Scaling Therapy Practice: Recent Episodes
James Marland
"Unlocking Success through Audience Building" Introduction Welcome to another enlightening episode where your host, James Marland, sits down with the multi-talented Joe Sanok, a seasoned therapist, podcast consultant, and acclaimed author. This dynamic duo dives deep into the art of cultivating audiences - a cornerstone for thriving in the entrepreneurial landscape. Whether you're launching a product, initiating an online course, or more, understanding your audience is key. Let’s explore!
Quotes from the Episode
- "If you actually want to be serious about making money and impacting the world, going through the audience building first is the way that you ensure that you're making something." - Joe Sanok [00:21:03]
- "Nobody likes to be sold to, but everyone likes to buy." - Joe Sanok [00:31:16]
- "It's the customer's journey... people who engage in growing and spend money on themselves to grow, they get a big return on it." - James Marland [00:35:22]
- "There's something really special about doing hard things together." - James Marland [00:39:18]
The Foundation of Success - Audience Building Cultivating the Right Audience Before Launch In this segment, Joe Sanok passionately underscores the importance of fostering an audience before rolling out a product or service. He vividly illustrates the pitfalls of trying to establish an audience post-launch, emphasizing the loss of potential engagement and investment.
The Unseen Risk of Not Having a Pre-established Audience Join James and Joe as they shed light on the hazards of overlooking audience development before launching a product. The duo elucidates how this common mistake often results in mismatched products and squandered resources.
The Three P's Process - A Roadmap to Audience Engagement Understanding Your Audience with The Three P's Discover the remarkable 'Three P's Process' with Joe as he guides you on how to adeptly identify and cater to your audience's needs. Delve into the methodology that involves insightful interviews with a representative segment of your target audience to pinpoint their pains, product, and pricing expectations.
Leveraging the Three P's for Business Insight Joe further elaborates on how this hands-on process can gift you with profound insights into your audience's genuine needs and preferences, setting the stage for creating a product that truly resonates.
Harnessing Authentic Sales & Community Building Recognizing and Addressing Engagement Hurdles Listen as Joe candidly shares the persistent challenges he faces in encouraging therapists to engage with email sign-ups and free resources, offering insights into overcoming these initial hurdles for a successful venture.
The Positive Ripple Effects of Coaching Join the conversation about the significant impact of coaching and consulting on a business’s trajectory. Joe shares personal anecdotes on how investment in coaching sculpted his business outlook and strategy, yielding remarkable returns.
Elevate Your Game with the Audience Building Academy A Sneak Peek into the Audience Building Academy Get introduced to the promising Audience Building Academy, a structured six-month initiative crafted meticulously to steer entrepreneurs toward building substantial and engaged audiences. Discover the exciting facets of this program and how to become part of the upcoming cohort.
Setting the Stage for Media Engagement Learn about the comprehensive approach of the Academy in helping you carve your niche, devise an email course, and position yourself effectively for top media coverage, with a structured infrastructure as the backbone of your strategy.
Conclusion As we wrap up this insightful session, it's evident that nurturing an audience is the golden key to entrepreneurial victory. Joe Sanok, with his rich experiences and the blossoming Next Level Practice community, exemplifies the boundless potential that lies in mastering audience engagement and fostering vibrant communities.
Next Steps to Amplify Your Journey * Prioritize Audience Building: Focus on nurturing an audience aligned with your vision. * Implement the Three P's Process: Engage your target audience to understand and cater to their needs adeptly. * Adopt Authentic Sales Strategies: Build trust and foster a genuine connection with your audience. * Invest in Expert Guidance: Consider coaching to glean vital insights and perspectives to boost your business growth. * Community Engagement: Immerse yourself in communities that resonate with your niche for valuable support and growth opportunities. * Explore the Audience Building Academy: Consider enrolling in this comprehensive program to fine-tune your audience engagement strategies.
SEO Webinar With Danie Fava * Link to SEO BC Live sales page
Links and Resources * Visit the web page to get the weekly planning worksheet. Episode 39 * Validate My Course Topic Idea * Descript Audio and Video editor - edit a video with the transcript, it is like magic * PsychMaven - Online Training for Therapists * Beginner’s Guide for Creating Knowledge Income - Passive Income Course for Therapists * Join the discussion group on Facebook for Assistants, Automation, and AI for Mental Health Providers * Builder Type Assessment - Grow without the grind * High-Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way - on Amazon * Waking Up App * Practice of the Practice * Practice of the Practice - Pillars of the Practice * Practice of the Practice Podcast with Joe Sanok * Podcast Launch School * Thursday is the New Friday - Take control of your Schedule
Send your marketing Questions to james@coursecreationstudio.com
Scaling Your Therapy Practice With Good Policy | STP37 Welcome to another episode of Scaling Therapy Practice! I'm your host, James Marland, and today we have a fantastic topic lined up for you. Joining us today is David Hall, a seasoned therapist and practice owner who's here to share valuable insights on how to scale your therapy practice with good policy. We'll be diving into three key policies that can significantly impact the efficiency and success of your practice. Let's get started!
The No-Show Policy David emphasizes the importance of having a no-show policy in place. As he points out, "One of the policies that I hear a lot is a no-show policy." This policy helps manage client attendance and ensures that your practice remains financially sustainable. Whether it's a cash-based practice or involves insurance, the no-show policy holds clients accountable for their appointments, preventing frequent cancellations. David mentions that some practices overbook to account for no-shows, but he also introduces the idea of a more lenient approach for students and those dealing with unforeseen circumstances.
Same Day Appointment Policy David highlights the value of having a same-day appointment policy in place. While some clients might request same-day appointments due to urgency, David explains why his practice doesn't offer them. He states, "If someone has that level of urgency, is our setting appropriate for them?" This policy serves as a filter to ensure that clients in crisis receive the most suitable level of care. By directing them to more intensive programs or higher levels of care, the practice maintains a focus on delivering quality treatment.
Note Policy David delves into the significance of maintaining a strict note policy. He acknowledges that keeping up with notes can be challenging but stresses its importance due to legal, ethical, and financial reasons. David's practice enforces a policy where notes must be caught up by the end of every week and completely up to date by the end of the month. He explains that this policy isn't meant to be punitive but rather to ensure accountability, legality, and efficient financial management.
Action Steps Here are the action steps you can take based on today's episode:
- Implement Clear Policies: Establish well-defined no-shows, and same-day appointments, and note policies that align with your practice's goals and client needs.
- Communicate Policies: Clearly communicate these policies to your clients during intake, on your website, and through your initial interactions. Transparency is key.
- Ensure Compliance: Regularly monitor and enforce these policies to maintain practice efficiency, financial stability, and high-quality care.
Scale Your Therapy Practice with Good Policies Today, we had the privilege of learning from David Hall about three essential policies that can greatly impact the success of your therapy practice. The no-show policy holds clients accountable, the same-day appointment policy filters clients to appropriate care levels, and the note policy ensures legal, ethical, and financial integrity. Remember, by implementing these policies, you're not only creating a structured framework for your practice but also prioritizing client care and overall practice success. Thank you for tuning in to Scaling Therapy Practice, and we look forward to sharing more insights in our next episode!
Links and Resources * Validate My Course Topic Idea * Descript Audio and Video editor - edit a video with the transcript, it is like magic * PsychMaven - Online Training for Therapists * Beginner’s Guide for Creating Knowledge Income - Passive Income Course for Therapists * Join the discussion group on Facebook for Assistants, Automation, and AI for Mental Health Providers * Builder Type Assessment - Grow without the grind * Email James to talk about questions or problems about scaling: james@coursecreationstudio.com
STP 36 | Scaling Your Therapy Practice by Mastering Decision Fatigue Hey there, lovely listeners! Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Scaling Therapy Practice podcast. I'm your host, James Marland, joined by the ever-insightful Dr. David Hall. Today, we're diving headfirst into a topic that's all too familiar in our modern lives – decision fatigue. So, grab your favorite beverage, cozy up, and let's get into it!
Tech Tips and Early Tasks Kicking things off, we've got our weekly tool, tech, or tip segment, where we share nifty little tricks to make life a tad easier. James brings up a genius Google Calendar hack – did you know you can create tasks and checklists right there? Yep, a total game-changer! James chimes in, adding that this tip has him feeling more organized and on top of his tasks. It's like having your to-dos give you a friendly nudge right when you need it.
Decision Fatigue: The Hidden Culprit But wait, let's jump into the juicy topic of the day – decision fatigue. David and James dissect this modern-day woe, highlighting how our lives, thanks to technology and its intricacies, require us to make an astronomical number of decisions daily. Ever feel mentally exhausted by the evening? That's decision fatigue rearing its pesky head. David goes on to illustrate this by comparing it to our ancestors' simpler lives and routine diets.
Signs of Decision Fatigue James cleverly asks, "So, what are the signs of decision fatigue?" David and James exchange experiences, revealing that frustration, procrastination, and making hasty decisions are common indicators. When your mental gas tank is running low, your ability to think things through falters, leading to subpar choices.
Tips to Combat Decision Fatigue Now, it's time to unveil the strategies to conquer decision fatigue! David drops golden nuggets of wisdom that could simplify your life in remarkable ways. First up, automate. By setting routines and processes on autopilot, you free up mental space for more important decisions. As David mentions, Steve Jobs' iconic black turtleneck was a symbol of his attempt to streamline his choices.
Pre-Plan for Success Secondly, pre-plan. Your brain is freshest in the morning, so make those crucial decisions early. James notes the connection to schoolchildren – they tend to be more disciplined during school hours because they've already used up their decision-making energy. David adds that he pre-plans meals to avoid the tempting late-night snacking frenzy, and it's totally relatable!
Embrace Simplification Finally, David drops the mic with the third tip – simplify and declutter. He likens our natural tendency to accumulate stuff to cluttering our mental space. Embracing simplicity isn't a one-time act but an ongoing process. Both hosts agree that this is easier said than done, but it's oh-so-liberating when you're able to let go of unnecessary baggage.
Taking Control of Your Choices To regain control over your choices and ward off the looming specter of decision fatigue, a proactive approach is key. Start by automating recurring tasks and routines, freeing up mental space for more critical decisions. Set up reminders, delegate where possible, and implement tools that streamline your daily life. Next, capitalize on your brain's peak performance in the morning by pre-planning important choices early in the day. Map out your meals, schedule creative sessions, and establish a clear roadmap for the day ahead. Lastly, embrace the power of simplification – regularly assess your commitments, possessions, and subscriptions. Weed out the unnecessary to create an environment that fosters mental clarity and minimizes the constant drain of decision-making. Remember, these steps aren't just one-time solutions; they're ongoing practices that can significantly alleviate decision fatigue and empower you to lead a more purposeful, streamlined life.
Before we wrap up, let's roll out some practical action steps from today's insightful chat:
- Automate: Identify tasks or decisions you can put on autopilot, like setting up routines or using handy tools like Google Calendar tasks.
- Pre-Plan: Make important decisions early in the day when your brain is at its peak performance. This could be meal planning, workout routines, or even scheduling creative time.
- Simplify: Regularly assess your surroundings, commitments, and subscriptions. What can you declutter from your life to make room for more mental clarity and energy?
And there you have it, our whirlwind journey through decision fatigue and how to conquer it like the rockstars you are! Remember, folks, life doesn't have to be complicated – take those small steps towards a simpler, more empowered you. Stay tuned for more awesome content coming your way on the Scaling Therapy Practice podcast. Until next time, keep making those smart choices!
Links and Resources * Validate My Course Topic Idea * The Elephant and the Rider * Descript Audio and Video editor - edit a video with the transcript, its like magic * PsychMaven - Online Training for Therapists * Beginner’s Guide for Creating Knowledge Income - Passive Income Course for Therapists * Join the discussion group on Facebook for Assistants, Automation, and AI for Mental Health Providers * Builder Type Assessment - grow without the grind * Email James to talk about questions or problems about scaling: james@coursecreationstudio.com
Introduction: Is Passive Income a Lie? In this episode of the Scaling Therapy Practice podcast, hosts James Marland and David Hall dive deep into the concept of passive income. They tackle the question: Is passive income really a lie? It's a term that gets thrown around a lot, but what does it truly mean? James Marland sets the stage by highlighting the allure of passive income, stating that "Everybody wants passive income." But is it as effortless as it sounds?
Defining Passive Income vs. Active Income David Hall, a seasoned therapist, and entrepreneur, breaks down the distinction between passive income and active income. Active income, he explains, involves a direct exchange of time for money, such as hourly paid services like psychotherapy, supervision, or consulting. These activities require his presence and time investment, making it a straightforward active income model. David's hourly rates for his services are substantial, showcasing the direct correlation between his time and income.
Leveraging Time: Building the Passive Income Machine When exploring passive income, David introduces the notion of "invested income" rather than passive income. He emphasizes that while passive income may not be an absolute reality, it's possible to create a leveraged system that reduces the effort required over time. He uses the analogy of building a machine—a pulley system—where you invest effort upfront to reap greater rewards later. The key is understanding that you won't eliminate work entirely, but you can make it more efficient and less demanding.
The Myth of the Easy Button James and David address the common misconception that passive income is an easy way to generate money without any effort. They stress that this idea is a hook that draws people in, but the reality is quite different. Instead, they propose focusing on the concept of invested income, where you strategically put in the work to develop systems that yield higher returns over time. James likens it to the "get rich slow" method, emphasizing the importance of providing consistent value to your audience.
Building Strong Relationships: The Key to Invested Income David and James underscore the significance of building relationships and nurturing your audience. They discuss the value of email lists, highlighting that the size of your audience plays a pivotal role in the success of your invested income endeavors. While many people are hesitant to join yet another email list, David stresses that providing consistent value is key. When people find value in what you offer, they're more likely to engage and even become paying customers.
Taking the First Steps: Tips for Creating Invested Income As the conversation wraps up, David offers practical advice for therapists looking to scale their practice with invested income:
- Set Realistic Expectations: Recognize that invested income requires effort and work, but it can lead to greater rewards over time.
- Know Your Why: Understand your motivations for creating invested income. What are you trying to accomplish, and what do you want the machine you're building to do?
- Choose Your Leveraging Strategy: Determine the best approach for your invested income journey. Whether it's building a group practice, creating online courses, or offering information products, choose a path that aligns with your skills and interests.
- Build Relationships: Focus on building strong relationships with your audience. Provide consistent value, nurture connections, and create a sense of community.
- Embrace Your Style: Recognize your work style and preferences. Whether you're a consistent blogger or a batch creator, find an approach that works for you and aligns with your strengths.
In conclusion, while the idea of true "passive income" might be a bit of a misnomer, the concept of invested income provides a clear path for therapists to scale their practices and generate higher returns over time. By building relationships, providing value, and strategically leveraging their expertise, therapists can create a powerful and efficient machine that ultimately yields greater financial rewards.
Key Takeaways:
- Passive income isn't truly passive; it's more accurately described as invested income, where you strategically put in effort to build systems that yield higher returns over time.
- Building strong relationships with your audience is essential for success in invested income ventures, such as online courses or information products.
- Understand your motivations and choose the right leveraging strategy that aligns with your skills and preferences.
- Focus on consistent value creation and nurturing connections to create a sense of community and engagement.
Remember, the road to financial success involves effort and investment, but by taking strategic steps and embracing your unique style, you can create a powerful machine that generates significant returns for your therapy practice. So, is passive income a lie? It depends on your perspective, but invested income is a tangible and achievable path for therapists looking to scale their practices and achieve financial growth.
Links and Resources
- Fathom Addon for Zoom - AI note-taking
- Descript Audio and Video editor - edit a video with the transcript, its like magic
- Constant Contact - CRM and Email Management mentioned in the show
- Aweber - CRM and Email Management mentioned in the show
- Mailchimp - CRM and Email Management mentioned in the show
- Active Campaign - CRM and Email Management mentioned in the show
- Haven Counseling Center
- James Clear and Atomic Habits
- Smart Passive Income - Pat Flynn
Introduction Welcome back to The Scaling Therapy Practice with James Marland! In this episode, James interviews a special guest, Leo Debroeck, who shares valuable insights about the Counselor's Choice Award and other effective ways to scale your therapy practice. Get ready to learn about making your practice more distinguished, increasing revenue through continuing education courses, and the importance of taking action.
Leo DeBroeck is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Child Mental Health Specialist in Washington State. He is the president and founder of Counselor's Choice Award, LLC which reviews and promotes scientifically validated counseling products, therapeutic tools, and books. He has written several children's therapy books, which are self-published and available on Amazon.com, for use in therapy settings addressing grief, self-confidence, addiction, neglect, abuse, and others. He also has a difficult time summarizing himself in 3-5 sentences for James to read as an introduction.
Starting with a Mantra Leo Debroeck started the Counselor's Choice Award after realizing that he can be the one to make a difference in the field of therapy. He explains, "There's always somebody saying, 'Oh, somebody should go take care of that. Somebody should write therapy books.' I said, 'Yeah, somebody' and then I started doing it. Now I'm seven books later."
Making Therapy Tools and Products Legit Leo and his coworkers saw a need for an improved system to vet therapy tools and products, so they created the Counselor's Choice Award. Their goal is to ensure that all products and tools advertised are legitimate and reviewed by licensed mental health therapists. Leo explains, "We base all of our work on the scientific model, like how an academic journal peer-review works."
Three Key Ways to Scale Your Practice The Counselor's Choice Award offers three major ways to help therapists scale their practice:
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Recognition for Therapy Products and Tools Therapists can submit their therapy products, books, or tools for review, and if approved, receive the Counselor's Choice Award logo to showcase their recognition. Leo emphasizes, "We want to recognize therapists who are running a good practice and meeting certain standards."
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Providing Continuing Education Credits Leo and his team have started offering free continuing education credits for approved courses. This enables therapists to create online courses, which can be an additional revenue stream and allow them to share their expertise with a broader audience.
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Improving Group and Private Practices The Counselor's Choice Award can help private practices and group practices become more distinguished and reputable by meeting specific criteria. This recognition can attract more clients and therapists to join their team.
Why Wait? Take Action Today! Leo advises therapists not to wait for someone else to take action. He shares, "If you're trying to grow your practice, I'm a therapist looking at what place to join after I've gotten my license. I'm gonna be looking for one that's also more distinguished, one that's got some kind of recognition besides just that we're licensed."
Action Steps: * Apply for Counselor's Choice Award: Submit your therapy products, books, or tools for recognition. It's free to apply, and the process is straightforward. * Create Continuing Education Courses: Make the most of your expertise by creating online courses for therapists. It's an additional revenue stream and a way to help others in the profession. * Don't Wait, Take Action: Instead of waiting for someone else to do something, be the one to make a difference. Don't hesitate to implement your ideas and help improve the field of therapy.
Links and Resources * 3 Mistakes Therapists make when hiring a virtual assistant - Wise Practice Podcast * Counselors Choice Award * Counselors Choice Award - Free and Paid Courses * Counselors Choice Award on Facebook * Counselors Choice Award on Instagram * Counselors Choice Award on Twitter * The Receptionist * Books by Leo Debroeck on Amazon * PsychMaven - Online Training for Therapists * Beginner’s Guide for Creating Knowledge Income - Passive Income Course for Therapists * Join the discussion group on Facebook for Assistants, Automation, and AI for Mental Health Providers * Builder Type Assessment - grow without the grind * Email James to talk about questions or problems about scaling: james@coursecreationstudio.com
Scaling Your Therapy Practice with Writing a Book In this episode of Scaling Therapy Practice, host James Marland welcomes special guest Stefani M Cohen, LCSW, who has written a book on overcoming the fear of dogs. Stefani, a licensed clinical social worker, discovered a surprising number of people, especially children, are afraid of dogs. She shares how she turned her passion for helping people conquer their fear into a book that could reach a broader audience.
The Surprising Journey to Writing the Book Stefani's journey to writing the book started when her daughter expressed a sudden fear of dogs. After successfully helping her daughter overcome her fear through exposure therapy, Stefani realized she could help others as well. She began using her therapy dog, Mugsy, to assist clients in overcoming their fear of dogs, and her practice started to grow. Stefani's desire to help more people and share her expertise led her to write the book.
Overcoming Challenges in the Writing Process Writing the book wasn't without its challenges. Stefani found herself facing numerous decisions about the content, format, and publishing process. She decided on hybrid publishing and collaborated with a publisher that gave her book a personal touch. While the writing process had its ups and downs, Stefani's determination and willingness to try new things kept her moving forward.
Understanding Fear of Dogs and the Human-Animal Bond Stefani highlights the importance of teaching kids how to read dog behavior and understand when a dog is happy, scared, or overexcited. This knowledge empowers kids to feel safer around dogs, reducing their fear and promoting positive interactions.
Stefani emphasizes the significant benefits of overcoming the fear of dogs, including the positive impact on mental health and relationships. The human-animal bond can be a transformative experience, promoting personal growth and overall well-being.
Tips for Aspiring Authors and Therapists Stefani's advice to aspiring authors and therapists is to overcome any doubts and take action. She encourages them to start writing and not wait for the perfect moment. Embrace the "just do it" mindset and share your valuable insights with the world.
Stefani advises embracing a growth mindset, learning from failures, and not taking rejection personally. Instead of doubling down on unsuccessful efforts, read the data and make adjustments accordingly. It's essential to detach yourself from the outcomes and focus on continual improvement.
Tips for Therapists Writing Books * Just Do It: Don't wait for the perfect moment or let self-doubt hold you back. If you have valuable knowledge or expertise to share, start writing and take the leap. * Embrace a Growth Mindset: Approach your writing journey with a growth mindset. View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than taking setbacks personally. Be open to making adjustments and keep trying new things. * Accountability and Deadlines: Set deadlines and be accountable to yourself or others to stay on track during the writing process. Having someone to hold you accountable can help you stay focused and motivated.. * Avoid Perfectionism: Strive for excellence, but don't get hung up on perfectionism. Understand that "good enough is good enough" and allow yourself to make progress without getting caught in the trap of seeking perfection. * Be Adaptable and Decisive: Writing a book involves numerous decisions. Be willing to adapt and make choices as you move forward. Don't hesitate to seek help or guidance when needed. * Write What You're Passionate About: Write about a topic that you are passionate about and genuinely care about. Your passion will come through in your writing and resonate with your readers. * Seek Feedback: Share your work with others and seek feedback. Feedback can provide valuable insights and help you improve your writing. * Celebrate Your Progress: Acknowledge your achievements along the way. Writing a book is a significant undertaking, and celebrating your progress can keep you motivated and excited about the journey.
Links and Resources * Email Stefani: Stefanicohenlcsw@gmail.com * Overcoming The Fear of Dogs * www.Stefanicohen.com * Get her book on Amazon * Book Publishing Services: Gatekeeper Press * Make a Copy of the SOP Spreadsheet for Virtual Assistants * PsychMaven - Online Training for Therapists * Beginner’s Guide for Creating Knowledge Income - Passive Income Course for Therapists * Join the discussion group on Facebook for Assistants, Automation, and AI for Mental Health Providers * Builder Type Assessment - grow without the grind * Email James to talk about questions or problems about scaling: james@coursecreationstudio.com * The Therapy Show with Lisa Mustard
Welcome to the Scaling Therapy Practice podcast. In this episode, James Marland and David Hall dive into the topic of delegation, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for entrepreneurs and practice owners. They discuss the importance of clear communication, defining outcomes, and managing expectations when delegating.
The Decision-Making Delegation Framework for Therapists Marland discusses a delegation-making framework from Mike Michalowicz's program, "Run Like Clockwork." He highlights the importance of three key elements: permission, information, and outcome. To make effective decisions, one needs permission within their roles, the right information, and the confidence to do what's best. Marland emphasizes that if any of these elements are missing, it's essential to communicate with the person assigning the work and seek clarification or guidance.
Defining Clear Outcomes David Hall expresses his concerns about defining clear outcomes when delegating tasks, especially for those who struggle with organization. He shares his frustration with disorganization and the need to measure the impact of delegating tasks effectively. Hall acknowledges that as therapists, many tend to be intuitive feelers rather than objective measures. However, he highlights the importance of setting measurable outcomes and engaging in a discipline of clear communication to avoid disappointment.
The Role of Clarity and Check-Ins James Marland emphasizes the significance of clarity and early check-ins when delegating tasks. Providing clear instructions, and defining the finished product, timeframe, and required resources can help virtual assistants or team members understand the expectations. Marland also suggests scheduling early check-ins to provide feedback and ensure that the delegated tasks align with your desired outcome. These check-ins allow for course correction and prevent potential disappointments.
Delegate the Outcome One key aspect of effective delegation is ensuring that your direct reports and virtual assistants understand the desired outcome, rather than just the assigned tasks. By clearly communicating the outcome you wish to achieve, you provide them with a sense of purpose and direction. When individuals understand the bigger picture and the ultimate goal, they can contribute more meaningfully and creatively to the process. This approach encourages them to think critically and take ownership of their work, going beyond simply completing tasks. It empowers them to make informed decisions and find innovative solutions that align with the desired outcome. Ultimately, helping your team members understand the outcome fosters a sense of shared purpose and motivates them to strive for excellence in their work.
The Forest, Not Just the Trees When it comes to delegation, it's essential to keep the bigger picture in mind. David Hall uses the metaphor of the forest and the trees to explain this concept. He emphasizes that the outcome or the gestalt of the situation is more critical than individual tasks. David says, "It's not about a collection of trees; it's about the forest." By shifting our focus to the experiential outcome for clients, therapists can create a more meaningful and holistic therapeutic process.
Understanding the Gestalt David explains that therapists often have a natural inclination towards the bigger picture, as they are more intuitive and focused on the overall outcome. This allows them to think beyond the individual pieces and consider the client's experience as a whole. He advises fellow therapists to lean on their strengths and think about the experiential outcome they want their clients to have.
The goal is the Outcome James Marland adds to the discussion, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is the outcome, not the specific method or task. He states, "The goal is not the method; the goal is the outcome." James believes that different clients require different approaches, and therapists need to adapt their methods to each individual. This flexibility allows therapists to maintain a strong therapeutic alliance and facilitate positive change.
Effective Delegation and Trust Delegating tasks is a crucial aspect of scaling your therapy practice, but it requires trust between the therapist and the individual to whom tasks are assigned. James explains the importance of trust and the need for regular check-ins to ensure that tasks are completed correctly.
Trust and Verify Delegated Tasks James suggests adopting a "trust but verify" approach when delegating tasks. Once a therapist has established trust with their assistant, they can have less frequent check-ins. However, it's vital to maintain a certain level of verification to ensure tasks are being accomplished effectively. James recommends checking in regularly during the initial stages and gradually reducing the frequency as trust is established.
Ownership and Responsibility is Key to Delegation Ownership plays a significant role in effective delegation. When someone takes ownership of a task, they become responsible for it, ensuring its completion. David highlights the importance of ownership and mentions that owning both success and failure is essential. It fosters a culture of accountability and trust within the team. By taking responsibility for their actions, assistants can build trust with therapists and demonstrate their commitment to the practice's success.
Clear Delegation and Role Definition To delegate effectively, it's crucial to have clear role definitions within your practice. David and James discuss their experiences as co-business owners and emphasize the need for explicit role assignments. By clearly defining responsibilities, both partners can work in harmony and avoid confusion or overlapping tasks.
Avoid Delegating to the Room David warns against delegating tasks to a group or leaving them ambiguous, as this can lead to miscommunication and hinder task completion. Instead, he advises delegating tasks to specific individuals, ensuring that they take ownership of the responsibility. By doing so, tasks are more likely to be completed efficiently and effectively.
Flexible Collaboration While clear delegation is vital, it's also important to maintain flexibility and open communication within the team. David and his wife, who is also his business partner, demonstrate how they collaborate and support each other within their counseling business. They have distinct roles but are free to ask for assistance when needed. This balance ensures that responsibilities are clear, but the team can provide support to one another as required.
Using Effective Delegation to Scale Your Therapy Practice Scaling your therapy practice requires effective delegation practices. By focusing on the outcome, building trust, and maintaining clear communication, therapists can delegate tasks efficiently and ensure their practice's success. Remember to listen to your disappointment, address it as a discussion starter, and use visuals and check-in meetings to enhance clarity and accountability. Trust, open communication, and a well-defined delegation process are the keys to scaling your therapy practice.
Tips for Better Delegation: * Realize most people working for you want to do a good job and feel like a winner. * Shift your mindset from "how" is this going to get done to "who" is the best person to get this done when delegating tasks. Considering the power of specialization and empowering others. * The three elements of great delegation are permission, information, and outcomes. * Communicate clearly not just the tasks but the outcomes you want your direct report to achieve. * Provide enough clarity and information so the direct can achieve success. * Clearly defined responsibilities and who owns the task. * Use regular check-ins and clear reporting of task completion, especially during the early stages of delegation. * Your feelings of disappointment will point to what is missing in the delegation process. Feelings of disappointment may not mean “Bring the hammer down” it might point to a failure of communicating permission, information, or outcome. * Trust is everything. When you lose trust you lose the ability to get things done. * Always make the last step in an assignment is communicating that the task is done.
Links and Resources * The Pumpkin Plan on Amazon * Instagram Counseling Memes * Run Like Clockwork * Make a Copy of the SOP Spreadsheet for Virtual Assistants * PsychMaven - Online Training for Therapists * Beginner’s Guide for Creating Knowledge Income - Passive Income Course for Therapists * Join the discussion group on Facebook for Assistants, Automation, and AI for Mental Health Providers * Builder Type Assessment - grow without the grind * Email James to talk about questions or problems about scaling: james@coursecreationstudio.com
Welcome to Scaling Therapy Practice Episode 31 of our podcast, where we dive into the world of delegation and its impact on productivity. In this episode, we explore the delegation process from the perspective of a therapist or supervisor, discussing the steps involved and how to overcome common challenges. Join us as we uncover practical strategies for effective delegation and maintaining a healthy working relationship with a virtual assistant.
Understanding the Normalcy of Feelings: Therapists Struggle with Delegation Too It's important to acknowledge that feeling uncertain or hesitant about delegation is perfectly normal. As a therapist or supervisor, it's natural to have concerns about wasting time, being perceived as the "bad guy," or encountering difficulties in communication. Recognize that these feelings are valid and shared by many. As James Marland, our guest, suggests, "You don't wanna waste time. You have trouble being the bad guy. You get mad. Some of those difficult conversations are hard." It's essential to address these concerns head-on and find ways to overcome them. However, the key to having more time is to push work down in the organization so you can do the things only you can do.
The Delegation Framework: James Marland shares an effective framework for decision-making when delegating tasks to a virtual assistant. The framework consists of three crucial elements: permission, information, and confidence. First, ensure that the virtual assistant has the necessary permission to make decisions within their role. This may involve setting boundaries and providing access to accounts, tools, or technology. Second, equip them with the right information to make informed decisions. Clear communication and documentation are key here. Finally, focus on building the virtual assistant's confidence in their decision-making abilities. Encourage them to ask questions, seek clarification, and propose solutions.
Accountability and Follow-up: The Foundation for Better Delegation To instill the delegation framework effectively, it's crucial for therapists and supervisors to hold their virtual assistants accountable. Make sure they know that they need to be following the decision-making framework. Your direct reports need to be able to walk themselves through the delegation and ask themselves what am I missing? Am I missing permission, information, or confidence? Emphasize the ongoing nature of this framework and make it clear that they should use it whenever they encounter obstacles. Encourage them to identify themselves which element (permission, information, or confidence) they are missing and ask for the necessary support. By involving virtual assistants in the decision-making process, they gain confidence, learn your decision-making preferences, and reduce your decision overload.
Permission - Therapists Empowering Their Virtual Assistants David and James highlight the significance of giving virtual assistants permission to ask for clarification or guidance. It is often difficult for assistants to ask questions because they feel like they will bother their manager or that the manager will chastise them for their lack of ability to proceed. The therapist needs to make it safe for their direct report to bring up gaps in permission, information, or confidence. This open communication fosters a collaborative environment and allows the virtual assistant to feel empowered in their role. As David states, "The goal is not that they ask you every time this problem comes up. In the process of asking, they develop a new competency to know that they have permission or how to access permission."
Asking for Permission and Inquiring for Clarity Virtual assistants should feel comfortable seeking permission or clarification when faced with uncertainties. David and James encourage providing a framework that allows virtual assistants to ask for guidance without feeling inadequate. James adds, "Give them a way to say, 'I think this is what I should do, but I've never done this before, and I just want your eyeballs on this to make sure that I'm making the right decision.'"
Establishing Boundaries and Rules Clear boundaries and rules are essential in the delegation process. Both parties should understand the scope of work and the limitations of the virtual assistant's role. James emphasizes, "Having clear boundaries and then a way to come to you when things go outside the boundaries is key. And not to make anybody feel bad, like don't make them feel bad that they're coming to you, and you don't feel bad that they didn't know. It's just your way to figure out the rules, the permissions."
Information - Providing Clear Instructions The second element discussed is information. David and James stress the importance of ensuring virtual assistants have all the necessary information to successfully complete a task. They use the example of ordering pens to illustrate the significance of clarity.
Clear Instructions and Preferences To avoid misunderstandings, it is crucial to provide specific instructions and preferences. David explains, "If you told me to order pens and my history is black, and I order blue 50 black pens for all your therapists who wanted blue, I did not have the right information, so I could definitely not complete that task." By clearly communicating preferences and details, the virtual assistant can execute the task accurately.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Documentation Creating standard operating procedures or utilizing tools like loom videos can be beneficial in sharing information with virtual assistants. David suggests, "If you're not that sort of person, but you're just kind of walking through this process with a VA for the first time, have them write their own standard operating procedure." Having a centralized database of documented procedures ensures that information is readily accessible and decreases reliance on individual knowledge.
Confidence - Building Trust and Competence Confidence plays a crucial role in the delegation process. David and James emphasize the importance of allowing virtual assistants to seek confirmation and guidance when lacking confidence.
Allowing Vulnerability and Seeking Guidance Virtual assistants should feel comfortable expressing their lack of confidence without fear of judgment. James advises, "Give them the verbiage to invite them to come up with a solution. If they have misinformation or they're wrong, it's not bad. Then you have a chance to instruct them on what you want them to do." This is how confidence grows. This is how a direct’s capacity grows. As they think through the process they will grow and come up with surprising solutions in their area or experience.
Overcoming Fear and Embracing Delegation David acknowledges the fear of delegating important tasks and highlights the potential benefits of finding someone who may excel in a particular area. He notes, "Even if I had the time, would I be as good as somebody else that I could hire? It's the humility to even say, 'There may be people out there that do this better than me.'"
Tips for Helping Your Directs Make Better Decisions * Embrace the Delegation Framework: Teach your directs the framework of permission, information, and confidence to guide decision-making. * Make it Safe to Ask Questions: Make it safe and normal for a Direct Identify and tell you what part of the framework they are missing. * Invite Them to Come Up with Solutions: When a direct asks a question always have them include what they think they should do. * Document Standard Operating Procedures: Create a centralized database of standard operating procedures or utilize tools like loom videos to facilitate knowledge transfer and reduce reliance on individual knowledge. * Build Confidence: Foster confidence by allowing virtual assistants to seek confirmation and guidance when lacking confidence. Encourage vulnerability and provide reassurance that seeking guidance is an essential part of the learning process. * Embrace Delegation: Overcome the fear of delegating by recognizing the potential benefits of finding someone who may excel in a particular area. Embrace the idea that others might perform certain tasks better than you, allowing you to focus on your strengths.
Resources and Links * How to Identify if Your Business Is Money or Mission Driven * Green Oak Accounting for Therapists * Run Like Clockwork * Make a Copy of the SOP Spreadsheet for Virtual Assistants * PsychMaven - Online Training for Therapists * Beginner’s Guide for Creating Knowledge Income - Passive Income Course for Therapists * Join the discussion group on Facebook for Assistants, Automation, and AI for Mental Health Providers * Builder Type Assessment - grow without the grind * Email James to talk about questions or problems about scaling: james@coursecreationstudio.com
Welcome to another episode of "Scaling Therapy Practice"! In this episode, James Marland and David Hall dive into the topic of hiring and making good hiring decisions. They discuss their own experiences and challenges when it comes to hiring the right people for their therapy practices. Join them as they explore the dynamics of objectivity, optimism, and confirmation bias in the hiring process. Get ready to gain valuable insights into finding the best fit for your team and avoiding common pitfalls. Let's dive in!
The Illusion of Gut Instinct When Making Hiring Decisions Trusting Your Gut James Marland reflects on his past hiring practices, where he relied heavily on his gut instinct. He believed that his experience in interviewing and working in mental health gave him the ability to discern the truth from lies. Trusting his gut was a very bad way to make hiring decisions. We want to like people. Our job is to hire people, which means we overlook red flags in the hiring process. David Hall adds that the “trusting your gut” approach lacks objectivity and can be influenced by personal biases. He states, "Intimacy and objectivity are mutually exclusive. The closer you are to something, the less objective you become."
The Danger of Personal Bias When Making Hiring Decisions David Hall shares his own experience of being overly optimistic and trying to see potential in candidates who were not qualified for the job. He highlights the importance of maintaining objectivity in the hiring process, even though therapists are trained to believe in people's ability to grow and change. James Marland agrees, noting that confirmation bias can blind hiring managers to red flags and lead them to make poor hiring decisions.
Using an analogy of planting a tree, James Marland emphasizes the importance of finding candidates for your therapy office who not only have the right skills and personality but also fit well within the specific environment of the therapy practice. He points out that sometimes a great candidate may not thrive in a particular setting, and it is crucial to recognize this early on. Candidates need to match the “soil” in your office for them to thrive.
Warning, Don’t Hire Just to Fill Your Open Therapist Positions David Hall reveals his personal goal of reaching a specific number of clinicians in his practice and quitting the hiring process altogether. He explains that he often brings candidates in for interviews with the hope of solving the problem of filling positions. However, he acknowledges that this mindset can lead to confirmation bias and a tendency to overlook potential issues. He also shares his experience with job posting boards, emphasizing the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations for finding quality candidates.
Balancing Objectivity and Personal Investment When Hiring for Your Therapy Office There is a real challenge with maintaining objectivity while being personally invested in the hiring process. The role of a hiring manager can blur the lines between job performance and personal reflection. David Hall shares his compromise, where he focuses on finding a solution to his hiring needs rather than viewing it solely as his job. This mindset helps him separate personal investment from the objective evaluation of candidates.
What makes this challenge even harder is the shortage of therapists. Hiring can be a time-consuming and challenging process, particularly when there is a shortage of quality candidates. A way to add some objectivity is to get a recommendation from a trusted person in the industry. Exploring alternative methods, such as word-of-mouth recommendations and networking, to attract the right individuals. It is important to resist the illusion that posting a job will automatically attract the perfect fit. Instead, focus on finding the best among the available options.
Creating a Stellar Team for Your Therapy Practice Building a successful therapy practice requires more than just excellent clinical skills. It also involves assembling a team of talented individuals who share your vision and dedication to providing exceptional client care. But hiring the right people can be a challenge, and making poor hiring decisions can lead to personal and professional pain. In this episode, James Marland and David Hall discuss their experiences with hiring and share valuable insights on scaling a therapy practice by hiring A-players.
When to Say No to Hiring Someone for Your Therapy Office Making hiring decisions can be emotionally challenging, especially when personal connections come into play. David Hall reflects on the pain he has experienced due to poor business partnerships and hires that didn't work out. He emphasizes the importance of objectivity and the consequences of allowing personal bias to cloud judgment.
David shares a story where he turned down a candidate for a job but later learned that they had found success elsewhere. This experience brought him consolation, as he realized that saying no can sometimes lead to better outcomes for both parties involved. James adds that it's crucial to trust the data and behavioral interview questions you use. Make decisions that align with a resounding "hell yes" rather than settling for a lukewarm "maybe." Remember, you are preprogrammed to overlook red flags.
Be Open to Different Perspectives While the "hell yes" principle generally holds true, David reminds us that hiring decisions should also consider individual circumstances and expectations. He shares an example where his friend hesitated to hire a candidate who seemed awkward during the interview. However, after considering the potential client base and their preferences, they realized that the candidate's quirks could actually be seen as disarming and appealing to the clients.
David acknowledges that not every hire will have clear warning signs. Sometimes surprises happen despite thorough interview processes. The key is to reflect on the expectations, maturity, and alignment of values during the hiring process. It's impossible to eliminate bad hires entirely, but by using discernment and minimizing the risks, you can reduce the likelihood of making poor hiring decisions.
Strive for a Team Mentality James and David discuss the importance of finding candidates who genuinely enjoy the tasks associated with the job they're applying for. James recalls his experience of hiring virtual assistants who genuinely loved their work and didn't consider any task beneath them. This team-oriented mindset is crucial for a thriving therapy practice.
David shares an example from his practice, where pre-licensed therapists are often hired as employees, which is a controversial practice in the industry. He believes that the traditional mindset of therapists needing to suffer and overwork themselves can hinder positive client care and therapist development. Instead, he looks for candidates who demonstrate humility and are willing to grow within the practice.
Small Indicators of Team Player Mentality Sometimes, seemingly small behaviors can reveal whether a candidate is a good fit for a team-oriented practice. David mentions how he values something as simple as maintaining cleanliness in the office kitchen. When some candidates resisted participating in mundane tasks like emptying the dishwasher, they exhibited a mindset that undermined the team mentality he sought.
James adds that it's not about the dishes themselves; it's about the behavior and attitude of being a team member who looks out for others. This mindset reflects the kind of individual who is likely to thrive in team-oriented therapy practice.
Identifying A-Player Behaviors for Your Therapy Office The first step in building a high-performing team is to identify the behaviors that lead to success in your therapy practice. As James Marland puts it, "So spend some time writing down the tasks that need to be done. Like what are the things that lead to success in your office, and then what are the behaviors that get those tasks done?" Think about the behaviors that define a successful therapist in your practice, such as not canceling appointments, being dependable, and maintaining a well-organized calendar.
Pro-tip: You can learn from your existing A-players in the team. Observe their quality and quantity of work, the reports they produce, and the results they achieve.
Using Behavior-Based Standards for Your Hiring Decisions It's not enough to just know the behaviors you want in your team; you need to actively use them in your hiring process. James Marland emphasizes the importance of filtering out bad hires by using behavior-based interview questions. Instead of asking generic questions like "What would your boss say about you?" focus on asking about real-life scenarios related to the specific behaviors you are looking for. The best predictor of future behavior is recent past behavior in a similar situation. See Manager tools for free tools on behavior interview questions. Check out our blog post on Job descriptions to filter candidates for an example of behavioral interview questions.
Pro-tip: Use a three-part question format: Start with a helpful lead-in, follow with an open-ended question about handling a specific situation, and then focus on the desired behavior.
No Hiring Is Better Than Hiring Wrong When faced with poor candidates, it's better not to hire at all than to hire the wrong person. Hiring a wrong fit can lead to more problems and costs than leaving a position vacant. Remember, it's essential to find someone who aligns with your mission and exhibits the necessary behaviors for success in your practice.
When Hiring, Default to No and Look for "Hell Yes" Make "no" their default response in the hiring process. Only say "yes" to candidates who are a "hell yes" fit for your practice. Trust the data gained from the behavior interview questions and don't overlook red flags just because you need someone quickly. Remember, the pain of a wrong hire far outweighs the temporary inconvenience of leaving a position open.
Pro-tip: Don't rush into decisions. Take the time to assess candidates thoroughly and look for the ones who genuinely excite you.
Make Your Next Hire Your Best Hire In the hiring process for your office, take those small steps that lead to significant growth. Building a dream team for your therapy practice is an ongoing process of finding the right people who embody the behaviors that align with your mission. Don't be afraid to be selective and patient; your perfect A-player is out there!
Hiring Tips * Don't rush, pick the best, not just the first! * Friends' referrals can lead to the coolest hires! * The data is the boss, not your biases. * Ask questions to uncover their recent behavior * Default to “no” and hunt for red flags * Choose candidates that make you shout "hell yes!"
Links and Resources * The 4-Hour WorkWeek - Book * The Online Course Show - Podcast * Manager Tools - Podcast * The Effective Hiring Manager - Book * PsychMaven - Online Training for Therapists * Beginner’s Guide for Creating Knowledge Income - Passive Income Course for Therapists * Join the discussion group on Facebook for Assistants, Automation, and AI for Mental Health Providers * Builder Type Assessment - grow without the grind * Email James to talk about questions or problems about scaling: james@coursecreationstudio.com
In this episode of The Scaling Therapy Practice, James Marland and David Hall discuss the topic of hiring a virtual assistant. James, having worked for a virtual assistant company for three years and having interviewed and hired numerous virtual assistants, shares his expertise on the subject. The conversation revolves around the challenges of hiring a virtual assistant, setting expectations, and managing workflow. Throughout the discussion, valuable insights and tips are shared to help listeners navigate the process of hiring a virtual assistant effectively.
Therapists and therapy practice business owners face numerous challenges that can overwhelm their schedules and mental capacities. However, by harnessing the power of virtual assistants, these individuals can offload tasks, free up mental space, and focus on what truly matters for their business growth. In this blog post, we will explore the insights shared by David Hall, an experienced entrepreneur, on the potential of virtual assistants and the desired features of a virtual assistant course or package.
Click here to be taken to the show notes with links and other resources: https://courses.coursecreationstudio.com/blog/STP29
Welcome to another episode of "The Scaling Therapy Practice" podcast with your hosts, James Marland and Dr. David Hall! In today's episode, we dive into the exciting world of Continuing Education (CE) courses and how they can benefit therapists looking to expand their practice. David shares his experience with researching and creating profitable CEU courses.
Offering Continuing Education (CE) Courses Expanding your therapy practice through CE courses is an excellent way to provide ongoing learning opportunities for mental health professionals. James and Dr. Hall emphasize the potential of online CE courses, which have a natural pricing limit due to the number of required credits. These courses often require around 40 hours of renewal every two years, allowing therapists to stay up-to-date in their field. To scale CE offerings, creating larger courses and catering to specialty topics can attract a wider audience of professionals seeking advanced knowledge.
Visit The Companion Blog Page for LInks and Detailed Show Notes
Welcome to another episode of Scaling Therapy Practice, where we dive deep into topics that help you grow your business and find inspiration. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Whitney Owens, who is an expert in organizing conferences. We'll explore the world of conferences and discover how they can refresh your soul and scale up your business. So, let's jump right in!
The Magic of Bringing Amazing People Together Conferences have a unique power to bring people together and create unforgettable experiences. As Whitney shares, "Amazing things happen when you get amazing people together." It's not just about the knowledge and information exchanged; it's about the connections and relationships formed.
Whitney's love for in-person interactions and her extroverted nature led her to the world of conferences. She reminisces about the joy she felt when planning her wedding, not only because of the marriage but also because she wanted to throw a big party. It was a chance to gather all her loved ones in one place, creating a special and memorable event. This desire to bring people together translated into her passion for organizing conferences.
Creating Lasting Connections at Therapist Conferences Conferences provide a platform for like-minded individuals to connect and grow together. Whitney shares a heartwarming story of a group of friends who met at her summit and formed a deep bond. They would never have crossed paths if it weren't for that conference. These connections are invaluable, opening doors to new ideas, business growth, and personal development.
It's not all about the Lectures at a Therapist Conference Aside from the professional benefits, conferences offer opportunities for fun and exploration. Whitney emphasizes the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and having a good time. She recalls her experience in Nashville, where she got to enjoy line dancing, dine at local restaurants, and go on refreshing jogs. These experiences outside the office setting allow for relaxation, inspiration, and the chance to create lasting memories.
Overcoming Fears and Challenges While conferences hold immense potential for growth and connection, they also come with their fair share of fears and challenges. Whitney candidly shares her apprehensions and how she works to overcome them.
The Fear of Finances Money is a common fear when it comes to organizing conferences. As the scale of the event grows, so does the financial commitment. Whitney acknowledges this fear and the pressure of breaking even while wanting to offer an exceptional experience without exorbitant ticket prices. However, she remains optimistic and driven to make her conferences both financially viable and rewarding for attendees.
Mastering Logistics For someone like Whitney, who is a logistics-oriented person, ensuring everything runs smoothly is a significant concern. From securing venues to handling accreditations, numerous moving parts need careful coordination. Whitney discusses the challenges of obtaining continuing education accreditations for her conference and the fear of potential denials. Despite the complexities, she remains determined to navigate this aspect and deliver a seamless experience to attendees.
Lessons from Past Therapist Conferences Whitney's first conference provided valuable insights that she carried forward to improve subsequent events.
Engaging Speakers and Uniqueness One key takeaway is the importance of engaging speakers who bring unique perspectives. Whitney ensures her conferences stand out by incorporating a blend of clinical and business components, catering to the specific needs of Christian therapists who want to build their practices. By offering a distinct experience, she sets her conference apart from others in the industry.
Embracing Fun and Creativity Whitney believes in infusing her events with fun and creativity. She challenges the notion that being a Christian means a life devoid of enjoyment. By incorporating enjoyable activities and innovative elements into her conferences, she aims to show attendees that they can excel in their work while having fun and maintaining their faith.
Make Something Amazing Happen Harnessing the Power of Conferences Conferences offer a unique blend of learning, networking, and personal growth. Whitney's experiences as a conference organizer emphasize the power of bringing people together, overcoming fears, and creating unique and memorable experiences. By attending conferences, you can expand your horizons, forge valuable connections, and step out of your comfort zone.
Action Steps: 1. Research conferences related to your industry or interests and make plans to attend one that aligns with your goals. 2. Actively engage with fellow attendees and speakers at conferences. Seek out conversations, share ideas, and nurture relationships that can support your personal and professional growth. 3. Embrace the adventure and push through your fears. Recognize that growth and opportunity lie beyond your comfort zone, and take calculated risks to seize them. 4. When organizing your events, infuse your personal touch and find ways to make them stand out. Offer a unique value proposition that resonates with your audience. 5. Remember to have fun and enjoy the experiences that conferences provide. Take advantage of networking opportunities, explore the location, and create lasting memories.
Links and Resources * Get an Audible Subscription and invest in yourself * Great by Choice by Jim Collins * Build a web page with Squarespace * Whitney’s Group Practice Water’s Edge Counseling * Wise Practice Podcast * Whitney Owens * Whitney on Facebook * Whitney on Instagram: @WhitneyOwensConsulting * 4 Tips for Marketing with Churches * Wise Practice Summit in October 2023
Do you ever find yourself in a situation where people keep coming to you for advice on a particular topic? Maybe you're amazing at organizing your office, hiring employees, or filling up your therapist schedule with clients. Well, if that's the case, you might have thought about adding a professional consulting service to your practice. In this article, we'll dive into the process of adding a consulting service to your practice. Let's get started!
🚀 Getting Started: Discovering Your Expertise David started offering consulting services for free when people noticed his skills in certain areas. He would have friendly chats with colleagues and give them advice on things like marketing and organizing an office. As he realized the value of his knowledge, he started creating trainings and courses. Eventually, he began offering paid consulting services when people asked for personalized help. However, David learned the importance of pricing his services correctly and being careful when choosing clients who had already taken his courses.
🎯 Identifying Your Expertise When thinking about adding consulting to your practice, it's essential to figure out your area of expertise. As David Hall says, "What do you know that will be helpful?" Think about your skills, knowledge, and what people trust you in. Avoid being too general in your pitch because it won't reach your preferred clients. Narrow down your offering to a specific skill set or talent that you can teach or help others improve. 💲 Pricing Your Consulting Services Determining the price for your consulting services can be a tricky task. David Hall emphasizes the importance of understanding your target audience and their ability to pay. Think about your audience's background, experience, and the positive changes you can bring to them. Adjust your pricing to make sure it's reasonable and appealing to your ideal clients.
🎯 Connecting with Your Audience When considering consulting, it's crucial to narrow down your expertise and define your target audience. David emphasizes that a vague and general pitch won't attract the right clients. Instead, focus on what you're credible in and what will be helpful to your audience. Consulting should be based on a specific skill or knowledge base that provides value to people. If you don't have an exciting offer, you may not be ready for consulting yet. After finding your consulting niche, it's important to connect with your target audience. Figure out where and how they look for information or professional guidance. Use platforms like social media, professional networks, and industry events to establish your presence and build trust. By understanding your audience's needs and effectively reaching them, you increase your chances of success.
✅ Pros and Cons of Adding Consulting to Your Practice Consulting offers many benefits and brings a different kind of energy compared to therapy. David Hall points out two significant advantages: the ability to charge higher rates and reduced emotional strain. Consulting allows you to leverage your expertise and charge accordingly, giving you the potential for higher income. Moreover, the emotional energy required for consulting is often less intense than that of therapy, making it a refreshing addition to your practice.
💲 Charging Higher Rates for Your Consulting Service Depending on your knowledge and target audience, you can charge much more for consulting services compared to therapy. By evaluating the positive changes you offer and understanding your clients' desired outcomes, you can determine a pricing structure that reflects the value you provide. This flexibility in pricing allows you to maximize your earning potential.
🌟 Reduced Emotional Strain Unlike therapy, consulting typically involves working with clients seeking guidance and expertise instead of dealing with emotional distress. This difference can ease the emotional strain associated with therapy. However, it's important to remember that each client interaction may still require empathy and understanding, even if the focus is on professional development.
💡 Actionable Tips for Starting a Consulting Service To successfully launch your consulting service, keep the following tips in mind:
1️⃣ Identify your area of expertise: Determine what you know a lot about and what people often ask for your advice on.
2️⃣ Define your target audience: Understand who your ideal clients are and how you can help them. Customize your services to meet their specific needs.
3️⃣ Develop a compelling offer: Create a unique value proposition that sets you apart from other consultants in your field. Clearly communicate the benefits clients can expect from working with you.
4️⃣ Price your services strategically: Consider the positive changes you provide and the time it takes to achieve them. Set your prices accordingly, taking into account your target audience's ability to pay.
5️⃣ Market yourself effectively: Use various marketing channels to reach your target audience. Build a strong online presence through social media, creating valuable content, and networking within your industry. 6️⃣ Provide exceptional service: Deliver value beyond your clients' expectations. Stay professional, communicate effectively, and continuously improve your expertise to stay ahead in your consulting field.
Links and Resources * Add a Virtual Assistant to Your Practice Online Course * 9 Ways to Use AI to Speed up Content Creation Online Course * Kajabi AI Creator Hub: Free AI Tools Built For Creators * Atomic Habits by James Clear * Teachable * Online Course Show * The Beginner's Guide for Creating Knowledge Income * Profitable Mental Health Trainings Course * PsychMaven - Find more resources here * Builder Type Assessment - grow without the grind * Save 10 hours a week on administration tasks, progress notes, treatment plans, and more - Online Course * Validate my Course Topic in 4-Steps Worksheet
