Building a therapy business takes persistence, creativity, and a willingness to pivot when needed.
Whitney Goodman, licensed psychotherapist and founder of Calling Home, joins Michael Fulwiler to share her journey from starting private practice while working full-time to becoming a successful content creator and membership community leader.
Whitney opens up about growing her client base through Instagram, navigating the challenges of launching a coworking space before the pandemic, and how she shifted to creating online courses and paid memberships focused on adult family relationships.
Listen to learn how Whitney balanced entrepreneurship with therapy work, embraced experimentation, and validated her ideas before investing deeply.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(00:25) Meet Whitney Goodman
(03:06) Whitney’s path to becoming a therapist
(05:17) Starting private practice while working full-time
(06:29) How Whitney got her first clients
(07:33) Growing Instagram and handling early challenges
(09:09) Whitney’s niche in family relationships
(11:07) Marketing efforts after going full-time
(15:41) Launching online courses during Covid
(17:31) The viral post that changed Whitney’s career
(19:32) Handling negative comments on social media
(22:38) Creating and selling Whitney’s first course
(27:26) Reflecting on mistakes and lessons learned
(28:24) Why hired marketers often failed Whitney
(31:06) Forming calling home membership community
(34:12) Moving from toxic positivity to family relationships
(36:24) Therapists can also be your clients
(38:35) Membership pricing and commitment choices
(41:53) Challenges in social media to paid client conversion
(44:16) The worst things Whitney’s heard online, advice for listeners, and more
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
A phone hovering above a mattress, a foster care caseload on hold, and a pandemic looming set the unlikely scene for this week’s social work conversation.
Basiliso “Bas” Moreno, Host of the Social Work Rants Podcast, joins Michael Fulwiler to recount a journey spanning Bronx streets, foster care units, and pandemic caregiving.
Bas recalls starting foster care work at eight dollars an hour, failing the licensing exam five times, losing ten clients and his mother to COVID, and channeling the heartbreak into two hundred podcast episodes and a self-published poetry collection of reflections.
Listen for candid lessons on blending case management and caregiving, stories from pandemic fieldwork that reshaped his mission, and practical advice on protecting family wealth through the emerging practice of financial social work for overburdened parents and children.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(01:00) Meet Bas Moreno
(03:13) Growing Up During Crack Epidemic
(05:02) Early Glimpse Into Case Management
(07:03) 9/11 Shifted Career Direction
(09:50) Starting Foster Work At $8
(11:50) Fordham Internship Through Networking
(15:16) Cultural Gaps In Client Sessions
(17:14) Burnout, Divorce, And Holding On
(21:54) From Rooftop Party To Marriage
(23:03) Personal Caregiving Meets Professional Skills
(25:51) Home Discharge Before Lockdowns Began
(27:42) Navigating Pandemic Visits And Grief
(30:32) Emergency Call As Mom Chokes
(33:26) Flat Affect And Hospital Return
(35:22) Turning Grief Into A Book
(38:58) Becoming A Financial Social Worker
(41:39) Growing A Podcast And Directory
(44:06) Landing First Paid Podcast Sponsor
(47:04) What Social Workers Can Build
(50:55) Advice For The Sandwich Generation
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Building a thriving private practice as a therapist comes with unique challenges, from finding clients to managing finances and maintaining work-life balance.
Kelley Stevens, a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of The Private Practice Pro, joins Michael Fulwiler to share her journey from group practice to running a successful private practice and growing a therapist-focused business.
Kelley draws on her marketing expertise and hands-on experience to offer practical advice for therapists who want to build sustainable, mission-driven practices without burning out.
Listen to the conversation to learn how Kelley navigated setting fees, getting referrals, managing maternity leave, and using social media thoughtfully to grow her business.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(01:28) Meet Kelley Stevens
(02:40) Choosing Carleton College And Family History
(04:49) Early Career in Hospital And Group Therapy
(07:18) How Kelley Took on Marketing at Her Group Practice
(09:42) The Importance of Building Referral Networks in Therapy
(13:22) Transitioning From Group Practice To Private Practice
(15:05) Recognizing Unsustainable Work Habits And Burnout
(17:41) Setting Fees And Deciding Against Taking Insurance
(20:34) Launching The Private Practice Pro During The Pandemic
(22:22) Learning Social Media With Help From a Teenager
(25:15) When to Create And Launch Online Courses as a Therapist
(29:54) Top Questions Therapists Ask About Taxes
(31:58) Finding The Right Client-Getting Strategy for You
(34:35) Planning Maternity Leave as a Private Practice Owner
(37:44) How to Build Referral Relationships With Doctors
(42:29) What The Private Practice Pro Offers Beyond Instagram
(44:32) Using Substack And Diversifying Platforms
(48:22) Rapid Fire Answers on Fees, Mistakes, And Photos
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Getting out of debt can feel impossible, especially when you're building a therapy practice, managing student loans, and trying to make your work sustainable for the long haul.
Jacent Wamala, a licensed marriage and family therapist, financial wellness coach, and founder of Wamala Wellness, joins Michael Fulwiler to share how she paid off nearly $100,000 in debt in just three years.
Jacent talks candidly about her journey through divorce, grief, and financial instability, and how those experiences shaped the way she supports other therapists in doing the same.
This episode is packed with practical advice and mindset shifts for therapists who want to take control of their finances without sacrificing their mission to help others.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(01:20) Meet Jacent Wamala
(03:10) Why She’s Not a Financial Therapist
(03:46) Growing Up Ugandan-American And Moving to Vegas
(07:26) The Cost of Grad School Debt
(10:07) Divorce, Grief, And Her Financial Turning Point
(12:56) Calculating Net Worth Changed Everything
(15:24) What Net Worth Really Tells You
(19:28) Avoidance vs. Acceptance in Money Mindset
(21:22) Budgeting and Setting Clear Debt Goals
(23:03) Living Lean to Accelerate Debt Payoff
(25:58) Building a Money Team for Support
(28:00) It’s Mindset, Not Just Math
(31:00) Real Therapist Success Story: Alicia’s Journey
(35:23) Hesitation, Self-Sabotage, And Getting Help
(37:10) Raise Your Rates And Restructure Finances
(40:19) The Most Common Mistake: Disorganization
(44:05) Finance Strategies Must Fit Your Lifestyle
(45:58) Debt Payoff Methods Explained
(49:21) Using Profit-First To Manage Your Business
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Building a private practice is great. But building one rooted in lived experience is on a whole other level.
Christopher Brown, a Marine Corps veteran and EMDR-certified therapist, joins Michael Fulwiler to share his path from combat to clinical work.
After surviving a suicide bombing and facing years of PTSD, Christopher found healing through EMDR and turned that transformation into a mission to help others do the same, may they be veterans, first responders, or trauma survivors.
He talks about launching the nonprofit Growing Veterans, the lessons he learned about money and mission, and why he started Helicon to help other EMDR providers build meaningful, sustainable practices.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(00:26) Meet Christopher Brown
(06:59) Surviving a suicide bombing during deployment
(10:53) The PTSD Christopher faced after returning home
(12:28) How EMDR helped Christopher stop experiencing flashbacks
(17:43) Why he first sought therapy
(20:21) Launching Growing Veterans to support vets through farming
(24:39) The financial realities of running a nonprofit
(30:13) How Christopher transitioned to private practice
(36:34) Expanding his practice to include first responders
(41:08) How Helicon is improving EMDR access and certification
(44:56) Christopher’s take on psychedelic-assisted therapy for veterans
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Running a therapy practice while staying true to your values isn’t always easy, especially in a system that often prioritizes profit over people.
Paul Fugelsang, founder and executive director of Open Path Psychotherapy Collective, joins Michael Fulwiler to talk about building a mission-driven organization that connects clients to affordable therapy without compromising clinical integrity. Paul shares his path from overwhelmed private practice therapist to nonprofit leader, and how Open Path now supports over 34,000 therapists across the country.
He reflects on the ethics of sliding scale work, the complexities of talking about money in the therapy room, and why resisting unchecked growth is one way to preserve the soul of this work.
Listen to this episode for real talk on money, values, and building a sustainable practice that serves the people who need it most.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-fugelsang-a970123a
Open Path on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openpathpsychotherapy/
Visit the Open Path website: https://openpathcollective.org/
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfulwiler/
Newsletter: https://www.joinheard.com/newsletter
Book a free consult: joinheard.com/consult
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(01:26) Meet Paul Fugelsang
(02:14) Discovering Contemplative Psychotherapy at Naropa
(03:06) Working in Juvenile Justice After Grad School
(04:33) Launching a Private Practice in Florida
(06:17) The Idea for Open Path Is Born
(08:41) How Open Path’s Model Works
(10:34) Matching Therapists And Clients Post-Pandemic
(11:45) Paul’s Critique of VC-Backed Mental Health Platforms
(14:33) Balancing Affordability And Therapist Well-Being
(21:15) How to Talk Money With Clients
(25:06) Sliding Scale as a Confidence Crutch
(27:58) Lessons From Launching a Nonprofit
(30:25) Why Open Path Doesn’t Have a Five-Year Plan
(32:45) Will AI Change How We Do Therapy?
(39:52) Why Paul Stays Skeptical of Tech in Therapy
(43:30) Paul’s Message to Therapists Today
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Starting a private practice sounds exciting…until the clients don’t show up.
In this episode, Gerald Joseph, licensed clinical social worker and founder of The Capital Therapist, joins Michael Fulwiler to share what it’s like to build a therapy business from the ground up.
Gerald opens up about their journey from fashion merchandising to mental health care, the roadblocks he hit while getting licensed, and how he’s carved out a practice that centers authenticity and community care.
He also explains how he integrated psychedelic-assisted therapy into his offerings, why it’s not a magic solution, and the importance of safe, informed use.
Listen in to hear Gerald’s candid perspective on navigating a career in therapy while staying true to who you are.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome To Heard Business School
(00:47) Meet Gerald Joseph And The Capital Therapist
(02:11) Embracing Authenticity
(04:04) From Fashion To Mental Health
(07:03) Why Social Work Was The Right Fit
(09:23) Failing The Licensing Exam Multiple Times
(12:41) Should We Rethink Licensure Requirements?
(15:49) Being Gender Nonconforming In Professional Spaces
(19:12) Centering Marginalized Clients In Private Practice
(25:01) What No One Tells You About Private Practice
(33:02) How Gerald Got Into Psychedelic Therapy
(43:16) What Psychedelics Can Treat And How To Stay Safe
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Navigating the complexities of running a therapy practice today means balancing clinical care with growing administrative demands and emerging technology.
Ted Faneuff, a practicing therapist and Head of Clinical Operations at Upheal, joins Michael Fulwiler to explore how AI is reshaping mental health care and helping therapists reclaim time and reduce burnout.
Ted shares his personal journey, including his late ADHD diagnosis, and explains how AI-powered tools can support therapists in staying fully present with clients while easing documentation burdens.
Listen to this conversation to understand what therapists need to know about AI, data privacy, and ethical adoption (plus why therapist involvement is critical in shaping the future of mental health technology).
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(00:34) Meet Ted Faneuff
(01:20) Exploring How AI Can Support Therapy and Mental Health Care
(02:19) Breaking Down What Artificial Intelligence Really Means
(04:15) A Simple Explanation of Generative AI
(06:58) How Large Language Models Power Today’s AI Tools
(10:07) Addressing the Privacy Concerns That Come with AI
(11:02) What Therapists Need to Know About HIPAA and SOC 2 Security
(13:06) Why Getting Clear Consent Matters When Using AI
(14:45) The Debate on Whether AI Could Ever Replace Therapists
(17:21) Looking at AI’s Ability to Show Empathy and Build Trust
(19:38) How AI Can Lend a Hand and Ease Therapist Workloads
(27:47) Why It’s Important for Therapists to Help Guide AI Development
(35:54) What to Look for When Choosing AI Tools for Your Practice
(44:23) How AI Might Expand Access and Help Therapists Stay in the Field
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Designing a career on your own terms isn’t easy, especially if it doesn’t exist out there yet. But Dr. Emily Anhalt found a way to do just that.
Dr. Emily, clinical psychologist, author, and co-founder of Coa, talks with Michael Fulwiler about building a career that works for you. From her early days in private practice to launching a mental health startup, Emily shares how she reframed mental health as emotional fitness and found ways to apply therapy skills far beyond the usual clinic.
She opens up about the risks of self-disclosure, the tension between coaching and therapy, and how therapists can carve out paths that match their strengths, even in industries like tech.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(01:00) Meet Emily Anhalt
(02:16) Building an Audience on Social Media
(03:18) Consistency and Generosity on Social Media
(04:49) Journey from Grad School to Private Practice
(06:30) Working with Silicon Valley Founders and Executives
(07:19) Introducing Emotional Fitness as a Proactive Approach
(09:28) Framing Emotional Fitness as Preventative Care
(11:41) The Power of Therapist Self-Disclosure as a Patient
(13:00) Navigating Self-Disclosure
(16:48)Therapy, Coaching, and Meeting Clients Where They Are
(20:20) Starting a Speaking and Workshop Career
(21:53) Transitioning to Charging for Speaking Engagements
(32:11) Designing the Career You Want
(35:20) Co-founding Coa: A "Gym for Mental Health"
(48:57) Using the Book Flex Your Feelings and Empowering Therapists
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Building a successful career in mental health often requires navigating personal challenges, shifting professional goals, and staying adaptable in the face of growing demand.
Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, Founder of Therapy for Black Girls, joins Michael Fulwiler to discuss her path from a small-town Louisiana upbringing to becoming a leading voice in Black women’s mental health.
Dr. Joy shares how her early curiosity about human behavior led her to psychology, how she built Therapy for Black Girls from a blog to a thriving platform, and the surprising journey that led to her podcast’s partnership with iHeart.
Listen to the episode for insights into the evolution of Therapy for Black Girls, how Dr. Joy balances running a business with family life, and the key moments that shaped her vision for supporting Black women’s mental health.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(00:34) Meet Dr. Joy Harden Bradford
(02:11) Growing Up in a Small Town and Discovering Psychology
(03:01) Dr. Joy’s Educational Background and Research Focus
(03:54) Challenges as a Black Student in Predominantly White Institutions
(06:37) Observations About Black Students Seeking Mental Health Services
(07:38) Interest in Starting a Private Practice Part-Time
(09:07) Starting Private Practice with the Right Infrastructure
(10:05) The Idea for Therapy for Black Girls Sparked by an Awards Show
(11:02) Early Growth of the Blog and Media Interviews
(13:09) How Social Media Requests Inspired Therapist Directory
(16:29) Finding a Developer and Starting to Charge for Listings
(17:20) Organic Growth and Big Shoutouts for the Directory
(18:19) Starting the Therapy for Black Girls Podcast Independently
(20:27) Building Community: The Momentum Moment for the Podcast
(41:39) Growing Both Podcast and Directory Together
(44:06) The iHeart Podcast Partnership Opportunity
(46:33) Marketing and Growing the Podcast
(49:00) Building the Therapy for Black Girls Team
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Navigating a career in social work can be incredibly challenging, especially when balancing personal struggles, family life, and the demands of private practice.
Gary “Trey” Taylor, a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and consultant, joins Michael Fulwiler to share his journey from the car customization business to advocating for mental health, particularly within the Black community.
Gary reflects on his personal experiences with burnout, how his work with Black men shaped his therapy practice, and the pivotal moment when he decided to transition away from therapy to focus on teaching and consulting.
Listen to the conversation to hear how Gary used his past struggles to build a sustainable career that addresses both his personal and professional needs while continuing to advocate for Black men’s mental health.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(00:44) Meet Gary Taylor
(02:30) Trey’s First Business: Car Customization
(04:26) Journey to Social Work and Therapy
(05:56) Why Trey Didn’t Initially Want to Be a Therapist
(07:40) Friends' Reactions to Pursuing Social Work
(08:46) Why Therapy Wasn’t Initially Appealing
(11:07) Dealing with Personal Mental Health Struggles
(12:49) Finding a Therapist for the First Time
(16:30) Applying Marketing Lessons from Other Industries
(20:03) Starting Private Practice Part-Time
(23:17) Getting Initial Clients for Private Practice
(25:53) The Struggle of Setting Pricing and Rates
(38:14) The Decision to Step Away from Private Practice
(47:42) Diversifying Income with Consulting and Teaching
(56:09) Lessons Learned from Writing His Book Refresh
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Building a therapy business comes with its challenges, especially when you’re navigating AuDHD and entrepreneurship.
Patrick Casale, CEO of All Things Private Practice, joins host Michael Fulwiler to talk about how embracing vulnerability and authenticity can shape a successful therapy practice.
Patrick opens up about his journey of navigating ADHD and autism while building a business, explaining how showing up as your true self can help you connect with clients in a deeper, more meaningful way.
Listen to the conversation to hear how Patrick turned his personal challenges into entrepreneurial strengths and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(00:44) Meet Patrick Casale
(02:12) Embracing Neurodivergence in Life and Business
(03:51) The Double-Edged Sword of AuDHD
(06:02) Why Patrick Became a Therapist
(08:19) What Burnout Looked Like in Private Practice
(10:31) From Solo Practice to Group Practice to Entrepreneur
(13:12) Building Businesses Around Community and Identity
(15:24) Neurodivergent Strengths in Entrepreneurship
(17:41) Letting Go of What No Longer Aligns
(19:35) How Patrick Thinks About Pricing and Accessibility
(22:13) Delegating as a Way to Scale and Protect Your Energy
(24:00) Self-Care, ADHD, and Running Multiple Businesses
(26:42) Advice for Therapists With Big Ideas
(28:30) Final Reflections on Self-Trust and Going for It
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Therapists have long been told they won’t make it on their own in private practice.
Season 2 of Heard Business School flips that script. In this trailer, host Michael Fulwiler introduces you to therapists who are breaking the mold, redefining what success means, and sharing honest stories from their journeys.
You’ll hear from guests who have faced tough challenges, like carrying invisible wounds or learning the business side of therapy, and found ways to build practices that truly reflect who they are. This season is about finding your path and knowing that you have a community to lean on.
If you’re wondering how to create a practice that fits your life and values, or if you’re ready for the next step in your business, you’ll want to hear these stories.
In this season, you’ll learn:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Introducing Season 2 of Heard Business School
(00:25) Finding Purpose Through Loss And Poetry
(00:46) Therapy And Entrepreneurship Rewriting Futures
(01:21) Authenticity As a Clinician Matters
(01:43) Business Lessons Missing in Therapy Training
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Did you know S corporations (S corps) can provide significant financial benefits for therapists and their private practices?
Andrew Riesen, Co-founder and CEO of Heard, joins our host Michael Fulwiler to break down the process of electing S Corp status and using it to your advantage. He explains how it can help private practice owners save on taxes while also outlining the additional administrative responsibilities it entails.
Tune in to learn when it makes sense to elect S corp status, the financial thresholds to keep in mind, and the common misconceptions surrounding this tax designation.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Resources:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Welcome to Heard Business School
(00:56) Meet Andrew Riesen
(01:16) Understanding S Corporations
(02:12) Electing S Corp Status
(03:47) Benefits and Burdens of S Corporations
(07:25) Financial Implications and Examples
(10:28) Administrative Costs and Considerations
(15:15) State-Specific Considerations
(18:59) How to Elect S Corp Status
(23:49) Filing Deadlines and Late Election Relief
(30:19) Maintaining Compliance as an S Corporation
(35:44) Common Misconceptions and Myths
(43:07) Closing Thoughts and Resources
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
How do you go from nonprofit work to a private practice making 6-figures?
Kelly McKenna, a licensed clinical social worker and business coach, joins host Michael Fulwiler to share how she leveraged Instagram, raised her rates, and generated $250,000 in her first full year as a private practice therapist.
Kelly shares her marketing expertise, how she found her niche, and how to navigate billing and administrative hurdles while running her own practice. So tune in and learn Kelly’s strategies for building a sustainable, client-focused practice while balancing personal and professional growth.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Introduction to Heard Business School
(00:28) Meet Kelly McKenna
(05:33) Transitioning to Private Practice During COVID
(09:22) Building a Thriving Practice on Instagram
(15:14) Navigating Financials and Accessibility in Therapy
(17:57) Leveraging Insurance and Out-of-Network Benefits
(21:31) Finding and Evolving Your Niche
(25:03) Common Instagram Mistakes Therapists Make
(28:44) Finding Your Content Niche
(29:13) Evaluating Content Performance
(30:52) Reels Membership Examples
(33:32) Promoting the Reels Membership
(34:47) Sharing Income Transparently
(43:12) Business Coaching and Courses
(49:39) Building a Support Team
(53:52) Final Thoughts and Takeaways
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Fostering a successful private practice while navigating academia, sports psychology, and representation in the therapy field can be daunting—but Dr. Lawrence Jackson has done just that.
As a licensed therapist and mental performance coach, Dr. Jackson has worked with athletes transitioning out of professional sports while also focusing on elevating diverse voices in therapy.
In this episode, Dr. Jackson joins host Michael Fulwiler to share his unique journey from aspiring medical professional to becoming "The Black Male Therapist."
He discusses his perspective on the challenges of finding representation in the mental health field and how he used social media, particularly Black Therapy Fridays, to build authentic connections and attract clients.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Introduction to Heard Business School with guest Dr. Lawrence Jackson
(02:15) The scarcity of Black representation in the therapy field
(05:44) From medical aspirations to psychology
(08:17) Pivoting from sex therapy to marriage and family therapy
(09:55) Launching "The Black Male Therapist" brand and Black Therapy Fridays
(11:02) Sports analogies and systemic thinking to therapeutic practice
(14:10) Private practice during doctoral studies and learning key marketing strategies
(18:55) Transitioning from academia to private practice in the middle of the pandemic
(23:15) Overcoming self-doubt and finding confidence in pricing therapeutic services
(29:00) Evolution of Dr. Jackson’s work with athletes transitioning out of professional sports
(35:42) The intersection of therapy and performance coaching in sports
(40:16) How virtual therapy and supervision transformed Dr. Jackson’s practice
(44:00) Balancing multiple roles in therapy, sports, and education
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
To truly connect with clients, therapists must embrace authenticity, cultural awareness, and personal identity. On top of that, there needs to be a deeper understanding of how our backgrounds and identities shape our practice. Michelle Vo, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and advocate for mental health, emphasizes the importance of sharing personal narratives in fostering genuine connections.
In this episode, Michelle and host Michael Fulwiler explore why therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Michelle shares her journey as a first-generation Vietnamese American, the significance of acknowledging cultural backgrounds, and the power of being relatable in a therapeutic relationship. This conversation goes beyond therapy; it’s about breaking barriers, addressing stigmas, and finding ways to make mental health accessible and relatable for all. Listen to discover how embracing authenticity can transform your practice and build trust with clients.
In the conversation, they discuss: Michelle’s experience as a first-generation Vietnamese American deeply influences how she approaches therapy, helping her advocate for both herself and her community while navigating cultural nuances in mental health care. The financial and logistical hurdles of moving from hospital work to private practice, including the choice to become an S corporation and how she manages client loads while making sure to plan for time off. Her approach to being authentic in therapy, highlighting how bringing her full self into sessions — and practicing self-care — helps her connect more deeply with clients, especially those from diverse backgrounds.
Connect with the guest:
Visit her website: https://www.michellevolcsw.com/
Find Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modelmindfulness/
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfulwiler/
Newsletter: https://www.joinheard.com/newsletter
Book a free consult: https://www.joinheard.com/welcome-form
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Introduction to Heard Business School with guest Michelle Vo
(02:47) Michelle’s journey from a hospital setting to private practice
(09:31) Developing a niche and balancing self-care
(12:50) Combating self-doubt
(23:55) Advocating for thoughtful tech integration into therapy
(29:12) Authenticity in therapy and building strong client connections
(32:36) How therapists can navigate consultations without the pressure of sales
(35:34) The model minority myth and its impact on Asian-American mental health
(41:05) The importance of providing appropriate resources for clients
(44:34) Encouraging autonomy in private practice
(45:19) Closing remarks from Michael and Michelle
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Creating an excellent therapist profile is more than just credentials.
It’s about fostering one that truly resonates with clients in the hopes of building trust and meaningful connections.
In this episode, CEO of Mental Health Match, Ryan Schwartz joins host Michael Fulwiler to share his insights on crafting therapist profiles that instill hope and foster genuine client relationships.
Ryan discusses the importance of using warm, relatable language, avoiding clinical jargon, and the role of an inviting headshot.
He also touches on seasonal trends in client needs and the value of regularly updating profiles. Learn how to build trust and attract the right clients with a well-crafted profile.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Resources:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Introduction to Heard Business School with guest Ryan Schwartz
(01:34) What clients are truly seeking when searching for a therapist
(03:24) Trends in client needs, including trauma and seasonal variations
(05:49) Why summer can impact therapy demand and what to expect
(07:16) The essentials of an effective therapist profile
(08:38) Crafting language of connection using "we" and "together"
(09:49) The importance of eye contact and warmth in headshots
(13:59) The impact of using "you" language to foster hope
(15:45) How emotions drive the decision to choose a therapist
(16:43) Why therapists often feel hesitant about marketing themselves
(19:24) Using words of hope and possibility in therapist profiles
(21:23) Avoiding clinical jargon by using everyday, relatable language
(23:36) The value of defining a niche to attract the right clients
(26:25) Tips for updating profiles regularly to reflect seasonal trends
(29:01) Managing full practices and waitlists effectively
(32:32) Personalized responses to client inquiries that build trust
(34:01) Updates at Mental Health Match to enhance the client experience
(39:46) The ongoing mission of Mental Health Match to connect clients and therapists
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Starting a private therapy practice in New York City is no small feat.
Growing it into a thriving business? That’s a whole different challenge.In this episode, therapist and content creator Lauren Larkin sits down with host Michael Fulwiler to share her journey of building a successful practice in one of the most competitive cities in the world. From navigating a saturated market to going viral on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Lauren offers an inside look at what it takes to stand out and scale. She also dives into setting boundaries to prevent burnout, finding the right mentors, and financial strategies for long-term success.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Visit her website: https://leltherapy.com/
Lauren on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@leltherapy
Lauren on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leltherapy/
Lauren on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-larkin1/
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfulwiler/
Newsletter: https://www.joinheard.com/newsletter
Book a free consult: https://www.joinheard.com/welcome-form
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Introduction to Heard Business School with guest Lauren Larkin
(02:30) Creating viral content on social media
(03:14) How Lauren’s marketing background shaped her private practice
(07:51) Transitioning from a group practice to starting her own practice
(08:42) How Lauren navigated the financial aspects of starting a private practice
(12:13) Advice on handling the logistics and legalities of forming a private practice
(15:23) How to navigate leaving a group practice and transitioning clients
(17:41) The ethical complexities of raising therapy fees
(20:25) Building a waitlist before expanding a practice
(24:52) The challenges of growing a practice in a competitive city like New York
(27:26) Managing client demand and hiring her first clinicians
(32:01) The balance between content creation and clinical work
(36:24) Lauren’s personal experience with an eating disorder and how it shapes her practice
(40:01) Ethical self-disclosure and its impact on the therapeutic relationship
(45:57) How Lauren handles self-disclosure on social media while maintaining client confidentiality
(50:00) Mentoring and consulting for early-career therapists
(50:07) Five tips for private practice success
(56:38) The importance of outsourcing taxes and financial management
(01:00:23) Protecting your schedule and setting boundaries to avoid burnout
(01:03:10) Creating networking and social events for therapists
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
Building a successful and inclusive therapy practice comes with its own set of challenges.
Therapist and consultant Kenya Crawford, LMHC has created a model for doing just that.
By centering the needs of Black queer individuals and developing an anti-oppressive pricing structure, Kenya has built a practice that prioritizes accessibility and authentic healing.
In this episode, Kenya joins host Michael Fulwiler to share how she crafted a space that supports marginalized communities while maintaining a sustainable business model. She also discusses her work with Cultivating Healers, a community space for clinicians of color to grow anti-racist and sustainable practices. Kenya offers her perspective on the complexities of racial equity consulting and shares how organizations can address racial trauma early, before it reaches the therapy room.
Listen in as Kenya breaks down her approach to balancing her roles as a therapist, consultant, and community builder, all while staying true to her mission of fostering equitable, inclusive care.
In the conversation, they discuss:
Connect with the guest:
Connect with Michael and Heard:
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Introduction to Heard Business School with guest Kenya Crawford
(02:19) Kenya's personal mission of fostering radical and authentic healing
(03:53) The influence of traditional therapy training on Kenya's practice
(06:00) Transitioning from group practices to private practice
(10:33) Challenges faced when starting her business
(12:06) Kenya’s experience with virtual practice before the pandemic
(13:35) Niche specialization and its impact on client engagement
(15:02) The unexpected journey into consulting
(20:43) Pricing consulting based on expertise and impact
(24:27) Shifts in demand for anti-racist consulting post-2020
(30:48) Differentiating between therapy, consulting, and coaching
(34:50) Kenya’s anti-oppressive rate structure explained
(43:07) Introduction to Cultivating Healers initiative
(48:16) Pursuing dreams without waiting for permission
This episode is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, business, or tax advice. Each person should consult their own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor with respect to matters referenced in this episode.
