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The Challenges of Private Practice | TPOT 360

The Practice of Therapy Podcast with Gordon Brewer

Release Date: 12/09/2024

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The Practice of Therapy Podcast with Gordon Brewer

What if the path to healing trauma isn’t just through talk therapy, but through carefully guided psychedelic experiences? In this episode of The Practice of Therapy Podcast, I sit down with Dori, an experienced therapist and psychedelic facilitator, who shares her deeply informed perspective on the nuanced, responsible, and transformational use of medicines like ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin mushrooms. Dori doesn’t just follow trends—she’s been on the frontlines, participating in research, working underground before legalization, and now helping clients access inner healing...

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The Practice of Therapy Podcast with Gordon Brewer

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What if the two most important questions in your practice— 'Is this financially viable?' and 'Am I doing the work I love?' — didn’t have to compete? In this eye-opening episode, Jeremy dives deep into the strategic crossroads every private practice owner faces, especially when considering whether to take insurance, stay private pay, or explore a hybrid model. He breaks down the real numbers, state-by-state reimbursement differences, and the often-overlooked red flags in insurance relationships—like sneaky non-quantitative treatment limitations and the true cost of claim denials....

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The Practice of Therapy Podcast with Gordon Brewer

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Starting and running a private practice is a journey filled with challenges, growth opportunities, and the potential for both professional and personal fulfillment. Gordon Brewer, a seasoned mental health professional and founder of The Practice of Therapy, reflects on his journey into private practice, sharing insights that are both inspiring and practical for current and aspiring private practitioners.

The Journey to Autonomy

Gordon began his private practice journey in 2006 after gaining extensive experience working in nonprofit agencies. While he credits his nonprofit work for providing invaluable clinical training, he found himself drawn to private practice for its autonomy and financial potential. Transitioning to full-time private practice in 2010 marked a pivotal moment in his career, one that required him to embrace the challenges and opportunities of running his own business.

Mindset Matters: Developing a Business Perspective

A recurring theme in Gordon’s advice is the importance of adopting a business mindset. To thrive in private practice, clinicians must view their work not just as a therapeutic endeavor but as a business venture. This includes understanding:

  • Return on Investment (ROI): Assessing where to invest time and money to maximize success.
  • Profitability: Ensuring income exceeds expenses to sustain and grow the practice.
  • Systems and Processes: Establishing efficient workflows to optimize operations.


“Clarity around your ‘why’ is essential,” Gordon emphasizes. For many, the “why” includes achieving autonomy, earning more, and escaping the bureaucracy of agency work.

Don't miss Gordon's invaluable advice on starting and scaling a private practice, overcoming challenges, and building a supportive network. Tune in now to take your practice to the next level! 🙌

Resources Mentioned In This Episode

Read the full show notes here

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The Practice of Therapy Collaborative

The PsychCraft Network

The Practice of Therapy Community

Mental Health Wear TN

Full Focus Planner

Productive Therapist: https://productivetherapist.com/

GreenOak Accounting: https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/