Abundant Practice Podcast

Episode #625: Scared To Start Private Practice
Host: Allison Puryear
Release Date: March 1, 2025

Introduction

In Episode #625 of the Abundant Practice Podcast, Allison Puryear addresses a common and significant concern among therapists contemplating the transition from agency roles to private practice: the fear and anxiety associated with such a substantial career change. This episode delves deep into understanding these fears, providing actionable advice, and offering reassurance to those ready to embark on their private practice journey.

Understanding the Fear of Transition

Timestamp: 02:59 – 03:09

The co-host begins by empathizing with listeners who feel nervous about leaving their agency jobs. Emphasizing that such feelings are entirely normal, they compare the transition to other major life changes like starting college or a new job:

“If you weren't nervous, I would be concerned. This is a really big life change... You are stepping into a new chapter and you're counting on yourself in a way that you have not had to before. It is exciting, but it's also scary. And that's okay.”
— Unknown Co-Host [02:59]

This perspective reassures listeners that their apprehensions are a natural part of growth and change.

Harnessing Existing Skills to Overcome Anxiety

Timestamp: 01:50 – 02:30

Allison shares a personal mantra that has helped her navigate through similar fears:

“Feel the fear and do it anyway.”
— Allison Puryear [01:55]

She emphasizes that therapists possess the necessary skills to manage their anxiety, just as they do when guiding clients through discomfort and manageable steps:

“Think about all the things you tell your clients, how to sit with discomfort, take manageable steps forward, and trust the process. You get to apply that to yourself now.”
— Unknown Co-Host [02:15]

Addressing the Competitive Landscape

Timestamp: 03:01 – 03:07

A prevalent fear among therapists is the notion of fierce competition in private practice. The co-host dispels this myth by highlighting the current demand for therapy services:

“Most of us in private practice are drowning in client demand. We're full. People are seeking therapy at unprecedented rates. And there is more than enough room for you in private practice.”
— Unknown Co-Host [03:01]

This insight serves to alleviate fears of oversaturation in the market, positioning private practice as a viable and welcoming option.

Practical Steps to Start Your Practice

Timestamp: 03:07 – 04:30

Transitioning to private practice involves several administrative tasks that can seem daunting. The co-host breaks down these tasks, reassuring listeners of their simplicity:

“The early administrative tasks that happen in a practice, like getting your business license, setting up your EIN, those are simple and they're easy. They're just boring.”
— Unknown Co-Host [03:30]

She encourages therapists to push past procrastination and tackle these essential steps with determination, emphasizing the long-term benefits of such efforts:

“Don't let those tasks or your anxiety hold you back... It is really worth powering through and you're going to feel so much more powerful having done so.”
— Unknown Co-Host [04:00]

Community and Support Systems

Timestamp: 04:30 – 05:12

Allison highlights the importance of community and support when starting a private practice. By joining the "private practice club," therapists can connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges:

“Welcome to the private practice club. We have all been here nervous, filled with self-doubt, wondering if we made the right choice. But you're in really great company and you're on the right path.”
— Unknown Co-Host [04:30]

She also offers practical resources to assist listeners in their journey:

“If you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed, I got resources to help you. You can DM me the word checklist to get my getting started checklist for free.”
— Unknown Co-Host [04:50]

Conclusion and Encouragement

Timestamp: 05:12 – End

As the episode wraps up, Allison reinforces her support for listeners embarking on this journey:

“You've got this. I am cheering you on. Until next time. Take care. Bye for now.”
— Unknown Co-Host [05:07]

She reminds listeners of additional resources available, encouraging them to take actionable steps toward building their private practice.

Key Takeaways

1. Normalizing Fear: Feeling nervous about starting a private practice is natural and a sign of the significant change you're undertaking.
2. Leveraging Skills: Use the same strategies you employ with clients to manage your own anxiety and fears.
3. Market Demand: There's a high demand for therapy services, making private practice a promising and less competitive field than perceived.
4. Administrative Simplicity: Essential setup tasks are straightforward and manageable with persistence.
5. Community Support: Joining a supportive community can provide encouragement and practical assistance during your transition.
6. Actionable Resources: Utilize available checklists and resources to streamline the process of establishing your practice.

Additional Resources

• Free Private Practice Checklist & Worksheets: www.abundancepracticebuilding.com
• Membership Program - Abundance Party: www.abundanceparty.com
• Email Support: help@abundancepracticebuilding.com

Embarking on a private practice journey can be daunting, but with the right mindset, resources, and community support highlighted in this episode, therapists can confidently take the leap toward a more fulfilling and autonomous professional life.