subsequently changed her business. Did you hear my unedited podcast a whole ago? Did it make you laugh? I'd like to say a massive thank you to https://www.tracyaclarkcounselling.co.uk/ (Tracy Clark) for coming and sharing her powerful story. And if you'd like a group of cheerleaders on your side, join the Grow Your Private Practice membership
Did you know that maintaining clear boundaries can also help to grow your practice? It’s true. But unfortunately, when it comes to setting boundaries in private practice, there is no one hard and fast right answer. Not only that, your boundaries can change over time. No wonder we struggle to set and enforce boundaries! So today I am absolutely delighted to have Caz Binstead here as my guest expert. Caz is a respected counsellor, supervisor and advocate for therapists, and today she shares some amazing insights on making and maintaining boundaries within your private practice in order to best serve your clients, yourself and your business. We look at: What makes us struggle with setting and enforcing boundaries? The benefits of choosing a supervisor that has experience in running a private practice How boundaries can reduce the likelihood of complaints Considerations around your cancellation policy The importance of understanding the rationale behind your policy.
I think you’ll like this one. About Caz Binstead Caz Binstead is well known in the therapy scene here in the UK, and if you haven't come across her before, here’s a little something about her: Caz is an experienced therapist and supervisor, working full-time in private practice. She specialises in the growth and maintenance of ethical and thriving practices. Caz was instrumental in the design and development of the Private Practice Toolkit at the BACP, and sat on the private practice division as executive lead on the project for 4 years. She has provided consultation, training, copywriting services, and written guidance to hundreds of students and therapists preparing to set up and work in private practice. As Co-lead for the platform #TherapistsConnect, she also created their two-day conference, ’Private Practice 2021: Surviving and Thriving in Uncertain Times’.
She has hosted and held workshops on private practice at two BACP student conferences (2019 & 2021), and most recently, presented at International Supervision week. Connect with Caz
Go and say hi - and tell her you heard her on The Grow Your Private Practice Show podcast. Website: http://www.cazbinstead.com (www.cazbinstead.com) Twitter: https://twitter.com/cazbinny (https://twitter.com/cazbinny) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/night_owl_counsellor/ (https://www.instagram.com/night_owl_counsellor/)
With so many counsellors in your area, how can you make it easier for therapy clients to choose you? And how can you stand out while staying firmly within your personal disclosure boundaries? So let’s explore how to start forming this therapeutic relationship through your marketing while staying firmly within your personal disclosure and ethical boundaries. In all modalities, the therapeutic relationship is vital and likely to increase the chance of a good therapeutic outcome.
But there is an inconsistency between being a blank slate in the counselling room while simultaneously also cultivating a thriving therapeutic relationship.
How can clients choose the right therapist for them when we are told to not share anything about ourselves?
And how can you attract clients that are a good fit for you while staying firmly within personal disclosure boundaries?
In this episode, I share how to make it easier for clients to choose you and how helping clients make the right choice is good for them, good for your business and good for the counselling profession.
Using hashtags on social media is free, easy to do and an effective way to get your posts in front of people with an interest in that subject. So it makes sense to invest a little time into learning how to use them. So if hashtags mystify you, take a listen to this Jane Explains episode where I answer a listeners question about how to find and use hashtags. I’ll share with you what are they, how to find them and how to use them to grow your followers and attract more clients. So see what practical steps you can take to make hashtags work for you. Grab the 100th episode gift bundle here janetravis.co.uk/OMG100
As a therapist, how do you feel about money?
Do you feel confident, enforcing your cancellation policy and increasing your fees without stress?
Or does the thought of doing those things make you feel anxious and tense?
Well, my guest today is Lindsay Bryan-Podvin, a therapist that works with money anxiety, and in this episode, she shares how to cope with financial anxiety. We all need money in order to live, and most of us would like more - maybe a little bit more, maybe a lot more.
But despite money being an inanimate object, just some paper and coins it can cause a whole lot of problems for us both as individuals and as private practice owners.
So if you procrastinate around money conversations with your clients or you haven’t increased your fees for years, take a listen to this episode because Lindsay Bryan-Podvin can help.
Lindsay is the author of ‘The Financial Anxiety Solution: A Step-by-Step Workbook to Stop Worrying about Money, Take Control of Your Finances, and Live a Happier Life’ and also produces the Mind Money Balance podcast.
She has tons of experience helping people get more comfortable and confident around money, and as a financial therapist helps people learn more about their emotional relationship with money.
In this episode we talk about:What is financial anxiety? How do you identify it How to dial down your own financial worries
Think you’ll enjoy this one! About Lindsay Bryan-PodvinLindsay describes herself as:
“I'm a biracial (Filipina-white) female social worker-turned-financial therapist, author, and speaker.” She says “I talk about money in a way that doesn’t make you feel gross.”
She believes that personal finance and mental health are inherently intersected with politics, race, and gender. “My goal is to cultivate a shame-free space to engage with money. I want all of my clients to feel powerful and abundant in their relationship with money and to feel comfortable bringing their whole selves into therapy and coaching”.
She’s the author of The Financial Anxiety Solution, which is a self-paced workbook to help you stop stressing about money by applying therapy techniques to your relationship with money.
She produces the Mind Money Balance podcast too, where she explores all manner of things to do with financial anxiety for therapists.
And learn more about your relationship with money by taking her Financial Archetype Quiz
Connect with Lindsay Go and say hi - and tell her you heard her on The Grow Your Private Practice Show podcast!
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mindmoneybalance/ (@mindmoneybalance) Website: https://www.mindmoneybalance.com (MindMoneyBalance) The Book ‘https://amzn.to/3NFfAOD (The financial anxiety solution)’ The https://www.mindmoneybalance.com/podcast (Mind Money Balance Podcast) The Financial Archetype Quiz
And remember to grab your 1ooth episode gift bundle of 9 free resources HERE
Did you know I run a membership for counsellors and therapists called Grow Your Private Practice? Yes, and it includes training, workshops, resources, events - well, lots to help you attract more clients. But it’s so much more than a place to access training. It’s a place that reduces your stress by showing you how to achieve success by getting focused. To connect with peers, get support and have your questions answered. It's a lifeline. So if you’re trying to build your business, do you really need the Grow Your Private Practice membership? You probably have questions like: How much is it? What exactly is included? How much time will I need? What happens if I join and realise it's not for me?
So take a listen and see if it's right for you. Visit Grow Your Private Practice HERE
No one can afford therapy now. Well, it seems that’s what everyone is saying - the news, current affairs programs, magazine type programs etc. Everyone is talking about it - the price of energy, fuel for the car, how much a supermarket shop has increased. There's no getting away from it. And it’s said to be causing a mental health epidemic.
So what is the impact of the cost of living crisis on your clients, your practice and you?
And more importantly, how can you manage it?
In this episode, I explore ideas to help you to carry on attracting clients and getting paid while also looking after yourself.
I talk about: How to help people that can't afford therapy Working fortnightly instead of weekly Recognising what's your responsibility and what's not Some practical ways to help both clients and yourself.
So take a listen
Links to follow
Grab the 100th episode gift www.janetravis.co.uk/OMG100 Episode 32 https://www.janetravis.co.uk/easy-ways-to-give-back-to-charity-without-reducing-your-fees-or-working-for-free/ (5 Easy ways to give back to charity without working for free or a reduced fee, with Sophia Giblin ) https://practicewithtamara.com/groups/ (Setting up groups in private practice), with Tamara Howell and Sarah Dosanjh Book recommendation: Time-limited therapy in a general practice setting: how to help within 6 sessions by Glyn Hudson Allez
In this, my 100th episode of The Grow Your Private Practice Show, I talk about the pros and cons of podcasting to help you decide whether it could be a good choice for you. And as a gift for you on the 100th episode, I’ve put together 9 FREE resources I’ve previously shared as part of the podcast so you can access them all together. You’ll get: 6 Steps to turning an enquiry into a booking What to include on your FAQ page 5 Easy ways to give back to charity (without working for free or reducing your fees) Which social media platform is right for you 54 Specific ways to attract your ideal clients 55 Affirmations for success 2 Simple ways to find your mojo What is your why? 101 titles for your blog
So be sure to grab them - go to www.janetravis.co.uk/omg100 And a thank you to all my amazing guests that have shared their wisdom so freely, and a massive thank you to you for listening. Thank you thank you, it means so much x Links for the show:Phil King, my editor http://www.mypodcastassistant.com (www.mypodcastassistant.com) Teresa Heath Waring https://teresaheathwareing.com (https://teresaheathwareing.com)
How does having a niche impact your practice? I love talking to guests on these podcasts because they share many amazing insights and today is no exception. I have the wonderful Elsie Owen with me. Elsie is relatively new to PP and has had her private practice since qualifying in 2019. Yet since 2020, she has had a consistently full caseload. Wow. She’s since chosen a niche and as a result, started to diversify her income by offering more than just 1-1 therapy. How cool is that? So today Elsie shares her experiences with us And we’re going to be looking at the impact having a niche has had on her practice. I ask her: What made you choose to niche? How did you decide on your niche How has having a niche affected your practice - both positives and any things to watch out for Your experience of diversifying Do you have any plans for the future
I think you'll enjoy this one! About Elsie Owen 'I've had my private practice since I qualified in 2019 and in 2020 when I had a consistently full caseload, I started learning about Instagram marketing and exploring additional ways of supporting people. I've since chosen a niche and as a result, started to diversify my income through offering more than just 1-1 therapy. I write a fortnightly newsletter, teach online educational sessions and run a group programme called The Boundaries Course.' Elsies website: https://www.elsieowen.com/ (https://www.elsieowen.com/) Connect with Elsie on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the_peoplepleasing_therapist/ (The_peoplepleasing_therapist ) And if you'd like some more help attracting clients, check out The Grow Your Private Practice membership.
Identifying your therapy niche is one of the things that will have a dramatic impact on the effectiveness of your marketing. But what happens if you have a niche, and over time things change? Maybe your work has developed for you and you want to go in a different direction, open it up to more people or attract clients to a more specific topic.
In this episode of Jane Explains, I answer a question from a listener Diana who said:
‘My passion is working with all things female. But I also realise that the area(s) I want to niche in also tip over into the male side. Currently, I specialise in working with baby loss but I would like to encompass infertility and menopause. Any hints or tips on how to merge and also how to market myself? I don't want to be known as "the female therapist" or "all things female" Maybe my niche is too wide but I really enjoy working with them all! Fingers crossed you can help.’ Great question, Diana! So in this episode, I explore some obvious and less obvious ways to modify your niche.
And if you want some help working out the right niche for you, come and join the Grow Your Private Practice membership
It’s my anniversary! Yes, I’ve been working with counsellors and therapists to help grow their practice for 5 years (ok, a bit longer than that, but what’s a few months between friends?). And I’ve come a long way and learned a lot in that time - and am still learning. But there are 5 main things I’ve learned about working with counsellors in that time and I talk about them in this episode. In this episode we explore:The process of learning That (sadly) there are no quick fixes The importance of being curious Why you need to start with the ABC’s The pros and cons of change
To be honest, I’ve learned way, way more than 5 things, and this episode could have ended up being hours long!
I’ve had a blast running the Grow Your Private Practice membership. I’d like to thank all the members both past and present for trusting in me, and I’ve really enjoyed hearing about your successes. I hate when members leave, but when its because they are at capacity, then it makes me a very happy person and I realise all the hard work has been worth it. So if you’re fed up of going round in circles, and you’re ready to make real progress, come and join us. CLICK HERE for details and to join
Links to follow
Episode 29, https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/slow-down-to-speed-up/ (Slow down to speed up: how to increase both your skills and confidence) Episode 45 https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/things-ive-learnt-in-4-years-working-with-therapists/ (4 things I’ve learned in 4 years working with therapists)
Are you trapped in a number-crunching nightmare? Then listen up as I pick the brain of accountant Amanda Hines from https://www.axevalleyaccountancy.co.uk/ (Axe Valley Accountancy). She demystifies record-keeping and explains about simplifying your private practice accounts. If your business finances are in a bit of a pickle, you're worried about taxes implications or you have a box of receipts that you don't know what to do with, this episode will help you find clarity so you can take action, take control and reduce that stress. We look at: The importance of having a business mindset How to keep simple accounts Common misconceptions around expenses The difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant When to consider investing in help
Mandy is so generous in her advice, so I think you’ll get a lot out of this episode. Links to follow:https://www.axevalleyaccountancy.co.uk/ (https://www.axevalleyaccountancy.co.uk/) Connect with Mandy on https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-hines-fcca-maat-aatqb-93a62a98/ (LinkedIn )
We all get Imposter Syndrome from time to time. Sadly, it's just a normal part of being human. But that doesn't mean you have to let it stop you from being successful. So if you feel this way at times, take comfort in the fact that you're not alone, and that Imposter Syndrome is just a massive liar. It's basically your insecurities messing with you. And you can take steps to not let it hold you back. In this episode, I share a simple trick to overcome Imposter Syndrome to not only PROVE that you're not an imposter, but you really do know far more than you may give yourself credit for. In this episode we explore: Why Imposter Syndrome affects you and your business My one simple trick to overcome those feelings of doubt How doing this easy trick can boost your confidence and combat that imposter syndrome
So if Imposter Syndrome is holding YOU back, take a listen. And if you need some extra support, come and join the Grow Your Private Practice membership, you will be very welcome. Episode 16: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/silence-your-inner-critic/ (A simple way to silence your inner critic) And check out Yvonne Smith for EFT at https://makeyourhappinessreal.com/ (Make Your Happiness Real)
It’s the next episode of 'Jane Explains' where I answer your questions about growing your private practice. Today’s question is from Janice where she asks: “As you talk about using social media, how would you ensure client confidentiality and anonymity if any client or potential client comments on your posts?” Great question Janice! I’m sure many counsellors have wondered about how to use social media while protecting both themselves and their clients confidentiality In this episode of Jane Explains, I’ll share: The importance of setting your own personal disclosure boundaries How to talk with your client about social media Understand your responsibility - and that of your clients
Do you have a question you’d like me to answer? If so, just drop me a line at jane@janetravis.co.uk and I could answer your question in the next episode of Jane Explains. Links to follow: https://my.captivate.fm/www.growyourprivatepractice.co.uk (Grow Your Private Practice) Membership Episode 63 https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/personal-disclosure-in-marketing-what-therapists-need-to-know-part-1/ (Personal Disclosure in Marketing: What Therapists Need To Know - Part 1) Episode 64 https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/personal-disclosure-in-marketing-what-therapists-need-to-know-part-2/ (Personal disclosure in marketing: What Therapists Need To Know - Part 2)
When you run your own private practice with a to-do list a mile long, how do you know what to focus on to drive your business forward? Well, you have quarterly goals and action plans of course! Wait, what? Ok, don't worry, grab a pen and paper and I'll tell you how to set up quarterly goals and action plans. In this episode, I’m going to show you how to run a Quarterly Action Plan that includes: What numbers you should be tracking and why these are important How your Quarterly Action Plan will help to protect yourself from self-sabotage in the future The 3 things you need to focus on to reach your Quarterly Goals
As I always say, “Inspiration without action is merely entertainment” so settle in with pen, paper and listen to this podcast episode. I promise that you’ll get some ideas to think about what actions you’re going to take that will help to grow your practice. Links to follow: Episode 87: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-turn-inspiration-into-action/ (How to turn inspiration into action) The Grow Your Private Practice Membership
If you've ever worried that you don't have anything new to say on social media, then this is for you. Because to be honest, it's probably all been said before. But although everybody seems to be talking about the same thing, about the same subjects, about the same issues, they're all sharing things in a slightly different way. In this episode, you’ll discover: How to take a topic and come up with new content ideas How to take your content idea and translate it into a social post The one simple thing you already have to ensure that your social media posts are unique to your practice
So if you’re thinking that there's nothing left to say, well, take a listen to this episode and you’ll learn why my answer to ``hasn't it all been said before?” is absolutely not! Need some extra support to grow your private practice? Then come and join us. Visit the Grow Your Private Practice membership HERE
Are you ready to stop overthinking and start taking action to grow your practice? It can be easy to overcomplicate your decision making and start second-guessing yourself. And the fear of making the wrong choice can leave you in Limbo and stop you from taking action. I’m not sure if this is perfectionism, or a kind of procrastination - probably elements of both - but it’s something that is basically wasting your precious time - time that could be better spent. In this episode, I’ll help you work through your overthinking with:
How to sort through your choices and make a decision Why it's OK to change your mind And learn how to make sure that you’re able to find a way to take action to grow your practice
Take a listen to this episode to learn how to stop overthinking and develop your own decision-making process.
Grab your free copy of 'https://www.janetravis.co.uk/attract-more-therapy-clients/ (Attract more therapy clients by helping not selling' HERE) Join the Grow Your Private Practice membership HERE
As you’re starting to grow your therapy practice, have you thought about whether you should have a client waitlist? Well in this first ‘Jane Explains’ episode, where I answer questions from listeners, I respond to Jo from https://www.joannalouisetherapy.com/ (Joanna Louise Therapy) who asked about having a waiting list. There are certainly pros and cons for considering setting up a waiting list and how it will affect your practice. But having a waiting list isn't quite as straightforward as it could first appear. So take a listen to this episode to talk you through if a client waitlist is the right thing for your practice. In this episode we explore: The Pros of a waitlist and why this means your marketing is working And the Cons of a waitlist that will directly affect your potential clients How to set your boundaries to determine how many clients you actually want Actions you can take to keep a steady flow of clients 10 practical steps to take to manage a waiting list that focus on the needs of the client
Links to follow: Grow Your Private Practice Membership Episode 86 https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/6-ways-to-feel-less-alone-as-a-therapist/ (6 Ways to feel less alone as a therapist) Episode 87 https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-turn-inspiration-into-action/ (How to turn inspiration into action)
Have you ever wondered if having a website is really worth it? Maybe you’ve heard others talk about how they get all their clients through word of mouth, or via a directory and now you’re unsure? Well, having a website these days is essential for many reasons, some less obvious than others. So today I’m delighted to have Sarah Gershone with me, who is a web designer that works exclusively with therapists from https://strongrootswebdesign.com/ (Strong Roots Web Design). And we explore 6 reasons why having a website is a real must. I always learn a lot from Sarah, so if you’re on the fence, take a listen. About SarahSarah is from https://strongrootswebdesign.com/ (Strong Roots Web Design) and works exclusively with therapists helping them make their website appeal to their ideal clients. And she also produces a podcast called https://www.psychbizpodcast.com/ (Phych Biz) so be sure to check that out too. Sarah produces regular free resources and blogs so be sure to pop over to her website and see what she has that will help you. And the best way to connect with Sarah is via https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahgershone/ (LinkedIn), so go and say hi! Links to followEpisode 60 - https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/myths-about-websites-with-sarah-gershone/ (5 commonly held myths about websites that could be holding you back, with Sarah Gershone)
Do you feel nervous posting on social media? We're told as therapists that personal disclosure is bad, so it can be really confusing about what's okay to post and what’s not okay. It could be tricky to find your own boundaries while staying ethical. So all of that, coupled with the feeling of pressure on social media to be popular, be perfect, keep up with everybody else, take the best pictures, write the best captions... well, the whole posting on social media thing can be pretty daunting. In this episode we explore: Why do you struggle to post on social media? What the underlying problem can be Why does creating a simple client avatar help?
Take a listen and learn a simple action step to help you stop feeling nervous about posting on social media. And if you need more help with feeling comfortable growing your business online, I’d love to see you join us in the Grow Your Private Practice membership. Links to follow: Episode 67: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-youre-struggling-to-get-results-on-social-media/ (Why you're struggling to get results on social media) Ep 50: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/will-social-media-get-you-counselling-clients/ (Will social media get you counselling clients?) Ep 42: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-your-private-practice-should-not-be-on-every-social-media-platform/ (Why your private practice should not be on every social media platform)
Have you ever been inspired to do something to grow your practice, but for some reason you didn’t follow through with it? If you’re nodding, then you’re not alone. But if you want success, action is everything. After all, nothing changes if nothing changes. So if you want to move forward but for some reason, your growth is at a standstill, take a listen as I tell you how to turn inspiration into action. In this episode we explore: The importance of taking action How to get started What’s holding you back Steps you can take to practice taking action
https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice Membership)
I love when people ask me questions, and today I’m going to answer a question Jo from www.joannalouisetherapy.com asked me. Jo actually asked a couple of really great questions and I’ll answer the next one in the coming weeks. Jo asked for some advice about how to cope with feeling isolated and a bit lonely when in private practice. And it’s a great question because with confidentiality issues, the 1:1 work we do and often working from home, it can feel pretty isolated. So if you are feeling a bit lonesome, today I’m going to share 6 Ways to feel less alone as a therapist, so you can connect with others. So thank you Jo, and I hope this helps. Episode 24: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/managing-your-diary-with-time-blocking/ (Managing your diary with time blocking)
When you’re just starting out in private practice or struggling with fears around being visible, it can feel like a lonely place. And sometimes it looks like everyone else has it all figured out. I remember seeing people that were just so natural on social media or in front of the camera, and thinking they had some sort of secret that I didn’t, and it would be impossible for me to do. Ever felt that? Well, today Fifi Mason and I are having a conversation about our own journey into visibility. We share our personal stories about getting comfortable with visibility but in a way that suited us personally. We also share some tips with you - including Fifi’s brilliant ‘What if?’ game. So take a listen - I think you’ll enjoy this one! About Fifi Mason Fifi works with introverts to inspire them to get visible on their own terms. She says: ‘As an introvert putting yourself out there can feel awkward, icky and most of all exhausting.But if you’re a solo business owner who provides a service based on your knowledge and expertise, then YOU are your business.So as much as you might want to hide, you can’t.Because by avoiding the spotlight you’re limiting the growth and potential of your business.But that doesn’t mean you have to fake being an outgoing extrovert to be successful.You can build a personal brand business by being true to your personality.’So if you identify as being an introvert, be sure to check Fifi out at fifimason.com And grab the free resource she mentioned to explore your comfort level about things to share - basically, to work out your personal disclosure boundaries at https://fifimason.com/comfort-level/ (https://fifimason.com/comfort-level/) Connect with her on https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefifimason/ (Linkedin) Or https://www.instagram.com/thefifimason/ (Instagram) Links to follow The Grow Your Private Practice membership Episode https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/using-introvert-superpowers-to-attract-more-clients/ (7 Using introvert superpowers to attract more clients)
When it comes to your private practice, are you your own best-kept secret? Maybe you’re hiding in the shadows and letting the fear of being seen hold you back? And this is the problem, the fear of visibility can really get in the way of your success. You might even start beating yourself up about not doing the things you know you need to be to grow your practice. Not good, no one needs that. So in this episode, I talk about how to overcome visibility issues and get out of your own way so that you can show up, attract more clients, help more people and make more money. We’re going to look at: Why it’s important to be visible What visibility issues actually are Where they come from What being more visible actually means - and what it doesn’t And I’ll share some simple effective tips too for you to try
So take a listen, and discover how to embrace visibility on YOUR terms. Links to follow: Episode 40: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/from-i-cant-write-to-published-author-with-zoe-clements/ (From ‘I can’t write’ to published author, with Zoe Clements) https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice) Free guide: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/attract-more-therapy-clients/ (Attract therapy clients by helping not selling)
Come and connect with me: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetravis/ (linkedin.com/in/janetravis) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growyourprivatepractice/ (instagram.com/growyourprivatepractice)
The profile picture you share on your directory, your social media and your website is a chance for people - and potential clients - to connect with you. So it’s important to make a great first impression and stand out from the crowd. So here are 10 tips to help make your profile picture stand out, get noticed and be recognised.
Links to follow: Episode 52: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-start-your-private-practice-branding-on-a-budget-with-laura-pearman/ (How to start your private practice branding on a budget, with Laura Pearman ) https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice membership)
The words we use in our marketing are powerful. Using the right words will draw people to you and the wrong ones will push people away. So it’s important to really think about what you’re saying. In this podcast I explore: The negative impact of using ‘counsellory’ words aka psychobabble The importance of connection How to find alternative, more relatable words Some examples of how this might look in practice How using relatable words within marketing will attract more clients AND bring better results
Words are powerful, so use them to your advantage. And if you want to start working on your marketing message, some and join the https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk (Grow Your Private Practice membership)
We all know consistency is important, but what does that look like in practice? Because it may not be quite what you expect. So today the fabulous Sarah Dosanjh had kindly agreed to join me for a conversation about the reality of consistency.
What is the gold standard? What is the worst-case scenario? What part does perfectionism play? What is the reality of consistency? What’s right for YOU?
We also share lots of tips for you to help work out what's best for you.
About Sarah
Sarah Dosanjh is a counsellor and psychotherapist and author of the book https://amzn.to/3pMU1yh (I Can't Stop Eating). She is passionate about helping those struggling with binge eating/body image to find peace and freedom around food.
She runs CPD events for therapists who want to learn about working with binge eating as well as offering training and a free support community for therapists who want to set up groups in private practice. Links to follow: Episode 24: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/managing-your-diary-with-time-blocking/ (Managing your diary with time blocking) Episode 26: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/the-truth-about-consistency/ (The truth about consistency (it might not be what you think!)) Episode 37: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-having-a-niche-diversified-my-business-with-sarah-dosanjh/ (How having a niche diversified my business, with Sarah Dosanjh) Episode 38: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-stop-comparing-yourself-to-other-therapists/ (How to stop comparing yourself to other therapists) Episode 47: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-stay-productive-even-on-low-energy-days/ (How to stay productive, even on low energy days) Episode 56: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-achieve-more-in-less-time/ (How to achieve more in less time) Episode 63: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/personal-disclosure-in-marketing-what-therapists-need-to-know-part-1/ (Personal Disclosure in Marketing: What Therapists Need To Know (Part 1)) Episode 64: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/personal-disclosure-in-marketing-what-therapists-need-to-know-part-2/ (Personal disclosure in marketing: what therapists need to know (part 2))
Do you use a word of the year? A word of the year is a simple idea. It sets an intention so you know what you’re going to work on, increase or grow in your business or life. It’s a great way to focus on the inspiring, the good, the positive and the possibility of the year ahead. And it’s completely free of course - so there are literally no drawbacks.
In this episode, I look at: Why it’s a great thing to do Some ideas for words to choose I share 55 affirmations for success with you Making the most of your word of the year
So, what word will YOU choose for 2022?
Link to follow: FREE 55 Affirmations for success
Have you noticed how the dream of Christmas and the reality of Christmas rarely look the same? You know how it is; you’re already busy enough but now have more to do, buy, plan and prep. And coupled with your own ‘stuff’ that can come up around Christmas, like missing those no longer around, loneliness, anxiety, stress, family issues (there are always some family issues that get sparked!). Well, it’s important to take care of YOU over the festive season. So this podcast explores some real counsellor self-care for over Christmas Links to follow:Episode 36: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-being-a-people-pleaser-can-affect-your-private-practice/ (How being a people pleaser can affect your private practice - and what to do about it)
First impressions matter, so in this episode I have guest Kim Simmons, a VA that works exclusively with therapists, here to share her knowledge about why a smooth onboarding process helps the counselling process. We look at: Why a smooth welcoming process helps the therapeutic relationship How it can help a client continue the counselling process How it demonstrates that you run a professional service
And Kim shares lots of tips and ideas you can try right now. About Kim SimmonsKim started her business https://www.virtuallyirreplaceable.co.uk/ (Virtually Irreplaceable) in late 2020 after working with therapists in Private Practice as a Virtual Assistant for several years. She has since pivoted the business to helping therapists get online, get their processes in place and their systems set up. And because she has such a lot of experience of working specifically with counsellors she has a great knowledge around therapy specific business, like confidentiality, paperwork etc - basically, she takes away the headaches for you.
Links to follow: Connect with Kim on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberley-simmons/ (HERE) And see how she can help you at https://www.virtuallyirreplaceable.co.uk/ (Virtually Irreplaceable) https://signable.app/ (Signable.app) https://www.subscribepage.com/ppworkflow (Workflow Freebie) https://www.virtuallyirreplaceable.co.uk/googleworkspace (Online Course (Virtually Done)) Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VirtuallyIrreplaceable (facebook.com/VirtuallyIrreplaceable) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/virtuallyirreplaceable/ (instagram.com/virtuallyirreplaceable) https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice Membership)
I’ve often seen in counselling groups people say ‘follow me on social media and I’ll follow you back’. But though this can sound like a great idea on the face of it, there are some things to be aware of. So in this episode I invite you to take a closer look with me so you can make up your own mind if this is the right thing for you. So let’s take a look at the good, the bad and the ugly of following other counsellors Links to follow:https://amzn.to/38SmcqO (Grow Your Private Practice Book) https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice Membership) https://www.janetravis.co.uk/attract-more-therapy-clients/ (How to get followers by helping instead of selling FREE guide)
One of the things I love about running a business is that I can be creative in my marketing. But what if you think you’re not creative? Maybe you don’t know how to allow your creativity to blossom. Or maybe you just struggle to find your own voice and everything you write comes across as a bit starchy or lacking personality? Well, don’t worry, because in this episode I have the fabulous and creative Penney Fox coming to talk about exactly this so you can start to enjoy your marketing. About Penney FoxPenney has been running her own business since 1999 so understands the daily struggle to grow your business while still finding time for a personal life. In 2019, she developed the Create Your Business hybrid subscription box program. This is available either as a physical box if you’re in the US or you can get the online version no matter where you are in the world. It’s like self-coaching every month, where you’ll get an interactive workbook sent to your inbox or creative tools that show up at your doorstep to help you develop your marketing messages to reach more customers online. AND She just published a book called ‘https://amzn.to/3o5J1yo (I just did a thing)’ looking at creating change in your business - and life The Create Your Business programs can be found at CreateYourBiz.net and the book I Just Did a Thing can be found on the same site as well as ordered from Amazon https://amzn.to/3o5J1yo (HERE)
Links to follow: Episode 17: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-blogging-will-attract-more-counselling-clients/ (10 Reasons why blogging will attract more counselling clients) Episode 18: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/ways-for-therapists-find-blog-post-ideas/ (7 Ways for therapists to find blog post ideas) Episode 46: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/lessons-ive-learnt-from-growing-my-business/ (14 lessons I’ve learnt from growing my business) Episode 48: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-i-use-creativity-to-diversify-my-practice/ (How I use creativity to diversify my practice, with Yasmin Shaheen Zaffar)
Constantly coming up with ideas for your content can feel impossible, but in this episode, I share my way to brainstorm ideas for blogs and social media and come up with a never-ending supply of ideas. But not just that, how to make the whole thing a pleasurable experience. Because the more you enjoy marketing, the more you’ll do it, and that consistency is what really makes a difference to your practice. Links: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/attract-more-therapy-clients/ (Attract more clients by Helping not Selling) Episode 53: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-having-a-niche-is-essential-in-2021/ (Why having a niche is essential in 2021) Episode 18: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/ways-for-therapists-find-blog-post-ideas/ (7 Ways for therapists to find blog post ideas)
Ho ho ho, Meeeeerrrrry Christmas! With Christmas fast approaching, in this episode I’m sharing with you something that will save you time, and benefit both your business and you. I’m sharing a free download, my early Christmas gift to you that will boost your social media engagement over the Christmas period, and in this episode I’ll walk you through how to make the most of it. So if you want to save time and get better results on your social media over the festive season, take a listen. Links to followhttps://www.janetravis.co.uk/christmas-engagment/ (Christmas Engagement Cheatsheet) Episode 63: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/personal-disclosure-in-marketing-what-therapists-need-to-know-part-1/ (Personal Disclosure in Marketing: What Therapists Need To Know (Part 1)) Episode 64:https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/personal-disclosure-in-marketing-what-therapists-need-to-know-part-2/ ( Personal disclosure in marketing: what therapists need to know (part 2)) Episode 8: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/social-media-engagement/ (What is social media engagement, and why you need to know)
If you struggle with perfectionism, it can trip you up in lots of ways. And if you choose to write blogs to grow your practice, it can stop you from publishing what you’ve written so neither you nor your readers get the benefit of your work. So if you have written blogs but not published them and they are languishing in your drafts folder, take a listen as I explore 5 things to watch out for and what to do about them. Links to follow: Episode 17: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-blogging-will-attract-more-counselling-clients/ (10 Reasons why blogging will attract more counselling clients) Episode 18: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/ways-for-therapists-find-blog-post-ideas/ (7 Ways for therapists to find blog post ideas) Episode 65: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/does-therapy-need-a-rebrand/ (Does Therapy Need A Rebrand?) Episode 69: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/tips-to-get-more-readers-on-your-blogs/ (9 Tips to get more readers on your blogs (a guide for therapists))
When you first start out in private practice it can feel like there is a never-ending list of things to buy and do. But here’s the thing: all you really need is to be qualified, insured and if required in your country, supervised. Everything else can wait until you’ve started getting an income. But so often we can feel compelled to buy certain things because we think it’s what a business needs, and as such it’s easy to overspend. So today we’re going to look at logos and business cards: Do you need them, what to watch out for and how to make the most of them if you already have them. Links to follow: Episode 2: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/clients-journey-into-therapy/ (The clients journey into therapy) Episode 21: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/things-therapists-need-to-know-before-starting-in-private-practice/ (5 Things therapists need to know before starting in private practice) Episode 53: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-having-a-niche-is-essential-in-2021/ (Why having a niche is essential in 2021)
Quick question for you: Are you the sort of person that springs out of bed, enthusiastic and ready to take on the day? No, me neither. So if you’re feeling lethargic and need a helping hand, here are 10 super simple ways to get motivated to work on your private practice - because let's face it, we all need a little help sometimes. Links to follow: For info about the Grow Your Private Practice Membership and to join, https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (click here) Try https://www.brain.fm/ (Brain.fm) for ambient music Grab https://amzn.to/38SmcqO (The Grow Your Private Practice book)
We’ve all heard of burnout, and it’s so much more than being tired or exhausted. But how can you recognise it? In this episode I have guest Charlie Hyde talking with me as we share our experiences of burnout along with some practical tips and ideas to protect yourself.
About Charlie HydeCharlie is a Consultant recovering from Burnout; her YouTube channel and blog, Today Years Old is the phoenix from the ashes of Burnout. On these, she talks about how you can overcome Burnout, how to get back onto the career bandwagon after Burnout and how you can spot the signs to avoid it in the future. Charlie has also set up her own Fintech business recently, Networthr which aims to help people reclaim control over their finances and make it one less thing to worry about. She’s always open to chat and you can reach her through LinkedIn. Connect with Charlie https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsnbvYvHTpfxSibsrD047bA (Today Years Old) https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-hyde-179a1058/ (LinkedIn) https://www.networthr.com (Networthr)
Links to follow Episode 58: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/compassion-fatigue-and-burnout-what-therapists-need-to-know-with-howard-baumgarten/ (Compassion fatigue and burnout: What therapists need to know, with Howard Baumgarten) Episode 47: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-stay-productive-even-on-low-energy-days/ (How to stay productive, even on low energy days)
Blogging is a brilliant - and free - way to help people, connect and share your knowledge. But it’s an underutilized marketing strategy. So if you want to start blogging it up your game, here are 9 tips to get more readers on your blogs. Because let’s face it, if you’re going to the effort of writing a blog, you want as many people to see it as possible. Links to follow: Growyourprivatepractice.co.uk Episode 65: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/does-therapy-need-a-rebrand/ (Does Therapy Need A Rebrand?) Episode 18: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/ways-for-therapists-find-blog-post-ideas/ (7 Ways for therapists to find blog post ideas) Episode 17: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-blogging-will-attract-more-counselling-clients/ (10 Reasons why blogging will attract more counselling clients)
One of the first things a new therapist does is sign up to an online directory, but is this enough? And what should you do if you don’t get the results you were hoping for? In this episode we look at: Why directories can be a great choice Some of the downsides How being on a directory fits into your marketing strategy What to do if your is currently not working for you
Links to follow: Episode 5: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/turn-enquiry-into-booking/ (6 Steps to turning an enquiry into a booking) Episode 13: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/online-directories/ (A deep dive into online directories) Episode 32: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/easy-ways-to-give-back-to-charity-without-reducing-your-fees-or-working-for-free/ (5 Easy ways to give back to charity (without reducing your fees or working for free) with Sophia Giblin)
You know that posting on social media is both a free and effective way to let people know who you are and who you help. But why does it feel so hard? Well, there are many reasons and it could be different things for different people. So today I’m going to explore 8 reasons why you’re struggling to get results on social media. Links to follow: Episode 8: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/social-media-engagement/ (What is social media engagement, and why you need to know) Episode 26: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/the-truth-about-consistency/ (The truth about consistency (it might not be what you think!)) Episode 42: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-your-private-practice-should-not-be-on-every-social-media-platform/ (Why your private practice should NOT be on every social media platform)
Did you ever feel a bit awkward about charging your clients to come to therapy? Maybe you give too many concessions or haven’t increased your prices in years? Or maybe ultimately you feel guilty for changing people that need help. Well if any of those sound familiar, this is the episode for you as we’re taking a deep dive into how you feel about charging and I’ll offer you some practical solutions to move forward. In this episode we explore: The reasons we struggle with charging How it might show up The consequences for you The truth about taking payments What to do if you feel this way
Money mindset really is a totally fascinating yet massive subject so I encourage you to do some personal development around this. It will help you personally, yes, but if you feel guilty about charging, it can be transformational for your business. And can you imagine if you didn't feel guilty about charging so everyone paid your going rate? What difference would that make to your life? I really hope you enjoyed this and you start receiving a good income for the valuable, transformational and professional work you do. Links to follow: Episode 32: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/easy-ways-to-give-back-to-charity-without-reducing-your-fees-or-working-for-free/ (5 Easy ways to give back to charity (without reducing your fees or working for free) with Sophia Giblin) Episode 58: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/compassion-fatigue-and-burnout-what-therapists-need-to-know-with-howard-baumgarten/ (Compassion fatigue and burnout: What therapists need to know, with Howard Baumgarten) Episode 55: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/the-hidden-impact-of-money-issues-in-private-practice-with-cathy-towers/ (The hidden impact of money issues in private practice, with Cathy Towers) Episode 2: The clients journey into therapy
It stands to reason that the more people feel comfortable about going to therapy, the more people will access therapy. Which leads to more transformations for clients, and more clients (and more income) for you. It’s a win/win situation. So in this episode, I talk about making therapy more accessible to people. And to be clear, I’m not referring to reducing your fees, offering concessions or working for free. I have always believed that therapists work extremely hard and deserve to be paid well. No, I mean there is a change in perception of what counselling is, and what counselling does. To give counselling a modern makeover. Because I think therapy needs a rebrand. Today I’m going to introduce to you the Therapy Rebrand movement. What it is and who it’s for. In this episode we explore:Why do some people have a negative perception of therapy How offhand comments can impact your confidence and success Counselling and mental health The mixed messages we receive and therapists How therapy is portrayed in the media Working together to help the profession as a whole
Links to followWatch the Therapy Rebrand webinar for free at janetravis.co.uk/webinar Find the Grow Your Private Practice book on https://amzn.to/38SmcqO (Amazon) Grab your free copy of ‘Attract More Therapy Clients by Helping Not Selling at janetravis.co.uk/helpingnotselling
In this episode, we look a little closer at what I actually mean when I say personal disclosure, because it may not be what you think. So before you dismiss personal disclosure as something that is bad, take a listen and see how it can help both you and your potential clients while remaining within your ethical boundaries And I share a simple tip you can use to work out if something is appropriate to share. This episode is part 2 of a 2 part mini-series where I help you explore personal disclosure within marketing. You can listen to part 1 ‘https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/personal-disclosure-in-marketing-what-therapists-need-to-know-part-1/ (Personal disclosure in marketing: what therapists need to know (part 1)’ HERE) In this episode we explore: What exactly do I mean by ‘personal disclosure’ Why we have anxieties around posting on social media and blogging etc A simple tip to test if something is appropriate How sharing can be beneficial for your niche Questions to help you explore your boundaries your boundaries
Links to follow Episode 63: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/personal-disclosure-in-marketing-what-therapists-need-to-know-part-1/ (Personal Disclosure in Marketing: What Therapists Need To Know (Part 1))
For therapists, the thought of personal disclosure when marketing their private practice is enough to put them in a tailspin. Why? Well, therapist training drums into you that you should only ever share anything about yourself very sparingly and only in order to help the client. Well, guess what? It’s exactly the same when it comes to marketing. However there is more flexibility for you because you aren’t directly working with clients. So in this 2 part mini-series, I am going to explore with you personal disclosure and help you work out where your boundaries lie. In this episode we explore:A little history of private practice marketing How the world wide web has changed everything The difference between advertising and content marketing Why personal disclosure worries us so much. The benefits of being relatable.
And grab your free guide to attracting more clients by helping not selling here -> www.janetravis.co.uk/attract-more-therapy-clients/ And listen to episode 64, where I’ll give you some practical examples and ideas to help you discover your own boundaries.
Today I’m sharing the last of the Highlights Reel episodes with you and I just know that you’re going to love this episode. So just to remind you, the highlights reel is all about re-sharing some of the most popular episodes that there has been on the GYPP show podcast I’ve been producing weekly shows now for over a year and the show has become a great resource for therapists, with a wide variety of subjects being discussed, There have been episodes on so many things, from mindset, social media, organisation, websites, blogging, directories, niching and self-care. And some truly amazing guests too sharing their knowledge and expertise so it’s worth taking a look over past episodes to see if there’s anything there that will help you. And this is one of the most popular episodes we had, so I’m sharing it again in case you missed it. In this episode, Kat Love shares the top 4 mistakes that make your therapist website copy ineffective And just in case you’re not sure what copy is - copy means the words on your website, so what you’ve written. In this episode we cover:How to stop sounding like everyone else How to encourage visitors to take the next step How to stop being Wikipedia for mental health issues How to write with clarity and warmth
Kat also shares some great tips about really making connections with potential clients on your website via the copy. And we also discuss how important it is for your client that they get a sense of you in order to choose the right counsellor for them.
How you handle that first contact over the phone is important and is the difference between having a new client appointment in your diary or not. So in this episode, I share some really effective but simple tips to be sure that if you are a good fit for them, they make that appointment. Here's what you'll learn in this episode:The reality of phone enquiries The importance of mindset How to increase your confidence How to take gentle control of the call Setting expectations Booking at days/times that are convenient for you How to refer the client on without them feeling rejected
And if you want to feel more confident on these calls, grab the FREE cheatsheet to have by your side
What do clients need when they land on a therapist's website? Well in this Highlights Reel I interview the fabulous Sarah Gershone from http://www.strongrootswebdesign.com/ (strong roots web design) and we talk all about this. Sarah Gershone works specifically with counsellors to make beautiful, functional websites. And in this episode, we’ll be busting 5 myths about websites that could be holding you back, namely. People will read my site If you build it they will come A free site will be just fine The most important thing is to look good My website is finished
Links to follow:http://www.strongrootswebdesign.com/ (Strong Roots Design) Discover the secrets to a successful website, https://strongrootswebdesign.com/free-video-course/ (free video minicourse) Connect with Sarah on https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahgershone/ (LinkedIn)
The Grow Your Private Practice Show has been going now for over a year which means it has become a great resource for counsellors and therapists. There have been episodes on so many things, from mindset, social media, organisation, websites, blogging, directories, niching and self-care. And some truly amazing guests too, sharing their knowledge and expertise so it’s worth taking a look over past episodes to see if there’s anything there that will help you.
Here’s one of the most popular episodes we had, so I’m sharing it again in case you missed it.
In this episode, Fifi Mason, who works with introverted entrepreneurs to be more visible in their business, came to share lots of tips and ideas on how to make the most of your skills as an introvert.
We looked at
What is the definition of an introvert? The difference between shyness and introversion, and why it’s important to know What business challenges do introverts face? How Fifi manages her energy The challenges of authenticity Tips for introverted business owners How to reduce overwhelm How can we overcome these challenges Introvert superpowers Why Fifi has blue hair
How are you? I hope you are doing well and looking after yourself, because looking after yourself is often something that we talk about and encourage clients to do - but we’re not so good at doing it ourselves. If that sounds familiar, then you’re going to love this episode as I have a very special guest with me. Howard Baumgarten is a Counselor with his own practice in Lakewood, Colorado who has vast experience of helping counsellors both grow their practice and take better care of themselves. He’s an author - he wrote https://amzn.to/2TzQlWR (Private Practice Essentials) A podcaster - check out https://www.psychbizpodcast.com/episodes/ (Psych Biz) where he produces shows with friend of the show Sarah Gershone who makes websites for therapists. And he’s a public speaker and wellness trainer too, Covering topics such as Compassion Fatigue, Burnout Prevention, Resilience, Stress Management, and Conflict Resolution. So he wears a lot of different hats. And today we look at stress, compassion fatigue and burnout - what they are, what’s the difference, how to tell if you’re suffering and what you can do to help yourself. And this is such an important topic for everyone, but especially those in the helping professions. I think you’re going to like this In this episode we explore:What is the difference between compassion fatigue and burnout Your relationship with stress What are the signs to watch out for What you can do to protect yourself
Links to followEpisode 36: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-being-a-people-pleaser-can-affect-your-private-practice/ (How being a people pleaser can affect your private practice - and what to do about it) Episode 32: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/easy-ways-to-give-back-to-charity-without-reducing-your-fees-or-working-for-free/ (5 Easy ways to give back to charity (without reducing your fees or working for free) with Sophia Giblin) Episode 22: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/take-your-own-advice/ (It's time to take your own advice) Episode 10: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/website-myths/ (5 commonly held website myths that could be holding you back with Sarah Gershone) About Howard Baumgarten Howard Baumgarten is a Licensed Professional Counsellor, author, consultant, speaker, wellness and small business-training expert, and owner of a mental health private practice in Lakewood, Colorado. He is the founder of Smart Practice Central, a healthcare business-building platform that values intelligent, ethical, and clinically minded practice development, and provides clinical practice business consultation and training to private practices and healthcare agencies. Howard has lectured throughout the US on the integration of mental health, wellness and business, focusing on practice development, working within managed care systems, the impacts of the Affordable Care Act on mental health care, and work/life balance. He is the author of https://amzn.to/2TzQlWR (Private Practice Essentials) published in 2017. In 2003, he developed and implemented the first practice building business curriculum in a graduate level-counseling program in the country at the University of Colorado, where he taught this curriculum for twelve years. Howard routinely consults and trains businesses and organizations across a variety of industries in work/life wellness, including managing stress, building resilience, creating balance, burnout prevention, teamwork, conflict resolution and other topics. He has been quoted for his work with physicians and healthcare professionals around burnout prevention in Medical Economics Journal. He is the former Director of Network Relations for Westside Behavioral Care, Inc., a clinical group practice he helped build into one of Colorado’s largest outpatient behavioural health...
Did you ever have someone refer to counselling as a ‘chat over a cup of tea’, or ‘just listening to people moaning on’, or even suggesting that you just say ‘how does that make you feel’ over and over’. Frustrating, isn’t it. But the problem is, these messages discount the training and skills required to be a therapist and if we keep hearing them, they can have an effect. So how can you rise above these dismissive comments? Take a listen and I’ll share 3 things you can do to make a change. In this episode I explore:The mixed messages we receive The importance of self-care 3 things to try to make change The importance of peer support
If you hate wasting time - and I bet you do! - then you’re going to love this podcast as I share the most simple yet highly effective way to achieve more in less time. Because you’re busy, I totally get that. However, if you want to attract more therapy clients, you have to do some marketing activities. But look, it doesn’t have to take hours and hours. In fact, I see many counsellors taking far too long, possibly overthinking and then getting disillusioned by the whole thing. So in this episode, I share with you one of the most simple yet highly effective productivity hacks I know that will help you do far more in less time. I literally use it all the time. Sounds too good to be true? All I can say is give it a go and let me know how you get on. In this episode I share: What is Parkinson’s law and how it affects you Why counsellors tend to overthink How clear goals will save you time Why the simple act of setting time boundaries work like magic
So I hope you enjoy my magical way to get more done in less time.
If you’re a counsellor in private practice, chances are you’ve wrangled with some money issues in your time. And the truth is, this isn’t something you can work on and get rid of because they keep appearing in different ways and under different circumstances. There is no denying it, issues around money mindset issues can hold you back - in more ways than may first appear. So in this episode, I have the fabulous Cathy Towers here for a chat. Cathy is a counsellor and psychotherapist, a speaker and workshop facilitator, a DJ and improv leader - so she wears many hats, But the hat she’s wearing today is that of a money mentor because Cathy has been working with counsellors on this topic for years. So take a listen as we explore the deeper and more complex impact money issues can have both on ourselves, our clients, and our business. In this episode we explore:The traps we can fall into around money and charging clients The importance of valuing ourselves The impact of free on the counselling relationship The hidden costs of being in private practice
About Cathy Towers Cathy has been running workshops on Your Relationship with Money and Charging for Time for ten years. She speaks at the BACP regularly and offers consultation on money issues. She also jointly runs workshops on Business Therapy, dealing with the challenges, struggles, and sticky issues for private practice creatively by "putting your relationship with your business on the couch". After many years of hiding her light, she is now a fierce voice for confidence and communication, with a radio show on Phonic FM called Speaking Out. Connect with Cathy on LinkedIn - just search Cathy Towers Cathy's resources: Blog 'https://www.cathytowers.com/read-listen/relationship-with-money/9-that-debate-about-free-sessions (That debate about free sessions)' https://www.cathytowers.com/money-resources/fee-calculation-for-therapists (Calculator for therapists ) Jane's blog ‘https://www.janetravis.co.uk/free-first-session/ (Should you offer counselling clients a free first session?)' Links to follow Episode 36: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-being-a-people-pleaser-can-affect-your-private-practice/ (How being a people pleaser can affect your private practice - and what to do about it) Episode 33: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/what-to-do-if-your-client-doesnt-show-up-for-their-second-therapy-session/ (What to do if your client didn’t show up for their second therapy session) Episode 32: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/easy-ways-to-give-back-to-charity-without-reducing-your-fees-or-working-for-free/ (5 Easy ways to give back to charity (without reducing your fees or working for free) with Sophia Giblin) Episode 31: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/increasing-prices-the-pain-free-way/ (Increasing prices the pain-free way) Episode 23: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/avoid-the-feast-and-famine/ (How to avoid the feast and famine cycle in your private practice)
If you want to greatly increase your chances of success in private practice then this podcast episode is the one for you. Because I share with you my top 10 keys that will lay the foundations for a successful business that works for you and your clients. In this podcast episode we explore the importance of: Starting before you're ready Why action is the antidote to fear Managing failure Understanding your self sabotage Money mindset How there's always going to be something new to learn The benefits of having a niche Networking How you are absolutely good enough Your business, your rules
So, if you're waiting for everything to be perfect or feeling scared about telling a group of people what it is you do then sit back and take note. This podcast will show you that you have it within you to grow a successful business on your terms. Links to follow Episode 53: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-having-a-niche-is-essential-in-2021/ (Why having a niche is essential in 2021) Episode 7: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/using-introvert-superpowers-to-attract-more-clients/ (Using introvert superpowers to attract more clients, with Fifi Mason)
Having a niche is important when you are a counsellor or therapist because it has a positive impact on you, your income and your clients outcomes - including whether they even contact a counsellor in the first place. It’s a topic I have a lot of experience in and I’ve seen just how beneficial it can be. and something that affects not just us as business owners, but also our clients. But I know and understand the reasons why we might be fearful of niching down, namely: You worry you will push potential clients away, or End up doing the same type of work over and over again
If you feel like that, well you certainly aren’t alone. But those fears are unfounded and in this episode, I explain why the absolute opposite is true. Come and join me in this podcast episode as we explore: Why in the modern age, niching is essential to get noticed How to stop the scattergun effect of trying to attract everyone Why a targeted approach will attract more potential clients How having a niche won’t limit the issues that you work with How niching helps potential clients take that step into getting the help they need
Links to follow Refresh Challenge
Starting in private practice can be expensive, but it really doesn’t have to be. In fact, the good news is there are many, many ways to start your private practice branding on a budget. I ‘bootstrapped’ my business, and so did Laura Pearman, todays guest expert. And in this podcast we look at how to get started without spending a fortune. Laura is a brand strategist and international photographer and she knows a thing or two about how to stand out in the crowd in a busy market, and she shares some absolute gems that I know you’re going to love. AND Laura has offered listeners a very special opportunity to work with her at a 50% reduction, so to take advantage of that very generous offer, the link is below In this episode we explore: Why you shouldn’t spend a lot on when you’re starting out How to make the most professionals services when the time is right Starting with a MVP (Minimum Viable Product) The importance of a good headshot Top tips for taking a stand out selfie How to share personal photos on instagram if you don’t like being on camera How to choose the right photographer for you
And as an extra special treat, Laura has exclusively offered you a great opportunity that might interest you. About Laura PearmanLaura is a brand strategist and international photographer. She lives in Tyne & Wear with The Viking and Suki the Cat, and lives her life as a modern-day vintage pinup. She helps ambitious business owners turn up the volume on their businesses with brand strategy, creative direction and brand photography. And she is also a passionate feminist. She is the host of https://www.youtube.com/c/MwahTV (#MwahTV) on YouTube And you can watch her episode ‘How Much Money Should You Spend on Your Brand? Why You Should NEVER Spend Big on Your First Brand’ https://youtu.be/n5eVZkZX4Y0 (HERE) Connect with her on https://www.instagram.com/laurapcreative (Instagram) Check out her website at http://www.laurapearman.com (www.laurapearman.com) To apply & find out more about her special Branding Offer of 50% off, https://www.laurapearman.com/open-categories-call/ (click here)
Do you ever feel that you need a certificate for every counselling subject that comes up and that if you don't, you are somehow failing as a counsellor or letting your clients down? If so, take a listen because in this podcast I explore the continuous pull for CPD training. I'll be looking at: How the drive to continuously take CPD has been affected during lockdown Why it could be problematic How it can impact on Imposter Syndrome What you can do instead
So if you’re spending every waking minute learning, and are starting to feel confused and overwhelmed then take a listen. (And remember, in the Grow Your Private Practice membership, all the training includes a CPD certificate)) Links to follow: Episode 16: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/silence-your-inner-critic/ (How to silence your inner critic) Episode 19: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-use-cpd-for-growth/ (How to use CPD for personal, professional and business growth, with guest John Wilson) Blog: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/shall-i-get-another-qualification-before-starting-in-private-practice/ (Shall I get another qualification before starting in private practice?)
Can you get therapy clients from social media? It’s a great question and one I see a lot. So today I’m taking a deep dive into this to talk about how social media helps you attract more counselling clients. I’ll be looking at: The clients journey into therapy The role social media plays How you can increase the chances of standing out and connecting with the reader
If you struggle with using social media to attract more clients, then I’ve got your back. In the Grow Your Private Practice membership, you’ll find the Social Media Made Simple course to walk you through the whole thing, as well as lots of resources to make the whole process more straightforward. Just click the button below to find out more and join. Links to follow: The Refresh 5-Day Challenge Episode 2: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/clients-journey-into-therapy/ (The clients journey into therapy) Episode 8: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/social-media-engagement/ (What is social media engagement, and why you need to know)
This week's podcast comes from a question that one of my listeners sent to me: “Being a younger, newer therapist in private practice, I often worry how my clients will perceive my age and expertise. I have had a few clients switch to older counsellors, though some genuinely like having a younger counsellor who can relate.” It raises the question of what’s the most important thing to consider when working with a client. For me it’s all about connection, having a solid therapeutic relationship. But what if you are very different from your client, how can you make that connection so as not to alienate them? Is it important to be similar in some shape or form as your client, perhaps in age, sex, background, and does it matter? Should you consider your niche to take advantage of your personal attributes, interests and qualities? There could be a simple answer and it could be waiting for inside this podcast. In this episode we explore: The importance of having a strong therapeutic relationship with clients Why someone might not connect with you How to use anything about you to your advantage in private practice to help your clients
Links to follow Episode 3: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/drop-psychobabble-more-clients/ (Drop the psychobabble, get more clients)
In this week's podcast episode I had the pleasure of talking to Yasmin Shaheen Zaffar, from Redkite Therapy. Yasmin has a unique approach when it comes to using her creative skills and business mind to help her clients and promote her business brand. Learn how Yasmin actively seeks out different channels to raise awareness around the therapy she offers and her business as she strives to take therapy and therapy language and make it more consumer-friendly. In this episode we explore: Overcoming adversity The Angry Tent Creativity Let’s Shop Shouting day 6th November 2021 How to get into the press Crowdfunding
Yasmin is a super hard-working woman who will no doubt inspire you during this podcast. A valuable listen that will give you new ideas to try in your own business. About YasminYasmin is an integrative counsellor in private practice. She is the regional Leeds ambassador for The Creative Counsellors Club and is passionate about creative counselling. She has developed a number of therapy tools including The Angry Tent, The Anxiety Tent, The R.U.D Process, The Empty Chair Cards and online programs including Lets Stop Shouting and SHED Stress. She is also the founder of Lets Stop Shouting Awareness day which happens on Saturday November 6th 2021. She has a free Facebook group called ‘My CC Toolkit’ and shares tips on working safely online and weekly online creative interventions. Links to follow:To join Yasmins Facebook group, download free resources and find online games please go to the following link https://watotoplay.com/janetravis/ (https://watotoplay.com/janetravis/) Follow #journorequests for PR opportunities Support National Let’s Stop Shouting Day using #letsstopshouting21
Do you ever have those days when one minute, you feel like you can take on the world and accomplish almost anything and then the next, you have about as much energy and enthusiasm as a grumpy teenager? These changes in our mood and energy directly impact our productivity at home, at work, and in life in general and usually result in us rating our day as good or bad. But what if I suggested that you change that language and instead of labelling your day’s productivity as good or bad that you refer to it as ebb and flow? A GYPP member kindly contacted me to suggest the topic of this week’s podcast, How to Stay Productive, Even on Low Energy Days. She commented, “you once sent me a blog about ebb and flow energy, and it’s been invaluable to me at times when my motivation has been low and my imposter syndrome high”. Naomi Dunford wrote this particular blog from ittybiz in 2017, and in it, she takes a behind-the-scenes look at why bad days happen. She highlights the importance of recognising your energy levels so that you can achieve realistic tasks during both these cycles to make the most of your day. In this podcast, I share practical tips that I have found beneficial to make the most of my ebb and flow that I hope will be invaluable to you too. We can’t meet every day with the same amount of energy, but trust that you will get things done and do what works for you. Links to follow: Naomi’s original blog ‘https://ittybiz.com/stay-productive/ (How To Stay Amazingly Productive On Low Energy Days)’ Episode 12: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/your-business-your-rules/ (Your business, your rules.)
It’s my 4th anniversary, and this week I reflect on my business journey and the many lessons I’ve learned. And - spoiler alert - they are probably things you’ve struggled with too. So take a listen and learn from my mistakes. In this episode we explore:The benefits of bootstrapping Making good business investments Embracing change Boundaries, burnout and letting go of responsibility Being bullied by imposter syndrome
Links to followEpisode 39: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/what-should-i-name-my-therapy-business/ (What should I name my therapy business?) Episode 12: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/your-business-your-rules/ (Your business, your rules) Episode 24: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/managing-your-diary-with-time-blocking/ (Managing your diary with time blocking) https://www.janetravis.co.uk/webinar/ (Therapy Rebrand)
It’s my anniversary! Yes, I’ve been working with counsellors and therapists to help grow their practice for 4 years (ok, a bit longer than that, but what’s a few months between friends?). And I’ve come a long way and learned a lot in that time - and am still learning. But there are 4 main things I’ve learned about counsellors in that time and I talk about them in this episode. So take a listen, I’m sure it will take something from this In this episode we explore:My journey from then to now Some unrealistic expectations that are holding you back How taking these on board will help you prevent burnout How to start to value yourself
Links to followhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/3-reasons-why-you-struggle-to-get-clients-how-to-fix-them-jane-travis-tickets-147113872553 (My OE workshop) https://www.janetravis.co.uk/webinar/ (Therapy rebrand workshop) https://amzn.to/38SmcqO (The Grow Your Private Practice book) Episode 042: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-your-private-practice-should-not-be-on-every-social-media-platform/ (Why your private practice should NOT be on every social media platform) Episode 038: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-stop-comparing-yourself-to-other-therapists/ (How to stop comparing yourself to other therapists)
In today’s episode, I interviewed Lisa Murphy, a counsellor that grew her private practice using LinkedIn. Her niche is working with men to help deal with stress and anger, and she incorporates a mixture of therapies including counselling, hypnotherapy, EFT, and NLP. And she used LinkedIn to form connections and grow her private practice In this episode we explore: Why she chooses to work with stressed men with anger issues How she connects with her niche clients via social media Why she chose to concentrate on LinkedIn How she’s increased her engagement How her confidence has grown over time How she comes up with masses of relatable post ideas
About Lisa Murphy Lisa Murphy is a therapist who specializes in helping men deal with stress and anger. Lisa incorporates a mixture of therapies including counselling, hypnotherapy, EFT, and NLP to offer unique solutions for a high-pressured lifestyle. Lisa runs her private online practice from her base in North Wales Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherrytherapies/ (HERE) Links to follow: Episode 41: ‘https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/compelling-reasons-why-linkedin-is-great-for-therapists/ (6 compelling reasons why LinkedIn is great for therapists)’ Episode 42: ‘https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-your-private-practice-should-not-be-on-every-social-media-platform/ (Why your private practice should NOT be on every social media platform)’
Every industry, topic and niche has its fair share of jargon. Take counselling for example, we have things like humanistic, person-centred, integrative etc And marketing is no different. There’s already so much to juggle as a private practitioner, so the last thing you want to do is decipher the lingo. So to make it easier for you, I’ve rounded up 10 key terms and phrases you need to know if you run a private practice. Hope this helps! Links to follow https://therecipeforseosuccess.com/seo-courses/seo-nibbles/ (SEO Nibbles) Episode 42: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-your-private-practice-should-not-be-on-every-social-media-platform/ (Why your private practice should NOT be on every social media platform) Episode 8: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/social-media-engagement/ (What is social media engagement and why you need to know) Episode 35: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/can-you-help-your-clients-and-do-they-know-it/ (Can you help your clients - and do they know it ) The Grow Your Private Practice Book
Social media can be a really effective way to get your business seen and attract more clients, leading to more visibility, more clients, more opportunities, and ultimately, more money. It’s how I’ve grown all my businesses. With a little practice, you can plan a month’s social media in advance and then take 5-10 mins, twice a day to pop in to grow your following and respond to comments. And what’s the easiest way to save time on social media? Just use one platform. You don’t need a presence on all the platforms to get results. Ok, so what usually happens now is people start to doubt me. They think if they are on 3 platforms, they will get 3 x the results. And sometimes they say ‘well, it doesn’t take me long to just copy/paste it to another platform.’ But that just isn’t the case. Why? Well, in this weeks’ podcast I explore this and share 4 reasons why it’s better to only have one social media account - and a handy free guide to help you decide which to choose. In this episode we explore:Why being on more than one platform is a false economy How it can negatively affect your engagement rate Why it’s not as simple as copy/pasting your posts Why it’s important to increase your followers How being on more than one platform can impact the know, like, and trust factor What to do if you’re on more than one platform
If you’re new to social media then there is a lot to learn, so just take your time, keep an open mind and enjoy the process. It’s a new skill and as with any new skill, it will take some time and practice. And if you’re not sure which platform to be on, grab the FREE guide ‘Social media platform And if any of this sounds a bit daunting, in the https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice Club) we have lots of help ready and waiting for you so come and see how we can help you. Links to followEpisode 8: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/social-media-engagement/ (What is social media engagement, and why you need to know) Episode 41: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/compelling-reasons-why-linkedin-is-great-for-therapists/ (6 compelling reasons why LinkedIn is great for therapists) And if you’re a member of GYPP, you have access to Social Media Made Simple, LinkedIn and LOVING it, and LinkedIn for the lazy
If you think LinkedIn is a bit of a starchy, corporate place or not much more than an online CV then you could be missing out on a fabulous opportunity. Because LinkedIn is an amazing social media platform to focus on, especially if you are new to private practice and don’t have a website yet. In this episode, I share with you 6 compelling reasons why LinkedIn is great for therapists In this episode we explore: Why it’s a brilliant choice for counsellors new to private practice How it’s more simple to grow a following You don’t have to post every day You can share Articles to demonstrate your authority (Articles are basically blogs) You don’t always need images
Links to follow:Episode 8: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/social-media-engagement/ (What is social media engagement, and why you need to know) Episode 4: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/steps-sharing-quotes-social-media/ (7 Steps to sharing great quotes on social media) Episode 9: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/save-time-on-social-media/ (How to save time and improve results on social media) Episode 17: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-blogging-will-attract-more-counselling-clients/ (10 Reasons why blogging will attract more counselling clients)
Do you ever doubt yourself and think you can’t write because you have nothing new to say, or worry that your spelling or grammar is too bad? Well, you’re not alone. In fact, when I spoke with Zoe a few years ago and suggested she tried blogging to attract clients, she didn’t believe she could write. Now, she’s just published her book. So today I chat with Zoe Clements about niches, personal disclosure, her Canva addiction and why you should give writing a go, even if you don’t think you can write. In this episode we explore: How having a niche helped her go from genetic counsellor to writing a book How she developed her unique voice How she uses stories to help readers connect How Paddy her dog helps her bring ideas to life Why she decided to invest her time, money and energy into writing a book
About Zoe Zoe Clements is a qualified integrative counsellor who specialises in helping others soothe their overthinking brain and ease their anxiety from her private practice in London. In 2021, Zoe published her first book, 'But I Should Be Fine: How to gain relief from anxiety, overthinking and self-doubt'. Here she brings together her 16 years of professional experience and her personal struggles to deliver a warm, practical, psychobabble-free guide to overcoming anxiety. As a recovered overthinker, she is passionate about raising awareness of anxiety through professional speaking events, blogging and social media. When she is not working she can be found travelling or in South East London, where she lives with her wife, Lucinda, and their dog, Paddy. Find out more about Zoe and her services at http://www.zoeclements.co.uk (www.zoeclements.co.uk) Find her at: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoeclementscounsellor/ (@zoeclementscounsellor) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-clements-2010ba8/ (Zoe Clements) Book available through: Amazon: In paperback and Kindle https://amzn.to/3ttgz9J (here) Apple Books: EBook Coming to bookshops in April 2021
Links to follow Episode 26: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/the-truth-about-consistency/ (The truth about consistency (it might not be what you think!)) Episode 18: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/ways-for-therapists-find-blog-post-ideas/ (7 Ways for therapists to find blog post ideas) Episode 16: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/silence-your-inner-critic/ (How to silence your inner critic) Episode 6: Do you need to be an expert to attract counselling clients?
Starting your own private practice can be an exciting time, but there’s a lot to think about. Even before you get started you have to consider what you’re going to call yourself. So in this episode, I’m going to share some things to consider when naming your therapy business. In this episode we explore: How SEO has changed and how it affects choosing a name The pros and cons of choosing a name to do with your niche How clear beats clever Social media names What to do if your name isn't available.
Links: Episode 29: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/slow-down-to-speed-up/ (Slow down to speed up: How to increase both your skills and confidence) Episode 28: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-get-and-stay-motivated/ (How to get and stay motivated) Episode 1: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/action-antidote-fear/ (Action is the antidote to fear)
I’ve been known to play the comparison game in my life before, but it’s never actually helped me because comparisons just leave us feeling either superior or inferior and there’s no benefit to either of those. So in this episode, I explore the impact of making comparisons, and how destructive it can be to your confidence, self-esteem and self-belief. In this episode we explore: Why comparisons aren’t good for you Why comparisons aren’t based on facts Ways you can step away from it The power of staying in your own lane.
So if you’ve ever been caught up by comparisonitis - and I bet you have at some point! - consider the impact and do something more positive instead. Links: Episode 7: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/using-introvert-superpowers-to-attract-more-clients/ (Using introvert superpowers to attract more clients, with Fifi Mason) Episode 12: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/your-business-your-rules/ (Your business, your rules) Episode 13: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/online-directories/ (A deep dive into online directories) Episode 16: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/silence-your-inner-critic/ (How to silence your inner critic) https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (The Grow Your Private Practice Club) https://amzn.to/2H2uP6t (The Grow Your Private Practice Book)
In this podcast, The Binge Eating Therapist Sarah Dosanjh talks about how her niche has informed her business growth, enabled her to diversify and now, she’s never been busier. In this podcast we discuss: The journey to her binge eating niche (and how she’s never been busier) How having a niche has helped The importance of knowing what clients want How social media can effectively screen clients The benefits of therapy groups Helping therapists work with relationships with food
About SarahSarah Dosanjh is a TA psychotherapist and author of the book https://amzn.to/3pMU1yh (I Can't Stop Eating). She is passionate about helping those struggling with binge eating/body image to find peace and freedom around food. She runs CPD events for therapists who want to learn about working with binge eating as well as offering training and a free support community for therapists who want to set up groups in private practice. Connect with her on https://www.instagram.com/the_binge_eating_therapist/ (Instagram) And find all her other details https://thebingeeatingtherapist.com/navigation (HERE) Links to follow: Episode 6: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/expert-attract-counselling-clients/ (Do you need to be an expert to attract counselling clients?) Episode 28: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-get-and-stay-motivated/ (How to get and stay motivated) Episode 35: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/can-you-help-your-clients-and-do-they-know-it/ (Can you help your clients - and do they know it?) To take Sarah's workshop in the GYPP Club, join here https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice)
They say ‘we teach what we need to learn’ and I think it’s true. I used to have an online business all about self-help for people-pleasers, and yup, I’m a recovering people-pleaser. I’m a whole lot better than I used to be, but I suspect that a lot of counsellors are people pleasers or recovering people-pleasers too. And being a people pleaser can have a real impact on your private practice. It can impact how you run your business and even what income you make. It can also lead to resentment and burnout. So if you’re a counsellor, how can you handle people-pleasing? In this episode, we look at: 5 ways being a people pleaser can impact you in private practice 5 solutions to help How it’s not all about the clients’ needs - and that’s ok
I don’t think people pleasing just goes away, I think it’s always going to be there lurking. It’s for us to be aware of it and keep doing the work. And the more work we do, the better we feel. Saying no feels very uncomfortable sometimes, but the more you do it, the easier it gets. And it’s totally worth it. Counselling is a valuable service - you are providing a valuable service. It’s ok for people to pay for that service and it’s ok to value yourself and what you do. It’s not all about the client - and that doesn’t make you selfish. And it’s okay for you to build your business into something that suits you and improves the quality of your life. Links to follow Episode 24: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/managing-your-diary-with-time-blocking/ (Managing your diary with time blocking ) Episode 32: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/easy-ways-to-give-back-to-charity-without-reducing-your-fees-or-working-for-free/ (5 Easy ways to give back to charity (without reducing your fees or working for free) with Sophia Giblin) Episode 28: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/how-to-get-and-stay-motivated/ (How to get and stay motivated) If you need more help with your business, get the Grow Your Private Practice book, available now on Amazon or https://amzn.to/2N8nW6Q (CLICK HERE)
Letting a client know that you can help them is a fundamental part of growing your private practice. After all, why would they embark on expensive counselling if it won’t help? However, this can feel awkward because ultimately we can’t absolutely guarantee that they will get those results - and as such, shouldn’t make such claims. So this week, I explore this conundrum in order to help you feel confident within your marketing while remaining completely ethical. Take a listen and you’ll see what I mean. In this episode, you’ll discover how: It’s important to understand the difference between saying you can help and taking responsibility for the clients’ outcomes People are looking for a solution to their problems You need to help people make the decision to choose you, just by helping and sharing your warmth
You can't advertise promising results, of course you can't. You cannot and should not be promising things you have no control over. However, expressing to clients how you can help them is a fundamental part of marketing, so take some time to really get into the head of your potential clients. Then share your findings to let people know that coming for counselling with you is one of the ways they can start to make a positive change in their life. Links to follow: Episode 2: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/clients-journey-into-therapy/ (The clients journey into therapy) Episode 6: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/expert-attract-counselling-clients/ (Do you need to be an expert to start attracting therapy clients?) And if you need more help with this, take The Foundations Course in the Grow Your Private Practice Club, and let your potential clients feel assured that you can help. For more details and to join, https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (CLICK HERE)
For years I’ve said - and heard people say - ‘done is better than perfect’, but something about this doesn’t sit right for me. Because when marketing our private practice, we want something that’s not just ok but something that’s really good, don’t we? We want everything we do to be professional, warm, welcoming and reassuring to attract more clients. Is ‘done’ just an exercise in ticking an item off a list? Because if you want results, you want to put your best foot forward. So in episode 34, I explore why we should change ‘Done is better than perfect’ to ‘Done well is better than perfect. Take a listen and see what I mean. In this episode we look at: Why being perfect isn’t the goal How action brings results Things you can change to make a real difference The impact on you and your confidence
Done is better than perfect is true, but it could be harming your business. I think it’s better to get something out there in front of your audience than be paralysed with fear and doubt. And it’s better to get what you’ve written out there rather than to constantly tweak and fiddle without publishing. Get it done, get it out there and grow your practice. Perfection isn’t necessary. Because we are looking for progress not perfection. The Social Media Made Simple course, and Blogging With Confidence are available now in the Grow Your Private Practice Club, along with courses, workshops, resources and a supportive community all aimed at helping you attract more clients, more easily. To find out more about it, https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (CLICK HERE) now
It’s happened to us all: You got a call and a client booked in. They come for their first session and it all seems to have gone well as they book in for session two. But they don’t turn up. This can feel awful at any time, but especially if you’re new to private practice as it feels like a slap in the face. So what can you do if this happens to you - and it will at some point. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode Why you should give yourself a pat on the back Why this happens Why you’ll never be sure about why it’s happened How to review your first session Tips on how to manage those first session nerves Practice practice practice
This happens to us all from time to time and the most important thing is to not beat yourself up about it. Literally, nothing good can come from that. So if it's happened to you - big deep breaths. And then calmly decide what to do next. Good luck!
One of the frustrating things about being a therapist in private practice is not being able to help everyone that needs it, including those that can’t afford to pay. But thankfully there are other ways to give back without having to volunteer your time and energy as a counsellor, as this can really hold you back when you want to attract paying clients of your own. In this episode I have expert Sophia Giblin from Fundraising For Good join me to discuss different ways you can give back depending on the time and energy you have available. There are hundreds of thousands of charities out there who are always looking for support, and as trained counsellors, we are in a unique position to help in a few different ways that could even lead to you getting paid work. We’ve started with the easiest things to do and moved up from there. In this episode we look at: The disadvantages of offering unpaid work as a counsellor Suggestions to give back depending on the time and energy you have available to you How you are ideally placed to offer practical help and advice How this can increase your visibility and grow your practice.
There you go, some great tips about how you can both give back and raise your visibility as a private practitioner. And if you’re wondering how you can actually make these happen, then I have some fabulous news for you. To go with this podcast Sophia and I have made a helpsheet to help you decide what is right for you. Just go to janetravis.co.uk/32 to get it. But also, Sophia has generously offered listeners of The Grow Your Private Practice Show 50% off her Power Hour. So book a Power Hour with Sophia to discuss ways in which you can support and collaborate with charities to help more people and get more visible. Full details and the coupon code are in the download, so grab it now. And you can check out Sophia’s Fundraising for Good course here www.fundraisingforgood.co.uk
About Sophia Sophia Giblin is the Award Winning Founder of https://www.clear-sky.org.uk/ (Clear Sky Children's Charity), a Play & Creative Arts Therapy charity for children in the Thames Valley. Sophia set up the charity at the age of 23 with a minimal amount of experience and a big vision for change she wanted to see in the world! As well as having a Masters in Play Therapy, Sophia also has a BA in Business Administration and combines her business acumen with her passion and experience in charity to help heart centred entrepreneurs deliver projects that make a difference in the world. Sophia has been successfully fundraising for charitable causes for over 10 years now, raising over half a million pounds for charities that have a big impact on people’s lives. Connect with Sophia on https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiagiblin/ (LinkedIn)
When was the last time you increased your prices? Probably it’s been quite a while, so if you haven’t increased your price in over a year, then take a listen. In this episode, we looked at: The impact of not feeling valued Why we wait too long to increase prices How being paid affects the therapeutic relationship positively A pain-free way to increase prices
So if you haven’t increased your prices for over a year, it’s time for a review. And remember ‘I serve, I deserve’
Have you ever noticed how the more you learn, the more you realise you don’t know? For example, remember when you decided to become a counsellor? That excitement as you embarked on the fascinating training. And there comes a point when you start to realise that you have a lot to learn, more than you’d realised. And it all starts to feel a bit overwhelming. It happens to us all, so before you start MORE new training, take a listen. In this episode, we look at:Moving away from the perpetual learning trap The benefits of slowing down The importance of assimilating knowledge 2 Simple tips to help you acknowledge your learning The announcement to make to yourself and the world How you know far more than you give yourself credit for.
So if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, exhausted and on a hamster wheel of never-ending learning, stop. Breathe. You know more than you think you do. Links:Episode 6: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/expert-attract-counselling-clients/ (Do you need to be an expert to attract counselling clients?) Episode 29: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/slow-down-to-speed-up/ (Slow down to speed up: How to increase both your skills and confidence)
You know that feeling when you’re so excited and fired up, about to learn something new - but then it all falls flat? Yup, that’s what we’re looking at today. This episode is a real game-changer because I’m going to share with you a simple mindset change that will increase both your skills and confidence. In this episode I share:The reason why we give up The learning process The uncomfortable truth about learning new skills The impact on your confidence The benefits of focus and goal setting
On 15th January 2021 in the Grow Your Private Practice Club it’s the Get Focussed, Achieve More’ workshop where we’ll be doing just this - getting focussed in order to learn, grow and come out with new skills and increased confidence. If you’d like to join us, check out https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (www.growyourprivatepractice.co.uk) So the truth is, it’s important to stick with it, keep going when learning a new skill and allow yourself to be willing to be uncomfortable because that’s when the breakthrough happens. I guess like in counselling, we have to trust the process. So as I record this it’s the beginning of a new year, 2021 is standing ahead of us. I wonder how many new things you’ll learn by this time next year. All you have to do is do the work, trust the process and keep going.
You know you need to crack on with your marketing, you know all about the benefits but just can’t seem to find the motivation. If that sounds familiar, then this podcast is for you because I’m talking all about motivation. So let’s take a look at how to get - and stay! - motivated. In this episode we look at:If you want a successful practice, you have to do the work to attract clients. But not only do that, but do it regularly and consistently (and if you struggle with consistency, check out episode 26 ‘https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/the-truth-about-consistency/ (The truth about consistency (it might not be what you think))) But we all have days when we feel demotivated and struggle to get started. So here is: The fundamental question to ask yourself How your answer to this will keep you focused. ...and a little about money
In private practice, knowing this will drive you every single day - when you wake up, this gets you out of bed, and when you hit a rough patch as we are all prone to do, it will mean you’ll find it within yourself to carry on and not just call it a day. If you need help with how to get more clients in this coming year, then come and join us in the Grow Your Private Practice Club. There’s never a better time because on 7th January the price of the GYPP Club goes up, so if you join now you’ll be locked in at the current low price for as long as you are a member. In 2021 the word of the year in the club is action, because Action is the antidote to fear - you only get rid of your fear by doing - check out podcast episode 1 Action is what moves your practice forward and Action is what brings you success.
So in January if you join you can attend the new member call, where I’ll show you how to make the most of the club and get your questions answered, Then we have the ‘Get focussed, achieve more’ workshop, Also the members Q&A at the end of the month So you can get started in the Foundations course, take action and see results. You also have access to the private practice success roadmap, the comprehensive library of courses and workshops, regular monthly workshops and guest workshops, member offers and a friendly supportive group of peers. So is it time to get off the fence and take action? Just check us out at https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice.co.uk) - you will be very welcome.
Aah 2020, what a year you’ve been! But as 2020 limps to a close, I’d like to invite you to take a closer look and reflect on some of the lessons it’s taught us. I for one have learned a lot - about myself, my business, life… … And to dismiss all we have experienced without reflection is such a waste. So let’s reflect on some positives from 2020 so you can get more of the good stuff in your life, let go of some things that no longer serve you and see how you can protect yourself going forward. In this episode we look at: 5 Questions for reflection Other questions to consider
Take what you can from this year and use it to help you going forward. And if you need help getting off to a good start in 2021 come join us in the https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/ (Grow Your Private Practice Club) And join before 8 pm UK time on 7th January 2021 to get locked into the current price and beat the price rise.
Today's podcast is my 26th so that means I have recorded a podcast every week consistently for 6 months. So I wanted to talk a little about consistency, and it might not be what you think. Consistency is what we want, but you can get to consistency via different routes, and it’s about working out the right way for you. In this episode we look at:Why consistency is so important Why we struggle with it Creativity and waiting for inspiration The impact of energy levels and making it work for you The power of deadlines and accountability Using rewards What to do when you’ve lost that consistency One important thing NOT to do
If you recognise yourself in this, then don’t struggle alone, come join the Grow Your Private Practice Club. GYPP is all about removing overwhelm, tackling those fears and taking action to move your practice forward and attract more clients and make more money. Here’s what I believe about consistencyConsistency is best - make a commitment and stick to it wherever possible Quality over quantity - don’t post just anything because you haven’t posted for a while. Things happen, just get back on the horse and learn what you can - Protect yourself by prep in advance, comment on others posts if you don’t do your own Take into account your personality
So there you go, a few thoughts about consistency. Yes, there are many many benefits to being consistent. But sometimes life happens and things don’t go as planned. The important thing is to do what you can to prepare in advance so you have something to post when you need it. Work out what works best for YOU and take advantage of your own way of working. And if you lost consistency, just get started again as soon as you can and don’t beat yourself up about it, just learn what you can to protect yourself going forward. Links to follow:Episode 8: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/social-media-engagement/ (What is social media engagement, and why you need to know) Episode 17: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-blogging-will-attract-more-counselling-clients/ (10 Reasons why blogging will attract more counselling clients) Episode 23: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/avoid-the-feast-and-famine/ (How to avoid the feast and famine cycle in your private practice) Episode 24: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/managing-your-diary-with-time-blocking/ (Managing your diary with time blocking) Episode 12: https://growyourprivatepractice.co.uk/courses/your-business-your-rules-making-it-work-for-you/ (Your Business, Your Rules: Making it work FOR YOU)
In this episode, I’m delighted to have Kat Love as my guest. Driven by personal experience Kat is on a mission to give back so more people get to experience the power of therapy. So they help therapists with websites, copy and coaching in order to get more clients and referrals. In this episode we look at: Kat shares 4 main mistakes that you could accidentally be making on your website along with how to fix them. Including: How to stop sounding like everyone else How to encourage visitors to take the next step How to stop being Wikipedia for mental health issues How to write with clarity and warmth
Kat also shares some great tips about really making connections with potential clients on your website via the copy. And we also discuss how important it is for your client that they get a sense of you in order to choose the right counsellor for them. Links to follow: Check out Kat’s services that help with copywriting for therapists and marketing and business coaching for therapists. https://www.katlove.com/ (https://www.katlove.com/) https://empathycopy.com/ (https://empathycopy.com/) And connect on https://www.facebook.com/katmlove (Facebook ) Other links:Episode 3: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/drop-psychobabble-more-clients/ (Drop the psychobabble, get more clients) Episode 15: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/faq-page/ (What to include on your FAQ page)
Time - or the lack of it - is something that will hamper your private practice success, so take control now and prioritise your practice. In this episode, I share a highly effective yet extremely simple way to take manage your diary with time blocking. This follows on from last weeks episode about how to avoid feast and famine in your private practice, so if you haven’t already check out https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/avoid-the-feast-and-famine/ (episode 23). Yes, time blocking will help you prioritise your time to ensure your business works in the way YOU want it to But it’s not just about work, you also prioritise family, social and leisure time as well as self-care. In this episode we look at:What time blocking is Why it’s going to really help you take control of your week How it will increase productivity and reduce overwhelm How it helps with self-care, work-life balance and reducing stress How to get started How it helps you be realistic in how much time you have and need.
And I also share my favourite productivity tip with you too. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have enough hours in the day or have trouble finding time to focus on your practice because you have so many other things going on in your life, you’re going to love this. And if you need help with any aspect of marketing your practice no matter what stage you are in, then come and join the Grow Your Private Practice Club and see how much difference the extra focus and support will make.
Being self-employed and running your own private practice has many many benefits to you. But one of the downsides is the potential insecurity of the ‘feast and famine’ ie busy periods followed by quiet periods. So in this week’s podcast, I’ll be exploring this, and sharing how you can protect yourself, your practice and your income. In this episode we look at: My personal experience of this and the lessons I learned Why it happens How to protect yourself How protecting yourself might sound counterintuitive The not very sexy but highly effective solution
In order to run a successful and sustainable practice, it’s important to take control. And in the next episode, I’ll be sharing a super simple way to take control of your diary so you can make or find the time in order keep a steady stream of new clients to your practice. Links: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/expert-attract-counselling-clients/ (Episode 6): Do you need to be an expert to attract counselling clients
How are you feeling? I ask because I am tired and emotional, which I know is often code for how we describe people at the end of a night out after having one too many glasses of vino, but I am literally tired and emotional. By 9 pm I am falling asleep. I sleep well, but still wake tired. And I wouldn't describe myself as a cryer, but the other morning I cried twice before 9.30 am. So I asked the Grow Your Private Practice community if anyone else felt this and yup, loads of people reported similar. One even cried at a Macdonalds advert. Emotions are funny, aren't they? So in this episode, I want to know how YOU are feeling because one thing I know about counsellors is we tend to be a bit rubbish at taking our own advice. In this episode, we look atOur tendency to have unrealistic expectations of ourselves Feeling guilty Taking our own advice Mindful viewing
You are an expert at self-care and I bet you make sure that others increase theirs and stop being so hard on themselves. So whenever you hear a critical voice in your head, or feel guilty for doing something for yourself, or snap at others or whatever thing happens to make you feel guilty I’d like you to consider what your reaction would be if a client said that. You would treat them with kindness, compassion and respect. So do the same for yourself.
What do you need to know before you start marketing your private practice? Whether you want a full time practice and bring in a full time income, or a small one that fits in around other commitments, you will need to attract clients and keep attracting them consistently. This way you’ll have a steady flow of client enquiries to avoid the ‘feast and famine’ situation. So you have a new set of skills to learn. And as with all businesses, it takes time and effort to attract clients and keep attracting clients. So lean closer, I'm going to share with you 5 things therapists need to know before starting in private practice. In this episode we look at: Why it’s a marathon, not a sprint Why it’s important to ‘feel the fear and do it anyway’ How to increase the ‘know, like and trust’ factor How progress beats perfection every time Why it’s important to find the marketing activities you enjoy
Consistent marketing activities are essential in private practice, so make it a priority. Consider how you can make them part of your regular weekly activities and it’ll make your life easier and your practice more profitable. And if you need help getting started attracting clients, in the Grow Your Private Practice Club, I have 2 courses that will really help. The Foundations course gets you off to the best possible start. It covers time management, personal development, who you want to attract and the way you can start attracting them The Quickstart course. How to get started quickly and without a website.
Links: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/banish-shiny-object-syndrome/ (Episode 20): ‘How to banish shiny object syndrome and stay focussed’ For full show notes, go to janetravis.co.uk/21
This week in the GYPP club one of my members said ‘Well, I've just set up a Twitter account. No idea what to do next or who to follow lol’ It turns out she already was on 2 social media platforms And I thought hhmm… whats going on here. So I thought it would be a great subject for the podcast. So let’s look at how to banish shiny object syndrome and stay focussed. In this episode we look at: What IS shiny object syndrome? Why it's bad Why do we do it? How to get focussed 5 things you can do to banish shiny object syndrome
Shiny object syndrome is extremely common and is just one more hurdle to get over when in business. But as with everything, once you’re aware of it you can protect yourself. And if you protect yourself, you can move your practice forward by focusing your precious time, energy So it’s got to be worth taking stock of. And I really DO want you to spend less time and energy on your marketing and get better results. Imagine how that will feel? Marketing your practice is actually not that hard, you just follow some steps and there you go! It's your mindset issues that really hold you back. Fears, and things like Imposter Syndrome, procrastination, perfectionism, shiny object syndrome syndrome, inner critic, comparisons and money mindset. Phew! In the Grow Your Private Practice book there is a whole section devoted to mindset issues to help you manage these so they don't stop you from the success you have worked so hard for. Check it out on Amazon, just https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grow-Your-Private-Practice-Travis/dp/1692305522/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34CVDGNR8K6ES&dchild=1&keywords=grow+your+private+practice&qid=1599033608&sprefix=grow+your+private+practice%2Caps%2C147&sr=8-1 (click here).
If you’re a counsellor or psychotherapist, CPD is something you’ll be doing throughout your professional life. So today we have special guest John Wilson from Onlinevents who knows a thing or two about training and CPD. A psychotherapist since 2005, he’s also a trainer at Temenos and has run Onlinevents with his sister for 10 years. Onlinevents provides a vast range of varied CPD activities for counsellors and psychotherapists, from interviews with specialists, trainers and authors to interactive workshops. Today he shares some of his vast experience to help us get the most out of the CPD we consume. In this episode we look at:Where would you recommend a newly qualified counsellor start with CPD? The benefits of ‘dipping your toe in’ with different training and trainers before you commit to a larger piece of training How there’s more to training than just learning The importance of personal development for both you and your client work.
I do hope you’ve enjoyed this episode. If you did, please be sure to hit subscribe so you get the latest episodes delivered directly to your device. Have a fabulous day and hope to see you next week. About John
John has been facilitating Counselling & Psychotherapy programmes in the UK for more than 10 years. Currently the director at Temenos Education he also has a private practice where he offers online Psychotherapy and Supervision using video and chat communication platforms along with virtual environments. He is also the co-founder of Onlinevents which has grown to be the world’s largest library of online video and audio content with instant certification and a learning log. As well as this, he is also a past chair of the Association for Counselling & Therapy Online (ACTO) and has served for 6 years on the board of the World Association for Person Centered & Experiential Psychotherapy & Counselling. His passion to bring online learning into the field of Counselling & Psychotherapy has also led to the development of online experiential learning within the Temenos programme, facilitating the exposure of Temenos students to external tutors who are located in different parts of the world.
Links to follow:
You can read an article John co-authored about online group facilitation https://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/UB2QJDKNCGUMUNUURU8W/full?target=10.1080/14779757.2019.1650807 (here) http://www.temenos.ac.uk/ (Temenos) http://onlinevents.co.uk/ (Onlinevents) CPD Library Find Onlinevents on all the social media platforms - NOTE there is only one E in the middle! Onlinevents' http://www.twitter.com/onlinevents (Twitter)
When I asked counsellors what they struggled with when it comes to blogging, knowing what to write about was a common concern. So in this episode, I share 7 ways for therapists to find with blog post ideas. In this episode I share:
Why blogging is so good for your business Why you can relax - you don’t have to answer lifes questions How blogging is no place for perfectionism How to avoid procrastination 7 Ways for therapists to find inspiration
So there you are, inspiration for blog post ideas. All of them simple, all of them effective. And for a little extra inspiration, download the free guide ‘101 headlines for your therapy blog’, which shows 101 headlines for just one niche. You will find this at janetravis.co.uk/18 Blogging can be an excellent way to attract more clients and more income to your practice, so is it time you got started? And remember, the Blogging With Confidence course will help you with all aspects of blogging, whether you are new to blogging or want to improve your results. It includes everything you need, including: A quickstart section for if you’re brand new The Blogging Blueprint, which is a system to simplify writing Template to get you going How to never, ever run out of things to write about How to make the most of every blog post for years to come
So come and join us in the Grow Your Private Practice Club for this and a comprehensive training library, along with a supportive group of peers. Have a great week, and see you again soon Links from this episode https://trello.com/ (Trello) Episode 4: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/steps-sharing-quotes-social-media/ (7 Steps to sharing great quotes on social media) Episode 15: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/faq-page/ (What to include on your FAQ page) Episode 17: https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/why-blogging-will-attract-more-counselling-clients/ (10 Reasons why blogging will attract more counselling clients) https://www.brainyquote.com/ (Brainyquote) https://answerthepublic.com/ (AnswerThePublic)
Content marketing is all about creating and sharing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract followers and ultimately clients. So this means you can stop panicking about having to sell yourself, and concentrate on simply helping people. Doesn’t that feel better? So it's basically writing blogs, producing podcasts or videos, using social media, webinars and workshops. All are good, but most counsellors choose blogging from those, so that’s what we will focus on in this episode. And there is also a free guide '101 Blog Post Titles for your Counselling Blog' you can find at janetravis.co.uk/17 In this episode we look at: How we used to attract clients before the internet What is content marketing Why does it work so well for counsellors? 10 benefits of writing a blog
I hope you can see how beneficial content marketing is for your practice and how it will both help your readers and attract more clients. If you need some help getting started blogging, or you’ve been blogging a while and want to up your game, the Blogging With Confidence 2.0 course is released 23rd October 2020 completely updating the current course. It includes everything you need, including: A quickstart section for if you’re brand new The Blogging Blueprint, which is a system to simplify writing A template to get you going How to never, ever run out of things to write about.
As a member of the Grow Your Private Practice Club you not only get access to the Blogging With Confidence course but everything else you need to go around it. This includes choosing your niche, time management, managing the mindset with issues like imposter syndrome, perfectionism, procrastination etc, social media, website and much more, along with a supportive group of peers If you’d like to know more, check out the Grow Your Private Practice Club
If you have an inner critic or get Imposter Syndrome, then it can become second nature to kick yourself whenever you do something you consider wrong or not good enough. Not only is this exhausting, it’s debilitating and can significantly reduce the success of your private practice. So it’s important to address this. The good news is, you can do something to neutralise this that’s not only simple and effective, it’s also fun and pleasurable. And I share this super simple trick in this episode. In this episode we look at A practical, effective way to reduce overwhelm Why we shy away from sharing our successes How there’s only one way to fail The importance of recognising your achievements 2 really simple but highly effective ways to develop your inner cheerleader A fun, pleasurable way to make this a habit
That critical inner voice can be a real bully and if left unchecked can have a detrimental impact on your business. Stand up to it, strengthen your own inner cheerleader and get the success you deserve. And if you need some help with that, join us in the Grow Your Private Practice Club, where you not only get training on all aspects of growing your practice, you get support from myself and all the other members too. Take a look at the Grow Your Private Practice Club here.
I was terrified before I went to counselling for the first time. (And the second, third and all subsequent times too, actually!) And I know I’m not alone with that. So if clients are terrified of counselling, it’s part of our job as private practitioners to help alleviate that fear. To remove any blocks to accessing help that are standing in their way. And one of the ways you can do that is on the FAQ page on your website. This is your place to spell out the next steps to working with you. So in this weeks episode, I talk about the FAQ section - what it is, what to include and what not to include. And there is even a free helpsheet to get you started. In this episode we look at: The importance of an FAQ page The main questions should you include What questions you should leave off What other questions might you include.
By removing any barriers to accessing counselling via your FAQ page, people will be more likely to take that next step towards getting the help they need - and you making the income you need. So is it time to give your FAQ page a facelift? Grab the free helpsheet from janetravis.co.uk/15
In private practice, you’re going to need a cancellation policy. But these can be tricky as there is an absolute right or wrong way of doing it. So how can you work out what’s right for you? In this episode, Tamara Howell, a psychotherapist in private practice and also founder of Private Practice Paperwork, joins me to explore some of the pros and cons to help you discover what’s right for you. In this episode we look at: How long should your cancellation policy be for? Should you get a prepayment? What are the implications for the therapeutic alliance? Keeping boundaries What happens if you enforce a boundary and they don’t return?
Tamara also shares a simple trick to make explaining your policy much easier. Handled well, your cancellation policy will help protect you and model boundaries to your clients. So take some time to work out what your policy is and why because the more clear you are both for yourself and your clients, the less stressful it will feel. __________________________________ I do hope you’ve enjoyed this episode. If you did, please be sure to hit subscribe so you get the latest episodes delivered directly to your device. Have a fabulous day and hope to see you next week Tamaras https://www.facebook.com/groups/privatepracticesupportuk (free Facebook group) https://transactions.sendowl.com/stores/14028/189096 (Private Practice Paperwork)
For some therapists, online directories can be a great source of clients, so in this episode I take a deep dive into the positives and negatives of using directories and how to make them work for you. To start attracting clients quickly, one of the first things I suggest is to get yourself on an online directory - I talk about it in the Quickstart section of the Grow Your Private Practice book and the Quickstart course in the Grow Your Private Practice Club. But with so many counsellors on them, how can you make them work for you? Here’s what we talk about in this episode: Positives and negatives of being on a directory Overview of directories from the clients perspective How your directory entry is about connecting with your potential clients Some simple tips for your photo Some do’s and don’t to watch for
And finally... Directories aren't effective for everyone, so how do you decide whether directories are working for you? ___________________________ Directories can be a fantastic, cost effective way for you to attract clients. Allow your personality to come through - your warmth, your compassion - in order to help the potential client to feel comfortable about contacting you. Let’s consider the potential client and make this easier for them. And if you need some help with your messaging so you attract more clients more easily, this is exactly what the Grow Your Private Practice Club is all about. Or check out the https://amzn.to/3iwu3wt (Grow Your Private Practice book). I do hope you’ve enjoyed this episode. If you did, please be sure to hit subscribe so you get the latest episodes delivered directly to your device.
How can you make your business work for you on your terms and in a way that is right for you? In this episode, I look at how when it’s your business, you make the rules and what this means for you. How you can maximise your qualities and make them really work for you, and the importance of personal growth and understanding self-sabotage. When you run your own business, you can decide: Your working hours Your fees Your marketing methods Your work patterns
How exciting is that?! How many other jobs give you that level of flexibility? How many other jobs offer that opportunity. When it comes to marketing your private practice, everything works. The trick is finding what works for you. This is what I LOVE about working for myself - I make my business work around me, my life, my preferences and my wants and needs. And if you need help with your marketing, grab the https://amzn.to/3jUssAI (Grow Your Private Practice) book which is available on Amazon now. Or get the free download 'https://www.janetravis.co.uk/attract-therapy-clients/ (54 Specific ways to attract therapy clients)' Remember to subscribe so you don't miss a show and it would be brilliant if you could leave a review.
How are you at the moment? Because I don’t know about you but I’ve been feeling pretty exhausted lately like my get up and go got up and went. The long term effects of the coronavirus pandemic are hitting us all and personally I’ve felt low, burnt out and frankly exhausted. It feels like I’ve lost my mojo. How about you? At times like these, doubts and insecurities can creep in and whisper lies in your ears: I can’t do this I’m not good enough It’ll never work No one can afford to have counselling now
I’ve been through enough mojo malfunctions to know that it’s a truly horrible place to be. But I want to reassure you that it’s not permanent and in this episode I share 3 things that will help you - including a free workbook: In this episode, we look at: How you might be feeling stressed, anxious or exhausted - or all 3 3 simple ways to help Going back to basics Going on a work diet Pressing the pause button Simple ideas to give yourself a boost
I have a free workbook to help you get started https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/things-to-do-when-youve-lost-your-mojo/ (HERE) And finally You are in control of what you bring into your life, so I finish with some tips on simple changes you can make to boost your mood. Now is a difficult time so press the pause button if you need to. But don’t stop. You’ve worked too hard, come too far. And if you need some help trimming off the fat and just concentrating on what’s important, this is exactly what the Grow Your Private Practice Club is all about, along with time management tricks too and a friendly, supporting community of peers. What to do next If you enjoyed this show, please share with your counselling peers. And don't forget to subscribe!
What do clients need when they land on a counsellors website? Well in this episode I have the fabulous Sarah Gershone from Strong Roots Web Design with me talking all about this. Sarah Gershone works specifically with counsellors to make beautiful, functional websites. She is also a friend of the Grow Your Private Practice Club and has delivered a highly popular workshop on pimping up your homepage - the replay is available now so if you fancy seeing that, come and join. In this episode, we’ll be busting 5 website myths about that could be holding you back.
People will read my site People access information on a website differently than, say, a book, so if you want people to read it you need to make it super easy for them. If you build it they will come You might have a beautiful site, but are people seeing it? A free site will be just fine One of the functions of a therapists website making the client feel safe. So what is the deeper message we are giving out with a free site which might impact the client? The most important thing is to look good A website is not just a brochure, it has a purpose. So although looking good is important, what do you ultimately want the client to do? My website is finished A website is like a plant: to continue to thrive it needs tending. Highlights you can’t miss13.06 Don’t be afraid to repeat yourself on your website 26.00 How an unpolished site can ring warning bells for clients 35.31 Why counsellors are at an advantage when it comes to knowing clients 40.02 The benefits of a resources section And finally….Did you know that 60% of your website visitors use a mobile device to access the internet? So be sure you check this. Links Strong Roots Design https://strongrootswebdesign.com/free-video-course/ (Discover the secrets to a successful website), free video mini course https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahgershone/ (Connect with Sarah) on LinkedIn And if you need more help, here’s some of the training to do with Websites available in the Grow Your Private Practice Club: Focus On Branding Pimp up your homepage, with Sarah Gershone Your Website Blueprint Make your own Wix website What to do next If you enjoyed this show, please share it with your counselling peers. And I’d be really grateful if you would take a few minutes to leave a rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts, it makes such a difference. And don’t forget to subscribe to the show on your favourite app of choice to get automatic updates as soon as a show goes live.
If your social media marketing takes too much time isn’t delivering the results you want then it’s time to have a re-think. In this episode I talk about how sometimes, doing less is more. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode What the platforms want Why scheduling out posts is no longer enough How to get more people to see your posts How to reduce time and energy yet get better results
And finally… How to manage social media FOMO How to use comparisons to your advantage Links to follow https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/using-introvert-superpowers-to-attract-more-clients/ (Using introvert superpowers to attract more clients) https://www.janetravis.co.uk/podcast/social-media-engagement/ (What is social media engagement and why you need to know) Check out the Grow Your Private Practice Club HERE
Social media can be an amazing tool for growing your practice, OR it can be a massive time suck that doesn’t bring you results. So how can you make it work for you? Lots of ways! In this episode we’ll be looking at engagement, the algorithm and what it means to you. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
What social media engagement is Why it’s important The pros and cons of social media What happens if you don’t get engagement on your posts Appeasing the social media gods Examples of simple questions to ask to increase engagement A simple way to understand engagement
Highlights you can’t miss
12.17 Playing snakes and ladders 12.37 What actually IS engagement? 14.14 Increasing engagement and some examples
And finallyI share a simple experiment to see what posts encourage you to engage. Social media can be a powerful and free tool to use to grow your private practice, so Appease the social media gods and they will reward you.
Links to follow
The Social Media Made Simple course and the Monday Inspiration calls are all included as part of membership of the Grow Your Private Practice Club. Find out more at the Grow Your Private Practice Club
Welcome to this weeks episode, where today I have my first guest to the podcast. Fifi Mason is a Personal Brand Strategist and Visibility Coaching, helping introvert entrepreneurs and small business owners get visible and develop a personal brand business that aligns with their personality. Fifi is also a popular friend of the Grow Your Private Practice Club and has been a guest expert for us a couple of times. The replays are available in the club, so if you fancy seeing more of Fifi, come and join. Today we will be looking being an introvert, how it can impact you when it comes to marketing, and how you can use it to your advantage. What is the definition of an introvert? The difference between shyness and introversion, and why it’s important to know What business challenges do introverts face? How Fifi manages her energy The challenges of authenticity Tips for introverted business owners How to reduce overwhelm How can we overcome these challenges Introvert superpowers The reason why Fifi has blue hair
Highlights you can’t miss 14.38 Building the know, like and trust factor 16.13 The importance of self-knowledge and self-acceptance 22.47 A great tip for feeling more comfortable at networking events 27.25 The power of writing for introverts And Finally Fifi recommended the book https://amzn.to/2PbjAJK (Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking,) by Susan Cain Resources The Quietly Successful Summit 2020 https://quietlysuccessfulsummit.com/ (https://quietlysuccessfulsummit.com/) Check Fifi out here https://fifimason.com/ (https://fifimason.com/) Connect with Fifi on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefifimason/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefifimason/) Grab Fifi’s free workbook Embracing the introvert within https://fifimason.com/embrace-the-introvert-within-worksheet/ (https://fifimason.com/embrace-the-introvert-within-worksheet/) Notion all in one workspace https://www.notion.so/product (https://www.notion.so/product) 11 Steps to master Smalltalk https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/gypp/Jane_Travis-smalltalk-pdg-foundr.pdf (https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/gypp/Jane_Travis-smalltalk-pdg-foundr.pdf)
How often have I heard counsellors say that they don’t know enough to write blogs, hold workshops, be on social media. They worry about not having enough expertise. But how much expertise do you need, and do you need to be an expert to actually attract more counselling clients? Let’s take a look. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why it feels so conflicting to call yourself an expert Should you call yourself an expert? The downside of being an expert The super simple mindset shift that will change everything Why it’s important to be seen as an expert
Highlights you can’t miss 4.00 The quote that changed everything for me 6.50 How this can impact your Imposter Syndrome 8.44 Why this is so important 9.43 What should you actually do? And Finally… How to find more confidence about your knowledge, skills and experience
Let’s talk about how to handle the initial phone enquiries and increase the chance that they will become your client. We’ll look at: The reality of phone enquiries Adopting the right mindset Increasing confidence Taking gentle control of the call Setting expectations Making the booking at the day/time that’s best for you How to refer the client on, without them feeling rejected
I also share a tip on how to feel really natural in these calls along with a free download for you to help improve your confidence Because you work hard to get new clients so let’s make a great first impression on the phone. What to do next If you enjoyed this show, please share it with your counselling peers. And don’t forget to subscribe to the show on your favourite app of choice to get automatic updates as soon as a show goes live.
We all love a good quote and if you use social media I bet you’ve used quotes and quote images at some time. But how can you make them unique and interesting. Here I share 7 steps to making quote images that really boost your social media Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: How the success of quote images on social media has changed over time What an algorithm is and why it's important you know 7 Steps to take for success when posting quote images What NOT to do if you want engagement
Highlights you can’t miss 3.46 Social media snakes and ladders 5.56 A simple way to find unique quotes And Finally… For lots of new, topical and interesting quotes, visit Brainyquote.com What to do next If you enjoyed this show, please share it with your counselling peers. And I’d be really grateful if you would take a few minutes to leave a rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts, it makes such a difference. Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on your favourite app of choice to get automatic updates as soon as a show goes live.
In this, my very first podcast, we are going to be talking about fear and overcoming the fear of starting something new - which is exactly what I am doing starting this podcast. Here’s What You’ll Learn In This Episode: What is it that really holds us back? The best way to learn Why this can be harder for counsellors CBTing our businesses! How we can’t fully learn by theory alone
And Finally Go and have a listen to Steve Dotto’s new podcast – 'Grey Matters'. I recommend the episode all about 'Failing Forward”'. Highlights You Can’t Miss 6.24 Getting started with something new 7.20 How to find success
Links: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9BqPtCcSyHvQsbl2rumM4w (Steve Dotto) YouTube – Steve Dotto – Podcast Episode – https://dottotech.com/gm30/ (Failing Forward)
What to do next If you enjoyed this show, please share it with your counselling peers and I’d be really grateful if you would take a few minutes to leave a rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts, it makes such a difference. And don’t forget to subscribe to the show on your favourite app of choice to get automatic updates as soon as a show goes live.
I think you’ll agree that communication is vital. So how can we change the language we use in our marketing to attract more clients? How can we drop the psychobabble? In this episode, I share why this is so important for a counsellor, some examples of language to use and some practical tips so you can get started today. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: How the therapeutic relationship is key to a clients success Using marketing to start that connection The difference between 'A Professional Counsellor and being 'professional' Why clear beats clever every time How Imposter Syndrome affects this
Highlights you can’t miss 5.56 Practical examples to give you ideas 8.26 A simple trick to make your marketing language clear And Finally… I share some simple, practical actions you can take today to get started. What to do next If you enjoyed this show, please share it with your counselling peers. And I’d be really grateful if you would take a few minutes to leave a rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts, it makes such a difference. Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on your favourite app of choice to get automatic updates as soon as a show goes live.
When people come to counselling they go through a process, a journey into therapy and if you want a successful practice for years to come, it’s important to understand this process. In this episode, I share the 4 stages of the clients’ journey into therapy so you can sow your marketing seeds now ready to harvest in the future. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why you're a farmer not a hunter Why advertising has limited success The 4 stages a client goes through when coming to therapy Why people often think counselling isn't right for them How talking about mental health issues in marketing can turn people off Practical examples of things to share How if you do the work now, you'll reap the rewards later
Highlights you can’t miss 2.44 You don't have to sell yourself 9.11 How this works in practice And Finally… Take a listen to this oh so simple but highly effective way to increase your chance of success. Links: Check out the free Therapy Rebrand webinar www.janetravis.co.uk/webinar What to do next If you enjoyed this show, please share it with your counselling peers. And I’d be really grateful if you would take a few minutes to leave a rating and/or review on Apple Podcasts, it makes such a difference. Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on your favourite app of choice to get automatic updates as soon as a show goes live.
Join me, Jane Travis, every week to learn all about attracting more counselling clients, more simply. If you're a counsellor or psychotherapist in private practice, you probably didn't bargain for having to learn marketing skills. But don't worry! In this podcast you'll get ideas and inspiration along with practical advice on websites, social media, blogging and content creation, and networking and offline marketing. But not just that, we'll also be looking at mindset issues that might hold you back like imposter syndrome, perfectionism, procrastination, shiny object syndrome and comparisonistis to name a few. So whether you're new to private practice, a seasoned pro or anything in between, come join me for a weekly burst of motivation. You are very welcome.