Abundant Practice Podcast - Episode #603: Pre-Licensed Niche, Fees, & Marketing

Release Date: December 18, 2024
Host: Allison Puryear

Introduction

In Episode #603 of the Abundant Practice Podcast, host Allison Puryear delves into the crucial aspects of establishing a successful private practice for pre-licensed therapists. The episode features a comprehensive conversation with Sarah, a pre-licensed therapist transitioning her focus to a new niche, setting appropriate fees, and refining her marketing strategies. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for therapists aiming to build a sustainable and fulfilling practice.

Defining Your Niche

One of the central themes of the episode is the importance of clearly defining one's niche. Sarah shares her initial attempt at pinpointing her target audience:

Sarah [03:27]: "They're struggling with that balance. But it's like perfectionists who have their identity really wrapped up in work and their performance. And now that they're moms, I feel like they're doing everything sort of at like 75% capacity."

The discussion highlights the challenges Sarah faces in accurately capturing her ideal clients. The guest emphasizes the need to articulate the specific struggles her clients face, moving beyond generic descriptions to resonate deeply with potential clients.

Unknown [04:16]: "We don't want to sugarcoat it as we describe it, or they won't be like, yes, you know, you know how I'm feeling. But if we go hard on the thing that keeps running through their heads, and they'll feel seen and known."

This approach ensures that the messaging speaks directly to the clients' experiences, making them feel understood and supported.

Setting Appropriate Fees

Another significant topic is fee setting, especially for pre-licensed therapists. Sarah initially set her fees based on the rates of other pre-licensed therapists in Houston, charging $140 per session. However, upon consulting with the guest, she reconsidered her pricing strategy.

Unknown [08:07]: "I want you to price yourself where you want to need to be for this, to feel comfortable for you to have the life that you want to have..."

The guest challenges the conventional notion that pre-licensed therapists should charge lower rates due to perceived inexperience. Referencing data, the guest argues that experience doesn't necessarily equate to better therapeutic outcomes, thereby advocating for therapists to set fees that reflect the value they provide and support their desired lifestyle.

Unknown [08:33]: "So yes, you can raise it because there's a significantly larger population in Houston that can afford a premium rate than many other areas."

This affirmation provides Sarah with the confidence to adjust her fees appropriately, ensuring her compensation aligns with her professional value and personal needs.

Effective Marketing Strategies

Transitioning to marketing, Sarah discusses her current efforts and the lack of substantial client movement after four months of intensive marketing. She has engaged in various activities, including enhancing her website, attending modules from Allison’s program, networking with lactation consultants, doulas, and other professionals in prenatal health fields, and sending out warm letters.

Sarah [10:13]: "Okay, cool. Well, maybe we can talk about like some of my marketing that I've been doing."

Despite these efforts, Sarah feels stuck and uncertain about expanding her marketing reach. The guest provides strategic advice on optimizing networking efforts and exploring alternative channels:

Unknown [12:18]: "Almost every office I've ever talked to has those. Interesting."

They discuss the importance of building relationships with pediatricians, midwives, and participation in new mom groups to reach Sarah’s target audience effectively. The guest suggests leveraging SEO (Search Engine Optimization) to increase website traffic, recommending a trusted provider:

Unknown [16:39]: "I think it could be really good, especially in your city, because it would move you up... Simplified SEO Solutions is who we trust for SEO."

Additionally, the guest encourages Sarah to consider creative therapeutic approaches like walk-and-talk therapy, ensuring the environment fosters deep conversations without interruptions.

Unknown [15:16]: "Making sure that it's a non-populated area so she can get really real."

Innovative Therapeutic Approaches

Sarah introduces an innovative idea of conducting walk-and-talk therapy sessions for new mothers, allowing them to engage in therapy while attending to their children. The guest supports this concept with practical considerations to ensure the effectiveness of such sessions.

Unknown [15:55]: "I think offering it could be great. It's just being really selective with where it is."

This suggestion aligns with the need for flexibility in therapy services, catering to the unique challenges faced by new mothers.

Enhancing Online Presence

Addressing Sarah's concerns about her website traffic, the guest emphasizes the importance of a robust online presence:

Unknown [18:09]: "I think you're going to be able to speak to your ideal clients more."

The recommendation includes investing in SEO and possibly engaging in blogging to improve search engine rankings and attract more clients. The guest acknowledges the potential overwhelm but offers practical solutions to manage content creation efficiently.

Conclusion

Episode #603 of the Abundant Practice Podcast offers invaluable guidance for pre-licensed therapists like Sarah who are navigating the complexities of defining their niche, setting appropriate fees, and optimizing their marketing strategies. Through this insightful conversation, listeners gain actionable strategies to build a thriving private practice that aligns with their professional goals and personal well-being.

Unknown [18:50]: "All right. I think that's everything. Awesome."

Sarah leaves the conversation feeling empowered and equipped with new strategies to implement in her practice, underscoring the episode's role in fostering growth and confidence among therapists.

Additional Resources:

• Abundance Party Membership Program: Step-by-step guidance on building a private practice. www.abundanceparty.com
• Free Resources: Private practice checklist, worksheets, and more at www.abundancepracticebuilding.com
• Support: Email the team at help@abundancepracticebuilding.com

Notable Quotes:

• Sarah [03:27]: "They're really good shit talkers to themselves."
• Unknown [04:16]: "We don't want to sugarcoat it as we describe it..."
• Unknown [08:07]: "I want you to price yourself where you want to need to be..."
• Unknown [15:55]: "I think offering it could be great. It's just being really selective with where it is."
• Unknown [18:09]: "I think you're going to be able to speak to your ideal clients more."

This episode is a must-listen for therapists seeking to refine their practice approach, enhance client engagement, and achieve a balanced professional and personal life.