The Practice of Therapy Podcast with Gordon Brewer

Gordon Brewer, MEd, LMFT: Therapist | Consultant | Writer | Speaker

This podcast is here for therapists, counselors, social workers, psychotherapists, and mental health clinicians in their practice journeys. I'm Gordon Brewer and the person behind The Practice of Therapy Blog and Website that provides tools, resources and advice for people starting, growing or expanding their private practices. The podcast will help you learn from other experts in the field to move your private practice forward to success. The Practice of Therapy Podcast is part of the PsychCraft Network of Podcasts; PsychCraft, LLC read less
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Episodes

Kasey Compton | Journey to Self-Understanding: Insights for Private Practice Success | TPOT 326
5d ago
Kasey Compton | Journey to Self-Understanding: Insights for Private Practice Success | TPOT 326
Kasey Compton is on a mission to help business owners find their entrepreneurial confidence. She went from bankrupt to Boss Babe when she took her first company from zero to three million in less than three years without ditching her life to do it. She owns three other businesses that have accumulated assets of over two million and are growing by the day.  Her superpowers include cutting through the clutter to identify a strategic starting point, increasing efficiency through systems, and tapping into a person’s highest potential. She helps others by designing maps for their entrepreneurial journeys while she stands confidently as their guide. On The Practice of Therapy Podcast, Kasey Compton dives into her transformative journey outlined in her book, "In Search of You: How to Find Joy When Doing More Isn't Doing It Anymore." She candidly shares her experiences of over-functioning, driven by a quest for success and financial independence, which ultimately left her feeling unfulfilled. Through introspection and a deep dive into her past, Kasey discovered the importance of reconnecting with her inner self and reassessing her priorities. Her book serves as a guide for others seeking balance and fulfillment, offering insights into the therapeutic power of writing and reflection and strategies for navigating personal and professional challenges. Kasey's story is not just one of self-discovery, but also resilience and growth. Tune in as we chat about 'Meet You in Kentucky.’ Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get two months of Therapy Notes free Start Consulting with GordonThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityInstagram Mental Health TemplatesMental Health WearBe A Podcast GuestKasey's WebsiteKasey on FacebookKasey on InstagramIn Search of You: How To Find Joy When Doing More Isn't Doing It AnymoreMeet You In Kentucky 2024Back Porch Bestie Podcast
Dr. Connor McClenahan | Crafting Client-Centered Profiles: An Approach to Authentic Engagement | TPOT 324
Apr 1 2024
Dr. Connor McClenahan | Crafting Client-Centered Profiles: An Approach to Authentic Engagement | TPOT 324
Dr. Connor McClenahan founded Here Counseling, which provides a membership model for private practice so therapists can run their own private practices independently while benefiting from group resources. Dr. McClenahan runs a private practice in Los Angeles and Pasadena and has taught, coached, and written on digital marketing for therapists. His new 100-page workbook helps therapists build a strategic marketing plan and grow their practices. In this episode, Dr. McClenahan dives into the delicate balance private practice owners face between self-doubt and sincere empathy. Advocating for a mindful approach, he underscores the significance of reconnecting with the empathetic core to foster effective client engagement. Dr. McClenahan champions authenticity and resonance by emphasizing empathy in marketing endeavors and encouraging private practice owners to visualize and connect with clients on a profound level. Tune in as Dr. McClenahan presents a methodical strategy for composing client-centered profile pages, emphasizing understanding clients' desires and obstacles, showcasing the practitioner's ability to help, and concluding with a message of hope to foster empowerment and motivation. Resources Mentioned In This Episode:  Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes free Start Consulting with GordonThe PsychCraft NetworkMental Health WearBe A Podcast GuestThe Practice of Therapy CommunityA Therapist's Guide to Digital MarketingHere Counseling
Carla Titus | Financial Foundations for Private Practice | TPOT 322
Mar 18 2024
Carla Titus | Financial Foundations for Private Practice | TPOT 322
Carla Titus is a finance expert with over 15 years of combined corporate financial planning, analysis, strategy, and online businesses experience. She provides fractional CFO services and financial consulting to business owners looking to grow their business profitably. Her priorities for her clients are to help them grow profits, have cash in the bank, and pay themselves well so they can build personal wealth. The journey to financial success in any business requires a solid foundation and forward-thinking strategies. Carla, a seasoned financial advisor, emphasizes the critical role of robust bookkeeping and accounting practices as the cornerstone of this foundation. With expertise honed through years of guiding businesses, she underscores the necessity of having competent professionals on board to ensure financial integrity and develop effective tax strategies. Carla highlights the proactive nature of financial planning, advocating for clear goals and actionable plans. She emphasizes the importance of setting realistic benchmarks, monitoring key performance indicators, and optimizing cost structures to achieve sustainable growth and profitability. Tune in as Carla dives into the intricacies of strategic financial planning, profit optimization, operational efficiency, and clinician compensation; her insights serve as a comprehensive blueprint for navigating the complexities of business finance and securing long-term success. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes free Start Consulting with GordonThe Practice of Therapy CollaborativeThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityCarla's WebsiteCarla on FacebookCarla on InstagramCarla on LinkedInCarla on TikTok
Kristie Plantinga | A Guide to Effective Digital Marketing Tactics in Private Practice | TPOT 320
Mar 4 2024
Kristie Plantinga | A Guide to Effective Digital Marketing Tactics in Private Practice | TPOT 320
Kristie Plantinga is a mental health nerd, writer, and marketer living in Colorado. She is the founder of TherapieSEO—a marketing agency serving therapists and coaches—and Best Therapists—a therapist directory that vets therapists so therapy-seekers can focus on fit, not quality. When she’s not writing about mental health and dreaming up creative content strategies, Kristie can be found snuggling her multiple terriers, sipping a homemade dirty chai, and half-helping her husband cook Lebanese food. This episode is all about navigating the evolving landscape of digital marketing. Kristie emphasizes the impact of AI integration, the importance of adapting strategies to meet changing user behaviors, and the shift towards quality content and ethical practices. She outlines a strategic change toward enhancing therapists' individual reputations and introduces the Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trust (EEAT) framework as a roadmap for digital presence optimization. Kristie also discusses the significance of resilience in facing marketing challenges and the role of Google ads, SEO, and directories in achieving visibility. Kristie advocates for staying informed, auditing services, and embracing innovative approaches to stay ahead in the dynamic digital marketing realm. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes freeThe Practice of Therapy Collaborative (use code “collab24”) Start Consulting with GordonThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityInstagram Mental Health TemplatesMental Health Wear (use code POT24)TherapieSEOBest TherapistsKristie on LinkedIn
Malka Shaw | Combating Anti-Semitism: Strategies for Therapists in Private Practice | TPOT 319
Feb 26 2024
Malka Shaw | Combating Anti-Semitism: Strategies for Therapists in Private Practice | TPOT 319
Malka is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey, New York, and Florida. She has been in the mental health field for over 25 years and has successfully run her private practice for the last 15 years. In response to the events of October 7th and the ongoing situation, Malka Shaw, LCSW and Stacey Shapiro, LCSW, have co-founded the Kesher Shalom Project. This initiative, led by seasoned trauma specialists, has trained over 2000 therapists globally. Their training equips therapists with vital tools to aid Jewish clients during the conflict, covering trauma assessments, practical techniques, and understanding Jewish competency through a trauma-focused lens, as well as addressing intergenerational trauma and the pervasive impact of anti-Semitism. Kesher Shalom plans to extend its impact by offering specialized workshops and groups for non-clinical audiences. We cover various aspects of Jewish identity, misconceptions about Zionism, advocacy for Jewish rights and diversity, supporting Jewish clients through trauma, navigating anti-Semitism in therapy, and cultivating empathy in therapy. Malka eloquently discusses the correlation between anti-Semitism and racism, clarifies the meaning of Zionism, criticizes misconceptions about anti-Zionism, and emphasizes the importance of combating all forms of anti-Semitism. She also reflects on the role of therapists in providing a safe space for clients, discusses the impact of prejudice on therapy, and advocates for cultural sensitivity and compassion in therapeutic practices. Overall, we chat about the complexities of Jewish identity and the importance of empathy, validation, and understanding in addressing the unique experiences of Jewish individuals. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes free Start Consulting with GordonThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityKesher ShalomKesher Shalom NewsletterMalka ShawFollow Malka on LinkedIn
Jason Frishman | Presence and Mindfulness: Balancing Work and Family | TPOT 318
Feb 19 2024
Jason Frishman | Presence and Mindfulness: Balancing Work and Family | TPOT 318
Jason has been working for over 20 years to support individuals, groups, families, organizations, and businesses. Jason is excited to bring over two decades of work in offices, institutions, kitchens, farmers’ markets, woodlots, and boardrooms to wild new environments. Whether as a psychotherapist, the creator and founder of JourneyMen, public speaker, thought leader, or narrative consultant, Jason believes that our lives are adventurous, and we can and should be active, engaged authors of our own adventure stories! In this episode, Jason critiques the societal norms that suppress male sensitivity and emotions, advocating for a broader range of narratives that reflect diverse human experiences. Jason emphasizes the importance of presence and mindfulness in navigating societal expectations, particularly for men balancing work and family life. He calls for a reimagining of masculinity and fatherhood within broader social narratives and encourages individuals to craft their own stories. Ultimately, Jason highlights the power of storytelling and agency in shaping our lives and invites others to engage with his work. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes freeThe PsychCraft Network Start Consulting with GordonThe Practice of Therapy CommunityInstagram Mental Health TemplatesMental Health Wear (use code POT24)Jason’s WebsiteJason on LinkedInJason on FacebookJason on Instagram
Ashley Darnall | Digital Marketing Success in Private Practice | TPOT 317
Feb 12 2024
Ashley Darnall | Digital Marketing Success in Private Practice | TPOT 317
Ashley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and mental health copywriter for therapists. In her professional work as a clinician, Ashley has experience with in-patient counseling and case management, outpatient counseling, and medical and insurance practice. In the realm of SEO and private practice, the importance of user experience is often overlooked, leading therapists to rush into website setup without addressing essential business aspects. This mistake stems from a lack of business education during clinical training. To enhance online visibility, therapists must define their ideal client, avoiding generic content that fails to connect. The transition from academic writing to a conversational tone is crucial, with Ashley emphasizing simplicity and clarity. In the SEO landscape, she advocates for a basic level of optimization, simplifying the process by breaking it into keywords, strategic copywriting, and technical precision. Ashley empowers therapists to navigate SEO's overwhelming nature, encouraging them to focus on foundational principles for a well-performing website. Through one-on-one interactions, she dispels the intimidation surrounding SEO, fostering a belief that, with basic knowledge, therapists can independently implement strategies, eliminating the need for recurring expenses. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes free Start Consulting with GordonThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityInstagram Mental Health TemplatesMental Health Wear (use code POT24)Ashley’s WebsiteAshley’s Instagram
Jennifer McGurk | Pursuing Private Practice: Insights From a Dietician | TPOT 316
Feb 5 2024
Jennifer McGurk | Pursuing Private Practice: Insights From a Dietician | TPOT 316
Jennifer McGurk RDN, CDN, CEDS-S is the founder and CEO of Pursuing Private Practice. She began her career in business as a dietitian in private practice. She grew her private practice into a group practice and eventually expanded into speaking, offering workshops, and supervising other professionals. In this episode, Jennifer guides us in overcoming imposter syndrome and navigating the complexities of private practice, promoting diversified offerings beyond one-on-one sessions for a broader impact in the field. Her career in dietetics has undergone a significant transformation from a weight-centric approach to becoming a passionate advocate for anti-diets and holistic well-being. Her journey, shaped by continuous learning and client interactions, highlights the limitations of traditional diets and champions a weight-inclusive perspective. As a committed advocate for eating disorder treatment and recovery, Jennifer emphasizes the interconnected elements of mental health, genetics, environment, and brain function. Transitioning from a clinician to the business world, she stresses the multifaceted nature of recovery, challenging linear progressions, and advocating for a comprehensive treatment team. Jennifer addresses the need for early exposure to business concepts in dietetics education, encouraging an entrepreneurial mindset from the outset of one's career. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes freeThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityMental Health Wear (use code POT24) Consulting With GordonPursuing Private PracticeJennifer on InstagramJennifer on Facebook Pursuing Private Practice PodcastJennifer on LinkedIn
Stefani Cohen | Getting Really Niche Specific: A Tale of Overcoming Fears | TPOT 314
Jan 22 2024
Stefani Cohen | Getting Really Niche Specific: A Tale of Overcoming Fears | TPOT 314
EmBARK on a transformative journey with Stefani Cohen as we chat about “Overcoming Your Child's Fear of Dogs." Stefani shares the heartfelt story of her daughter Becky's unexpected fear of dogs, navigating a landscape void of resources. Through the prism of exposure therapy, Stefani witnessed Becky's remarkable transformation, sparking a commitment to extend her expertise to a wider audience. Stefani authored a comprehensive guide aimed at parents, therapists, dog trainers, grandparents, and dog enthusiasts.  We dive into the book's core components, emphasizing education about dog behavior and the empowering journey of reclaiming control over fears. Join Stefani in uncovering the importance of educating children on safe dog interactions, cultivating curiosity, and practicing mindfulness. Discover her holistic approach to exposure therapy, encouraging individuals to become "detectives" in understanding canine behavior. From practical tips on meeting dogs for the first time to advocating for good manners in both dogs and children, Stefani's insights resonate with anyone seeking harmonious relationships between children and our beloved canine companions. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes freeThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityInstagram Mental Health TemplatesMental Health Wear (use code POT24)Stefani’s WebsiteStefani on FacebookStefani on InstagramStefani on LinkedIn Overcoming Your Child's Fear of Dogs: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents
Susanne Mariga | Strategies for Long-Term Prosperity in Private Practice | TPOT 313
Jan 15 2024
Susanne Mariga | Strategies for Long-Term Prosperity in Private Practice | TPOT 313
Susanne Mariga is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Tax Coach specializing in business and personal tax planning.  In the realm of private practice, Susanne brings a wealth of insight to the table, emphasizing the significance of Mindful Money Mastery. Reflecting on her own transformative journey as a profit-first professional and coach, Susanne underscores the need for business owners, particularly in service-driven fields, to redefine success individually. Passionate about service, she champions aligning thoughts, behaviors, and feelings with financial goals, asserting that building wealth can harmoniously coexist with a sense of purpose. Susanne advocates for a mindful approach, urging practitioners to visualize their desired outcomes and craft a roadmap toward financial success while staying faithful to their calling. As we navigate Susanne's narratives—from the impactful lessons learned through shoebox receipts to the intricacies of tax optimization and retirement planning—it becomes evident that her insights are about financial acumen and cultivating a resilient and purpose-driven financial mindset for long-term prosperity. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes freeThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityInstagram Mental Health TemplatesMental Health Wear (use code POT24)Full Focus PlannerYouTube Series: Love & LossProfit First: Target Allocation Percentages (TAPs)Susanne’s WebsiteSusanne on InstagramSusanne on XSusanne on FacebookSusanne on LinkedInSusanne’s Podcast Profit First For Minority Business EnterprisesProfit FirstProfit First for Therapists
Jim LaPierre | Navigating Imposter Syndrome in Private Practice | TPOT 309
Dec 11 2023
Jim LaPierre | Navigating Imposter Syndrome in Private Practice | TPOT 309
Jim LaPierre LCSW, CCS is a seasoned mental health clinician who specializes in recovery from trauma and substance use disorder. Jim identifies as a wounded healer and a work in progress. He spends his days with fellow social misfits, helping them transform their lives. Jim & his wife Brigitte own and operate an outpatient client in Brewer, Maine. In this episode of The Practice of Therapy, we navigate the intricate terrain of imposter syndrome, delve into the raw reflections on authenticity and compassion in mental health training, and uncover the often-neglected reality of self-care in the profession. Jim, a seasoned therapist, shares his invaluable insights on imposter syndrome, emphasizing its roots in the multifaceted journey of overcoming challenges. The narrative challenges misconceptions surrounding this phenomenon, shedding light on its universal nature that can manifest at various career stages. Jim's candid reflections on authenticity and compassion expose the pitfalls of conventional professional training, urging a shift towards a more genuine and compassionate approach for clinicians. As we conclude, Jim calls for fostering vulnerability within the mental health profession, emphasizing the pivotal role of supportive networks and honest dialogues in navigating the challenges of toxic work environments. This episode provides a holistic perspective, encouraging clinicians to embrace their identity, overcome challenges, and prioritize self-care for a fulfilling and resilient career in mental health. Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes freeTry JotformThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityInstagram Mental Health TemplatesMental Health Wear Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: for Healers & Helpers A Guide for Wounded HealersJim’s WebsiteEmail Jim: counseling@roadrunner.com
Sarah Almendariz Rivera | The Transformative Power of Community Support: Private Practice Lessons | TPOT 307
Nov 28 2023
Sarah Almendariz Rivera | The Transformative Power of Community Support: Private Practice Lessons | TPOT 307
Sarah Almendariz Rivera is a San Antonio, Texas native, born and raised. She graduated with a Master of Arts in Counseling from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2009. She spent the next eight years working in non-profits and larger community mental health agencies. She launched into a solo private practice in 2017 and did tons of things wrong! After getting a little wind under her sails, she transitioned into a self-pay group private practice, La Luz Counseling, in 2020 to help keep up with the mental health needs during COVID-19.  In this episode, Sarah speaks about the defining traits that set mental health professionals apart, emphasizing their innate love for learning and unyielding independence. Join us as we explore the collective enthusiasm within the profession for continuous education, from reading and documentaries to podcasts. Sarah dives into her personal journey of reflection, mistakes, and second chances in business ownership, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. She also shares her experiences in seeking guidance, community support's transformative power, and mentorship's vital role in navigating the complexities of business ownership. Resources Mentioned In This Episode Use the promo code "GORDON" to get 2 months of Therapy Notes freeTry JotformThe PsychCraft NetworkThe Practice of Therapy CommunityInstagram Mental Health TemplatesMental Health WearSarah's WebsiteSarah on LinkedIn