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Jules Smith

Fearless Practice

A Entrepreneurship , Business and Health & Fitness podcast

#151 in Entrepreneurship · 🇨🇦
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About the show

Where are you in your private practice journey? How's it going for you? I'm Jules Smith, and I'm so glad you're here. The Fearless Practice podcast is your go-to resource for building a thriving private practice in Canada. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, this podcast is here to guide you every step of the way. I share practical tips on everything from launching your practice and filling your schedule to expanding into a group practice. But you won't just hear from me—I also interview Canadian therapists from across the country who share their real-life experiences, challenges, and wins. These honest conversations offer valuable insight, inspiration, and support to help you confidently create a private practice that works for you. Let's learn, grow, and build fearless practices—together.

Newest episodes

Kathleen Skinner: Building a Successful Practice From Lifelong Passion | Ep 208

27 min

Kathleen has always loved music. It brought her close to her grandmother, who was struggling with dementia, when she was a child. For Kathleen, music had a profound ability to connect people and help them understand themselves.  Now, fast forward a few decades later, Kathleen is running a successful Canadian group private practice that incorporates music and psychotherapy, offering a rare niche that directly connects with her deepest passion and interest.  In this episode, we discuss her journey into private practice, as well as how she markets it, hires her best-fit team, and other great tips for practice owners getting started. Join us for an insightful conversation!  MEET KATHLEEN Kathleen Skinner is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Music Therapist. She is the founder and clinical director of KS Therapy Services, a group practice located in Guelph, Ontario. KSTS offers psychotherapy, music therapy, and art therapy, focusing on providing accessible, creative, and person-centred care. Kathleen's own clinical work focuses on supporting individuals with anxiety and relational trauma. Learn more about Kathleen on her website, LinkedIn, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  What motivated Kathleen to become a therapist  Starting in private practice Growing the practice Marketing a growing practice Advice to listeners  What motivated Kathleen to become a therapist  Kathleen's path to becoming a psychotherapist was influenced by her training as a music therapist first.  As Kathleen explains, she began to really understand the intense power of music in connecting with people and helping them through mental health issues when she was playing music for her grandmother, who was sick with dementia.  Music showed itself to Kathleen as another way for people to connect and help them access parts of themselves that they found difficult to do. This all led to where Kathleen is today: running a private practice where she offers psychotherapy and musi...

Nancy Galway: Designing a Private Practice That Supports You | Ep 207

28 min

When you work in the helping profession, it can be taxing. The work can require you to hold space for difficult moments or conversations.  A good way to support yourself first before you go ahead to support someone else is to work a job that serves, rather than hurts, your mental health. This is one of the core pieces of advice that my guest today, Nancy, shares with us.  She pivoted from working as a front-line social worker to a therapist after graduating with her MSW at 55! Now, she's honing her private practice and slowly building it up. Join us for our conversation today, and more of Nancy's great advice for Canadian private therapists.  MEET NANCY Nancy graduated with her MSW at 55 and considers herself a lifelong student. Now living in St. John's, NL, where she grew up, she has spent most of her career as a front-line social worker in Canada's north. It's her eclectic work history and life experiences that have led her to work with trauma, and her practice turns 10 next year. Learn more about Nancy on her private practice website, Psychology Today, Instagram, and LinkedIn profiles.  In this episode:  Deciding to go back to school Going right into private practice  Building the practice as a retirement plan Using Jane App Deciding to go back to school At first, Nancy worked in Ontario and, after many years as a front-line social worker, decided to go back to school for her Master's degree. It was her retirement plan and a way to dive deeper into her passion for helping people through therapy.  Now, Nancy is a full-time private practice owner and therapist. Her practice is registered in Ontario and Newfoundland.  Going right into private practice After graduating with her Master's in Social Work, Nancy dove straight into private practice. However, Nancy explains that if you told her 20 years ago she would work as a therapist in a private practice, she wouldn't have believed you. But now, it's something she loves doing.   In private practice, thi...

Eleanor McAlpine: How Following Your Values Can Shape Your Career | Ep 206

28 min

Who you are as a person does not easily stay outside of the work that you do. Your values and principles tend to come into play when you are trying to do your best work, and my guest today recommends that you intentionally bring them in!  Eleanor is curious and compassionate. She always wants to know more, and this has led her to discover her favorite niches in clients to work with as a therapist. It also helps her network well, build resilient referral sources, and shows people that she truly cares about who they are, not just what they can do for her or her business.  In this episode, Eleanor and I talk about incorporating your values into your career, and how you can unite your past experiences into the work that you currently do. Join us for a great discussion and enjoy her creative insights!  MEET ELEANOR Eleanor, RCC and CCC, began her career in the 80s with an Undergrad with a counselling psychology major and then worked in every imaginable setting from corrections-adjacent secure care to high medical group homes. In 2024, she graduated from Kairos University with a MAC and began this phase of a people-helper life. She has augmented her caregiving roles with professional photography and compares being a team player in a large multisite practice to the coordination and wrap-around care that happens for a wedding couple. These collaborative instincts, humility, and raccoon-like curiosity make her a vibrant part of a group practice. Learn more about Eleanor on her website, Instagram, and Psychology Today accounts.  In this episode:  Why Eleanor became a therapist Eleanor's niching pattern  Effective values-informed marketing  Starting a private practice in the future Tailor-made marketing approaches Eleanor's advice to private practitioners Why Eleanor became a therapist  Eleanor explains that being a therapist is something she's always wanted to do, and yet it has come far down the line of her career.  This, she explains, was understandable once...

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All episodes

The newest 50 of 208 episodes

Kathleen Skinner: Building a Successful Practice From Lifelong Passion | Ep 208

27 min

Kathleen has always loved music. It brought her close to her grandmother, who was struggling with dementia, when she was a child. For Kathleen, music had a profound ability to connect people and help them understand themselves.  Now, fast forward a few decades later, Kathleen is running a successful Canadian group private practice that incorporates music and psychotherapy, offering a rare niche that directly connects with her deepest passion and interest.  In this episode, we discuss her journey into private practice, as well as how she markets it, hires her best-fit team, and other great tips for practice owners getting started. Join us for an insightful conversation!  MEET KATHLEEN Kathleen Skinner is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Music Therapist. She is the founder and clinical director of KS Therapy Services, a group practice located in Guelph, Ontario. KSTS offers psychotherapy, music therapy, and art therapy, focusing on providing accessible, creative, and person-centred care. Kathleen's own clinical work focuses on supporting individuals with anxiety and relational trauma. Learn more about Kathleen on her website, LinkedIn, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  What motivated Kathleen to become a therapist  Starting in private practice Growing the practice Marketing a growing practice Advice to listeners  What motivated Kathleen to become a therapist  Kathleen's path to becoming a psychotherapist was influenced by her training as a music therapist first.  As Kathleen explains, she began to really understand the intense power of music in connecting with people and helping them through mental health issues when she was playing music for her grandmother, who was sick with dementia.  Music showed itself to Kathleen as another way for people to connect and help them access parts of themselves that they found difficult to do. This all led to where Kathleen is today: running a private practice where she offers psychotherapy and musi...

Nancy Galway: Designing a Private Practice That Supports You | Ep 207

28 min

When you work in the helping profession, it can be taxing. The work can require you to hold space for difficult moments or conversations.  A good way to support yourself first before you go ahead to support someone else is to work a job that serves, rather than hurts, your mental health. This is one of the core pieces of advice that my guest today, Nancy, shares with us.  She pivoted from working as a front-line social worker to a therapist after graduating with her MSW at 55! Now, she's honing her private practice and slowly building it up. Join us for our conversation today, and more of Nancy's great advice for Canadian private therapists.  MEET NANCY Nancy graduated with her MSW at 55 and considers herself a lifelong student. Now living in St. John's, NL, where she grew up, she has spent most of her career as a front-line social worker in Canada's north. It's her eclectic work history and life experiences that have led her to work with trauma, and her practice turns 10 next year. Learn more about Nancy on her private practice website, Psychology Today, Instagram, and LinkedIn profiles.  In this episode:  Deciding to go back to school Going right into private practice  Building the practice as a retirement plan Using Jane App Deciding to go back to school At first, Nancy worked in Ontario and, after many years as a front-line social worker, decided to go back to school for her Master's degree. It was her retirement plan and a way to dive deeper into her passion for helping people through therapy.  Now, Nancy is a full-time private practice owner and therapist. Her practice is registered in Ontario and Newfoundland.  Going right into private practice After graduating with her Master's in Social Work, Nancy dove straight into private practice. However, Nancy explains that if you told her 20 years ago she would work as a therapist in a private practice, she wouldn't have believed you. But now, it's something she loves doing.   In private practice, thi...

Eleanor McAlpine: How Following Your Values Can Shape Your Career | Ep 206

28 min

Who you are as a person does not easily stay outside of the work that you do. Your values and principles tend to come into play when you are trying to do your best work, and my guest today recommends that you intentionally bring them in!  Eleanor is curious and compassionate. She always wants to know more, and this has led her to discover her favorite niches in clients to work with as a therapist. It also helps her network well, build resilient referral sources, and shows people that she truly cares about who they are, not just what they can do for her or her business.  In this episode, Eleanor and I talk about incorporating your values into your career, and how you can unite your past experiences into the work that you currently do. Join us for a great discussion and enjoy her creative insights!  MEET ELEANOR Eleanor, RCC and CCC, began her career in the 80s with an Undergrad with a counselling psychology major and then worked in every imaginable setting from corrections-adjacent secure care to high medical group homes. In 2024, she graduated from Kairos University with a MAC and began this phase of a people-helper life. She has augmented her caregiving roles with professional photography and compares being a team player in a large multisite practice to the coordination and wrap-around care that happens for a wedding couple. These collaborative instincts, humility, and raccoon-like curiosity make her a vibrant part of a group practice. Learn more about Eleanor on her website, Instagram, and Psychology Today accounts.  In this episode:  Why Eleanor became a therapist Eleanor's niching pattern  Effective values-informed marketing  Starting a private practice in the future Tailor-made marketing approaches Eleanor's advice to private practitioners Why Eleanor became a therapist  Eleanor explains that being a therapist is something she's always wanted to do, and yet it has come far down the line of her career.  This, she explains, was understandable once...

Kim Michael: From Corporate Leadership to Purpose-Driven Psychotherapy | Ep 205

28 min

Would you consider running two different careers in parallel in your life and routine? That's what Kim does!  Over the last three years, she has been working in corporate Monday through Friday and sees clients as a psychotherapist in the evenings and weekends. While it may seem like a lot, Kim explains that these two roles fulfill her equally and provide her with purpose and fuel her passion in tandem.  Join our conversation today and hear more about how Kim pivoted to therapy later in her career and ended up running her private practice alongside her corporate job. She shares her tips, advice, and gives guidance on how to keep moving forward even when you aren't sure what the next step will be.  MEET KIM Kim Michael is a Registered Psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical Hypnotherapist, as well as the founder of Thrive Through Therapy, a virtual psychotherapy practice serving adults and couples across Ontario. With a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, she helps clients navigate relationship challenges, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and the pressures of demanding personal and professional lives. Kim integrates evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT-informed skills, mindfulness, parts work, solution-focused therapy, and Gottman Method principles to help clients create meaningful and lasting change. Alongside building her private practice, Kim brings extensive corporate leadership experience, giving her a unique understanding of workplace stress, burnout, high-performance environments, and the courage required to pursue a more purpose-driven life. Through Thrive Through Therapy, she is committed to creating a warm and inclusive space where clients feel truly seen, strengthen their relationships, and move from simply surviving to genuinely thriving. Learn more about Kim on her practice website, Psychology Today, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  Why Kim became a therapist  Balancing corporate work and private practice Marketing the practi...

Maria Tsoukalas: From Forensic Assessments to Nomadic Therapy | Ep 204

26 min

Is there something you have been wanting to try in your Canadian private practice, but you're unsure of how to approach it? Could you be waiting for permission to be creative? Well, here you have it!  Maria pivoted her career from working as a forensic psychologist in prison systems and other group practices when she sat down with herself and was honest about chasing her goals: she wanted to travel the world while seeing her clients virtually.  She figured it out, kept her clients at the center of her itinerary (including her interests), and found a way to bring her goal and dream to life. In this podcast episode, Maria and I discuss her journey - and encourage you to build the work/ life balance you desire!  MEET MARIA Maria Tsoukalas is a Calgary-based psychologist with over 15 years in practice and is the owner of Aware Psychology - a private practice that sees clients virtually across Alberta and the Northwest Territories. She specializes in working with adults dealing with anxiety, sleep problems & insomnia, relationship issues, and grief & loss. Since 2023, she has visited 20+ countries while continuing to see clients and teaches clinicians how to build the same freedom into their careers. She believes travel can be a catalyst for self-reflection and personal growth and explores these insights on her Substack – Nomadic Minds. Learn more about Maria on her practice website, Psychology Today, LinkedIn profiles, and Substack account.  In this episode:  Why Maria became a therapist  Starting a private practice and travelling Marketing the private practice Building the practice while travelling Advice for listeners  Why Maria became a therapist  Maria completed her Master's in Forensic Psychology because her passion at the time lay more in understanding criminal minds than in working as a therapist for the general population.  She did that for a few years: Maria worked at a jail, at a security prison, but she found after a while that completing forens...

6 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Canadian Private Practice | Ep 203

11 min

Starting a Canadian private practice can be such an exciting time in your life, but also very overwhelming!  This means that sometimes things can get missed, or too much time can be spent on one task, running the risk of other important steps falling through the cracks. In private practice, anything missing could have serious consequences! It is important to be thorough.  So, I thought it would be helpful to share a couple of common mistakes and how to avoid them!  In this episode:  Waiting for perfect clarity before launching Using US advice without adapting to Canada Underestimating privacy/security needs for a Canadian practice Setting policies too late  Not blocking out consistent admin time  Growing before your foundations are stable Waiting for perfect clarity before launching The cost of waiting for perfect clarity can be months of delay in launching your practice, which can lead to lost revenue and delays in building up your clientele base.  That's why I love using WordPress. It gives you everything you need to start your website. With its built-in optimization and responsive, mobile-ready themes, there's no limit to who you can reach with your new website. No matter the size of your budget, WordPress has a plan that's right for you! Using US advice without adapting to Canada 'Sometimes, [US-based advice] does not apply in Canada or in your province, so you want to make sure you are listening to Canadian content like this podcast! Or other Canadian podcasts, or Canadian websites talking about private practice in Canada.' - Jules Smith For example, many provinces require all healthcare data to be stored on Canadian servers. So, if you have been only listening to US-based advice, you may have accidentally purchased a subscription to a US-based private practice management system, which could place you in some hot water! I highly recommend using JaneApp for a Canadian practice management system. Jane offers online booking, charting, scheduling, s...

Katie McLean: Combining Two Master's Degrees Into One Practice | Ep 202

31 min

Some doors close so that others can open: when Katie didn't get accepted into the original Master's Education in Counselling program she wanted, it was disappointing.  However, she ended up following another piece of her passion, and got her Master's in Teaching and Education. Then, once she had graduated, she pursued her second Master's in Counselling Psychology, achieving the degree she was initially looking for!    Today, Katie runs her fully booked private practice where she combines her passion for education and psychology into one. Join us today as we discuss how she opened her practice, strategically marketed it with networking to become full, and built community to support her goals. MEET KATIE Katie is a Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary with a "just do it" attitude. She launched her private practice in November 2025 and has a bustling practice focusing on ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, and perinatal care. She is also the co-host of the Happiness of the Commons Podcast. Learn more about Katie on her private practice website, Psychology Today, Instagram accounts, and podcast.  In this episode:  Why Katie decided to start a private practice  Registering as a Psychologist  Completing two Master's degrees: Teaching and Psychology  Marketing the practice Why Jane App makes private practice easier Why Katie decided to start a private practice  While Katie loved working at a group practice initially for her provisional hours, once she was qualified and certified, she wanted to open her own Canadian private practice.  Ultimately, for Katie, opening her own private practice meant two things: bringing more income home and having more freedom in her schedule.  Registering as a Psychologist  In Alberta, you can register as a psychologist with only a Master's degree: you go through a provisional period, which includes 1600 hours working under supervision with a registered psychologist.  Once Katie's hours are completed, she won't have to pay for su...

Sandra Karlin: From Tech to Therapist in Private Practice | Ep 201

20 min

Our paths can change in ways that we may not easily foresee. While Sandra was someone who always knew that she liked and wanted to help people, she only became a therapist later on in life: her first career was in tech!  It was only after she completed her Master's degree - studying part-time while working in the Canadian tech hub - that she pivoted her career, starting both from scratch and in a new industry in counselling.  Over the last three years, Sandra has graduated, started, and grown her private practice from solo to group, and become a new mom. In this episode, we cover her journey, what she has learned, and what she wants to share with you, the listener. Join us!  MEET SANDRA Sandra Karlin is a Registered Psychotherapist and group practice owner of Beyond Happiness Counselling, supporting adults and couples in Kitchener‑Waterloo and virtually across Ontario. With a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, she brings a warm, supportive, and sensitive approach to therapy, helping clients make sense of what they're going through while building practical skills for change. Sandra works with concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness, self‑esteem and body image, grief and loss, career changes, major life transitions, trauma, and relationship challenges. Her integrative style includes mindfulness, person‑centred therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Walk & Talk therapy, and Gottman Method couples counselling (Clinical Foundations training). Learn more about Sandra on her private practice website, Psychology Today, LinkedIn, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  When Sandra started her private practice Running a private practice as a new mother Changing careers from tech to therapy Marketing the private practice Offering walk-and-talk therapy Sandra's advice to listeners When Sandra started her private practice  Sandra completed her internshi...

My Biggest Takeaways From 200 Podcast Episodes! | Ep 200

15 min

This is an amazing milestone: I had no idea back in 2022 that the Fearless Practice Podcast would grow so big, and that I would still be here recording in 2026!  Of course, I could not have done this by myself. Thank you to Jane App, my podcast department team, and you, the audience. You are as much a part of this team as we are, and your listenership helps us develop and continue publishing new episodes.  In celebration of this milestone we've all achieved together, I'm sharing eight of my biggest takeaways from this journey with you.  In this episode:  The path is rarely linear - and that's not a problem! Values are a business strategy  Offline marketing still works! Clarity is essential  Sustainable scheduling prevents burnout (6) 09:06  Privacy tools and EMRs are your best friends Everyone benefits from mentorship  The path is rarely linear - and that's not a problem! 'Across 200 episodes, one of the most consistent themes that I've seen is that Canadian private practice rarely follows a clean timeline.' - Jules Smith   From the interviews I've shared on the Fearless Practice Podcast, a consistent thread that continues through them all is that the path to private practice is varied.   Many therapists didn't graduate and open a private practice with a full caseload, and many therapists start in agencies, hospitals, or even have to take steps back from private practice throughout their careers for different reasons.   'For myself, I started working for the BC Government, moved to Halifax, opened a private practice, and then worked at Dalhousie for a bit as I grew my private practice. And then, once COVID hit, I went completely online and built my private practice as a virtual [one] … And it took almost 10 years!' - Jules Smith  Remember this: just because your path takes turns doesn't mean that you aren't on the right path! Keep going, take stock when needed, and enjoy the ride.  Values are a business strategy 'Values aren't just something you pu...

Nicole Lobo: From Group Practice Back to Solo | Ep 199

28 min

What happens when the practice you worked so hard to build no longer fits the season of life you're in? How do you know when it's time to grow, and when it's time to simplify? In another installment from my mini-series, "Where are they now?" I'm chatting with Nicole Lobo, who was on the show back in 2023! In this episode, Nicole returns to the podcast to reflect on how her practice has evolved over the last three years, why she transitioned from group practice back to solo work, and how motherhood reshaped her understanding of success, sustainability, and balance.  From marketing struggles and wearing too many hats, to rediscovering groundedness in private practice, Nicole shares an honest look at what it means to build a business that fits the life you actually want to live. MEET NICOLE Nicole Lobo is a Registered Psychotherapist and founder of Be Well Therapy Studio in London, Ontario, with over nine years of experience supporting thoughtful, high-functioning adults through anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, and life transitions. Drawing on an integrative approach that weaves together CBT, DBT, ACT, emotion-focused therapy, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care, Nicole specializes in the in-between seasons of life — the moments when what once fit no longer does. She has a particular passion for working with millennial adults navigating the quiet pressure to hold it all together, including the profound identity shifts that come with parenthood. Beyond her clinical work, Nicole also provides supervision for Registered Psychotherapists and business coaching for therapists building sustainable practices. She holds a Master's in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and sees clients both in person in London and virtually across Ontario.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Learn more about Nicole on her practice website, Psychology Today, and LinkedIn profiles.  In this episode:  Nicole's private practice in 2023 Going from group back to solo practice How Nicole is...

Shulamit Ber Levtov: Building a Sustainable Practice Without Losing Yourself | Ep 198

30 min

Building a business while caring for others can be deeply meaningful work, but it can also come at a cost if your own well-being is left behind. It can be easy to get absorbed in caring for others and accidentally lose focus on your own personal needs in the process.   Shulamit experienced this firsthand. In this episode, Shulamit Ber Levtov shares her unconventional path into therapy, from activism, graduating with a Master's degree at 48, and building a thriving group practice in a rural community.   She opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship, the mental health challenges that led her to step away from group practice ownership, and why sustainable success starts with taking care of yourself first. Join us for an insightful discussion!  MEET SHULAMIT Shulamit is known as The Entrepreneurs' Therapist. She's the mental health professional you hire when you're a woman business owner, and you want to build the internal steadiness--for your emotions and your money psychology-- to lead effectively through the uncertainty, weight, and complexity of running a business. Shulamit has been an entrepreneur for over 27 years and has more than 22 years of professional experience supporting women's mental health and personal growth. As a trauma survivor and Master's-level trauma therapist, with certifications in Dare To Lead™, Trauma of Money®, and Financial Social Work as well as somatic parts therapy, Shula brings a unique perspective and approach to supporting women in business. Learn more about Shulamit on her website, LinkedIn, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  Graduating with a Master's at 48! Evergreen marketing strategies  Going from group private practice to solo  Shula's plans for the future  Final takeaways for listeners  Graduating with a Master's at 48! Shulamit's story is an adventurous and inspiring one.  Shula explains how her mother was an activist, and that this type of work was prominent in her family lineage throughout her life...

Paula Gonzalez: From Purpose to Practice and Scaling With Intention | Ep 197

26 min

Building a meaningful practice often starts with a personal story, and grows through courage, creativity, and a commitment to helping others.  In this episode, I talk with Paula Gonzalez. We discuss her journey into mental health, which was shaped by both her background and lived experience, and how it led her from community work to launching and scaling her own private practice.  From navigating the early days of going solo during COVID to building a supportive group practice, Paula offers an honest look at growth, purpose, and the systems that make it all sustainable. Join us for a great conversation! MEET PAULA Paula Gonzalez is a Toronto-based Registered Psychotherapist, Clinical Supervisor, and the founder of Infinite Horizons Psychotherapy, located in North York. After 15 years working in community mental health and private practice, Paula made the decision to follow her passion and expand her solo practice into a group practice. Now, she works with a team of therapists who align with her mission to transform the way people experience therapy. Learn more about Paula on her practice website, Psychology Today, Facebook, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  Why Paula started working in mental health  Starting a private practice  Scaling from solo to group private practice  Using Jane App in private practice  Paula's advice to listeners  Why Paula started working in mental health  Over the last 15 years, Paula has dedicated her career to the mental health field.  'Even back in high school years, you know, when we had to volunteer, it's always been in mental health. Even in university and placements, and my Master's, and now being a therapist, so it's been a long time in this field!' - Paula Gonzalez When explaining how Paula came into the world of therapy, and what encouraged her to pursue becoming a therapist and working in mental health, Paula recalls her family lineage and that she came from a long line of women who worked in various helpin...

Amber Sperling: Three Years of Private Practice Growth | Ep 196

32 min

Growth rarely happens by accident because it's built through intention, care, and a willingness to evolve. In this episode of my mini-series "Where Are They Now?", Amber Sperling reflects on the journey of expanding her practice from a single basement setup to a thriving, multi-location space rooted in accessibility and community care.  Amber and I first spoke on the podcast in 2023! To get the full experience of the there-and-now conversation, you can click here to listen to the episode when Amber first came on the Fearless Practice Podcast.  In our conversation in this episode, she shares how prioritizing clients over waitlists, investing in genuine relationships, and leaning into what works have shaped her success, along with the practical lessons and marketing strategies that continue to guide her forward. Welcome to the conversation! MEET AMBER Amber Sperling is a Registered Social Worker, psychotherapist, and founder of Amber Sperling Social Work & Psychotherapy Services, a growing group practice specializing in perinatal mental health and trauma. She is EMDRIA-certified and one of the first clinicians in Canada to hold certification in perinatal mental health, known for helping clients experience meaningful change from the very first session. Amber is expanding her work through MARSHA Care—a broader model that integrates therapy, education, and community to support women's health across life transitions. She is passionate about building a practice that blends clinical excellence with connection and sustainable growth, so more mothers can access the support they need. Learn more about Amber on her private practice website, LinkedIn, and Psychology Today profiles.  In this episode:  How Amber's practice has grown from 2023 to 2026 What has changed How Amber's practice goes the extra mile in client care Amber's top 3 marketing tips Amber's lessons learned advice to listeners  How Amber's practice has grown from 2023 to 2026 Over the last couple of y...

How I Developed a Marketing Strategy for My Private Practice — Networking | EP 195

22 min

We're revisiting episode 7: How I Developed a Marketing Strategy for My Private Practice — Networking. In this encore episode, I share the networking strategies I used when I started my practice in Halifax almost 10 years ago, including my first outreach system, why a personal touch like a thank-you card matters, and the biggest lesson I learned. You can find the show notes to the original episode here. Connect with me: Instagram Website  Resources Mentioned and Useful Links: Quiet Hustle: Offline Marketing for Introverts in Private Practice | EP 194 Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Learn more about the tools and deals that I love and use for my Canadian private practice Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Jane App (use code FEARLESS2MO for two months free) Learn more about Jules's Canadian private practice Get some help and freebies on your website with WordPress!  Rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and TuneIn

Quiet Hustle: Offline Marketing for Introverts in Private Practice | Ep 194

9 min

If you have been listening to recent episodes of the Fearless Practice Podcast, you know that there are many ways to market your private practice, and that in a saturated market, you really need to make the effort to stand out! However, this can be really tough for the more introverted therapists, especially if you prefer doing offline marketing. In this podcast episode, I sketch out a few ideas with steps that you can try. Remember to take it slow and choose one system to implement and maintain, one step at a time! In this episode:  Offline marketing benefits Why offline marketing works today  'Quiet' versions of offline marketing Offline marketing benefits Let's first clear up the distinction: online marketing includes paid ads, Instagram posts, reels, and videos, whereas offline marketing includes networking, warm introductions, and in-person connections with your local community.  The former helps with branching out and generally putting your Canadian private practice's name out there, whereas the latter really helps your community to get to know you.  'Physical channels of marketing work because they create fewer, better impressions and higher-trusted pathways. There's less competition with physical channels versus crowded digital feeds. In physical spaces, like community bulletin boards, local meet-ups, small events … there are fewer businesses consistently showing up in person, so it's a great opportunity to stand out from the crowd in this saturated market.' - Jules Smith  Why offline marketing works today  Physical channels work because they create fewer, higher-trust impressions. Some more reasons to consider offline marketing include:  Having less competition in physical channels vs. crowded digital feeds, which is a very saturated market. People can see your adverts in real time, giving them a chance to read them and take in the information, whereas most people's attention is fragmented on social media.  Tangibility effect: People remember w...

Taylor Nelson: Growing a Group Private Practice Through Passion | Ep 193

32 min

How do you get the word out about your private practice in your local community organically, and in a way that shows you really care about your clients? Do you really need a Psychology Today profile? How can you build a space for creativity to flourish? These are some of the questions that my guest today, Taylor, has asked herself throughout her journey so far in Canadian private practice. Upon discovering that the only thing she loved about journalism was people's stories, she pivoted to therapy and has never looked back.  In our conversation today, we discuss opening a private practice, creative marketing strategies, and ways in which to keep working with intention. Come and join!  MEET TAYLOR Taylor Nelson is a Certified Play Therapist and Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work (MSW) who specializes in child and youth mental health. She is the owner of Family Tree Therapy in Belleville, Ontario, where her group practice focuses on expressive, play-based approaches for children, teens, and families. Taylor enjoys helping young people feel safe, seen, and supported as they build resilience and strengthen relationships. Learn more about Taylor on her personal website, private practice website, Psychology Today, and Facebook profiles.  In this episode:  How Taylor became a Registered Social Worker Why Taylor opened her own private practice Marketing the private practice Taylor's advice to listeners  How Taylor became a Registered Social Worker Taylor studied journalism, but quickly realized that it wasn't for her. She discovered that the only part of journalism she really enjoyed was learning about people's stories, which led her into the therapy world, where that plays a large part.  While Taylor loved working in a clinical setting initially, it began to take a toll. Therefore, she pivoted and started working solo to continue serving her community on more of her own terms.  Why Taylor opened her own private practice In 2023, Taylor open...

Sonya JF Barnett: Becoming a Private Practice Sex Therapist as a Second Career | Ep 192

31 min

Sonya joined a life drawing class as a participant over 15 years ago. Little did she know at the time that this decision would end up leading her to hosting her own art sessions, taking it in a sexually inclusive and explorative angle, and later become a sex therapist who completed her Master's in her 40s and now runs her own (mostly) virtual private practice. As you can see, she has a unique story to share! In this podcast episode, Sonya and I discuss her exciting journey from start to finish, and share some insights from her lessons learned.  MEET SONYA Sonya JF Barnett is a Registered Psychotherapist, certified sex educator, and lover of trees. She has a varied history in art direction, feminist erotica production, intimacy coordination, and fierce feminist organizing. She has written about, filmed, spoken on, studied, and is a fierce activist for sexual rights, education, and wellbeing. Learn more about Sonya on her website, Instagram, and Psychology Today profiles.  In this episode:  From art into therapy How Sonya became a therapist  Running a private practice What's next for Sonya From art into therapy  Before joining the profession, Sonya had another career working as an art director for design agencies.  After trying out a few life drawing classes, Sonya started hosting her own classes. Later, the classes turned into a larger-than-anticipated community, which had a big focus on sexuality.  Sonya's work with life drawing and the deeper exploration was called "Keyhole Sessions", and it was her hobby alongside her career as an art director. However, over the course of a few years, Keyhole Sessions encouraged Sonya to step into counselling and become a therapist.  How Sonya became a therapist  Sonya played around with the idea of creating something more official and tangible from her work with Keyhole Sessions, which led up to her decision to become a sex therapist.  She got involved in as much sexual therapy education as she could get into at t...

Dr. Anusha Kassan: Purchasing a Group Private Practice in Canada | Ep 191

31 min

After 10 years of working as a Registered Psychologist and dabbling initially in private practice, Dr. Anusha Kassan and her cofounder, Alyssa Hasham, purchased and freshened up an already existing Canadian private practice. With creativity, passion, and drive, they have developed the space into a community that they share with other clinicians to thrive in.  In this podcast episode, Anusha and I discuss her journey into therapy, private practice, and the experiences she's had in recent years both as a psychologist and a practice owner.  MEET ANUSHA Anusha Kassan, PhD, RPsych (she/her), resides and works on the traditional territories of the people of Treaty 7 in Southern Alberta and Métis Nation of Alberta (Districts 5 and 6). She also works on the territories of the Musqueam People; she is an Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia. She is also the co-owner of The Psychology Group, a private practice in Calgary. Anusha's scholarship is influenced by her own bicultural identity and is informed by an overarching social justice lens. She is a Fellow of the Canadian Psychological Association, and she recently received the organization's Award for Public, Community Service, and Human Rights and Social Justice in Psychology. Learn more about Anusha on her website, Instagram, university post, and practice websites.  In this episode:  Why Anusha became a psychologist  When Anusha started private practice Purchasing a private practice Marketing the private practice  What Dr. Kassan is looking forward to  Why Anusha became a psychologist Anusha explains that her path to becoming a psychologist was paved by both purposeful and spontaneous events.  When she had to choose an undergraduate major, Anusha applied to programs in the helping professions, such as psychology and education. Later on, when she had to choose one, she chose psychology because it offered a wider scope. Dr. Kassan explains that within her family, there was a near-death exper...

Christina Page: Private Practice Lessons in Growth | Ep 190

32 min

In this first installment of my series, "Where Are They Now?", I'll be interviewing past Canadian therapists that I've had on the show to see how their private practice is doing. Today, I'm checking in with Christina Page! Tune in to gain extra insight into where she was when we first spoke, and see the progress she has made!  We discuss the surprising discoveries she has made along the way, the discomfort she has overcome, and the wonderful lessons that she has learned from both. Join our conversation, and see if you can pick up an informative gem to help you on your path in Canadian private practice! MEET CHRISTINA Christina Page is a Certified Perinatal Therapist and the owner of Whole Family Psychotherapy - a collective of heart-centered perinatal specialists offering virtual counselling services across Ontario to parents and parents-to-be. Christina's team offers individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and parenting support sessions for folks through pre-conception journeys, during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond into later stages of family life. The team at Whole Family understands that when parents feel whole, family systems thrive.  Learn more about Christina on her practice website, Psychology Today, and LinkedIn profiles.  In this episode:  A quick recap  Christina's group practice update to today  Stepping fully into the CEO role  The importance of having an emergency savings fund Christina's goals for the future A quick recap Christina re-listened to her first appearance on the Fearless Practice Podcast as well, and she discusses how much it brought back for her.  At the beginning of her group private practice journey, Christina wore most of the hats. She was the clinical director, admin, and saw a full caseload of clients, all while being a mother to young children. While she loved it too, she knew that it wasn't sustainable.  Therefore, over the year and a half since our first podcast episode, she has smoothe...

Tina Bells: Balancing Non-Profit and Private Practice | Ep 189

23 min

Have you ever felt the need to choose between non-profit and private practice? Is it possible to do both? My guest today, Tina, has found a way to do so! She believes in sustainability, both in business and her personal life. For Tina, being able to offer her services in the non-profit sector helps her to make sure her expertise is available to people who need the support but can't easily afford it, and seeing private clients in her solo practice helps her to support herself!   By combining both approaches, Tina can make sure she utilizes both her passion and her skills, and live while working in a way that feels fully integrated with her values. If you want to learn more, come join our conversation!  MEET TINA Tina Bells is a Registered Psychotherapist and EMDR therapist based in Toronto, where she also serves as the Grief and Bereavement Coordinator for a local hospice. She is the owner of Grounded Voice Psychotherapy, her Private Practice, where she supports individuals experiencing loss and Spiritual abuse. With a Master's in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy and over a decade of experience in non-profits, including those such as shelters and correctional services, all of which inform her holistic, compassionate approach. Learn more about Tina on her practice website, Psychology Today, and LinkedIn profiles.  In this episode:  What motivated Tina to become a therapist  Going into private practice  Managing a diverse schedule  Tina's goals for 2026 Tina's advice to listeners  What motivated Tina to become a therapist There was no big, sudden moment of realization that Tina had to know she wanted to become a therapist. Instead, pursuing therapy came from a lifetime of interest in other people. 'I think it was a series of small things over time. I always knew I wanted to support people, that's what led to the Master's in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy, and then into the non-profit work that I have been doing for the last two decades.' - Tina Bells ...

Nadia and Debora D'Iuso: A Sister-Team in Private Practice | Ep 188

31 min

Can siblings work well together? How do family-led businesses run in the mental health space? Sisters Debora and Nadia both experienced the same childhood trauma, which sparked an interest in mental health for them from a young age.  While they went their separate ways for a few years to study and pursue their careers, their paths have converged again in opening a private practice as co-founders!  In this podcast episode, Nadia, Debora, and I discuss their history from past to present, what led them into therapy, and how it is running a business with your sibling.  MEET NADIA AND DEBORA Dr. Nadia and Dr. Debora D'Iuso are a sister team of highly trained psychologists who believe effective therapy starts with genuine connection, empathy, and actionable strategies. Their approach combines compassion and collaboration, delivering proactive support as your mental well-being evolves through life's stages. Together, they lead Crosstown Psychology & Wellness, a Toronto-based clinic offering personalized, evidence-based care for adults, teens, and couples navigating life's challenges. Learn more about Nadia and Debora on their practice website, Instagram, and LinkedIn profiles.  In this episode:  How Nadia and Debora became therapists  Building a private practice together Marketing the private practice  How Nadia and Debora became therapists Both Nadia and Debora experienced grief in their youth: their uncle, whom they were close to, died by suicide. This moment became a turning point for them both, because they turned their grief into a passion for helping others. 'I'll never forget when I heard the news, I'll never forget every moment of that experience. It stayed with me for a long time, but what really drew me to understanding what I wanted to do with my life was that experience of grief … I remember thinking, "How do I help my family through this? What do I do with this?" … It led me into this thought of, "I want to help others."' - Dr. Nadia D'luso   Debo...

How to Prevent Burnout by Scheduling Breaks in Private Practice | Ep 187

14 min

Are you a telehealth therapist? Do you see most of your clients virtually? As a fully remote Canadian private practice owner, I have done lots of trial and error to find the daily routine that works for me, helps me prevent burnout, and allows me to feel recentered between each client. Of course, there are some days when I need to change things up, but now I have found a system for taking breaks throughout the day so that I am fresh and grounded before each virtual session - while avoiding burnout.  If you're looking for some inspiration for a schedule or a guideline for breaks to try out, feel free to give this episode a listen!  In this episode:  Preventing burnout Take a short morning break  A mindful lunchbreak  Afternoon break and evening breaks Taking breaks throughout the week  Preventing burnout 'For me, burnout is me feeling wired but tired. I'm feeling tense and jittery; my nervous system is probably overactive. I'm tired, but I have adrenaline, and a feeling of "Go-go-go!" and I start to push myself, and in this state I get a lot done - but it's really not worth it, because once I stop working, I find it really hard to relax and wind down.' - Jules Smith  Burnout can be tricky to manage because it doesn't happen overnightt. While it may seem like it helps you to get more done and work a lot, it often comes at a cost.  You feel overwhelmed and tired, but too wired to fully rest. This means that you don't replenish your spent energy, leaving you slowly but surely burning out until you physically can't go on. 'Even though I get a lot done in this "wired-but-tired" state, it's really not worth it in the long-run, because it just leads to burnout. So, this year I'm going to be organizing and using my breaks differently to prevent this wired-but-tired feeling!' - Jules Smith   Take a short morning break In the past, Jules used to wake up and get ready for the day, log in to work, and complete tasks until lunchtime. However, they noticed that work...

Anabeli Jackson: Secure Email Solutions for Canadian Therapists | Ep 186

15 min

As a Canadian therapist in private practice, you are probably often needing to send and receive sensitive, private information. How often have you worried about these documents' security and safety? What should you do to secure email communications and keep unnecessary stress at bay?  This is where Hushmail comes to the rescue. For less than $20 CAD per month, you can completely insure, assure, and secure your entire email inbox, including your forms and signatures. They pride themselves on security and simplicity, leaving you with a solution that you can start using right out of the box from the minute to sign up.  In this episode, I chat with Anabeli about everything to do with Hushmail. We answer your questions and provide clear solutions to help you start 2026 with both digital email security and peace of mind.  MEET ANABELI Anabeli Jackson is the Marketing Manager at Hushmail, where she leads content strategy and helps therapists understand secure communication with clarity and confidence. She focuses on removing the overwhelm from topics like encryption, compliance, and secure communication so clinicians can protect client trust and stay compliant with confidence. Anabeli has been with Hushmail since 2014 and brings a strong foundation in communication and marketing. Her work supports mental health providers across Canada and the U.S. who depend on Hushmail to communicate securely with their clients. Learn more about Anabeli on her LinkedIn profile.  In this episode:  What is Hushmail? Why Canadian therapists should use Hushmail  What encryption is and why you need to use it  How you can get started with Hushmail   What is Hushmail? 'Hushmail is a secure email platform … built specifically for healthcare and therapy practices. It lets you send and receive secure, encrypted emails, and it helps you build secure forms where you can collect information securely with legally binding signatures - and it's all in one place.' - Anabeli Jackson The two co...

Regan Swerhun: Expanding Private Care to Northern Communities | Ep 185

25 min

Have you ever felt a persistent pull toward work that feels more aligned with who you are, even when it means leaving something secure behind? Regan had the same feeling, and made the decision to lead a Canadian private practice with fellow colleagues that was built on their shared values.  In this episode, Regan and I talk about her non-linear journey into therapy. We explore how she and her practice are finding creative ways to serve rural and Northern First Nations communities, and how she is thinking about safety and accessibility for virtual clients. We also dive into marketing with authenticity, building trust through your website and social media, and why community-building has been at the heart of her growth. Join in for the conversation!  MEET REGAN At 26, Regan Swerhun left a stable community counselling job to follow her passion for trauma-focused work and build a private practice in Thunder Bay, Ontario. She now focuses on EMDR and trauma-informed therapy, offering both in-person and online sessions. Regan also provides counselling to youth in Northern First Nations communities and uses social media to make mental health conversations more real and accessible. Learn more about Regan on her private practice website, LinkedIn, and Psychology Today profiles.  In this episode:  Why Regan pursued a career in therapy   Leaping into private practice Creative ways of offering safe spaces for therapy  Marketing the private practice Why Regan pursued a career in therapy   'Honestly, therapy was not my first choice. It was kind of a roundabout life journey to get to where I am now.' - Regan Swerhun  Though Regan began a degree in business, she decided to switch and focus on social work. While completing her Master's degree in Social Work, Regan began working in a hospital in Toronto. There, she quickly discovered that she enjoyed doing patient intake and hearing people's stories and their unique life experiences. This signaled to her that something lay...

Dana Etherington: SEO Tips for a Thriving Canadian Private Practice | Ep 184

22 min

Have you ever found yourself loving the work of therapy, but feeling frustrated by systems that make it difficult for your clients to receive the help they need? Dana reached that crossroads and made a brave, intentional leap toward a practice that supports both her clinical values and her personal well-being. In this podcast episode, Dana and I talk about her path into psychotherapy, and what it looked like to slowly and thoughtfully transition from hospital work into full-time private practice.  We also dive into learning SEO as a solo practitioner, using AI without losing your human voice, and why giving your practice time to grow organically can be a powerful choice. There's so much practical wisdom in this conversation, and I'm excited for you to listen in! MEET DANA Dana is an occupational therapist who practices psychotherapy and the owner of Cedar Tree Therapy, a private practice in Whitby, Ontario. With close to a decade of mental health experience, Dana sees individuals with anxiety, eating disorders, and OCD. Learn more about Dana on her private practice website and Psychology Today profile.  In this episode:  Dana's academic background and current practice Going from clinical work to private practice  How Dana's private practice has evolved  The therapist book club  Researching marketing and SEO best practices Dana's advice for listeners  Dana's academic background and current practice  While Dana's private practice is situated in Whitby, Ontario, she completed her Master's degree in occupational therapy at McGill University in Montreal.  'I came back to Ontario after finishing my Master's, and in Ontario specifically … occupational therapists are one of the six regulated healthcare professionals that can practice controlled active psychotherapy. So, my practice is entirely psychotherapy, and my license type is that I just happen to be an occupational therapist.' - Dana Etherington Due to Ontario's regulatory laws, Dana can practice psych...

Jillian Bagan: Growing a Queer-Informed Practice | Ep 183

36 min

We're revisiting episode 143: Jillian Bagan: Growing a Queer-Informed Practice. Their powerful reflections on growing a queer-informed practice continue to resonate, and we're excited to share this encore episode with both new and longtime listeners. You can find the show notes to the original episode here. Connect with me: Instagram Website  Resources Mentioned and Useful Links: Jennifer Bonilla: Building a Culturally Responsive Private Practice | EP 182 Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Learn more about the tools and deals that I love and use for my Canadian private practice Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Jane App (use code FEARLESS2MO for two months free) Get some help and freebies on your website with WordPress!  Rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and TuneIn

Jennifer Bonilla: Building a Culturally Responsive Private Practice | Ep 182

28 min

Have you noticed gaps in your community where there are needs that require attention? Are you hearing the same or similar pains over and over in the lives of the people around you? This is what happened to Jennifer, and she took the initiative to provide services to those whom she saw needed them the most.  In this episode, Jennifer and I discuss how she based her new, growing Canadian private practice on the values of cultural awareness, belonging, and identity, and how she is making the transition to solo practice financially stable.  We also talk about blogs, working with AI, instilling balance, and why adaptability is an important gift that you should give yourself when working in this mental health field. There are many gems to share, so welcome our conversation!  MEET JENNIFER Jennifer Bonilla is a Registered Psychotherapist and the founder of Therapy Across Seasons, serving adults and families online across Ontario. She specializes in helping clients understand how attachment and family dynamics shape their confidence, boundaries, and relationships. Guided by compassion and cultural awareness, Jennifer supports people in moving through life's seasons with greater clarity, connection, and resilience.  Learn more about Jennifer on her practice website, Instagram, and LinkedIn profiles.  In this episode:  Why Jennifer decided to become a therapist  Starting a private practice Centering Culture in Private Practice  Financial prep to curb fear  Marketing the practice  Jennifer's advice for listeners  Why Jennifer decided to become a therapist  Jennifer started in the mental health field as a child and youth worker.  While Jennifer enjoyed working with youth and children in Toronto, she saw gaps in care. Starting a private practice  Jennifer appreciated the experience that she had working in other group practices, but she knew that she wanted to start her own practice because she wanted to lay her own foundation. Apart from wanting to ground her p...

Affordable Ways to Start a Canadian Private Practice in 2025 | Ep 181

13 min

We're bringing back Episode 157: Affordable Ways to Start a Canadian Private Practice in 2025 for an encore. Whether you missed it the first time or need a refresher, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you launch your practice without breaking the bank. You can find the show notes to the original episode here. Connect with me: Instagram Website   Resources Mentioned and Useful Links: Leading with Authenticity in Private Practice: Year 9 | ep 180 Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Learn more about the tools and deals that I love and use for my Canadian private practice Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Jane App (use code FEARLESS2MO for two months free) Get some help and freebies on your website with WordPress!  Rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and TuneIn

Leading With Authenticity in Private Practice: Year 9 | Ep 180

12 min

This is a very special episode: my ninth annual yearly review!  In this episode, I share insights into how my Canadian private practice has been going this year. Including the significant changes that have occurred, how their impacts landed, and where we are going from here … into Year 10 in 2026!  Thank you to my listeners for being on this path alongside me. I'm so excited for another great year of episodes ahead! Onwards and upwards! In this episode:  Direct billing has been great  Success with lowered prices  Monthly land tax donations My transition  Here's to year 10!  Direct billing has been great  As you may have heard, from year eight we implemented direct billing and that has continued to be an asset.  If you are interested in learning more about the process of including direct billing and how I did it, you can listen to this podcast episode. Or, if you're sitting on the fence and still deciding whether or not you want to use direct billing, and some more information could be useful to you, you can listen to this episode.  Success with lowered prices  Last year we decided to lower our rates and haven't looked back!  If you want some more information and guidance on lowering or raising your rates, check out this episode I did discussing this exact topic.  Monthly land tax donations The third change we've been implementing since the middle of this year has been donating monthly to the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia.  Again, if you are interested in doing the same or you want to learn more, you can listen to this episode.  My transition  If you're a long-time listener (hello!) you may have heard the episode on my personal big change which happened in the middle of last spring, where I shared the personal story of my transition.  In episode 163 I talk about coming out as trans nonbinary, and why I decided to share this news on this platform, and with my audience.  In fact, when this episode airs and you are listeni...

Grace Kim: How Therapy Sparked a Private Practice | Ep 179

37 min

Have you ever had a therapy experience so powerful that it clarified exactly how you want to help others? Has a specific modality inspired your niche in private practice? That's exactly what happened to Grace Kim, whose experience shaped her path as a Canadian private practice therapist.  Once she experienced EMDR therapy, Grace changed her career path, and the journey that she's taken has been nothing short of exciting and fulfilling.  MEET GRACE Grace Kim, MSW, RSW, is the founder of REM Therapy Services, a small and growing group practice based in Markham, ON. The practice specializes in EMDR therapy, supporting high-achieving yet heavy-hearted individuals, as well as those who feel stuck in the past. REM Therapy Services offers EMDR intensives for clients seeking faster relief in therapy, along with clinical consultations for trauma therapists learning the EMDR modality. With a vision to grow as expert providers and educators of EMDR, REM Therapy Services is committed to serving both the local community and beyond. Learn more about Grace on her practice website, Psychology Today, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  How Grace became a therapist  Taking off the golden handcuffs  Going from client to therapist   Building up a solo private practice  Grace's advice to listeners  How Grace became a therapist As Grace explains, her journey to becoming a therapist and running a group private practice in Canada today has been a winding road.  While she started grad school with a certain plan in mind, by her graduation, the plan had changed. At first, after graduation, she worked in child welfare, community mental health, and in some hospitals.  Taking off the golden handcuffs  Grace joined this group private practice in 2018, six years after she graduated. It was a scary transition for her at first, going from a secure, salary job to a billable hours-based income.  At that time, however, Grace was newly married and living in a home with her partner...

Alexina Picard: Starting a Private Practice After Graduation | Ep 178

29 min

Third time's the charm sometimes, and it was the case for Alexina! She had to be persistent and resilient, and was able to find a way through financial troubles to finish her Master's degree and start her own solo Canadian private practice.  In this podcast episode, we discuss why she chose to go solo rather than join an already-existing group practice and how she got to where she is today.  If you'd like some tips, advice, or just a good story of resilience from a fellow therapist, give this episode a listen!  MEET ALEXINA Alexina is a Registered Clinical Counsellor practicing in North Vancouver, BC. She opened her solo private practice 4 months ago, immediately upon registration with the BCACC, something she had never imagined she would do. Alexina has over 10 years of healthcare and mental health experience, from pharmacy assistant to the past Executive Director of the BC Psychological Association. When she's not working, she's either watching TV or running the trails on the North Shore. Learn more about Alexina on her practice website, LinkedIn, and Psychology Today profiles.  In this episode:  Becoming a therapist  Why go back to school after working? Going into solo private practice How the practice is going   Alexina's advice to private practitioners  Becoming a therapist  Alexina's route to working as a therapist was roundabout.  Alexina applied to Yorkville and got in, but couldn't afford the tuition because she was accepted on such short notice, and didn't have enough time to sort out student loans and payment plans. She was then suggested to try out Adler University, and that route worked!  Alexina was the Executive Director of BC Psychological Association for two of the four years that she worked there, and it provided her with the financial means to go back and complete her Master's degree.  Why go back to school after working? While Alexina enjoyed working as the Executive Director of the BC Psychological Association, she kept her eye...

Alison Chisholm: Building More Than a Private Practice | Ep 177

31 min

Everyone comes to private practice from different paths, but there can be a common thread between them: wanting to help others.  For my guest today, Alison, she had a very personal experience of becoming a mother, and noticed that there was a gap in the market wherein many new parents needed pre- and peri-natal support. This sparked a passion project to fill that need and spread support, ultimately helping both clients and clinicians along the way.  In this podcast episode, join us to learn more about building a collective, an affordable website, and how to live and work by your values. MEET ALISON Alison is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience across diverse practice settings. She co-founded Collectivus Psychotherapy in response to the increased isolation often experienced in private practice. Alison is passionate about fostering spaces where both clients and clinicians can thrive. She believes that when clinicians are connected and supported, their work becomes more authentic: helping clients truly thrive. Learn more about Alison on her Psychology Today profile and website.   In this episode:  Getting into private practice  Building a collective  Setting up a private practice website  Incorporating your values   Getting into private practice For Alison, getting onto her private practice path came from a very personal experience.   Throughout Alison's work with youth in her previous years in mental health, she always made an effort to support the parents too. Now, with her personal experience of becoming a mother, she wanted to combine and align these values into her new private practice.   Building a collective Alison, her partner, and her best friend are all therapists and decided to go all-in on building up this new private practice.  It was a shared passion project, and in 2025, they decided to rebrand and shift the practice to welcome more clinicians and therapists, since they were getting a lot of inquiries about hirin...

Finding Clients in a Saturated Market | Ep 176

9 min

Do you own a Canadian private practice and are finding it hard to attract clients? Have you found yourself with your head in your hands, trying to figure out how to stand out and get noticed?  Over the last few months, I've been tweaking my marketing strategies to test what works and what doesn't, and along the way, I have found some helpful results.  In the following podcast episode, I'll be sharing my discoveries and tips with you.  In this episode:  The situation in Canada right now  It's often said but still true: niche  Splitting the niches with staff  Maintaining Psychology Today profiles  Keep up to date with AI practices  The situation in Canada right now  If you have been listening to my recent interview episodes with guests, you will have heard a lot of Canadian therapists pointing out one thing: the market is saturated.  'Over the past couple of years, our profession has tripled! Which is so great for people who are trying to find a therapist, but it can lead to some challenges when it comes to marketing your private practice.' - Jules Smith So, today, I wanted to share a few tips with you that I'm using myself to stand out from the crowd! It's often said but still true: niche  'Niching is so important and I feel sometimes like a broken record to always bring it up in the podcast, but it is so important!' - Jules Smith  Three important things happen when you niche down in your Canadian private practice: Clients instantly know that you're the right fit Other professionals can refer to you more easily because you're a specialist rather than a generalist  You can use it to tailor your marketing message  If you want to learn more about nichings, feel free to listen to this episode of the Fearless Practice Podcast, which dives in deep!  Splitting the niches with staff  Instead of giving long lists about all the ways in which we can help our clients, we decided to reorganize our approach in this way: we each have three specialties, and we s...

Marta Evans: Mastering Growth in Canadian Private Practice| Ep 175

30 min

It is Marta's third career shift, becoming a psychotherapist, after 20 years in healthcare and having worked in academia before! Across this wide career and lived experience, she knew that she wanted to bring it all into her work in her private practice.  Additionally, Marta had been helped by many people when she was getting started, which is what encouraged her to pay it forward by offering supervision and mentorship to new and upcoming clinicians.  In this podcast episode, Marta and I discuss pivoting from full-time to work full-time in private practice, how to hire the right people, and how to maintain the soul of therapy within the growing business. Join us for a great conversation!  MEET MARTA Marta Evans, RP, M.Ed., C.C.C., is a psychotherapist and certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist based in Hamilton, Ontario. She's the founder of Evans Family Counselling & Psychotherapy, a heart-led group practice specializing in transformational therapies like IFS and EMDR for individuals navigating complex trauma, grief, and life transitions. Known for her warm, authentic presence and "gentle but spicy" approach, Marta is a strong advocate for trauma-informed care that challenges the limitations of the traditional medical model. At EFCP, she and her team prioritize respectful, collaborative care that supports deep healing and change by addressing root causes rather than just managing symptoms. Learn more about Marta on her practice website, Psychology Today, and Facebook profiles.  In this episode:  Starting private practice Diversifying your experience  Building up a group practice  Marta's advice to listeners  Starting the private practice As Marta explains, being a psychotherapist is her third career. She worked for a long time in academia and as a radiation therapist in oncology before transitioning to psychotherapy.  With her private practice, Marta started it part-time initially before getting to the point where she had enough clients to m...

Kayleen Edwards: Private Practice Growth and Planning for Maternity Leave | Ep 174

29 min

Are you currently building out your Canadian practice and unsure of how to grow? Or, are you growing your family and having children? How do you manage these two types of growth as a business partner and new parent?  In this episode, my guest Kayleen talks about how she places community above competition. We discuss how her value-driven approach to running her practice brought back most of her interns as associates, how she managed planning for maternity leave as a busy practice owner, and her tidbits of advice for listeners.  MEET KAYLEEN Kayleen is an RP and cofounder of Roots in Wellness, a group therapy practice in Hamilton, Ontario. She is a validated clinical supervisor with the OAMHP and a council member for the CRPO. Kayleen is passionate about perinatal mental health and helping both clients and supervisees through the transition of parenthood. She is a mama of three littles herself, and a lover of all things nature! Learn more about Kayleen on her practice website, LinkedIn, and Instagram profiles  In this episode:  What are the OAMHP and CRPO?  Managing a private practice while being a committee member Growing a private practice  Planning a maternity leave?  Mistakes made and lessons learned  Advice for listeners  What are the OAMHP and CRPO? The OAMHP stands for the Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals, and the CRPO stands for the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario!  Kayleen has been a council member of the CRPO since 2024, but has been working for them since 2019.  Managing a private practice while being a committee member  Between her commitments to her roles within the CRPO and the OAMHP and running her own Canadian private practice, Kayleen definitely has a lot on her plate!  Before the beginning of her private practice journey, Kayleen graduated in 2014 and started working at an agency for a number of years. It was demanding work with a lot of travel and tough cases, and even though Kayleen learned a lot...

Compensation Models for Contract Therapists in Canada | Ep 173

12 min

Every private practice is a little different in how it goes about business, especially when it comes to having contract therapists. Usually, the practice owner and contractor figure out the best system that works for them, which means there is generally more than one way around a problem!  Regarding compensation for my contract therapist, we have tried and tested a few options before settling on what works best for us: a percentage-based compensation system with an invoice-accrued model.  If you'd like some tips on how I manage this process each month (or you want to know what this even means!), welcome to this podcast episode.  In this episode:  My experience with growth  Why finding the right compensation model matters How to pay a contract therapist  How to use the invoice-accrued model  My experience with growth  If you've been following my private practice journey over the past few years, you'll know that I've grown my solo practice into a small group private practice by hiring my first contract therapist.  Why finding the right compensation model matters Each practice may do things differently. It is important to find the right compensation model for the therapist contractors in your practice, because how you pay them will directly affect their financial stability, as well as their job satisfaction.  I decided to hire a contractor instead of an employee because I run a smaller business. Having a contract therapist means less paperwork, more financial stability, and tax headaches for me, and it also gives the contractor more freedom, flexibility, and potential to earn more each month. How to pay the contract worker  First, we decided it would be a monthly payout, rather than a bi-weekly payout. Then, we had to decide on the payout model: invoice-accrual-based pay or cash-based pay.  If you want a quick recap on the definitions:  1 - Invoiced (Accrual-Based) Pay: Payment is based on services rendered within a calendar month, regardless of whethe...

Micheal Sorsdahl: Ccpa's New Ethics Case Book and Why You Must Read It | Ep 172

41 min

Today, Jules takes another trip down memory lane, revisiting a gem from the Fearless Practice archives. In this encore episode, Jules talks to Michael Sorsdahl about the new CCPA revised ethics case book.  You can find the show notes to the original episode here. Connect with me: Instagram Website  Resources Mentioned and Useful Links: Liv Noël Dakkak: Niching With Your Passion in Private Practice | ep 171 Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Learn more about the tools and deals that I love and use for my Canadian private practice Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Jane App (use code FEARLESS for one month free) Get some help and freebies on your website with WordPress!  Rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and TuneIn  

LIV Noël Dakkak: Niching With Your Passion in Private Practice | Ep 171

21 min

Do what you love, and you won't work a day in your life? Close, but not quite! Niching down and working within your passion and ideal client group will still take effort and work, but it can be easier than staying a generalist, especially if you are dreaming about working more intentionally with the groups of people you care the most about helping.  In today's episode, I speak with Liv (they/them) about niching down, starting a private practice, and running workshops, all of which they started in an effort to reshape their life around their needs, dreams, and desires.  So, it's maybe not about not working at all, but about doing the work that feels right for you!  MEET LIV Liv (they/them) is a registered social worker who works primarily with queer, neurodivergent and disabled folks who have experienced trauma. They are guided by anti-oppressive, strength-based, trauma-informed care and use methods such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to get to the root of what you are struggling with. They offer services to individuals and partners, youths and adults, virtually across Ontario and in-person in Cornwall. Learn more about Liv on their Psychology Today profile and bookings page.  In this episode:  Why Liv became a social worker Starting a private practice  Partnering with aligned organizations  Niching down to boost success  Advice for listeners  Why Liv became a social worker From Liv's personal experience, as well as seeing people struggle with mental health, they felt drawn to becoming a Registered Social Worker to help people go through life a little more easily.  Additionally, Liv works primarily with queer, neurodivergent, and disabled folks because they have these life experiences too.  Starting a private practice  After Liv's extensive experience working in the public sector, they started to consider opening up a Canadian private practice. This was partially due to burnout, a need to structure work around their health mo...

Catharine Martin: Inside Jane App's AI Scribe | Ep 170

21 min

You have heard about AI everywhere, and now it is being used within EMR services. If you feel unsure about this topic or you want to learn more, then definitely play this episode and join us for the conversation! In this podcast episode, Catharine from Jane App and I discuss how Jane App incorporates AI into their EMR, including some general best practice guidelines about how you can use to use Jane's AI Script services ethically and safely in your practice.  MEET CATHARINE Catharine Martin is the Privacy and Compliance Manager at Jane App, where she plays a key leadership role in shaping and overseeing the company's privacy and regulatory strategies. With a strong background in data protection and compliance, she works closely with healthcare practitioners to ensure their practices meet evolving privacy requirements while also finding practical ways to reduce administrative burden. Beyond her work at Jane, Catharine is also a dedicated Pilates instructor, bringing the same focus and discipline to her teaching as she does to her professional work. Learn more about Catharine on her LinkedIn profile.  In this episode:  Working with Jane App  AI Scribe AI in client diagnostics  It is all up to you  Jane's appearance in The Globe and Mail  Working with Jane App Catharine, 20 years ago, after giving birth, had a radical and unexpected medical event that left her in a brief coma, experiencing multiple organ failure.  However, due to her incredible doctors, her strength, and a lot of luck, she survived and kept all her organs, without needing any transplants, and went on to make a full recovery.  How did this bring her to work for Jane App? After what Catharine went through, she felt so drawn to Jane App's vision to "Help the helpers", that she started working for the company to further their mission.  AI Scribe Jane App offers an AI scribe feature. It essentially charts notes from your sessions with clients in your own voice.  Jane secured a third-party...

Rachel Brennan: Keeping Connection in an Online Group Practice | Ep 169

27 min

Do you run a Canadian group private practice? Are you mostly (or all) online? It can be tricky to maintain the community feeling of an online group practice, especially with a few therapists and employees, and especially if community is one of your business values.  However, it doesn't mean it's impossible! My guest today, Rachel, and I discuss how to incorporate different systems in private practice to maintain a sense of community and connection, as well as how to be authentic in your marketing and in the work your practice puts out into the community.  MEET RACHEL Rachel Brennan is an Ontario-based Registered Psychotherapist and the founder of Eras Therapy & Wellness, a Canadian virtual group private practice. She has a clinical focus on childhood and relational trauma, as well as anxiety, self-esteem, and body image issues. Based in Toronto, Rachel is passionate about offering high-quality, authentic, and human-centered therapy that prioritizes genuine connection and emotional safety. Outside the therapy room, she can often be found adventuring with her two rescue dogs or planning her next trip across the globe. Learn more about Rachel on her practice website, Psychology Today, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  Why Rachel became a therapist  Starting her private practice  Turning the practice into a group  Maintaining the connection in an online group practice  Advice to listeners  Why Rachel became a therapist  Rachel first completed two years of medical school, because it was her first plan. However, due to developing a brain injury and chronic illnesses, she decided to pivot her life.  Starting her private practice  Rachel was dedicated to opening up her Canadian private practice even while she was still completing her Master's degree.  After graduating, Rachel jumped into private practice and has not looked back since! Her private practice is currently totally virtual, and even though it works very well for her and her team now, she m...

Dakota Grass: Life as a New Canadian Private Practice Owner | Ep 168

25 min

Have you felt a pull to starting and running your group private practice? Are you ready to trade the security of being an employee for someone else's business for the freedom of being your own boss?  In today's episode, I speak with Dakota about why (and how) she stopped working for other people and started working for herself. She enjoyed being in a group private practice so much that she wanted to start her own!  Join us today to hear more about how she made the transition, how it's going now, and about an easy trick you can use to boost your Psychology Today profile ranking online!  MEET DAKOTA Dakota (she/her) is a registered social worker with a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology who owns Down to Earth Counselling and Consultation in London, Ontario. As a neurodivergent, queer, cisgender woman and White settler based in London, Ontario, she offers relational, client-centered psychotherapy to children, youth, young adults, and couples. Dakota values authenticity and connection, showing up as a human first and a therapist second. Her work focuses on fostering meaningful therapeutic relationships and supporting clients in deepening their connections with themselves and others. Learn more about Dakota on her practice website, LinkedIn, Psychology Today, and Instagram profiles.  In this episode:  Becoming a therapist  Opening her own private practice  Peer consulting with other therapists  How to boost your Psychology Today profile  Dakota's advice for listeners  Becoming a therapist  Once Dakota realized that she wanted to spend more time working in a clinical setting, she went back to school to become a therapist.  Opening her own private practice  Now, Dakota has launched her private practice and intends to expand it into a group practice. Dakota has surprised herself with enjoying the business side of running a private practice more than she thought she would.  This aspect of being a private practice owner, the fact that you can do multipl...

Ali Joy Richardson and Neil Silcox: Running a Successful Practice as a Couple | Ep 167

30 min

Ali and Neil have worked together for years in theatre before opening up a private practice together. Ali started first, and Neil joined her once they completed their qualifications.  If you want to learn more about how they built their Canadian private practice, including tips on how to work well with your partner, listen in on the conversation today!  MEET ALI and NEIL  Ali Joy Richardson (she/her) is a Registered Counselling Therapist and private practice owner of Richardson Therapy in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She provides narrative therapy in support of teens, adults, and couples with a focus on helping people create healthy relationships and heal from abuse. Ali is a published playwright and theatre artist who has directed and written plays across Canada. Neil Silcox (he/they) is a Registered Counselling Therapist (Candidate), a teacher, and a theatre artist. His therapeutic work is focused on masculinity, ADHD, and navigating artistic and academic careers. He has taught theatre in colleges and universities across Ontario and the Atlantic Provinces, and creates theatre and performance art that explores identity, gender, and wellbeing. Neil collaborates artistically and in private practice with his wife, Ali Joy Richardson (and their dog, Mackey). Learn more about Ali and Neil on their practice website, Ali's Psychology Today, and Neil's Psychology Today profiles.  In this episode:  Why Ali and Neil decided to become therapists  Working together as a couple  The private practice now  Marketing the practice: highs and lows  Why authenticity is important Advice to listeners   Why Ali and Neil decided to become therapists  As Ali explains, the relationship between the director and the actors is intimate and collaborative. Actors and directors alike draw from their personal experiences when they are creating productions and plays together.  A few years later, Ali worked on a series of shows about mental health for pre-teen audiences called "One Deep Brea...

Integrating Land Tax and Reparations in Your Practice | Ep 166

11 min

Something has been bubbling up in me after watching a skit from Canada's Baroness von Sketch show a couple of years ago. In this sketch, they highlight how land acknowledgment without material giving can often feel performative or incomplete. So I decided to make a change in my own Canadian private practice. I have started donating a percentage of our monthly gross income to the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In this episode, I'm sharing what "land tax" and "reparations" actually mean, why you may consider incorporating them into your private practice, and how you can start doing this in your practice or business. This may not be the whole answer, but it can be a meaningful step forward. In this episode:  Putting my money where my mouth is  What "land tax" and "reparations" actually mean  Why you should consider donating  How I make the donations in my private practice  Putting my money where my mouth is It's one thing to say we care about something—but in a capitalist society, the reality is that money carries immense power. The good news is, we can choose to direct that power toward justice by being intentional about where and how we spend, invest, and give. The issues of land reparations have always been close to my heart, and I am glad that I have started to practice this value instead of only talking about it.  What "land tax" and "reparations" actually mean Reparations refer to intentionally giving back or redistributing resources, often financial, to communities that have been harmed or dispossessed. In Canada's case, indigenous communities.  Reparations are also not just symbolic, they are material, consistent acts of accountability due to past colonization, land theft, and systemic harm.  Similarly, but distinct, land tax is a grassroots concept. It is not a government-enforced tax. Businesses and people can voluntarily donate money to indigenous communities, acknowledging that they are benefiting from living and wor...

Jenny Jonker: Building a Canadian Group Practice With Purpose | Ep 165

20 min

Jenny moved to Canada with her family when she was five years old as a war refugee. As she grew up, she wanted to give back to the community that helped her and her family, and found herself becoming a mental health professional.  Now, as a boss and Canadian private practice owner, Jenny uses her principles and intentions as guideposts to keep her working with integrity and a steadfast commitment to her initial dreams and community. Listen in on our episode today to learn more about how you can build a private practice based on your values, too!  MEET JENNY Jenny Jonker, MSW, RSW, is the founder of Dragonfly Counselling and Wellness, where a human-centered, trauma-informed approach is central to her work. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in complex trauma and integrates EMDR, CBT, DBT, and ACT. A refugee of war from Nicaragua, Jenny draws on her own lived experiences with resettlement, grief, and PTSD to build authentic, compassionate connections with clients. She and her team are committed to creating safe, welcoming spaces for all, offering therapy, workshops, and clinical support in both local and Indigenous communities like Six Nations. At the core of her work is a belief in healing through connection, cultural humility, and empowerment. Learn more about Jenny on her Psychology Today, Instagram profile, and practice website.  In this episode:  Jenny's entry into therapy  First private practice experience  Marketing and building a group practice  Jenny's advice to listeners  Jenny's entry into therapy  Jenny's first degree was actually in International Relations, and when she graduated, she began working with refugees and immigrants as a way of giving back.  From that inspirational meeting, Jenny went on to complete her BSW and MSW. She worked in school boards, a sexual assault center, and child welfare, and eventually went into private practice when she started working on reserves.  First private practice experience  So far, Jenny...

Janet and Jasmine Melo-Thaiss: A Practice Run by a Mother-Daughter Duo| Ep 164

30 min

What unfolds when a mother and daughter turn their lifelong bond into a shared practice? Would you be curious to know how they manage it while keeping their personal relationship secure?  In this podcast episode, I chat with Janet and Jasmine, two Canadian therapists from Ontario who have recently launched their private practice. We discuss what's working, what's not, what they are doing about it, and some advice for your Canadian private practice journey. Come sit in!  MEET THE SOUL TREE THERAPY TEAM Soul Tree Therapy was born from the deep bond and shared vision of a mother-daughter duo who are passionate about personal healing, growth, and connection. As cofounders, they have combined their unique perspectives, experiences, and expertise to create a virtual therapy clinic that reflects their core values of compassion, nonjudgment, and collaboration. The team uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques to equip clients with the tools and insights necessary to navigate life's challenges and cultivate emotional resilience. Learn more about Soul Tree Therapy on the website, Instagram page, and Facebook.  In this episode:  The origins of Soul Tree Therapy  Running a family practice professionally  Setting boundaries between work and family time  Advice for listeners  The Origins of Soul Tree Therapy  Jasmine is a Registered Social Worker, and Janet, her mother, is a Registered Psychotherapist.  She and her mother began talking about the possibility of working together, and a few months after they both completed their Masters and PhDs, respectively, and opened up their private practice in December 2024!  Running a family practice professionally Both Jasmine and Janet see their clients individually, either in person or virtually.  Interestingly, they don't conduct client sessions together—a fact that often surprises people. However, this approach allows each of them to focus fully on their individual clinical work, while collaborating closely on the busine...

Gender Transitioning in Canadian Private Practice | Ep 163

6 min

There are many changes that can happen in private practice, and they can range, depending on what happens in life, from getting married and changing your name, to rebranding your Canadian private practice and even to discovering more about yourself.  Sometimes, the transition is even more significant—and there's something I'd really like to share with you.  In this episode, I talk about transitioning in a Canadian private practice. This is, both personally and professionally, indeed a significant transition, and with everything so far in my private practice and podcast, sharing tips and advice with you is important to me, especially if you are in a similar boat. Join in to hear, learn, and know how to do more!  In this episode:  Let the necessary parties know  Update your photos and copy  Join a queer and trans therapist network! Let the necessary parties know  'If you decide to change your name, let the licensing parties that you are a part of know, even if you are not legally changing your name, it can be beneficial to let them know your preferred name so that they know how to address you.' - Jules Smith  During your transition, it is essential that you continue to keep everything organized and aligned as best you can, since potential and current clients may be searching your name and your Canadian practice's name. Doing this first can help you start the rest of the changes with ease.  Regarding essential communication lines that you may need to change, such as an email address, my provider Hushmail was great in helping me to change my email address without any hassle and they made sure that if someone emails my past email address—those emails will be forwarded to my new email address! Update your photos and copy When you start changing other essential information about you within your business, such as your:  - Photos  - Psychology Today profile information  - Your name  - The copy on your website  - Social media platforms  Be prepared for a pos...

New Scheduling Tips for Private Practice in Canada | Ep 162

10 min

The one thing I now know is that "The only constant in life is change!" I used to try to find the perfect scheduling system and the perfect way to manage my working hours. However, usually, as soon as I thought I found it, something in life would change, and the "perfect" schedule would no longer be suitable. At first, I thought I just had to keep pushing to find the "right" way to manage my time, but what I have been learning is that I can incorporate more flexibility into my working schedule and consider myself an important factor too.  In this episode, I'll share with you my lived experience through the ordeal of scheduling that many therapists are familiar with, including my newfound knowledge, tips, and what I have decided to do going forward. It may be helpful to you as well! In this episode:  The situation often changes  Practicing being flexible and fluid What I am doing these days  The situation often changes  One of the things I came to learn about myself through private practice is that I used to think there was a perfect way of living. That somehow I could figure out the perfect system, and use it forever! However, that hasn't turned out how I had imagined it would.   'When I started private practice, I thought that there was this perfect way to schedule my work life, and that once I found this perfect schedule, I would be set for the rest of my career! That I'd be stress-free, happy, and satisfied … I've tried to find a permanent way to schedule my private practice time, but every time I try to find it … Things change!' - Jules Smith Once I seem to find the perfect system, life changes! My work or personal commitments change, my energy levels change, and the situation simply becomes different and unsuitable for the system I had thought was perfect.  Practicing being flexible and fluid  'It has become so clear to me that the quote, "The only constant in life is change", is so true! So this past year, as I have realised that things are always g...

Suki O'Huallachain: Growing a Successful Private Practice in Canada | Ep 161

29 min

You go to school, complete your Masters degree, and juggle multiple jobs while starting your Canadian private practice. What happens now?  Suki, my guest in today's podcast episode, carried her childhood curiosity with her through her academic and professional journey, and it has served her well. Working in alignment with her inner values and principles has helped her stay true to the course.  Now, Suki's practice is full, and she's looking to hire an associate. In today's episode, we discuss her journey and tips for having your own unique, great private practice experience. Listen in!  MEET SUKI Suki O'Huallachain (o-who-la-hon) is a CCC therapist located in Port Coquitlam, BC. She has been a therapist since 2018 and has recently transitioned to private practice after working for almost 6 years in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. Suki is currently navigating hiring an associate and focusing on the "business" side of therapy as her practice is now full after 1 year. Learn more about Suki on her practice website, Psychology Today, and LinkedIn profiles.  In this episode:  Suki's therapist origin story  Going through university  Transitioning out of a government job Becoming full in private practice  Suki's advice to listeners  Suki's therapist origin story  Suki had always been interested in people, how and why they act the way that they do, and this powerful curiosity came with her from childhood into her Canadian private practice.  When Suki went to university, she started with science. However, she soon discovered that it was not for her! So, she pivoted direction and completed her degree in health science and biology.  Going through university Once Suki got into her Master's program, she started having to balance her work life with her school responsibilities.  She worked in a recreational mental health program while studying different modalities and spent this time figuring out what she wanted her niche to be.  Suki thoroughly enjoyed her Ma...

Lyba Sultan: From Idea to Private Practice in Canada | Ep 160

21 min

Lyba's niche, vision, and mission all revolve around authenticity, connection, and community. She uses community in her marketing networks and in the goals that she sets for herself, as well as a guiding principle for her practice to incorporate the future.  Having this vision in mind is a great guiding light that can help you keep yourself - and your Canadian private practice - on track toward your dreams. In this podcast episode, Lyba and I talk about her new private practice, how she's managing working in other practices and agencies while growing her business, and how helpful values are in helping you to build a strong, consistent practice.  MEET LYBA Lyba is the founder of The Healing Mosaic, a private practice that integrates eco-somatics to help individuals achieve deep, transformative healing. Her work focuses on building a strong connection between the mind, body, and subtle body, fostering a holistic approach to wellness. Through somatic therapies, Lyba guides clients to become more attuned to their physical sensations, emotions, and energetic states, creating a deeper awareness of their internal world. Learn more about Lyba on her Instagram, LinkedIn, and Psychology Today profiles and website. In this episode:  Why Lyba became a therapist  Getting into private practice Using the power of community  Advice to listeners  Why Lyba became a therapist  Before Lyba met her therapist, who also had completed her studies at Yorkville as Lyba would later do, she had not thought about becoming a therapist herself. Lyba was interested in mental health but was not yet sure what she wanted to do with it.  Lyba explains that she didn't enjoy academia much as a child during school, but when she was completing her therapy training at Yorkville, she loved it!  Getting into private practice  Lyba went straight into private practice after graduating. She continued working at the private practice where she had completed her practicum, which made the transition...

Mark Pioro: Ontario Psychotherapy Rules and Regulations | Ep 159

32 min

Today, Julia takes another trip down memory lane, revisiting a gem from the Fearless Practice archives. In this encore episode, Julia talks to Mark, the Deputy Registrar and General Counsel at the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) about the rules and regulations that apply to registered psychotherapists in private practice. You can find the show notes to the original episode here. Connect with me: Instagram Website  Resources Mentioned and Useful Links: Ep 158: Julia Smith and Jane Donovan: Inside Insight Mental Health Counselling | ep 158 Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Purchase the workbook on How To Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Learn more about the tools and deals that I love and use for my Canadian private practice Sign up for my free e-course on How to Start an Online Canadian Private Practice Rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and TuneIn

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