Hello to all you passionate therapists and mental health advocates out there,
Join me on a very personal journey as I open up about the rollercoaster ride of building my own mental health practice. It's a story filled with not just achievements, but also heartfelt mistakes that have taught me invaluable lessons. I'm here to share these intimately, in the hopes that my experiences can guide you, helping you avoid the pitfalls I encountered.
Mistake #1: The Overlooked Essence of Branding
In the beginning, I thought being a great therapist was enough. But I quickly learned that without a meaningful brand, my practice was just another in the crowd. Branding isn't just about a logo; it's the heart and soul you offer to your clients. When I invested in my brand, I was investing in the identity and essence of my practice.
Mistake #2: The Absence of Clear Business Goals
Initially, my practice was a boat without a rudder, driven by passion but lacking direction. Setting specific, tangible goals transformed my approach, allowing me to measure success in more than just financial terms, but in client happiness and my own personal growth as well.
Mistake #3: The Isolation of Going It Alone
At first, I thought I could do it all by myself, a mindset that limited my growth. Networking with peers and mentors didn't just expand my clientele; it enriched my personal and professional life in ways I couldn't imagine.
Mistake #4: The Personal Cost of Neglecting Self-Care
There was a time when my practice consumed me, and I forgot to look after myself. This led to burnout, affecting my ability to be there for others. This tough lesson taught me that caring for myself is not just important, it's essential to being an effective therapist and business owner.
Mistake #5: The Reluctance to Embrace New Technology
In the early days, I clung to the old ways, hesitant to try new technologies. But embracing tools like telehealth and modern marketing strategies didn’t just change my practice, it revolutionized it, bringing me into a new and exciting era of mental health care.
Mistake #6: The Misunderstanding of My Financials
One of my biggest challenges was not fully appreciating the significance of understanding my financials. Learning the power of keeping consistent Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) was transformative. Embracing my numbers, rather than fearing them, was a pivotal moment. Understanding your financials is not just a part of the job; it's a critical component in steering your practice towards success.​
Sharing these lessons is deeply personal for me. It's not just about telling my story; it's about offering you a path forward based on real, lived experiences. Remember, every mistake is an opportunity to grow and become better at what we do. If you're looking for personalized guidance to navigate these challenges, I'm here to help with my coaching services.
​Here's to our shared journey towards growth and success,
Christina Runnels
Comments