Abundant Practice Podcast – Episode #645: When You Aren’t Filling As Fast
Release Date: May 3, 2025
Summary:
In Episode #645 of the Abundant Practice Podcast, host Allison Puryear delves into the common challenge therapists face when their private practices aren't growing as quickly as they'd hoped. Titled "When You Aren’t Filling As Fast," this episode provides actionable insights and strategies to overcome feelings of discouragement tied to comparing one's practice growth with that of others. Allison breaks down eight essential factors that influence the speed at which a private practice can grow and offers practical advice on leveraging personal strengths to foster success.
Introduction to Today's Topic
The episode opens with Allison addressing a listener's concern about feeling discouraged when comparing their practice’s growth to others. She emphasizes the detrimental effects of such comparisons, highlighting how they can invoke feelings of shame and inferiority. Allison assures listeners that understanding the factors influencing practice growth can help them focus on controllable elements and set themselves up for success.
Notable Quote:
“Comparing your growth to others is a surefire way to tap into those feelings of shame and inferiority.”
— Allison Puryear [00:36]
Eight Key Factors Affecting Practice Growth
Allison outlines eight pivotal factors that determine how swiftly a private practice can grow. Each factor is discussed in detail, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of what impacts their practice's trajectory.
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Doer vs. Non-Doer Dynamic
Allison explores the distinction between therapists who are natural "doers" and those who are not. Doers tend to dive into multiple projects with enthusiasm, which can accelerate growth but may also lead to spreading oneself too thin.
Notable Quote:
“If you are not a natural doer, I don't want you to beat yourself up. You've already made it this far in your career by using whatever skills have worked for you in the past.”
— Allison Puryear [00:13] -
Financial Structure: Insurance vs. Private Pay
The financial model of a practice significantly impacts growth. Accepting insurance can increase client volume due to broader accessibility but may involve lower reimbursement rates and administrative hassles. Conversely, a private pay model offers higher control over rates and potentially greater financial rewards but may result in a slower client acquisition rate.
Notable Quote:
“Insurance can help you build a larger clientele quickly because it makes your services more accessible to people who might not be able to afford it otherwise.”
— Allison Puryear [03:32] -
Finding Your Niche
Specializing in a specific area allows therapists to attract clients more effectively. Allison advises against choosing a niche solely based on marketability and instead recommends selecting one that aligns with personal passions and expertise.
Notable Quote:
“The best niche for you is the one that lights you up. When you're excited and you're energized by your work, that enthusiasm shines through.”
— Allison Puryear [03:32] -
Location’s Impact
Whether operating in-person or virtually, the geographical location can influence practice growth. Areas that value therapy and have a higher demand can facilitate quicker client acquisition. Conversely, less saturated markets present opportunities to fill existing needs.
Notable Quote:
“If you're in a city that already values therapy, then you're in a really good position.”
— Allison Puryear [03:32] -
Fee Structure
Setting appropriate fees impacts perceived value and client decisions. Lowering fees does not necessarily attract more clients; instead, competitive pricing aligned with the value provided fosters better client perceptions and satisfaction.
Notable Quote:
“Your fee is a part of your perceived value. So don't be afraid to raise your fee if it feels aligned with what you want in your life right now.”
— Allison Puryear [08:48] -
Marketing Your Practice
Effective marketing is crucial but can be overwhelming due to the plethora of available strategies. Allison emphasizes the importance of choosing marketing methods that resonate with one's strengths and ensuring consistency rather than spreading efforts too thin.
Notable Quote:
“The best marketing strategy is the one that aligns with your strengths and it allows you to stay consistent.”
— Allison Puryear [08:49] -
Support System
A robust support system, including mentors, peer groups, and communities, plays a significant role in practice growth. Connecting with others who share similar goals and challenges can provide invaluable advice and motivation.
Notable Quote:
“Isolation can be a real growth killer. The more you connect with others who are on the same journey, that's the more you are going to go.”
— Allison Puryear [08:48] -
Luck
While luck is an uncontrollable factor, Allison discusses how therapists can maximize opportunities by being open to unexpected referrals and being prepared to seize them. Emphasizing gratitude and focusing on positive aspects can also help maintain a constructive mindset.
Notable Quote:
“You can control how open you are to luck, how many opportunities you give it to land in your lap, and you can control how you respond to it.”
— Allison Puryear [08:49]
Strategies for Focusing on What You Can Control
Allison encourages therapists to evaluate which of the eight factors they can influence and to concentrate their efforts there. By acknowledging their strengths and areas for improvement, therapists can create a personalized action plan to enhance their practice growth.
Notable Quote:
“Do what you need to do to make sure that you have the practice you want. That's going to take work and it's going to take consistency.”
— Allison Puryear [12:04]
Conclusion and Resources
In wrapping up, Allison offers listeners additional resources to aid in their practice growth journey. She promotes her membership program, the Abundance Party, which provides step-by-step guidance on reducing work hours while tripling income. Additionally, she provides a free worksheet titled "Common Marketing Strategies for Therapist" and encourages listeners to engage with the Abundant Practice community for ongoing support.
Notable Quote:
“If you're ready to get more intentional with your practice building and focus on factors that really matter, I have a free worksheet for you called the Common Marketing Strategies for Therapist that can help speed up your growth.”
— Allison Puryear [12:04]
Listeners are directed to visit www.abundancepracticebuilding.com for free checklists, worksheets, and more support. Allison also invites them to join the Abundance Party or reach out via email for personalized assistance.
Additional Resources Mentioned:
- Abundance Party Membership Program: Learn more at www.abundanceparty.com
- Free Private Practice Checklist and Worksheets: Available at www.abundancepracticebuilding.com
- Contact for Support: help@abundancepracticebuilding.com
- TherapyNotes Sponsorship: Use code abundant@therapynotes.com for two months free at therapynotes.com
Takeaway:
This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for therapists feeling stagnant in their practice growth. By identifying and understanding the key factors that influence growth, and by focusing on controllable elements, therapists can navigate challenges more effectively and cultivate a thriving private practice aligned with their personal and professional goals.