Abundant Practice Podcast: Episode #615 Summary

Title: What Should I Name My Practice
Host: Allison Puryear
Release Date: January 25, 2025

Introduction

In Episode #615 of the Abundant Practice Podcast, host Allison Puryear delves into a common yet crucial question faced by therapists transitioning to private practice: “What should I name my practice?” This episode is particularly insightful for therapists who are in the midst of establishing their solo practice, especially those moving towards a private pay model. Allison not only addresses the intricacies of choosing a practice name but also provides actionable strategies to ensure the name supports both branding and functionality.

Listener's Question

The episode centers around a listener's query:

Listener: “I left group practice to start my solo practice in early 2023 and was making quick decisions like picking a practice name, securing my PLLC, domain name, and email address. I'm transitioning again to a private pay model in 2025, working on my niche, ideal client, and marketing plan. Does the name of my practice matter? I chose my initials because my first name can be misspelled, but I’m wondering if using my full name would be better for networking and referrals from other therapists. Or is it more about SEO for Google searches?”
(Timestamp: 00:36)

Allison's Comprehensive Response

Allison affirms the importance of thoughtful decision-making during such transitions:

Allison: “Does the name of your practice matter? Here is the short answer. Not a whole lot, as long as the people who might refer to you can remember it. It's more about functionality and memorability than it is having the perfect name.”
(Timestamp: 01:10)

Key Points Discussed:

1. Memorability Over Perfection:

   • Allison emphasizes that a practice name doesn’t need to be perfect but should be easy to remember for referrals.
   • She notes that personal names are often more memorable than generic practice names.

2. Challenges with Uncommon Spellings:

   • Using initials can sometimes diminish the personal connection that comes with a full name.
   • Allison: “If you already have one of those names [generic practice names], no worries. Just make sure your website is optimized so that if somebody Googles a phrase close to your practice name or your name plus your state, it pops up as a result.”
     (Timestamp: 02:15)

3. SEO Considerations:

   • While SEO plays a role, especially for practices reliant on organic search, the personal branding aspect can create a stronger connection within professional networks.
   • Allison: “Having your name as a part of your branding often makes it easier for people to connect the dots when someone says you should check out your name. It feels a lot more personal and memorable than a practice name.”
     (Timestamp: 03:00)

4. Strategies for Simplifying Name Issues:

   • Securing multiple domain name variations can mitigate issues with uncommon spellings.
   • Allison: “If spelling is an issue, you can secure multiple domain names with variations on your first name and have them all point to the same exact website.”
     (Timestamp: 03:35)

5. Transitioning Without Overhauling:

   • Changing your practice name doesn’t necessitate starting your business entity anew. Filing a DBA (Doing Business As) allows for operating under a different name seamlessly.
   • Allison: “You can file a DBA, which is doing business as, allowing you to operate under a different name without creating that whole other business entity. It’s a straightforward process.”
     (Timestamp: 04:05)

6. Personal Branding Advantages:

   • Using one’s full name enhances personal branding, making it easier for referrals and fostering trust within professional circles.
   • Allison: “Transitioning to your first name and last name could be a smart move, especially for networking and building a strong personal brand.”
     (Timestamp: 04:45)

Practical Takeaways

• Functionality First: Choose a name that is easy to remember and functional for referrals, even if it isn't the most creative.

• Optimize Online Presence: Ensure that regardless of the name chosen, your website is optimized for search engines to enhance discoverability.

• Leverage DBAs for Name Changes: If transitioning to a new name, utilize the DBA process to maintain your business structure while adopting a new identity.

• Strengthen Personal Brand: Using your full name can aid in building a personal connection with your clients and peers, fostering a more memorable and trustworthy brand.

Resources Mentioned

• Free Worksheets: Allison offers a free worksheet titled "Build the Right Practice Questions to Consider," which assists therapists in navigating the nuances of practice building. Interested listeners can request the worksheet by sending a direct message with the word "sheets."

• Additional Support: For those seeking more comprehensive guidance, Allison directs listeners to visit abundancepracticebuilding.com for a free private practice checklist, worksheets, and more resources.

• TherapyNotes Sponsorship: Throughout the episode, TherapyNotes is highlighted as a top-rated electronic health record system, offering tools like billing, scheduling, note-taking, and telehealth features. Listeners are encouraged to use the promo code "abundanttherapynotes.com" to receive two free months of service.

Conclusion

Allison Puryear expertly navigates the complexities of naming a private practice, balancing the importance of personal branding with practical considerations like memorability and SEO. By prioritizing functionality and personal connection, therapists can select a practice name that not only stands out in a crowded market but also fosters lasting professional relationships. This episode serves as a valuable guide for therapists aiming to establish a strong, memorable presence in their private practice journey.

Join the Abundance Party: For those seeking structured guidance, Allison invites listeners to join the Abundance Party membership program, which provides step-by-step instructions on reducing work hours, increasing income, and honing in on ideal clients. Visit www.abundanceparty.com to learn more.

Connect with Allison:

• Email Support: help@abundancepracticebuilding.com
• Website: abundancepracticebuilding.com
• YouTube Channel: Access the full Ask Allison library for more insights and answers to your private practice questions.

Empower your private practice journey with the insights and resources provided by Allison Puryear on the Abundant Practice Podcast.