• Ep 144: Postpartum Mental Health: How Postpartum Support International Helps Moms and Therapists
    2026/03/16
    How Postpartum Support International Empowers Moms & Clinicians Navigating Perinatal Mental HealthThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is designed for therapists, mothers, and anyone supporting parents through the perinatal and postpartum journey. If you’re a private practice therapist, a mom struggling silently, or someone passionate about supporting healthy families, you’ll find actionable insights and relatable, heartfelt wisdom here.As someone who’s both a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health and a mom who’s personally navigated postpartum anxiety and depression, I know just how critical the right support—and the right resources—can be. Sometimes, that support looks like finding the right therapist or training to serve your clients better. Other times, it’s knowing you’re not alone and that what you’re experiencing is both normal and valid.This episode deep-dives into the invaluable work of Postpartum Support International (PSI), sharing my story and practical strategies to connect with help—whether you’re a mom, a clinician, or a supportive friend.Let’s dig in, share some honest truths, and remember we don’t have to do this alone.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodePersonal Story & Validation: Why lived experience with postpartum challenges matters—and what it means to move from surviving to seeking support.All About Postpartum Support International: What PSI offers to moms, families, and professionals, and why their resources are an absolute must-know.Steps for Clinicians & Moms: How to get specialized training, build a stronger support network, and access free, accessible help—no matter where you are in your journey.Episode Timestamps00:02 - Introduction to the Therapist Mom Podcast and the power of honest, strategic conversations about motherhood and practice-building.00:46 - What is Podcastathon 2026? Why we’re spotlighting nonprofits and how PSI personally and professionally changed my own journey.02:18 - Personal postpartum mental health story—when anxiety and depression show up differently than what you learned in grad school.05:28 - Facing postpartum struggles as a therapist mom, and how Postpartum Support International’s resources filled the gaps.14:44 - Practical PSI resources: helplines, directories, support groups for moms, partners, and clinicians.18:21 - Why specialization and training in perinatal mental health matters for providers, and how PSI helps you grow.22:31 - The intersection of systemic support, personal healing, and policy advocacy for families navigating postpartum challenges.Top Takeaways on Postpartum Mental Health & Support1. Understanding Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Isn’t Always TextbookIf you’re working with (or are) a parent in the postpartum period, know that perinatal depression and anxiety can look and feel different than “classic” clinical depression and anxiety. My own experience as a licensed therapist didn’t immunize me from these challenges—in fact, it took me years (and three kids!) to recognize and give myself permission to seek the right help. If you’re struggling, there is no shame, and you are not alone.2. Postpartum Support International (PSI) Is a Game-Changer ResourceI can’t overstate how essential PSI is—whether you’re a mom seeking community or a clinician wanting to do right by your clients. Their free offerings include:Directories to help you find specialized therapists, prescribers, doulas, and lactation consultantsSupport groups for mothers, dads, partners, and diverse communitiesConsultation and certification opportunities for professionals (where you can earn your Perinatal Mental Health Certification)Crisis lines and warm lines for immediate and ongoing helpAccess doesn’t have to be complicated. Bookmark PSI now—whether it’s for you or someone in your orbit who’ll need it later.3. Specialized Training Isn’t Optional Anymore (and That’s Okay!)Most of us didn’t get adequate perinatal mental health training in grad school, and that’s not your fault. What matters is acknowledging that, seeking out PSI’s excellent (and often affordable) CE opportunities, and referring out when needed. There’s no room for gatekeeping in this space—our clients (and colleagues) thrive when we collaborate.What Not To Do:Don’t convince yourself you can “just wing it” if you’re feeling over your head (as a mom or a clinician).Don’t keep silent about your struggles—community, not isolation, is where the healing starts.Don’t forget about partners and fathers—postpartum depression and anxiety touch them, too.Resources Mentioned in This EpisodePostpartum Support International (PSI) Main SitePSI Provider DirectoryPSI Support GroupsJoin us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just ...
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    29 分
  • Ep 143: Private Practice Marketing: Why Your Website Is Non-Negotiable
    2026/03/09
    Building Your Private Practice Website with Autonomy and ClarityThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you build a website for your private practice that actually aligns with your life as a mom and clinician. If you’ve been struggling with unclear messaging, inconsistent referrals, or feeling stuck marketing yourself on “borrowed space,” you’re in the right place.As someone who’s navigated raising kids, military moves, and growing a private practice (all without burning out), I know firsthand how transformative having an intentional, owned digital presence can be. This episode is for you if you want practical strategies, gentle encouragement, and the kind of honest conversation that lets you actually breathe as a therapist and a mom. I share my own mistakes and lessons learned—think of it like a coffee chat with your friend who’s a little further down the road and rooting for you every step of the way.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy a Website Is Non-Negotiable: Discover why your website is your foundation—not just another marketing tactic.How Messaging and Clarity Protect Your Energy: Learn how clear messaging helps clients self-select, saving you time, protecting your income, and reducing burnout.Practical Website Strategy for Moms: Get actionable advice on building your site simply, affordably, and in a way that truly reflects your practice and your life.Episode Timestamps00:02 - Introduction to website importance and building practice your way00:58 - Why a website gives you autonomy and ownership in your private practice02:00 - The danger of relying only on directories and social platforms03:00 - How your website lets you set your terms and speak directly to your ideal client05:00 - Common reasons therapists feel uncomfortable showcasing their work online07:00 - Why your website is the hub for all your other marketing efforts09:00 - How clear messaging creates connection and saves you time11:00 - Your website’s role in protecting your energy, caseload, and income13:00 - Mistakes therapists make with websites and the power of niche-specific language15:00 - How SEO helps clients find you—without expensive designers or branding suites21:00 - Details on my upcoming live website audit workshop23:00 - Encouragement to start building your site—no perfection requiredTop Takeaways on Therapist Mom Private Practice Websites1. Autonomy Matters More Than “Pretty”Let’s break this down: Your website is the one digital asset you truly own. Unlike social media profiles or directories, you control the messaging, branding, and client journey. As Ashley Comegys shares, relying on borrowed spaces (like Psychology Today or VC-backed platforms) puts your business at risk if those platforms change or disappear. Having your own site means stability, clarity, and the ability to design your practice to support your real life—not someone else’s template.Relatable Story: When I first built my site, I obsessed over making it beautiful. But what changed my practice? Clear messaging and specificity—making it a true resource for potential clients, not just an online resume.2. Messaging That Protects Your Time and EnergyHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: Define your niche and speak directly to those clients.Step 2: Create specific pages for each service, using keywords your clients actually search for (Hint: try tools like Keywords Everywhere).Step 3: Make next steps clear—what should a visitor do when they land on your site? Book, call, fill out a form?Pro Tip: Start small. Even a single webpage with clarity is better than waiting until you can build something “perfect.” Refine as you grow.3. Avoid These Website PitfallsWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do when applying this strategy:Mistake 1: Writing vague or generic copy (“I help everyone with everything”).Mistake 2: Over-focusing on yourself—credentials, background, why you got into the field—versus centering the client’s needs and what they’re searching for.Mistake 3: Thinking you need expensive designers or branding suites to launch. You don’t!Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeWebsite Audit Workshop April 17Squarespace – Recommended for easy website buildingKeywords Everywhere – For SEO keyword researchIf you’re a therapist mom ready for autonomy, clarity, and a practice on your terms, this episode is your permission slip. Take up space, own your assets, and build a website that supports the life you actually want. And if you want hands-on help, join us April 17 for the Website Audit Workshop. www.raisedtoempower.com/auditJoin us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://...
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    26 分
  • Ep 142: Building a Private Practice as a Mom in a Patriarchal World
    2026/03/02
    Building a Private Practice as a Woman & Mom: Strategies for Fighting the Patriarchy in Therapy BusinessThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with fresh, real-world insights to help you build a flexible, values-driven private practice as a mom and business owner. If you’ve been struggling with the guilt and overwhelm of trying to “do it all”—grow your practice, be present for your family, and not get lost in the hustle—this episode is truly for you.As someone who’s spent years navigating the intersection of private practice, motherhood, and all the pressures that come with being a woman in today’s world, I know that small, strategic shifts can lead to big, liberating changes. If you’re ready for an honest look at building a business that puts your needs and values first (while naming the hard stuff about motherhood and the broken systems that make it harder), you’re in just the right place.Let’s dig into the story and strategies I share in honor of the podcast turning three, the start of Women’s History Month, and why I see building a private practice as an act of resistance.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeCelebrating Women’s Achievements: How the podcast’s anniversary and Women’s History Month inspired me to share about lifting each other up as women—and why that matters now more than ever.The “Patriarchy Problem” in Private Practice and Motherhood: Why the systems weren’t built for us…and how private practice creates room for real autonomy.Community & Connection as Resistance: The importance of finding (and creating) community, with practical details on upcoming events for therapist moms.Episode Timestamps00:02 – Welcome to The Therapist Mom Podcast—building private practice while navigating motherhood and broken systems.00:31 – Voice update, unscripted episode, and celebrating our third podcast birthday and the launch during Women’s History Month.02:20 – Olympics recap, women’s vs. men’s hockey, and why national narratives about women’s success still frustrate and trigger us.05:25 – Growing up as an ‘80s baby: school, sexism, “feminazi” labels, and early experiences that shaped my advocacy.13:03 – Why private practice is my answer to the patriarchy—and how it allows us to build the life and business we actually want.15:18 – Community as the antidote: my commitment to supporting other women and the announcement of new networking events.20:10 – How to sign up for our first therapist mom networking event, and a call to share your own stories of resilience.Top Takeaways on Building a Values-Driven Private Practice as a Mom1. Challenging the Patriarchy by Building Your Own PracticeLet’s break this down: The traditional ways we’re told to “do work” simply weren’t made for women, especially moms. The 9-to-5, the lack of flexibility, the unspoken narratives about what good mothers and good professionals “should” do—it’s all part of a larger, broken system. Starting and shaping a private practice is more than business ownership—it’s an act of saying, “I get to decide what my life and work look like.” This hit me hard as I shared about the Olympics controversy: when wins by women are treated as secondary, it’s a stark reminder that the world hasn’t caught up yet. But we don’t have to wait for it to.2. Create Community, Not CompetitionHere’s how you start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: Join a like-minded community (I’m re-launching free networking events for therapist moms—details in the episode).Step 2: Show up and be real. Whether you’re thriving or struggling, sharing honestly builds genuine support.Step 3: Pro tip—don’t be afraid to ask for what you need (resources, encouragement, or just someone to vent to). We empower each other.3. What NOT to Do When Claiming Autonomy in Business & MotherhoodWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:Mistake 1: Believing you have to choose between being a good mom and having a fulfilling career.Mistake 2: Trying to fit your life into a system that was never designed to serve you (or fit anyone, really!).Mistake 3: Isolating yourself or thinking you must go it alone. We need each other—community is resistance.Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeJoin us March 13, 2026 12pm EST/11am CST via Zoom for a free therapist mom networking event. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networkingJoin us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking💻 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period⭐️ ...
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    24 分
  • Ep 141: Is Now a Good Time to Start a Private Practice as a Therapist?
    2026/02/23
    Should You Start a Private Practice Now? Navigating Therapy Trends, Burnout, and Big Tech in 2026This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you weigh whether now is the right time to start your own therapy private practice—even in the midst of big tech disruption, insurance headaches, and collective burnout. If you’ve been losing sleep over questions like, “Is it even possible to launch a practice in this climate?” or feeling stuck on how to confidently chart your own path outside of big box platforms, you’re exactly where you need to be.As a therapist, coach, mom, and someone who’s navigated both agency work and private practice (while juggling all the things—kids, military moves, and meltdowns), I know first-hand that clarity, community, and simple strategy can make all the difference. In this episode, I’m breaking down the realities of today’s therapy landscape with warmth and honesty—so you can make informed decisions without the pressure or the fluff.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeUnderstanding the Impact of Big Tech Platforms: Why BetterHelp, Talkspace, and other corporate-backed therapy options are everywhere—and how to think about your role (and value) in an overcrowded market.Practical Strategies for Building a Values-Driven Practice: How to prioritize your own autonomy, decide on a niche, set fees, and build relationship-based referrals in a way that fits your real life, not someone else’s playbook.Mindset Shifts to Move Past Fear and Burnout: Actionable steps (and tough truths) on choosing between employment with therapy platforms versus fully owning your unique, flexible practice—and why it’s okay to start small or change course.Episode Timestamps00:02 Introduction—acknowledging the anxiety and uncertainty in today’s world for therapists and moms considering private practice.02:15 The rise of big tech therapy platforms and what it means for new solo practitioners.06:20 Why you’re not actually “competing” with big box therapy companies (and where you DO fit into the market).10:20 How to carve your niche, get clear on your values, and create a practice that fits your life and clients’ real needs.14:50 Understanding the difference in autonomy, compensation, and control between working for a platform and building your own business.20:24 Mindset work: making big decisions from a place of clarity, not fear—and practical resources to help you start.Top Takeaways on Starting a Private Practice in 20261. Navigating Big Tech’s Impact on TherapyLet’s break this down: The therapy field is flooded with venture-backed platforms plastering ads everywhere. They dominate Google rankings—not because they’re better, but because they’re paying for visibility. While it can feel intimidating, remember: their business model is about scale and corporate profit, not personal connection. Your superpower as an individual provider? Real relationships, unique expertise, and genuine connection that clients are craving.2. Building a Values-Driven, Niche PracticeHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: Decide on the population you want to serve and get crystal clear on your niche, even if it feels scary (trust me, it’s less risky than being a generalist in today’s saturated market).Step 2: Focus on relationship-based referrals. Use real-life connections and strategic networking over paid ads or crowded directories. (Grab my free Comprehensive Connecting Networking Guide—link below—for plug-and-play scripts!)Step 3: Pro tip—Start from your needs, not industry “shoulds.” Get clear on your personal take-home income requirements, structure your fees accordingly, and design your practice to fit your life (not the other way around).3. Avoid These Common Pitfalls When Starting Your PracticeWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:Mistake 1: Chasing every shiny object, new marketing trend, or trying to mimic big tech therapy companies.Mistake 2: Getting paralyzed by fear of “doing it wrong.” It’s better to take small, intentional steps and course-correct as needed.Mistake 3: Relying solely on directories or platform referrals—those assets and relationships aren’t really yours. Focus on building your own.Resources Mentioned in This EpisodePrivate Practice Blueprint Workbook (free, to start mapping your goals and structure)Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking💻 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period⭐️ Follow on Instagram @...
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    23 分
  • Ep 140: Should Therapists Add a New State License? What Therapists Need to Consider First
    2026/02/16
    Should You Add Another State License to Your Therapy Practice? Strategic Insights for Therapist MomsThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you make confident, strategic decisions about expanding your private practice by adding another state license. If you’ve been feeling stuck, worried about inconsistent referrals, or wondering whether expanding into a new state is the right move for your business and your family, you’re in the right place.As someone who’s carried multiple state licenses (thanks to my military spouse journey), I know firsthand how tempting it can be to pursue “growth” by adding another license — especially when you’re feeling scarcity, pressure, or uncertainty about your current practice. But I also know the invisible work, unexpected costs, and cultural realities that shape whether this move actually serves you well. Today, I'm sharing everything I wish I'd known (and what I've learned through five moves and five state boards!) so you can approach this decision with clarity and confidence.It’s okay to press pause, regroup, and get clear on your reasons before jumping in. Let’s dive into the good stuff!What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeLegal & Regulatory Essentials: Why understanding each state's licensing laws (and ethical responsibilities) is critical.Marketing Strategy Reality: How to fill your practice without simply expanding geographically — and why adding a license isn’t a magic fix.Financial & Administrative Impact: The real costs (in money and time!) of holding multiple licenses, and how to weigh these against your practice goals.Episode Timestamps00:02 - Honest intro and why therapists feel pressure to add state licenses for practice growth.01:09 - Behind-the-scenes look at licensing, online therapy rules, and COVID-era flexibility.03:04 - Why I have multiple licenses (military moves, continuity of care) — and why that doesn’t mean you should.06:15 - The marketing myth: Why expanding your license isn’t the solution if you struggle with referrals.08:03 - What are state licensing compacts? How new regulatory changes could impact your decision.11:00 - Becoming a telehealth registered agent — when this might make sense instead of a full license.13:01 - Four key questions to ask yourself before adding another license: Legal, market, financial, admin.17:22 - Strategic reflection: Why, when, and how to decide if another license fits your real life and business goals.Top Takeaways on Adding Another State License1. Understand the Legal & Ethical Responsibility Before ExpandingLet’s break this down: Each state comes with its own board, regulations, CEU requirements, consent laws, and sometimes unique cultural norms. If you jump into another license without clarity, you could find yourself overwhelmed, out of compliance, or stuck with more paperwork than clients. When my own practice expanded via necessity (hello, military moves), I discovered how layers of responsibility multiply. Don’t underestimate the invisible admin work!Maybe you’re in Louisiana, but thinking about Hawaii? Ask yourself — do you understand the culture, climate, and local laws? Why would someone in that state choose you over a local therapist?2. Marketing Strategy Matters More Than GeographyHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: Audit your current marketing. Are you targeting an actual niche, or just the state at large? Building visibility locally (even virtually) is key.Step 2: Foster referral relationships. Are you connected with community stakeholders and other clinicians where your ideal clients live?Step 3: Pro tip: Before expanding, make sure your systems for client attraction are working where you’re already licensed. Adding a license won’t fix a broken marketing strategy.3. Weigh Financial and Administrative Costs — Don’t Just Assume GrowthWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:Mistake 1: Don’t add a new license out of fear or comparison — pause and reflect on what you really need to solve.Mistake 2: Don’t forget to count costs! Licensing fees, renewals, CEUs, background checks, admin time — it adds up fast.Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking💻 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period⭐️ Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower⭐️ Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE⭐️ Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.comYou don’t ...
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    24 分
  • Ep 139: How to Keep Therapy Clients: Setting Session Frequency and Expectations Early
    2026/02/09
    How to Set Client Session Expectations for Better Retention & Clinical OutcomesThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is all about a question I hear from so many fellow therapist moms: “How do I set up my schedule so I can actually fill my caseload and support clients in a way that’s truly therapeutic?” If you’ve noticed new clients asking for biweekly or monthly appointments—and you’re left wondering how to build momentum or retain them long-term—this episode is especially for you.As someone who’s built a private practice while raising three kids (which means I’m no stranger to chaos, time crunches, and redefining what “success” looks like), I know these early struggles in private practice are often less about your skills and more about structure and expectations. In this episode, I’ll break down my approach to setting clear and compassionate expectations around session frequency, why weekly sessions matter (especially at the start), and practical ways to set boundaries that serve both you and your clients.If you want more consistency in your schedule, stronger clinical outcomes, and less stress around rescheduling and retention, keep reading—or hit play on this week’s episode!What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy session structure matters (and isn’t a lack of compassion):How setting expectations for session frequency actually supports your clients and protects your energy.The script I use with every new client:Step-by-step guidance on what to say in the consult or intake so clients understand the value and purpose behind weekly appointments.Building a practice that’s sustainable for you:Why it’s okay (and important!) to structure your practice for predictability and work-life harmony—while still empowering client choice.Episode Timestamps00:02: Introduction—addressing the struggle of filling your caseload when clients want less frequent sessions and why strategic structure matters for new private practices.03:02: The clinician’s role—why it’s not selfish to recommend weekly appointments and how it mirrors medical recommendations.06:26: The impact of frequency—building rapport, creating safety, and why biweekly or monthly starts can mean slower progress and lower retention.12:35: Step-by-step: How I introduce and structure standing appointments, handle requests for biweekly/monthly sessions, and set boundaries for predictability in my schedule.Top Takeaways on Setting Client Session Expectations1. Don’t Leave Structure Up to the ClientLet’s break this down: While therapy is client-centered, the structure is your responsibility as a clinician. If you ask, “How often do you want to come?” most clients—understandably!—will pick the least frequent option (because therapy is hard work). Instead, come from a place of gentle authority and recommend what you know will support the client’s goals and good outcomes.Relatable story: I used to think it was more caring to let clients decide, but quickly realized everyone starts off “nervous” about therapy, and low frequency sessions meant less rapport, more cancellations, and slower progress. Once I got clear with my recommendations, everyone felt better—myself included.2. Set the Expectation Early (Script Included!)Here’s how to start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: During your first contact (consult call or intake), say:"In my practice, we start with weekly appointments to build trust and create momentum. Once things are feeling stable for you, we’ll step down to biweekly or monthly if it makes sense."Step 2: When someone pushes for biweekly or monthly right away, gently explain:"That’s absolutely something we can revisit, but I find that weekly sessions at the start really help you get the most out of therapy and see progress."Pro tip: Always schedule standing appointment times, so you and your client have predictability each week.3. Common Pitfalls to AvoidWe all make mistakes starting out. Save yourself some headaches:Mistake 1: Leaving frequency open-ended and letting the client decide without clinical rationale—leads to low retention and “therapy just isn’t working” vibes.Mistake 2: Sliding your fee or bending your boundaries just to fill your schedule—usually breeds resentment and isn’t truly sustainable.Mistake 3: Treating monthly clients like weekly clients with standing appointments—this disrupts your flow and doesn’t actually help with rapport or outcomes.Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking💻 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period...
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    25 分
  • Ep 138: How to Use Business Cards to Get More Referrals in Private Practice
    2026/02/02
    Business Cards for Therapists: Private Practice Marketing Strategies That Actually WorkThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is all about business cards—and before you roll your eyes or think this is just another surface-level marketing chat, stay with me. If you’ve found yourself stalled at the beginning stages of setting up your private practice, wondering if business cards are truly necessary—or maybe you’ve invested in a shiny stack that just sits untouched—this episode has your name all over it.As someone who’s been building a private practice since 2015 (and made every “rookie marketing mistake” along the way), I know that it’s often those subtle, strategic tweaks—like how and when we use our business cards—that lead to meaningful referrals and real growth. In this episode, I share my own missteps (like leaving random stacks at doctor’s offices and hearing crickets) as well as the practical strategies that actually work for therapist moms who are juggling business-building with, you know, real life.Whether you’re just starting your practice, trying to build local referral relationships, or feeling awkward about “putting yourself out there” as a mom and clinician, this episode will help you reframe how you think about business cards—and give you concrete steps for making them a referral powerhouse instead of a dusty afterthought.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Business Cards Aren’t a Marketing Strategy (But Can Be a Powerful Tool):Understand the real job of a business card and why leaving stacks at offices doesn’t lead to calls.How to Design a Business Card That Gets Referrals:Tips on what to include (and what to leave out) so your card becomes a true relationship-builder—not just another piece of paper.Using Referral-Friendly Assets for Better Networking:How to pair your business card with a helpful resource to make it easier for referral sources to send you ideal clients.Episode Timestamps[00:00:02]: Introduction to The Therapist Mom Podcast and today’s topic—Business Cards in Private Practice[00:01:55]: The real job of a business card: why it’s about relationships, not marketing[00:06:38]: What to put on your business card (and why the first line matters most)[00:12:28]: How to create referral-friendly assets and use them to build lasting networking relationships[00:18:37]: Why referrals are built on trust (not the fanciest flyer) and how to nurture those relationships long-termTop Takeaways on Therapist Business Cards & Private Practice Marketing1. Business Cards Are Relationship Reminders, Not Solo Marketing ToolsLet’s break this down: Your card isn’t a silver bullet. It’s meant to reinforce a real-world relationship, helping someone remember who you are (and how to explain you to someone else!). When I started, I’d leave cards on end tables at doctor’s offices, hoping magic would happen. Spoiler: it didn’t. If there’s no genuine relationship or context, the card won’t spark referrals.2. Design Matters: Make It Easy To Remember You & What You DoHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: Put a clear, specific statement about who you help and what problem you solve at the top of your card—NOT just your name and credentials.Step 2: Make your contact info simple (website, email, maybe a QR code) and skip overloading with unnecessary details. Keep the layout uncluttered and the font easy to read.Pro tip: If your card sits in a stack with others, that headline will help it get noticed by the right people—and make it easy for someone to explain what you do, quickly.3. Referral-Friendly Assets: Go Beyond the CardWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do:Mistake 1: Only handing over a card—with zero context, relationship, or value.Mistake 2: Assuming one meeting or one “drop by” is enough. Referrals flow from trust, familiarity, and repeated contact.Instead, create a simple, client-centered handout—for example, a checklist of signs/symptoms related to your niche—and pair this with your business card. When you provide doctors, teachers, or community stakeholders with something genuinely helpful, they’re much more likely to hand out your card and make a referral.Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking💻 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period⭐️ Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower⭐️ Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE⭐️ Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together ...
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    28 分
  • Ep 137: Using AI in Private Practice: What Therapists Need to Know About Ethics and HIPAA
    2026/01/26
    Using AI in Private Practice: What Therapists Need to Know About Ethics and HIPAAThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast gets honest about integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into your therapy practice—especially when you’re juggling the dual hats of therapist and mom. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed hearing about AI tools, struggled with fears about ethics or confidentiality, or been curious about whether new tech could actually lighten your load, this one’s for you.As a therapist, military spouse, and mom of three (with plenty of life’s unpredictability in the mix), I know firsthand how important it is to build a sustainable, values-aligned practice. In this episode, you’ll hear why it’s OK to be skeptical about AI, what ethical boundaries you should never cross, and where technology can actually add back the time you crave for your family (without compromising your clinical standards).You won’t get hype or hustle culture platitudes here—just a real, nuanced look at whether (and how) you might use AI tools in practice, how to talk to clients about it, and why it’s OK to do things your own way. Let’s normalize the messy middle, embrace flexibility, and support each other’s choices, guilt-free.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeUnderstanding the Landscape of AI in TherapyHow AI is showing up in the therapy space, what’s hype vs. reality, and why you don’t have to leap in just because everyone else is talking about it.Ethical Risks & Real-World ConcernsA candid look at confidentiality, data privacy, and which questions matter most to keep your client data (and your peace of mind) safe.Productivity, Not Clinical JudgmentWhere AI really can help—documentation, client communication, and notes—and how to use it without sacrificing your own voice, expertise, or values.Bringing Clients Into the ConversationSimple, respectful scripts and consent procedures for talking to clients about AI—so you can stay transparent and empower client choice.Permission to Choose What Works For YouWhy there’s no “one right answer” for AI in therapy—and how you can opt in, opt out, or take your time to decide without judgment.Episode Timestamps[00:00:02] Introduction: The need for honest conversations about tech and motherhood in private practice[00:01:18] A professor’s surprising hot take: Don’t get left behind on AI[00:04:16] The ethical angst: Fear of AI, confidentiality, and real responsibilities[00:07:08] Not all AI is created equal: HIPAA compliance and data protection essentials[00:13:48] The difference: AI as a support for documentation, not a stand-in for you[00:16:42] Key questions to ask before choosing an AI tool[00:21:49] Scripts & client consent: How to talk about AI—even when clients have concernsTop Takeaways on Navigating AI in Private Practice1. Not All AI Tools Are Created (or Required) EqualYou don’t have to say yes or no to AI—start by getting clear on what you’re considering, the real risks, and how a tool is designed for healthcare specifically. If a tool isn’t HIPAA compliant or designed for our profession, it’s a no-go.2. Ethics First, Guilt Not RequiredPrioritize confidentiality, ask the right questions about data handling, but remember: Protecting your clients ethically isn’t the same as being paralyzed by fear or judgment. It’s OK to ask, research, and move at your own pace.3. AI Is a Helper, Not the HealerUsing AI to support your notes, streamline communication, or reduce after-hours admin doesn’t mean outsourcing your expertise—or your clinical judgment. The tool supports you, not the other way around.4. Your Practice, Your Boundaries—With Client ConsentBring clients into the loop where relevant, use simple scripts that center transparency, and always honor client choice if they opt out. Confidence is contagious—when you’re clear, clients feel safer too.5. Permission to EvolveWhether you embrace AI now or later (or never), you’re allowed to choose what makes sense for you. What matters is running your practice in alignment with your values—flexibility, autonomy, and self-care included.Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeBerries The healthcare-designed AI note-taking and documentation tool I use. Try them out for free and use code RAISEDTOEMPOWER to get $50 off your first monthJoin us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking💻 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period⭐️ Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower⭐️ Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE⭐️ Learn more about how I can help ...
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