[Feature Story] How These 50+ Badass Therapists Made 2020 Their Bitch (Even During a Global Pandemic)
Let’s all just get on the same page really quick:
2020 SUCKED.
Like, really really sucked. In so many ways.
Global pandemic. Kids at home. Telehealth. Civil unrest. Riots. Political bullshit. Hurricanes. Wildfires. And killer hornets? WTF 2020…
I think every single one of us has had a period where we were scrambling and just trying to stay afloat (I still feel like I’m there sometimes). The collective trauma hit all of us, and we responded by binge-watching Tiger King, downloading TikTok, and zoning out while inhaling copious amounts of Oreos and wine.
No? That was just me? Oh, ok. Cool.
And yet, despite all of this, there were therapists who managed to crush it.
Their practices flourished. They discovered a love of telehealth, transformed their business models, launched entirely new businesses, took care of newborns and toddlers, and had their highest-earning months ever.
This post is to celebrate those therapists.
You see, 2020 has just been filled with shit. So instead of writing yet another “how to survive when none of us knows what the hell is even going on” post, I decided to instead ask a whole bunch of therapists how they changed their business during the pandemic and how this change helped their business and/or personal life.
I asked my email list of 10K+ therapists to submit their stories of how they kicked ass in 2020, and I received hundreds of submissions. There were SO MANY amazing stories of therapists taking action, pivoting, and grabbing 2020 by the balls, and I’m excited to share some of their stories below.
The first group of therapists I’d like to acknowledge are those who went to online Telehealth and ended up loving it.
Allison Lieberman
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
Three days before I gave Birth we went under mandatory quarantine. My BetterHelp referrals skyrocketed and I was being contacted by Teladoc to do a temporary contract because they were in such need of clinicians in my area. In utilizing Teladoc I realized I never wanted to go back to in person therapy again. My schedule is full and I’m ready to take the plunge!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Personally, this change has allowed me to be more present for my kids. Business wise, I’m a completely different person than I was 8 months ago. I never thought I was “Business minded” because that’s not why I became therapist. After learning the ropes, I find that I am much more driven as a business owner.
Tori Dismuke Eudy
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I’ve moved all my Sandplay clients to online therapy and we’ve worked together to create Therapy in a Box. It makes a meaningful and tangible connection to their growth, creativity, and resilience. It’s definitely upping their self-confidence and healing process! I am so grateful that I was stretched and made to reach out and grow.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I believe it’s creating a deeper level of self-acceptance and growth for myself and my clients. I’m re-learning/validating the idea that I don’t have to have all the answers. Trauma doesn’t stop our creativity. We can create the things we need, and I/my clients/people will value and embrace a new model of growth (therapy).
Rachel Kalina
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I came back from maternity leave right when the world shut down. I moved my practice to 100% online, tightened up my boundaries, and started kicking ass. I missed my clients and felt obligated to be back working because I had teen and children clients who needed me. It has made me appreciate and love my work that much more.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Tightening my boundaries helped me to love my work more. It has allowed me to be home with my LO when I want/need to be has shown me financial freedom and confidence, and boosted me from the scarcity mindset to “abundance” so I can recognize my value, guilt-free.
Saleha Qureshi
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I went completely online. I soon became comfortable offering video sessions and found a free internet tool that I could use to offer EMDR sessions to my clients. I also became good at offering online resources to my clients as I had more time to plan ahead.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I feel satisfied with the fact that I can keep myself financially viable without stepping foot outside my house. My clients have doubled. I have realized that I am somebody that is strong and resilient that will continue to see the bright side of things even during the pandemic.
Brianna Bradley
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
During March 2020, the pandemic hit during my biggest monetary gain. I was completely disappointed. Then by June 2020, the telehealth portion of my practice blew up. I have given up my office and I am 100% telehealth. Therefore, I reached my professional goal and my end-of-the-year goal by mid-year 2020!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I work half the hours in private practice than I did working in human service leadership while making a similar paycheck. This allows me to have time for administrative days for my business. I plan to offer telehealth indefinitely. Then I plan to travel around the world while working hopefully beginning in 2021. Belize is calling my name!
Dorothy Hubbard
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I bonded with patients over our shared trauma (the pandemic) and used more self-disclosure to approximate via telehealth the shared space of in-person sessions.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I’m more comfortable using humor, which has opened up new avenues of connection with my patients.
Lizzie Stevenson
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
Our therapy practice has gone completely virtual due to the
pandemic. Most people aren’t used to using technology in such a
vulnerable context, making it a tricky transition for folks to feel
safe and open to communicate. It can be very isolating to talk to a
screen rather than a human being, but it’s been very rewarding
watching people acclimate to these new circumstances and perservere.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Going completely virtual has helped the business by giving more people access to our services, not just those in close proximity. And while working from home may have its downfalls, it has also given our therapists a lot more time to focus on their own personal passions, which is harder to focus on when we’re working from the office.
Curran Otis
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
During COVID-19, I have focused on leaning into my discomfort
with telehealth services and decided to meet clients where they
are. Clients have been more open to embracing change as I have
been able to model to them how the discomfort is all part of the
growth process and sets them up for success as they move forward.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I have learned the power of adapting to changes when times are unknown, and circumstances seem out of control. These opportunities teach me how to become more assuring for my clients and encourage each and every one to understand how to acknowledge their own worries and be more resilient in the face of changes.
Dr. Sadi Fox
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
We went telehealth as if we have been telehealth our whole lives! We hired on more clinicians and had our biggest month in April! We know our clients need us now more than ever and that motivates us to take care of ourselves to take care of them!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
We can see our clients more often as they need since we don’t need to schedule office times either! I have learned that I can be resilient and that my clinicians and support staff are the best around! Personally, I have become a better business owner and have learned fast on my toes as a result of these shifts.
Lisa Baker
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
It was not an easy transition, to say the least. I would say that my biggest accomplishment was ACCEPTANCE that this is the “new normal” for a while and that I had to learn to roll with the punches. Am I kicking 2020’s ass? I would say no. But am I showing 2020 who is resilient and strong and not backing down? Fuck yeah, I am.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I am seeing more clients in-person (while observing safety protocols), but I am becoming much more aware of my boundaries. Also, I am working on launching an e-course. Before this stupid lockdown, I only saw myself as a therapist and told myself to stay in my lane. What I realize now is how much potential I still have for personal and career growth and I am taking that shit and running with it.
Elly Brown
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
On Tuesday, March 17, I was sent home from the church building where I used to see clients in person. I had never done an online session before. I had only done 2 phone sessions and absolutely hated them! I was worried to say the least. I am now 100% online and loving it!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
What I have found with being online is that I have more time to have a personal life! I am able to spend more time with my family and my pup. What I have learned is that I like the online format and the freedom that it affords me and my family.
Shyla Steen, LCSW
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
What I found was that offering my services through Telehealth opened up opportunities for these “caregivers” to come to session, when they may not have been able to before. My business is doing great, I am busier than I had ever hoped for. I feel good about the work I and doing with my clients and I feel prepared to do a virtual practice for as long as needed.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
This has helped my business grow exponentially as it has made my services easier to access for those who are more home bound for a variety of reasons. It has brought my family closer together. I have been able to identify with what my clients are experiencing with the stresses of the pandemic on families.
Shirley J. Huisman
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
In June of 2019 I was diagnosed with estrogen positive breast cancer, which was later discovered to be bilateral. In August of 2019 I start working online with my clients. It was too risky to see people face to face. So, in March when COVID hit, I felt very prepared to shift back to online therapy completely. My practice has nearly doubled since June of 2019. This has been way beyond my expectations!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
My cancer diagnosis has changed my life. I have clarity unlike any before. It actually prepared me to respond to the pandemic without a misstep. I have learned that I can do practically anything I set my mind to. I have been given a chance at the next half of my life. I am cancer free, and COVID is not going to stop me or my practice.
The next group of therapists who kicked ass in 2020 added new services to their practices.
Tara Egan
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
During the quarantine, I launched a parenting podcast called “One Day You’ll Thank Me.” It’s super informative, consisting of both solo episodes and episodes featuring guest experts. The best part? My 15-year-old daughter is my co-host!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
It’s helped my business by expanding my reach with potential clients and those who are looking for public speakers. It’s also inspired me to shift at least a portion of my business online. My new content lends itself to creating webinars, e-books and e-courses, and raises my profile for traditional publishers. Personally, it’s been a WONDERFUL experience with my teenage daughter.
Esther Goldstein
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I added a Clinician and I’m adding a second one too. I’ve been pivoting and finding cool ways to show up for my ideal clients and have created online content like never before. And I’ve recently accepted a well-respected online teaching opportunity where my name will go global. This has pushed me to move ahead with expanding my offerings in training content for trauma therapists Worldwide.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
To be more present with my little man. It’s taught me that just because the world is in a bad place, I can still thrive. I am using my familiarity of tough times to find inspiration for those I service and the people closest to me, to novel and to trust that we can and will brave this storm together.
Kym Tolson
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
Last year I developed an online course for insurance billing for telehealth practices. With COVID I decided to invest in a number of trainings to help me expand that business and recession proof my life. Now I have multiple income streams and I’m still seeing 30+ clients a week. I have a waiting list right now and I’m think about launching a group practice as well.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Launching my “side hustle” has really helped me feel secure when the world is totally unpredictable right now. I don’t feel worried about how I’ll make it if client’s stop coming in the “door”. I’ve learned I can adapt and do many things I never realized I could do! Like a live FB airing to the 3,700 members of my Facebook group. I say “holy shit” every time but I get through it.
Meghan Farr
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I’ve been SO busy with my booming private practice. In March I had like 5 clients in my practice. Then, with some revamping of my website copy, a few new photos and I guess positive energy from the universe – BOOM – clients started emailing and calling. The ones you get excited to see. The ones who want to do the work. The ones who SHOW the F up! The ones who make therapy a priority.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I was able to be flexible for e-learning with my elementary school age daughters by creating my own schedule and using a virtual platform. Our school district is now back to the classroom with a new social distancing model – BUT – if we go virtual again – I won’t be doing it myself! The cash flow has relieved so much stress.
Susan Morley
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I’m not a therapist, I’m a parenting coach and I make being a mom easier. Last march I whipped up a course, Parenting During a Pandemic, and I gave it away…for free! YIKES. Also, I am a former elementary school teacher so I answered a Facebook post and now I’m a Virtual Learning Assistant for 3-4th grade girls for 16 hours a week.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I realized that when inspiration comes, I am ON IT. It was a ton of work but fun. I’m so glad I have this course and it will help me create freebies and workshops.
Lynn “The Duchess” Dutrow
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I officially embraced separating my coaching practice from my counseling practice and shifting the focus to supporting high performing leaders and change makers turn their panic into power. Oh, and did I mention that I let go of my in-person office and created an amazing space for myself in a studio apartment next to my home? Yeah, I embraced the change and made it my bitch.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
My business is now primarily location independent, which allows me more freedom to spend time with my family and focus on taking care of the #1 asset in my business: Me! Plus, working from our “homestead” is giving me the time and resources to focus preparing to have the option to do some in person “retreat” style offerings once COVID calms the fuck down.
Cindy Athey
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
Initially I was doing a few telehealth sessions & when Covid-19 started I switched to 100% telehealth which there was no real learning curve. Now the practice has evolved to more of a 50/50 split. Also, I raised my fee during Covid-19 to what I feel is appropriate without making me feel resentful or like I was still at Community MH.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
This change helped me in both business and personal life. I’m am at home more and I feel like I am running the business and not the business running me. I have learned that I am truly resilient and not afraid of change. I have been able to remain consistent with my schedule, remained healthy and pushing forward to make more connections with the right types of sources.
Kayla Reilly
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
Evolution Wellness overhauled our systems, worked with an HR consultant to create an employee handbook and benefits package for therapists, AND opened a second location in our city after we doubled our staff! Take THAT Coronavirus. I stopped seeing clients altogether so I can scale my group practice. As a business owner, I knew that to reach my business goals I had to put myself out there.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I blocked Fridays as a personal day. So, I’m making more and working less. I’m now ACTUALLY doing the tasks of a CEO rather than an owner/operator who works 70 hours a week (which I totally did for years). I learned that I can do this. Like… I TOTALLY can do this. My dream of a group practice where clinicians are valued and can have work/home balance is coming true!
Helen Jennings-Hood
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I went from online only to opening an in-office therapy practice. Tricky in the pandemic, right? It’s been anything but smooth sailing but it’s going okay and has started to all come together. I’m so glad I did it.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Having my own office and in person practice has made me feel like I’m really doing it. It has made me so much more confident about chasing anything I want and knowing that it’s just a matter of planning and patience. This experience has taught me to be brave and go after what I want. Life is too short to hope and wish without action.
Connor McClenahan
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I created a “telehealth membership” option for our co-practicing counseling model! I saw how therapists weren’t needing office space anymore, but they were still needing services to help them get clients and feel supported. So, I created a “lower tier” to give people connection with fellow therapists, a phone VA, webpage, etc. in a time when we all need support.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I had just started to build out a new office space when COVID hit. I was really down about that, wondered how my business was going to be helpful. We made little instructional videos for how to get through an argument at home, how to manage a panic attack. I learned that being a business is about being of service to others, using what you have to help someone succeed.
Kelly Bearer, MA, ACHT
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I innovated my Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy Six-Day Certification program and brought it online via Zoom. To hold this new online certification program, I launched an entire Online Hypnotherapy School, Boulder Hypnotherapy Institute. That was in April of 2020. Since then, I’ve created and launched 3 levels of hypnotherapy training and certification.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I’ve used this time to move from Post-Traumatic Stress to Post-Traumatic Growth. Post-Traumatic growth is the growth that occurs after diversity or a very challenging time. We all have a choice on how to use what life presents us. I chose to use it for personal transformation and to integrate that transformation into my business. From Victim Consciousness to Victor Consciousness, I like to say.
Brittni Fudge
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
When the pandemic forced me to close my office doors in March, it was with a heavy heart mixed with hope and trepidation that I moved my practice online. I revamped my Walk+Talk therapy protocols. Those that are comfortable meeting outdoors to walk and talk are finding the sessions a necessary breath of fresh air after so many zoom calls. Most importantly, after the murder of George Floyd, I gathered as many anti-racism resources as I could and distributed that information as widely as I could.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
As a result of all of these changes, I’ve learned important lessons in every area of my life. These changes have allowed me the time to start running again, to walk my dog every day, to catch up with neighbors I usually don’t have time to talk to, to snuggle my kids a little longer each morning, and to truly embrace the everyday moments of spending so much time together.
Rachel Butler Dorneanu
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
My group practice decided to go fully virtual for the rest of the year leaving me without a physical office. I decided to offer both virtual and outdoor walk & talk sessions for clients. They really enjoy having human interaction, a reason to get out of the house and the fresh air is so helpful!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
The outdoor walk and talk sessions have helped my business to offer in-person sessions when many therapists are not at this time. As for my personal life, it’s helped me to explore more of my community to find parks nearby. I also have never felt healthier with the fresh air and exercise built into my sessions.
Jessica Cline
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I worked with Ernesto on video marketing. I post a video every day and was noticed by a TV producer. We filmed our premise for a TV show which was then sent off to all the major networks. I’ve also been contacted by a few brands to be a micro-influencer and represent their brand.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I learned that I can put myself out there and that I can handle the online hate when it comes to me. I no longer have to be afraid and my messaging has been validated. I continue to lean into my creativity and find that it sparks more and more business ideas. I’m experiencing so much more freedom but mostly a belief in myself.
Norine Vander Hooven
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
COVID was not going to kick this BADASS down! I’ve come back to work 1/2 time and I’ve had the BIGGEST month ever in 4 years of practice. Most of my clients are now full fee, and I’ve been doing more consulting for therapists and EMDR – this has really brought in more money and lessened my stress load AND let me work with my ideal clients!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
This has all taught me that self-care is CRUCIAL, and I needed to get back to keeping my boundaries, ideal client, and ideal schedule. I definitely have all three right now. I’m not working later than 5 pm. It has given me more down time, and really that has allowed me to feel way more on my game! Being a BADASS has definitely served me here!
Sandi Burchfield
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
We (Family Life Counseling Center) went back to the basics and began offering therapy services to a local church in our community – which in the last 5 months – we are now doing this with 3 churches. This is in addition to our 3 regular offices. We were outgrowing our local office spaces and other rental spaces were astronomically high. So, I blended all 3.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
We specialize in working with foster children and the community. My personal faith is strengthened that when other businesses were being shut down, we were there to help, and God has provided financial blessings. It has enabled me to expand our business into now 3 counties and having 6 different office locations that I did not see possible last year.
Ashley Comegys
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
At the start of 2020 I had set out with a plan to launch a business separate from my practice where I help other mom clinicians build their own online therapy practice so they can have the time, freedom, and flexibility that I have found by having a completely online practice for the last few years. I have built a Facebook Group (Moms Building Online Therapy Practices with Ashley Comegys) and have developed a free quick start guide (The ABCs of Online Therapy) to help moms figure out the essentials to get started with building an online practice. I’m so excited with the growth that I’ve had in that group over the last two months and the amazing community that is being built there
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
The work that I have done to develop my second business has allowed me to save money to be able to take a 3-month maternity leave from my therapy practice after my baby arrives. I am excited to have that time away from providing therapy so that I can focus on my new baby.
Jenny Maenpaa
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I started a podcast, doubled my supervisees since I don’t need to book office space for them, and began designing an online course!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Not only am I able to more strategically use my time (pursuing podcast sponsors, doing group supervision, see more clients on a more convenient schedule) but I also realized that I have infinite capacity to scale up via the internet.
Deanna Richards & Kenya Crawford
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
My colleague and I wanted to create a way to meet the needs of the LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC populations that have been hit incredibly hard during this time, so we launched On The Mend (onthemendhealing.com). We recently added a function to OTM that allows folks to Pay It Forward which will allow us to offer up courses to folks in need who cannot afford even our lowest sliding scale.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
It has certainly cost a lot in terms of time, energy, and upfront costs to get OTM into the world. OTM is advocacy and allyship. I think what we have learned – what we are grateful to be experiencing – is the depth of our ability to tap into our resilience and our reserves; to find ways to continue to deepen who we are and what we can offer to our communities and to our profession during the most challenging of times.
Another set of therapists decided to go in a whole new direction when the pandemic hit and launched brand new businesses.
Nanika Coor
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
At the outset of Covid-19 I was asked to do a couple of talks for schools about helping parents help their anxious kiddos. And then – George Floyd was murdered & I started being asked to speak on educating kids about race. By promoting my talks on Instagram, I was asked to do more talks! So now that’s something I do & a service I offer.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Adding this service is helping me confidence-wise, as well as financially. I’m reaching a wider audience and getting better at explaining concepts I talk about often in concise ways. I’m learning that I’m more capable than I thought I was.
Patrick Casale
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
After 3 years of going back and forth I finally started my private practice coaching business. I decided to just put it out to the world and announce that I was moving forward. I started to furiously create content. I created a 6-week course to help therapists take the leap and start their own private practices, leaving their agencies behind. I’m also reducing my clinical caseload significantly and starting a group practice.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I’m realizing that coaching is very similar to therapy in terms of holding space, facilitating change, and helping my coachees move towards their ideal lifestyle. Covid-19 has changed my business to 100% virtual. I travel a lot and now I can travel endlessly and work from wherever I am. The freedom and flexibility that’s been created has really been remarkable.
Dona Joy Airey
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
In March I went to online telehealth for my clients. There were problems in that many did not like it, there were regulations to attend to and then the state board also put a time limit on offering online therapy. THAT was IT! So, I told my clients that I was closing my practice and going full time online coaching. On July 18th I retired my LCSW.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I have a lot of hope. I have taken classes and am ready to go online full time. I am having a bit of implementation problem and once I figure that out, I am ready to fly. I am selling my home and buying a trailer and hitting the road with my new coaching business online. I feel excited to work with people and a new creativity erupting.
Mark Cagle
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I launched a website design and ad agency for therapists. Not only have I kicked 2020’s ass, but I have helped other therapists do the same! Starting a new business at any time is risky, but right now it’s even more challenging. I knew that I have something of value to offer my fellow therapists and stuck with it rather than burying my head in the sand.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I never really thought of myself as a creative person. Designing websites and more importantly, writing copy, has allowed me to channel my creativity in new ways. I have realized that I am a wordsmith. Many of my teachers over the years told me I had a gift for writing, but I never really believed them. That has all changed now.
Amie Dean
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
At that time my husband and I decided to plan a 1-year RV trip around the US to enjoy life. I added coaching options for the states I’m not licensed in and created a separate spiritual business with courses and community online classes to help come together in unity during this tough time. I am in the process of writing a book on resiliency/spiritual growth and creating an online membership community for mindfulness education and connection.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I have really grown in self-awareness and trust in the universe, even during these very difficult times I can intuitively feel a guiding light along the way. It seems as if the right clients come to my practice when they are supposed to and there is a deep knowing that this time is meant to be a catalyst for inner change and transformation.
And finally, there were therapists who opened their practices during the pandemic.
Corina Maher
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
In April 2020 I was let go by the agency I had been working at for years. I realize now that the extra time I had due to COVID allowed me to immediately inject time into systems so, long-term, my business would be more badass. I officially opened my doors 5 weeks after being told I was getting laid off. And I haven’t looked back since.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I’ve learned that this is where I’m supposed to be, doing this work right here, and what a better time when the world needs as much help as possible. I’ve learned that I also needed to push forward and follow what we tell our clients. I had to ignore the lies anxiety told me…because not only could I do it, but I damn sure did!
Emily Zeller
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I finally got the courage to start my own therapy business in June! Covid-19 hit and I was working from home, not using the office and finally decided I was tired of getting only 50% of what I could be making, not being my own boss. I gave my notice and went all in with my website! I am now taking the next step and starting different types of online groups to bring more support to my clients.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I feel so empowered and so much happier! I love the freedom I have to set my own hours, create my own business plan and take ownership of what I want in a new way.
Pauline O’Brien
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I went out on my own and encouraged my associates to do the same. It turns out they wanted to stay with me! That’s loyalty!! I reflected on why they wanted to stay and began to focus on what I have to offer. I’ve focused a lot on authentic person branding and have been blasting social media with my message!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
It’s allowed me to connect with other professionals and my practice has grown! I have learned to trust in others and to really appreciate what skills and abilities I have to offer.
Jennifer Glassmire-Policari
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I was working at a University full time in mid-March when everything in my state shut down. I knew I wanted to move toward private practice and so after a few weeks, I hired a nanny to watch the kids in the morning and started working on getting my business together. I launched my practice this week! It’s slow – I haven’t seen a client yet! But I am so happy.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I am happier. I’m less stressed. I feel more balanced in my life. I look forward to putting energy and effort into something that is wholly mine and something I completely believe in. I learned that I can do hard and risky things.
Larissa Malcolm
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
In May 2020, I contracted Covid-19 while working as a therapist at a nursing home. While recuperating, I decided it was time to take a plunge and go into business on my own. I came up with the name “Flourishing Focus”, got a logo designed, applied for an EIN number and an NPI2. I am currently in the process of designing my website – it’s almost finished.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
My business is brand new. I am working on a marketing plan. I am planning to launch my website soon. This is all very exciting. One morning, I woke up and realized, “I work for myself now”. It was an amazing revelation. Some days, I feel very confident that this will be a great new adventure and other days, I feel scared out of my mind that I might not succeed.
Karen E. Carloni
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I joined Synergyetherapy, a multistate on-line group practice and am currently working on refining my niche. I was reminded, yet again, that holding space for exploration, growth and change is what it is all about. I look forward to launching some services geared especially to the needs of medical students and residents.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I am doing some transitioning work now for my website, advertising etc… but I feel as though during Covid-19 I was doing some immersive work that was necessary to breathe life into what I want going forward. I plan to serve a much smaller caseload going forward, create some cohort or information products to help the people that I am passionate about helping.
Marrissa Rhodes
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
Within one month of starting my practice, I had a full case load, that fit into my preferred schedule and all of them paying my full fee! Most of those clients are my ideal clients, within my determined niche, as well. Now that I am about 4 months in, I’ve had some drop offs, but I am consistently able to bring new clients in, and I’m becoming more and more confident that this is sustainable.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
While I still feel uncertain at times, and in many ways I still feel as though I’m “getting my feet underneath me” when it comes to private practice, by taking bold steps, I am beginning to feel very confident in myself and my ability to do even more/dream bigger. I’ve learned that I am capable of a lot of things, even when there are external forces outside of my control.
Lauren N. Perez, LCSW
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I started a private practice! I used this time in quarantine to birth a vision for a private pay practice that allows me to free up time and give to my clients freely, both via therapeutic care and community work. There is no more red tape, just freedom in sharing my healing work and being able to give access across the board.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Starting a practice means stepping into yourself as an individual and a clinician. It helped me grow in self-love and acceptance. I have become better at writing about myself and putting myself out there. I’m definitely proud of what has come of it-spiritually, physically, and in the realm of business.
Amalia Miralrío
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
When my Michigan license got approved, I realized I could either keep working for a third-party company online or I could launch my private practice virtually. As anyone who understands basic math would do, I launched virtually. I’ve been networking via video calls and using social media to try to connect with my new community.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I have learned that I actually don’t mind online therapy at all. I’m shocked. I am dreaming of maintaining a hybrid model that allows me to see clients in person for stretches of time and then traveling for stretches of time and working virtually. There is a lot of freedom and a lot to consider now that this pandemic has forced me to get out of my own way and have a more flexible framework.
Laura Salazar
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I quit my group-practice job and started my own private practice. Many people thought this was a terrible time to quit my job because of the uncertainty of the economy. Some said that people don’t have the money for counseling, and it would be hard to get clients.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
My income increased, my stress level decreased, and I am my own boss! I’ve learned to trust my intuition and get out of environments that don’t seem to fit my life goals, even if it seems like a “bad time” to other people.
Cori Raddigan
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I have worked from a lovely corner in my closet with a bougie Sterlite “desk,” with a really nice shower curtain backdrop from Walmart, a wicked strong hot spot, and a diehard commitment to quality therapy for my clients. The biggest challenge has been marketing myself in a new community in the middle of pandemic. I created a Facebook page, enlisted the help of Social Genie, and I have a whopping 3 followers. Part of what makes me feel like I am still KILLING IT, is that I am NOT DEAD!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
It has changed the vision for my future. What I’ve learned about myself as I’ve taken the plunge is that I am truly courageous. I believe I can do this, despite that inner critic that tries to create self-doubt. I am doing it. Making barely anything, investing more in myself, and NOT GIVING UP or doubting myself.
Akiva Harris
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I was prepared to open my practice on 4/1/2020, and my state shut down around 3/17/2020 due to the pandemic. Initially I was freaked out because it didn’t seem like people were not concerned with coming to therapy at first. Things were slow for the first few months, but eventually the referrals started coming in. I’m so happy to say that I am now booked and busier than ever!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
The biggest change in my life from starting my business is personal and professional freedom. I can run my business the way I want, and client care is always paramount. I now have the potential to make the most money I’ve ever had in my life. Lastly, I can be and do me. Freedom is by far the biggest change in my life.
Rachel Haug
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I officially started on my own as of August 1, and in my first month of practice, I have had 6 new inquiries and 4 conversions of clients, all at full fee. These individuals are on top of the already 6 full-fee clients who are LOYAL to me, so they followed me despite forgoing their insurance benefits. I am so grateful to Amber Lyda, You, and honestly, that clinic owner for giving me one of the best gifts in disguise!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I have learned that I am stronger than I realized. I am more competent, and even confident than I realized otherwise I would not have been able to get licensed independently, form an LLC, and step into solo-preneurship all in 8 months. Though imposter syndrome is real for me, when I really think about this, I am in awe at how I am successfully combating it. And honestly, I’m thriving.
Karissa Mueller
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
This whole year, my husband and I agreed not to pay ourselves anything from my practice until I paid off the business credit card I used to pay for IC and IFS Training. I was this close. Until, I decided to join LIMB, and then promptly got COVID and missed 3 weeks of sessions with clients. Now, September is here and I’m about 6 weeks into LIMB and all my money shit is being exposed and I’m working on it and the clients are coming, the caseload is filling, and it’s happening.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
I see myself differently. It sounds so elementary, but it’s helped me professionally and personally to just realize that what I want IS a possibility – like, truly, it could happen! I feel like I’m not totally adequately able to relate what a shift that is for me internally, but it feels so freeing.
Iyabo Adediran, LPCC
'How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
As an African American therapist, I have always known that I was passionate about dismantling the stigma related to mental health for people of color. However, it wasn’t until the recent increase in blatant racial trauma and health disparities that I decided enough is enough. It is time for me to create my own path and I have decided to start by officially opening a part-time private practice in my area.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
This new journey has allowed me the opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone and the freedom to care for the clients in a way that is culturally sensitive, and trauma informed.
Dana Belletier
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
I’ve used the extra time in 2020 to create a coaching business tailored to create individual plans for helping professionals to get themselves out of student loan debt. I believe that student loan debt keeps us trapped in jobs we don’t like, at salaries that are unsustainable, for way too long. I think financial freedom allows helping professionals to shape the intentional, badass, radical careers (and lives) they deserve, and that’s what I’m wanting to teach others about in this second business!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
My practice continues to be full, and to thrive. Creating this second business has gotten me in touch with my “why” and comes from a different part of me – an angry place that’s fed up with the broken-ness of the helping systems, and desires for more for myself and my colleagues. I like giving voice to this part, and letting it grow something positive and affirming.
Amy Pinnell
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
Once COVID-19 hit, it brought a major shift in the clinic. We cancelled all our groups, and almost all services were provided over the phone. I started to daydream about having a private practice. With all that extra time, I had time to research, and start making steps towards this, even if I still didn’t fully believe it was possible. Finally, I resigned. I feel lighter with each passing day. And also, more terrified. Are you sure? Are you sure? YES! Let’s take the leap and see what is possible!
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
To be honest, I am not sure what this change will enable me to do, as I am still in transition, but I cannot wait to find out. My hope is to create a community who is passionate about emotional resilience and self-love. I learned that avoiding all risks is not the way that I want to live my life. I want to be brave, take chances, chase dreams, fall down many times along the way, and keep growing.
Laura Wu
How did you change or add to your business during the pandemic?
When the pandemic hit, I decided to temporarily relocate to CA where I was raised. Unfortunately, moving home turned out to be the least peaceful option. My next-door neighbor has slowly descended into psychosis over the past three years. So, I started community organizing. Now, our community representatives are working with their constituents to find a long-term solution so we can help our unwell neighbor.
How did this change help your business and/or personal life?
Community organizing has significantly impacted my personal life. This has given me an opportunity to learn and grow personally and as a clinician. I learned that with hard work and determination, it is possible to impact large-scale change with the help of your community. While this is still a work in progress, I finally feel optimistic.
Wow, what a list.
Sometimes it’s hard to see past all the bullshit we deal with, and 2020 really did a number on most of us both personally and professionally.
I’m honored to be able to share these therapists’ stories with you, and I hope that you feel inspired, encouraged, and driven to go after your goals. You CAN do this.
And if you want help along the way, I’d love to be your guide. Connect with me today – join my email list down below, add me on Facebook, subscribe to my Youtube channel, and get on the waitlist for my flagship program, Your Badass Therapy Practice, which opens for enrollment in January 2021.
Let’s do this thing.
