Colleague Down the Hall
More of us than ever are practicing in solo or online psychotherapy practices and we all need colleagues to process cases with, commiserate with on those really hard days and also to celebrate our successes with. The Colleague Down the Hall podcast is a place where we’ll discuss fictionalized cases and ways to practice sustainably. I'll also bring you insights about trends and changes in our field, and sit down with amazing therapists who are doing amazing work.
info_outline
102. Breaking the Stigma: New Perspectives on Addiction and Recovery with Michael Chiappione
03/13/2025
102. Breaking the Stigma: New Perspectives on Addiction and Recovery with Michael Chiappione
Tune in to The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast for an insightful conversation with Michael Chiapone, LCSW, as he explores addiction and recovery through the unique lens of music and film. This episode sheds light on the power of creative tools in therapy, the importance of reducing stigma, and how understanding shame and connection can transform treatment approaches. “Get back to a bigger ‘What is this’? If this person was your patient, what are they trying to say? Where are they? Where are they in the stages of change? Where are they in a cycle of addiction? And to try to tease out those things in hearing some of these pop culture or songs that we all know. So then the goal is, especially in the group process, in the class, by being able to identify those things that we can then move forward and approach that person in a more welcoming manner, instead of a ‘look at them, they're doing it again’. Or ‘why can't they stop,’ to kind of try to create a better understanding, with more empathy about where this person might be coming from” - Michael Here are the key takeaways: Using Music and Film in Addiction Recovery – Michael Chiapone discusses his unique approach to helping individuals with substance use disorders by incorporating music and film to foster deeper understanding, empathy, and engagement in therapy. Breaking the Stigma Around Addiction – The conversation highlights the importance of moving beyond judgmental perspectives on addiction, recognizing it as a complex issue rather than just a matter of willpower, and promoting a more compassionate, person-centered approach. Challenges in Treating Substance Use Disorders – The discussion covers the evolving nature of addiction, particularly with the rise of fentanyl and other potent substances, and the need for adaptable, evidence-based treatment approaches. The Role of Policy in Social Justice and Mental Health – Michael shares his involvement in policy discussions affecting social work and mental health, emphasizing the need for professionals to stay informed and advocate for policies that protect vulnerable populations. The Importance of Self-Care for Mental Health Professionals – The conversation stresses the need for therapists and social workers to prioritize self-care, avoid burnout, and acknowledge the emotional demands of their work while maintaining personal well-being. About the Michael Chiappione: Michael Chiappone, LCSW, is a seasoned social worker, educator, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment. As the CEO and Founder of CHI Professional Development, he creates and delivers continuing education courses for social workers, mental health professionals, and community advocates, focusing on practical skills and real-world applications. Michael has dedicated his career to working with individuals facing homelessness, mental illness, and substance use disorders, serving as the Director of a Substance Use Disorder clinic and previously holding leadership roles at Hope House Ministries. He is passionate about teaching clinicians how to integrate evidence-based practices, ethical decision-making, and advocacy into their work. Beyond clinical work, Michael is deeply engaged in policy discussions affecting social justice. Through his WTF: Policies That Threaten Social Justice series, he explores how shifts in legislation impact marginalized communities and challenges social workers to take an active role in advocacy and systemic change. Beyond his professional endeavors, Michael explores the intersections of mindfulness, recovery, and personal growth through innovative projects like CHI Golf, a brand that promotes mental clarity and focus on and off the course. He is also developing a Recovery Chatbot Website, designed to provide digital peer support and track progress for individuals in recovery. Connect with Michael: Website: Instagram: Tiktok: Facebook: Linkedin: Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/35668995
info_outline
101. Future-Proofing Your Private Practice: Navigating 2025 with Confidence with Valery Krieg
03/06/2025
101. Future-Proofing Your Private Practice: Navigating 2025 with Confidence with Valery Krieg
Want to stay ahead in your private practice? Valery Krieg joins Jeanene Wolfe In this episode to discuss future-proofing your practice in an ever-changing landscape. They dive into marketing strategies, burnout prevention, and navigating industry shifts, plus an inside look at the upcoming Savvy Practice Summit, a free virtual event packed with expert advice on marketing, scaling, and financial strategy for therapists.The sign-up form for the summit is in the show notes. Tune in now and take your next steps toward success! “The first thing that I always tell my clients that I work with is understand your marketing strategy. I think that the core is to really understand what you're doing and why. I mean, that's one of the best ways to stay on top of things and to know what's coming around the corner. I think so many of us do a lot of different types of marketing, and in some ways, we get kind of lucky when we don't really know what's working or why it's working, so we just keep doing all of it. So my first piece of advice is, really understand your strategy. Understand what's working and why it's working, so you can streamline, only focused on the things that have the highest impact and that are bringing in clients.” - Valery Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode: ***Future-Proofing Private Practices – The challenges therapists face in 2025, including shifting client trends, economic uncertainties and industry changes impacting private practice sustainability. ***Marketing Strategies for Therapists – The importance of ongoing marketing efforts, creating systems for consistency and tailoring strategies to attract ideal clients effectively. ***Burnout Prevention & Business Sustainability – How therapists can implement structured systems to reduce stress, avoid burnout and maintain a steady client flow without feeling overwhelmed. ***Savvy Practice Summit Overview – A breakdown of the upcoming Savvy Practice Summit (March 10-12, 2025), its purpose, key topics, and how therapists can benefit from expert-led discussions on scaling and growing their businesses. About Valery Krieg: Valery Krieg is a therapist, private practice owner, and business coach dedicated to helping therapists build thriving, sustainable practices. After struggling with ineffective, cookie-cutter marketing strategies in her own practice, she developed a method to help therapists attract their ideal clients and grow their businesses with confidence. Now, she teaches therapists how to ditch outdated advice, simplify their marketing, and create a practice that truly fits their life and goals. Connect with Valery: Instagram: Tiktok: Youtube: Website: Register for the Savvy Practice Summit: Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/35560215
info_outline
100. The Cost of Care: Why Therapists Are Struggling to Stay Afloat with Miranda Palmer
02/27/2025
100. The Cost of Care: Why Therapists Are Struggling to Stay Afloat with Miranda Palmer
In this milestone 100th episode of The Colleague Down The Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe welcomes Miranda Palmer, LMFT, a passionate therapist advocate, to discuss the financial and systemic challenges facing therapists today. Miranda shares insights from a recent discussion on the biggest problems therapists encounter. She highlights unsustainable insurance reimbursement rates, financial instability, and the increasing number of therapists leaving the profession. They dive into the complexities of insurance contracts, clawbacks, and the impact of venture capital-backed companies entering the therapy space. Miranda encourages therapists to take control of their careers by understanding their worth, setting sustainable rates, and advocating for legislative change. She emphasizes the importance of standing out rather than competing and creating a fulfilling, financially viable private practice. Listen in for an eye-opening conversation on making therapy work for therapists while still serving clients effectively. “If we all said no to insurance contracts that were not sustainable for us, that literally are not good for clients, you have to see twice as many clients, you're falling asleep in session, you can't even get your clients in on the regular amount of treatment that they're needing. All of the different things that we know happen in this scenario, if we just said no to those things. I'm a client of that insurance company, and there's nobody who's a trauma therapist in my area who has space, that insurance company still has to connect me with a trauma therapist, and they have to find that person for me.” - Miranda Palmer In this episode, let’s discuss: ***Financial Struggles of Therapists The episode highlights the unsustainable reimbursement rates from insurance companies, the financial instability of therapists, and the growing number of professionals leaving the field due to inadequate compensation. ***Challenges with Insurance Companies The discussion covers the exploitative practices of insurance companies, including delayed payments, clawbacks, and regionally inconsistent reimbursement rates that make financial planning difficult for therapists. ***The Business Side of Therapy Many therapists struggle to see themselves as business owners, leading to poor financial decisions. Miranda emphasizes the importance of calculating sustainable rates and making informed choices about contracts. ***Impact of Venture Capital in the Therapy Space The rise of VC-backed therapy companies is discussed, with concerns about their profit-driven models further reducing therapist compensation and creating new challenges for independent practitioners. ***Advocacy and Solutions for Therapists The conversation encourages therapists to take action, whether by advocating for legislative changes, shifting to private pay models, or making informed decisions about which insurance contracts to accept. About Miranda Palmer: Miranda Palmer is an LMFT and a therapist advocate who has been helping prelicensed and licensed therapists find joy and financial sustainability in their work. Connect with Miranda: Website: zynnyme.com Instagram: @zynnyme Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/35439725
info_outline
99. Geek Therapy: Fandoms, Healing, and the Power of Play with Ariel Landrum
02/20/2025
99. Geek Therapy: Fandoms, Healing, and the Power of Play with Ariel Landrum
Jeanene Wolfe welcomes Ariel Landrum to discuss how geek therapy integrates clients' passions and fandoms into therapy, using media consumption as a tool for self-discovery. The conversation explores the use of RPGs, video games, and collaborative media engagement in therapy, alongside practical applications for different age groups and theoretical approaches. Ariel highlights the importance of staying current with pop culture, addressing parental concerns about video games, and teaching digital citizenship. Ethical considerations in online therapy, including HIPAA compliance and safe digital interactions, are also discussed. Looking ahead, Ariel sees geek therapy expanding alongside media psychology and specialized therapeutic approaches. The episode closes with reflections on individualized therapy and Ariel’s insight that media is a powerful tool for learning about oneself and the world. “A lot of clients who are neurodivergent, they really love their clinicians who are geek therapy certified, or at least have that mindset, because we're pulling from their passions and interests, their special interests. And when it comes to the actual treatment, it's in my intake form asking, what are your favorite media forms? What do you like to engage in? How often do you engage in it? And then that goes in with my diagnosing. So have you been pulling away from these favorite things? Hint that could be depression. Are you afraid of telling people about your favorite things? Hint that could be anxiety or social phobia. So already it's so integrated in the way that I'm conceptualizing a case, I don't separate it out as a different treatment or something to refer specifically. It is how I am integrating the whole assessment treatment process.” - Ariel Landrum In this episode, let’s talk about: ***Introduction to Geek Therapy – Explanation of geek therapy as a certification, using clients’ passions and fandoms in therapy. ***Origins and Growth of Geek Therapy – The founding of geek therapy by Jose Cardona and its expansion, including the TAGGS summit. ***Applications of Geek Therapy in Therapy Sessions – Use of RPGs, video games, and other media to support therapeutic goals. ***Staying Current with Pop Culture in Therapy – Challenges therapists face in keeping up with evolving media and how to engage clients effectively. ***Addressing Parental Concerns About Video Games – Helping parents understand their children’s online activities and use it as an additional way to connect with their child. ***Ethical Considerations and Digital Citizenship – Ensuring online therapy security, HIPAA compliance, and teaching safe online interactions. About Ariel Landrum: Ariel Landrum, LMFT, ATR, is a narrative therapist certified in Geek Therapy® and co-host of the podcast Happiest Pod on Earth, which explores Disney mediums as tools for therapy and education. Ariel aids her clients in reframing their stories around trauma, belonging, and identity. She works with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, the AANHPI community, the LGBTQIA+ community, and military families. Ariel specializes in telehealth services and has been providing virtual therapy since 2016. She is also the author of Waves of Grief: A Guided Grief Journal, to help fellow grievers navigate their complex feelings of loss. Based in Los Angeles, Ariel is actively involved in supporting the Filipino American community through mental health initiatives, including serving as co-lead of The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of Therapin*y . Outside of work, Ariel enjoys exploring new games, discovering new food spots, and travel. Connect with Ariel: Websites: Geek Therapy: Instagram: Facebook Group: Facebook Page: People of Con: Instagram: Facebook Page: The Happiest Pod on Earth: Youtube: Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/35360965
info_outline
98. The Power of Vulnerability: Why Therapists Need to Be Vulnerable Too
02/13/2025
98. The Power of Vulnerability: Why Therapists Need to Be Vulnerable Too
In this episode of The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe explores a topic that therapists encourage in clients but often struggle with themselves—vulnerability. While we create safe spaces for others, many of us hesitate to open up with colleagues, fearing judgment or self-doubt. Jeanene unpacks why vulnerability feels risky in the therapy field, the challenges it presents, and how avoiding it can lead to isolation and burnout. She shares her own journey in private practice and offers practical steps to build a safe, supportive professional network. Whether it's finding a trusted colleague, joining the right consultation group, or fostering a culture of openness, this episode is a must-listen for any therapist looking to make their work sustainable. “Vulnerability isn't about spilling everything to everyone. Begin with one trusted colleague, someone whose values align with yours, who listens without judgment. Then seek out consultation spaces that encourage openness; not all supervision or consultation groups are created equal. Find ones where collaboration and respect are prioritized over competition or performance. Be mindful of how therapists' spaces feel, whether it's in a Facebook group, which I don't recommend as a place to get this type of clinical support, a local meet up, which can be fabulous for referrals and networking, or an online forum. Now check in with yourself. Does it feel safe? Are people supportive, or is there a tone of judgment or shaming? Choose spaces that reflect the kind of connection you need.” In this episode, I explore: ***Vulnerability is essential for therapists; not a weakness: Avoiding vulnerability can lead to isolation and burnout, making private practice unsustainable. ***Therapists are not immune to self-doubt and professional challenges: Acknowledging these struggles helps normalize them and fosters professional growth. ***Building a supportive professional network is crucial: Thriving in private practice requires trusted colleagues, consultation groups, and safe spaces where the***rapists can openly discuss challenges without fear of judgment. Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/35208955
info_outline
97. Blending Tarot with Therapy: Insights from Dreya Blume
02/06/2025
97. Blending Tarot with Therapy: Insights from Dreya Blume
In this episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe welcomes Dreya Blume, a licensed clinical social worker and long-time Tarot practitioner, to explore the integration of Tarot into therapy. Dreya delves into the history of Tarot, its misconceptions, and its use as a projective tool rather than fortunetelling. She shares her Tarot journey, its parallels to inkblot tests, and how she uses it in sessions to help clients connect with their intuition. The discussion covers the importance of open-mindedness in therapy, authenticity in practice, and the growing acceptance of non-traditional techniques. Dreya also highlights the significance of focus and gratitude in mental well-being, emphasizing that "what you focus on will grow." The episode wraps up with resources for therapists looking to incorporate Tarot into their work and a reminder that therapy doesn’t have to be lonely—community and support are essential. “So in [my informed consent] is a little sentence about using Tarot. I use tarot as a projective tool to help people connect quickly to their intuition. So that's in there. So when I get to that section, I ask if they have questions, and then I say, hey, if I think using tarot cards might be helpful depending on what we're working on, I might suggest or invite you to engage with the cards. But if you want to use the cards, you can always invite me and say, hey, could we do this today? So now it's out in the open, and then I go on so I don't belabor the point. But now they know, because certainly I want people to self-select out. I don't want someone who's going to be upset by that to use me as a therapist. I only want people who are open. Because I believe that we should have a sense of our ideal client. And why not, you know, why not believe that we can fill 20 or 30 slots with our ideal clients so we can show up fully and they can show up fully. ”- Dreya Blume We’ll discuss about: ***Tarot as a Therapeutic Tool: Tarot can be used in therapy as a projective tool, similar to inkblot tests, helping clients access their intuition and emotions rather than serving as a fortune-telling device. ***The Importance of Authenticity in Practice: Therapists should embrace their unique approaches, including non-traditional methods like Tarot, while maintaining transparency and informed consent with clients. ***Creativity and Intuition in Therapy: Effective therapy requires intuition and creativity, allowing therapists to adapt techniques to individual clients rather than relying solely on evidence-based practices. ***Focus Shapes Reality: Encouraging clients to focus on positive aspects of life and practice gratitude can help shift their mindset and improve their emotional well-being. About Dreya Blume: Dreya is a licensed clinical social worker. She has had a private therapy practice for the past twenty years. Dreya has also been a student of the tarot for the same amount of time, and has been passionate about bringing the cards into the therapy room. Connect With Dreya: Website: dreyablume.com Facebook: Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/35174145
info_outline
96. The Business of CEUs: From Building Courses to Marketing to Creating Additional Income Streams with Michelle Risser
01/30/2025
96. The Business of CEUs: From Building Courses to Marketing to Creating Additional Income Streams with Michelle Risser
In this episode, Jeanene Wolfe chats with Michelle Risser, a therapist turned CEU provider and multi-passionate entrepreneur. Michelle shares her journey from working in HIV/AIDS social work to teaching large conferences and eventually becoming a CEU provider during COVID as a way to explore additional income streams. She discusses the paperwork and approval process, emphasizing that it shouldn't deter therapists from sharing their expertise. Using the acronym KEEP (Knowledge, Education, Experience, Passion), Michelle helps therapists identify their unique strengths and build courses on topics like sibling loss, burnout, and perinatal mental health. Michelle's practical advice, like her catchphrase "Choose one thing and start," encourages therapists to strategically expand their offerings while managing their workload effectively. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with actionable insights on reducing burnout and building new opportunities! “Another thing I want people to keep in mind is that a lot of times therapists who haven't done any additional income streams don't realize that when I say $20 an hour and people go, Oh, but I make 150 in my therapy practice, okay, but you're not just gonna have one person in your course, right? It's $20 an hour per person. So if it's a two hour CE for 39 bucks, you get 10 people in there, which is not a lot and not hard. You just made $390. That's more than I make for two hours in my therapy practice. I know it's not for people in different areas, but to me, it's like I'm doing something different, I'm doing something fun, and I'm making at least the same money or more, and possibly put it on demand. Like you said, you're adding people into your world and onto your list, and you're establishing your expertise, and it's just so many good things about it, and you're at least making your your therapy income, if not more.”- Michelle Risser Let’s talk about: ***Michelle’s Journey to CEU Providing: Michelle transitioned from 1:1 work with clients to becoming a CEU provider during COVID as a way of seeking additional income streams. ***The KEEP Framework: Using the acronym KEEP (Knowledge, Education, Experience, Passion) to identify unique expertise and ensure confidence in teaching CEU courses. ***Popular CEU Topics: In-demand topics include sibling loss, infant loss, EMDR, burnout, and perinatal mental health. Appealing course titles and descriptions are critical for participant interest. ***The Role of Marketing: Effective marketing strategies, including SEO and social media, can help therapists promote their CEU courses and overcome discomfort with self-promotion. ***Balancing Multiple Income Streams: Manage additional responsibilities by setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and leaning on a supportive network to reduce burnout. About the Michelle Risser: Michelle is a therapist in private practice and a multi-passionate entrepreneur. She believes that diversified income streams are the key to more impact and less burnout for mental health professionals. Michelle is passionate about helping therapists step into their expertise as approved CEU providers so they can have more income and more impact! She's the creator of several courses as well as her group mentorship program, The Therapist Educators Academy. Michelle lives with her family in Central Ohio, rows on a rowing team, is a cat lady with no cats, and is obsessed with knitting. Connect with Michelle: Instagram: Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/35080860
info_outline
95. Creating Safe Spaces: Working with Intimate Partner Violence with Dr. Keith Klostermann
01/23/2025
95. Creating Safe Spaces: Working with Intimate Partner Violence with Dr. Keith Klostermann
In this episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe welcomes Dr. Keith Klostermann to tackle the critical topic of intimate partner violence (IPV). They explore how the pandemic exposed the complexities of IPV, with Dr. Klosterman breaking down its various forms—physical, emotional, financial, and sexual—and discussing its prevalence across diverse demographics. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces, recognizing subtle signs, and integrating explicit safety planning into therapy. “I think it's figuring out, does the client feel safe? What are some options in terms of a safety plan, even being thoughtful about what form will the safety plan take? Is it paper and pencil? Is it digital? What's it gonna look like? I think that part of the process has to be really collaborative in nature, because as therapists, we can develop the greatest safety plan in the world. This is what you should do, all these things, but if our clients aren't willing to do it, then its value is useless. It's just an exercise that maybe makes us feel better in the moment, like, hey, we did something. But I think it's really important to make sure that however you develop that these are things that your clients are willing to do.” - Dr. Keith Let’s dive into: ***Understanding Intimate Partner Violence (IPV): Defining IPV across physical, emotional, financial, and sexual dimensions. ***Recognizing and Addressing IPV in Therapy:Identifying subtle signs of IPV, such as non-verbal cues and controlling behaviors. ***Safety Planning and Intervention Strategies: Developing collaborative, behaviorally descriptive safety plans tailored to client needs. ***Cultural, Socio-Economic, and Ethical Considerations: Addressing IPV within diverse cultural and socio-economic contexts; Building trust, respecting client autonomy, and avoiding victim-blaming. ***Therapist Self-Care and Professional Development: Prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and managing therapist burnout. Engaging in continuous learning and self-reflection. About Dr. Keith Klostermann: Dr. Keith Klostermann is a Quality Assurance Manager at the Cohen Veterans Network (CVN). He is licensed as a mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist in NY State and is an AAMFT Approved Supervisor. Dr. Klostermann is recognized by the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) as a Fellow in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Education and Research, and Diplomate and Clinical Mental Counseling Specialist in Couples and Family Counseling, Child and Adolescent Counseling, Integrated Behavioral Healthcare, and Military Counseling. In addition to his role at CVN, Dr. Klostermann is a Core Faculty member in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Walden University. Dr. Klostermann served as one of the lead trainers in the VAs national implementation of Behavioral Couples Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (BCT-SUD). He has won numerous awards for his teaching, leadership, and research including but not limited to the 2021 Outstanding Professional Award (Internal Association for Marriage and Family Counseling), 2020 Dr. Linda Seligman Counselor Education of the Year (American Mental Health Counseling Association), 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award (Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling), and 2019 Outstanding Professional Member Award (European Branch of the American Counseling Association). Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34968930
info_outline
94. A New Horizon: The Ins and Outs of ADHD Assessments for Master’s-level Clinicians with Erin McCarthy Shaw
01/16/2025
94. A New Horizon: The Ins and Outs of ADHD Assessments for Master’s-level Clinicians with Erin McCarthy Shaw
Join us for an enlightening conversation in Episode 94 of Conversations in Depth with Therapists, where host Jeanene Wolfe sits down with Erin McCarthy Shaw, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Discover how Erin’s advanced training in neuropsychiatric and educational assessments is transforming mental health care by addressing ADHD, autism, and more. From ethical considerations and practical implementation to tackling skepticism and accessibility challenges, this episode dives deep into the value of comprehensive evaluations. “It's access to care. We don't have enough people to do anything for mental health. We don't have enough therapists. We don't have enough prescribers. When I tried to take a step back from prescribing, I feel like I got more referrals because there's very few people taking patients right now. And so the same is true with assessment. There's simply not enough really talented, skilled practitioners that are doing this.” Let’s talk more about: ***Value of Comprehensive Assessments: Assessments offer deeper insights into conditions like ADHD and autism, enabling more effective and personalized treatment plans. ***Streamlining Mental Health Care: Integrating assessments into practice reduces wait times, improves convenience for patients, and eliminates the need for multiple providers. ***Overcoming Challenges and Misunderstandings: Understanding skepticism from other practitioners and clarifying the role of master’s level practitioners are essential for broader acceptance of these services. ***Networking and Collaboration are Key: Building relationships with educators, therapists, and other professionals enhances the impact and visibility of assessment services. About Erin McCarthy Shaw: Erin McCarthy Shaw is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in comprehensive neuropsychiatric and educational assessments. She is licensed in NY and CT. Erin is a graduate of Yale University's advanced practice psychiatric nursing program. Her experience includes internships at Yale Behavioral Health Services of Hamden and the Yale Child Study Center. She was part of the pioneering team at Yale-New Haven Hospital's psychiatric observation unit and later supported various research initiatives at the National Center for PTSD's Clinical Neurosciences Division through the Connecticut VA Medical Center and Yale School of Medicine. Erin has also completed extensive post-master's training in psychological assessment under the guidance of Darlene Sousa, PhD of MindfulU Consulting. In the last year, Erin's practice has evolved to combine traditional psychiatric assessment methods with established neuropsychological and psychoeducational testing approaches. This comprehensive methodology integrates multiple specialized evaluations into a single, cohesive process, reducing her clients' need to coordinate care across multiple providers and improving access to care. Connect with Erin: Website: Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34882415
info_outline
93. (From the Archive) Exploring Money Mindset As A Therapist with Megan Hale
01/09/2025
93. (From the Archive) Exploring Money Mindset As A Therapist with Megan Hale
Megan Hale joins me for an episode about money mindset for therapists. She discusses the need to examine our relationship with money and ways our mindset holds us back in our work. Megan shares that having a nourishing relationship with money and the changes in perspective that come with that, allows therapists to have better business and personal goals. “And a lot of times, you have to make some hard calls and some value based decisions on what's going to be best for the sustainability of your practice. And I think the other mindset piece that goes into that is oftentimes it's helpers and healers, there can be a lot of responsibility on our shoulders that we have to be available for every single person in need. And I think the greatest shift that I've made in therapy, and also as a coach is realizing that it's not my responsibility to carry the weight of the entire market.” - Megan Hale What you’ll learn from this episode: The importance of exploring and understanding one's own money mindset and beliefs about money. This self-reflection allows therapists in private practice to develop a supportive and nourishing relationship with money, which can be freeing and empowering. Therapists often face conditioning that suggests wanting money and being a helper/healer are incompatible. Many therapists lack business acumen due to the limited training provided in graduate programs. Understanding the financial aspects of running a private practice, such as pricing, margins, and financial decision-making, is essential for success. About Megan: Megan Hale is a business strategist & money mentor for experienced coaches, consultants, helpers, and healers ready to distill their wisdom into a unique body of work and make their most meaningful contribution. She’s highly focused on sustainable business design that creates multiple 6-figures in recurring revenue while also blending her background as a former psychotherapist to help your work and your company be the deepest expression of who you are. She works with progressive visionaries who are just as passionate about ushering in new paradigms for how we work, live, love, and lead. You can find her (and her infamous Money Map) at meganhale.co. Connect with Megan: Meganhale.co instagram.com/meganhale_mh facebook.com/meganhale.ma Connect with Jeanene: Listen to more episodes of the podcast: Learn more about clinical consultation groups: Join my free therapist Facebook group: Follow me on Instagram: Connect on LInkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34785210
info_outline
92. (From the Archive) End-of-Life Conversations with Clients: Insights from the Rebellious Widow with Jill Johnson-Young
01/02/2025
92. (From the Archive) End-of-Life Conversations with Clients: Insights from the Rebellious Widow with Jill Johnson-Young
In this episode, Jill Johnson-Young and I discuss dementia, hospice and grief and how it shows up in the therapy room. Grief is our one universal experience, other than birth, and a lot of therapists aren't really given even a basic understanding of working with clients dealing with these issues. Join us to learn about how to become more informed about these areas that impact all therapists at one time or another. “It's a gift to be able to do this work. I know every therapist has that feeling about their work, or at least I hope they do. But I get to see people go through some of the worst parts of their life. If I'm working with them at the end of life, and it's a family member, I'm watching them cope with their loved one die, and then how they were getting them back on their feet and helping them reconfigure their life, which is... it's deeply sad, but it's also deeply fulfilling because they then find a way to reconnect and to weave that loss into the work that they do. And it ultimately makes therapists better therapists because they connect better with their grieving clients, and they begin to see grief and everything that it's in instead of just as death.” - Jill Johnson-Young Learn More About: The gifts of working with those experiencing hospice, dementia and grief How supporting clients through their grief if a gift and it ultimately makes them a better therapist The importance of therapists staying involved with their clients who go into hospice care Early onset dementia is the number one growing group and we need to be able to spot it if it is happening with a client About Jill Johnson-Young: Jill Johnson-Young is the CEO of Central Counseling Services where she also serves as a clinical therapist. She is a certified Grief Recovery Facilitator, author and speaker. Jill uses her personal experiences in her life and her work to support clients dealing with hospice, dementia and grief with grace and humor. Connect with Jill: And find her on Facebook every Friday for the Humor, Grace and Grief Chat Fellow therapists, Do you struggle with navigating the many gray areas in our work? How to fully assess all 4 aspects of a complex case? How to give helpful consultation around this with colleagues? How to document your decision-making process? I am hosting a free training series to cover all of this! In this free training series, you will: -decrease your fear or insecurity around assessment of high risk & complex cases -learn a 4-step process to cover all the bases -learn important aspects of documentation that often get overlooked -practice using the CLEaR Method™ to assess and document a fictionalized case -participate in a facilitated, judgment-free space Be sure to RSVP to get the training links and the limited-time replay info: www.subscribepage.com/may_2023 Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind Video Mini Course: Connect with Jeanene: Listen to more episodes of the podcast: Learn more about clinical consultation groups: Join my free therapist Facebook group: Follow me on Instagram: Connect on LInkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34708870
info_outline
91. (From the Archive) Bridging Gaps in Mental Health: Insights on Trauma, ADHD, and Autism with Linda Thai
12/26/2024
91. (From the Archive) Bridging Gaps in Mental Health: Insights on Trauma, ADHD, and Autism with Linda Thai
Linda Thai joins me in this new episode of the Colleague Down the Hall podcast to explore how trauma symptoms often overlap with traits of ADHD and autism, stressing the need for accurate differentiation and personalized treatment plans. Our discussion highlights the significance of continuous assessment, a multidisciplinary approach, and the role of peer consultation. We also discuss promoting self-empowerment, reducing stigma, and integrating diverse therapeutic perspectives to enhance client outcomes. Join us as we unravel these complexities and offer insights for effective therapeutic practices. “Big shout out to Janae Elisabeth of Trauma Geek for their work around distinguishing between autistic traits and autistic trauma, and to bring that information and pull it forward into ADHD traits versus ADHD trauma. It really helps when I do the psychoeducation with clients, so that they can distinguish between the areas that may not change, or actually, we may actually see more of these symptoms. We may see more of these traits emerge as we actually address the trauma, and this doesn't mean that we're failing at our treatment plan. It means that as we take away the trauma associated with your need to mask and self protect, that need to mask and self protect actually diminishes. But then how can we support you as your innate neurodivergence begins to emerge, so that it will flourish, so that you can flourish.”- Linda Thai Takeaways from this episode: ***Overlap of Symptoms: Trauma symptoms can mimic or overlap with traits of ADHD and autism, necessitating careful differentiation. ***Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailoring treatment plans to individual needs is crucial, as each client's experience of trauma and neurodivergence is unique. ***Continuous Assessment: Ongoing assessment and monitoring are essential to adapt therapeutic strategies and ensure effective treatment. ***Multidisciplinary Approach: Collaboration across various fields and disciplines enhances the understanding and treatment of clients. ***Peer Consultation: Engaging in peer consultation helps therapists gain new perspectives and refine their approaches. ***Self-Empowerment: Empowering clients to take an active role in their therapy fosters resilience and growth. ***Reducing Stigma: Efforts should be made to reduce the stigma around trauma and neurodivergence to create a more supportive therapeutic environment. ***Diverse Therapeutic Perspectives: Integrating various therapeutic approaches and perspectives can lead to more comprehensive and effective treatment outcomes. About Linda Thai: Linda Thai, LMSW, ERYT-200, CLYL (she, her) is a trauma therapist who specializes in cutting edge brain- and body-based modalities for the healing of complex developmental trauma. As an educator and consultant, she is gifted with the capacity to contextualize, synthesize and communicate complex and nuanced issues pertaining to trauma, attachment and the nervous system, including the impact of oppressive systems upon identity, mental health and wellbeing. Linda is passionate about breaking the cycle of historical and intergenerational trauma at the individual and community levels, and deeply believes in the healing power of coming together in community to grieve. Born in Vietnam, raised in Australia, and now living in Alaska, Linda is a former child refugee who is not only redefining what it means to be Vietnamese, to be Australian, and to be a United States-ian....she is redefining what it means to be wounded and whole and a healer. Connect with Linda: Facebook: Website: Linkedin: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34707905
info_outline
90. Neurospicy Productivity Tips for Private Practice Therapists
12/19/2024
90. Neurospicy Productivity Tips for Private Practice Therapists
In this episode of The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene shares productivity tips tailored for neurodivergent therapists navigating the complexities of running a private practice. Jeanene, who is neurodivergent herself, emphasizes leveraging unique strengths like creativity, empathy, and big-picture thinking while addressing common challenges such as scheduling, admin tasks, and time management. She encourages therapists to experiment with strategies, adjust systems when needed, and practice self-compassion. “Remember the ND brain loves affirmation. Now I encourage you to experiment and adjust. Not every system or strategy will work for you, and that's okay. The key is to keep experimenting until you find what feels natural and sustainable. And for many neurodivergent people, something works great until it doesn't. I find this especially true as an ADHDer, or offer yourself some kindness and flexibility. When this occurs, you just need to find a new system, and you already have the skills for doing that. So instead of feeling shame that it's no longer working, put that energy into finding the next best thing.” Key takeaways include: ***Embrace Strengths: Recognize the value of neurodivergent traits like empathy and intuition to build a thriving practice ***Flexible Goal Setting: Experiment with a variety of strategies to find what works for you ***External Structures: Leverage digital tools ***Time and Energy Management: Honor energy patterns ***Environment Optimization: Create organized workspaces that suit your needs ***Wellness Matters: Prioritize your own needs Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34531200
info_outline
89. Managing Holiday Cancellations in Private Practice
12/12/2024
89. Managing Holiday Cancellations in Private Practice
In this episode of The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe dives into a timely topic for therapists: managing the reality of increased client cancellations during the holiday season. From early scheduling conversations to reinforcing cancellation policies and encouraging self-care, Jeanene shares practical strategies to prepare for and navigate the challenges this time of year brings. Learn how to anticipate cancellations, adjust your workload, and use unexpected downtime effectively. Whether it's consolidating schedules, offering telehealth options, or setting boundaries, this episode provides invaluable insights to help therapists balance client needs with their own well-being. Remember, the holidays can be hectic, but with preparation and flexibility, they can also be an opportunity for growth and rest. “Bring up scheduling early, proactively ask clients about their holiday plans and how they might impact their sessions. For example, you can say “The holidays are coming up and I know things get busy for many people. Let's look ahead and see if there are any sessions you might need to cancel or reschedule”. This gives clients an opportunity to make changes with plenty of notice.” Key takeaways: ***Proactive Planning for Client Cancellations: Address holiday scheduling early with clients by discussing potential conflicts and rescheduling options. Reinforce cancellation policies while deciding whether to maintain flexibility during the season. ***Adjusting and Condensing Work Schedules: Anticipate lower caseloads by consolidating appointments into fewer days or offering telehealth options to accommodate clients’ travel and holiday commitments. ***Maximizing Downtime: Use any cancellations or lighter schedules productively by focusing on administrative tasks, professional development, practice growth, or personal care. This ensuring a refreshed start to the New Year. ***Encouraging Therapy as Self-Care: Highlight the importance of therapy during the holiday season, emphasizing its value in managing stress, complex family dynamics, and maintaining mental health amidst the busy time. Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34412200
info_outline
88. Promoting Neurodivergent Awareness and Equity in Diagnostic Assessments with Darlene Sousa
12/05/2024
88. Promoting Neurodivergent Awareness and Equity in Diagnostic Assessments with Darlene Sousa
In this another episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe sits down with Darlene Sousa, a testing psychologist and former counselor, to discuss how professional development can promote access and culturally responsive care in the evaluation process. Darlene shares her journey, including her motivation to create training programs that address the challenges of traditional evaluation methods, such as their often invalidating nature and lack of therapeutic value. They explore critical topics, including the complexities of 2e (twice-exceptional) individuals, the gatekeeping mentality in psychology, and the importance of accessible training for Master's level clinicians and more. The conversation concludes with a hopeful look at the future of assessment, including more inclusive training opportunities and the potential for Master's level clinicians to play a larger role in addressing public need. “We have people who are mislabeled under-identified, misidentified women, in particular, individuals of color, who are not getting the diagnosis they need. And one of the growing groups right now is women, and it isn't until they hit menopause where they start to go like, wow, things were a struggle for me, but perimenopause hit, and now I'm at a complete loss. What is this? Am I losing my mind? Am I becoming psychotic? They just, they really don't know, if you don't know, you don't know, you're a lay person, and you come to find out that they just didn't have a diagnosis, or they're mislabeled, usually with a personality disorder or some kind of mood instability, and it wasn't until that point that they sought help, and someone properly trained in evaluation was able to really identify what was going on.”- Darlene Key takeaways: ***Culturally Responsive Care: Traditional evaluation methods can feel invalidating and overly rigid. A collaborative, therapeutic approach fosters better understanding and outcomes. ***Challenges in Accessing Evaluations: Long waiting lists for evaluations can delay critical support; and evaluations often lack therapeutic elements, leaving clients uncertain about next steps. ***Understanding Neurodivergence and 2e (Twice-Exceptional) Individuals: Mislabeling and underidentification of certain groups, including women and people of color, are common. ***Quality and Accessibility in Reports: High-quality reports that are standardized, detailed, and respectful are crucial. Coaching and feedback during evaluations ensure client satisfaction and better outcomes. ***The Role of Master's Level Clinicians: Many clients are unaware of distinctions between Master's and doctoral clinicians, emphasizing the value of skill and reputation. About Darlene Sousa: Darlene is a testing psychologist and former counselor. She saw and experienced for herself as a neurodivergent person in a new culture, how systems of support did not connect, with each having different requirements for entry, leaving families lost. She has since found her path through consulting and advocacy. In 2023, she co-launched an edtech start-up focused on promoting access and culturally responsive care through quality professional development in areas often protected by the “old guard.” Many clinicians are unable to return to graduate school to further their education, nor should they need to with technology. Darlene’s mission is to promote greater access to progressive services for the community, through the promotion of practical training for clinicians, all within the neurodiversity, cultural, and gender affirming framework. Connect with Darlene: Website: Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34300240
info_outline
87. Controversies in Therapy Work: Insights with Jordan Coiner
11/28/2024
87. Controversies in Therapy Work: Insights with Jordan Coiner
In this episode of Colleague Down the Hall, Jeanene invites Jordan Coiner to discuss hot-button topics in the therapy world. Together, they explore shifts in therapy since COVID-19, including the rise of telehealth and the use of online forums for support. They tackle controversial issues like long-term therapy stigma, trainings for therapy modalities and certifications, and the impact of social media on mental health awareness. They delve into balancing personal values with professional boundaries, including political views. Listen in for an engaging conversation packed with perspectives on current hot topics. “I definitely had several clients this week that they brought up their curiosity and caution about, can I talk about this with you today? Because I'm not sure where you stand, and I'm just, I guess, questioning my safety in talking about this with you. That right there is, personally, the kicker for me that I will then disclose. I might not go on a huge rant, but say, just letting you know you are safe in whatever you might want to explore here and then that, sometimes even becoming a discussion. So I think that is the question that when I see those posts like the clients have no idea about you, is flipping that. Imagine being in your client's shoes, especially if they're wanting to talk about something that might be a politically charged issue, and just wondering how is this person going to receive it? Yes, professionally, they should receive it without an ounce of reaction or judgment. That is our job.”- Jordan Key highlights: ***Therapists and Controversy: Therapists often adhere rigidly to grad school teachings, leading to inflexibility in therapy practices. Respecting colleagues' training and approaches fosters healthier professional dialogue. ***Therapy Certifications: Discussion about the high cost and legitimacy of some certification training programs. ***Social Media's Role in Mental Health: How therapists can educate clients on discerning reliable online information. ***Political Views in Therapy: Disclosing political views is controversial but can be situationally appropriate based on client needs and therapeutic value. About Jordan Coiner: Jordan Coiner is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia since 2013. Her background is in structural family therapy. She has experience in community mental health, outpatient individual, group, and family counseling, providing counseling in a school setting, crisis counseling and emergency services, and supervisory experience. She is trained in EMDR and enjoys incorporating creative approaches in her sessions, such as through art, music, and movement. Connect with Jordan: Website: Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34195305
info_outline
86. Fictionalized Case Consultation: Sherry with Borderline Personality Disorder
11/21/2024
86. Fictionalized Case Consultation: Sherry with Borderline Personality Disorder
In this episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe leads a fictionalized case discussion with colleagues about navigating complex client care. The case involves Sherry, a 28-year-old marketing professional experiencing anxiety and depression, who may also have traits of borderline personality disorder. Therapist Emma, feeling unequipped to address this diagnosis, must decide whether to refer Sherry to a specialist or expand her own training while maintaining ethical care. The group explores treatment strategies, addressing therapist scope, client transition concerns, and the importance of compassion in clinical practice. Listen in for practical insights and thoughtful perspectives! “I think building a strong clinical alliance is very helpful, teaching them grounding skills, supporting them, helping them to understand their experience, what's going on, where it's coming from. All of those things are just as important as processing through the trauma. And so I think also, if we change the narrative that you have to go through five different trainings or a two year long training to be able to help these individuals, that really hinders what we can do. And in fact there's so many different, I don't want to say sub types, but borderline personality shows up in so many different ways, so we're already dealing with it. It's just one of the lesser common known subtypes that we see. So I just would like some change of the narrative in terms of that aspect of it as well”- Patrice Griffin Key takeaways: ***Balancing Scope of Practice and Client Needs: Therapists must navigate their competence boundaries while ensuring clients receive appropriate care. ***Addressing Diagnostic Uncertainty: When facing a potential diagnosis like borderline personality disorder, seeking consultation or further training can be helpful for therapists who are new to working with these clients. ***Referral Considerations: Transitioning a client to a specialist requires careful communication to maintain trust and therapeutic continuity. ***The Role of Compassion: Therapists should approach complex cases with empathy and understanding, balancing professional challenges with client-centered care. ***The Value of Peer Consultation: Collaborative discussions with colleagues can provide fresh perspectives and support ethical decision-making. Ready to elevate your therapy practice? Discover valuable tools, resources, and insights with Therabundle! Learn more at (affiliate link, time sensitive) and take the next step in building a sustainable, impactful career in therapy. Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/34075316
info_outline
85. Breaking the Burnout Cycle: Preventing Burnout in Mental Health Work with Monica Helvie
11/14/2024
85. Breaking the Burnout Cycle: Preventing Burnout in Mental Health Work with Monica Helvie
In this episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe introduces Monica Helvie, a licensed marriage and family therapist and burnout recovery expert, to explore the complexities of burnout among mental health practitioners. She shares how her husband's intervention in 2017 led her to confront the toll burnout was taking on her personal life, and she discusses starting a private practice, where she found herself recreating the same unsustainable patterns. Monica and Jeanene discuss defining burnout, recognizing its signs, and the importance of setting boundaries, even when guilt and societal expectations make it difficult. Monica emphasizes aligning business practices with personal values and offers practical techniques for managing burnout, including somatic coping skills and a free burnout clarity checklist. “I think the more that we can start encouraging and empowering people to really sense into what environment do you need to be able to thrive and not experience burnout, some folks might motor really high, and they're like, I want three back to back, and then I want three hours off, right? Or I want one and then I need an hour, and then I need another one, then I need another hour. Everybody runs differently. And so I think when we can start to create spaces where therapists can really start to sense into what is working and what feels right for them and their nervous system, then that's going to be really what keeps folks able to sustain the work that they're doing for longer and longer periods of time.”- Monica Key highlights: ***Impact of Burnout on Mental Health Providers’ Lives and Their Client Work: Monica’s 2017 marriage crisis underscored the toll her workload was taking on her life, prompting her to reassess her work-life balance. How transitioning to private practice didn’t immediately solve her burnout; she found herself recreating similar stress patterns, revealing that burnout often follows us if underlying issues remain unaddressed. ***Preventing Burnout through Deep Healing and Nervous System Regulation: Addressing burnout goes beyond quick fixes; it requires deep work on limiting beliefs, aligning with personal values, and, as Monica learned from her experience with perfectionism, developing tools to regulate the nervous system. This approach supports clearer decisions and reduces negative thought patterns—both crucial for managing burnout. Often, resentment toward clients or work signals a lack of alignment and the need for stronger boundaries. Just as they encourage their clients, therapists must prioritize boundaries to protect their own well-being. About Monica Helvie: Monica Helvie is a licensed marriage family therapist in California and Texas and a trauma informed burnout recovery expert. She helps high-achieving career women overcome chronic stress and find work-life balance. Together, we create sustainable success without burnout, so you can thrive in your career and personal life. Connect with Monica Helvie: Social Media: @monicahelvielmft Free Burnout Clarity Checklist: Ready to elevate your therapy practice? Discover valuable tools, resources, and insights with Therabundle! Learn more at (affiliate link, time sensitive) and take the next step in building a sustainable, impactful career in therapy. Get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/33929257
info_outline
84. Documentation, Sustainability, and Self-Care: Insights from Becca Ferguson, LPC
11/07/2024
84. Documentation, Sustainability, and Self-Care: Insights from Becca Ferguson, LPC
In this episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe is with Becca Ferguson. Becca shares her journey into working as a therapist, her experiences navigating challenges as an LPC, and her transition from ministry to the therapy profession. Jeanene and Becca talk about building sustainable practices, especially amid the ongoing impact of the pandemic on mental health professionals. They dive into financial challenges therapists face and the taboo around earning money from other therapists, along with Becca’s documentation course aimed at helping therapists streamline their clinical work. The episode highlights the value of Therabundle, a resource supporting therapists globally, and Becca's experience with the community. “ I go through from the very beginning, the whole workbook is there where I walk through how to get people to understand, not only how to use your DSM to create a chief complaint, because that's one of the hardest things that I see people struggling with when it comes to an initial treatment plan. People don't understand how to properly back up a diagnosis in a chief complaint. And so when you go or if you ever have to go to court, they say, I don't want to be mean in my notes, and I'm like, fair, valid, okay, you don't want to be mean in your notes. We don't have to be mean in your notes. We want to protect the client in your documentation. Protect the client and protect your license.” - Becca Key takeaways: ***Navigating Challenges in Private Practice: Becca discusses her journey into therapy work, the challenges she faced due to poor training in documentation, and the overall lack of supportive communities for interns and grad students in Arkansas. Becca advocates for therapists to prioritize their own mental health and embrace healing practices. ***Therapists Challenges: Jeanene and Becca discuss the taboo of therapists making money, advocating for fair compensation and sustainable business models in the profession. They explore the toll the pandemic continues to take on therapists, increasing workloads & emotional strain, and stress the importance of self-care and professional support. Becca highlights the lack of training in business management for therapists, sharing her journey toward strategic planning and effective financial management. ***Documentation and Course Creation: Becca’s contribution to TheraBundle this year is a documentation course that helps therapists streamline their paperwork, safeguarding both their clients and licenses. Therabundle offers a wealth of resources, including Becca's documentation course, and sooo many other trainings, tools and resources. About Becca Ferguson: Becca Ferguson is a Licensed Professional Counselor, business coach for therapists, and the founder of The Therapy Office in Springdale, Arkansas. She helps mental health professionals build sustainable, growth-oriented businesses while staying true to themselves. As an ADHD creative and trauma survivor, Becca brings a unique, authentic approach to both therapy and business development. Known for her authenticity and drive for justice, Becca teaches others how to thrive without losing sight of who they are. Connect with Becca: Instagram: Facebook: Linkedin: Ready to elevate your therapy practice? Discover valuable tools, resources, and insights with Therabundle! Learn more at (affiliate link, time sensitive) and take the next step in building a sustainable, impactful career in therapy. To get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/33831282
info_outline
83. Understanding Highly Sensitive People: Traits, Challenges, and Therapeutic Approaches
10/31/2024
83. Understanding Highly Sensitive People: Traits, Challenges, and Therapeutic Approaches
In this episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe is joined by April Snow, psychotherapist and HSP consultant, to discuss the traits, challenges, and the unique needs of highly sensitive people (HSPs). This neurotype affects approximately 30% of the population. April describes how HSPs experience deep emotional processing, acute detail awareness, and heightened empathy. They explore common misunderstandings HSPs face, often feeling pressured to fit into non-HSP norms, and how this can overlap with conditions like ADHD. April shares tailored therapeutic approaches, emphasizing mindfulness, somatic techniques, and resilience-building while preserving sensitivity. The conversation highlights sustainable self-care for HSP clients and therapists, with practical advice on setting boundaries, managing burnout, and navigating client relations with compassion. “A lot of people do equate it as a diagnosis, because mostly, HSPs that you're seeing in therapy, a lot of times, are struggling with anxiety, OCD, complex trauma, because we're more impacted by our environment, our experiences. But it's actually a temperament trait, so it's something you're born with. It's even prior to personality being formed, because there's, like I said, there's an evolution. An advantage to being more perceptive, more sensitive, to notice the little details, pick out the dangers, keep everyone safe. So we're going really far back biologicallly here. So, yeah, just something you're born with, and there's an advantage to it”- April Snow Key points: ***Definition and Traits of HSPs: April shares how highly sensitive people (HSPs) deeply process emotions and information, are highly empathetic, and notice fine details. This neurotype makes up about 30% of the population. ***Challenges and Misunderstandings: HSPs often experience overwhelm and misunderstandings from others due to their unique nervous system wiring and feel pressure to conform to non-HSP norms, which can lead to invalidation. ***Therapeutic Approaches: Effective therapy for HSPs includes understanding their deep processing needs and using somatic and mindfulness techniques to support nervous system regulation. Therapists are encouraged to educate themselves on the unique needs of HSPs through resources like the "Sensitive" documentary and Dr. Elaine Aaron’s work, fostering a supportive client-therapist relationship. About April Snow: April Snow, LMFT is a licensed psychotherapist, author, consultant, and Sensitive Stories podcast host. She specializes in working with highly sensitive people and therapists to help calm the storm of overwhelm, anxiety, and self-doubt to allow their innate sensitive strengths to shine through. Deeply committed to changing the narrative of what it means to be highly sensitive, April has created and led HSP workshops all over the country as well as online through her Sensitive School. In addition to Find Your Strength: A Workbook for the Highly Sensitive Person, she has written Mindfulness Workbook for Stress Relief and The Empowered Highly Sensitive Person's Self-Care Journal. Connect with April: Website: Instagram: Youtube: TIktok: To get updates about future Fictionalized Clinical Consultation Groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free practice building and growing trainings (time-sensitive): (affilitate link) *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/33694272
info_outline
82. Providing Safe and Affirming Therapy Practices With LGBTQIA+ Clients with Dara Hoffman
10/24/2024
82. Providing Safe and Affirming Therapy Practices With LGBTQIA+ Clients with Dara Hoffman
In this episode of the Colleague Down the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe introduces Dara Hoffman, a non-binary, queer-identified licensed counselor with 18 years of experience serving the trans and non-binary community. Dara shares key insights on supporting LGBTQ clients, addressing microaggressions, and creating inclusive therapy spaces. Dara delves into the importance of using correct pronouns, handling mistakes such as misgendering your client, and promoting safety and trust. Dara emphasizes continuous learning, cultural humility, and the need for therapists to stay informed about evolving standards of care. This episode offers valuable guidance for therapists looking to be affirming and inclusive providers. “Honestly, the fear and the self doubt can really paralyze a therapist from being able to even start working with these clients, referring these clients out too soon, where, really checking in to say, Okay, this is really just because I'm uncomfortable, not because this person's trans, I just don't want to mess up. And that's a point of where more so sticking with your client, especially if you've known them for a while, and turns out they're like, ‘I can finally tell my therapist I'm trans’, but being able to recognize that is a point where you need education or consultation to be able to move forward with that client. If the client would like to have a different therapist, that's a different story, but be careful not to refer out too soon.”- Dara Hoffman Key points: ***Use Correct Pronouns and Names: It is critical for therapists to gather and use clients' correct names and pronouns from the beginning to avoid microaggressions. Misgendering and using incorrect or gendered language can derail sessions and harm clients' sense of safety. ***Be Culturally Humble: Therapists should balance understanding their clients as individuals while acknowledging their trans identity without hyper-focusing on it unless relevant. If a mistake is made, it’s important for therapists to recognize it, process it after the session, and address it if needed in future sessions. ***Create an Inclusive Space: Inclusive office practices, such as displaying LGBTQ flags and addressing restroom policies, contribute to a safer environment for clients. ***Continuing Ed: Engage in continuous learning and consult colleagues rather than referring clients out too quickly. ***Stay Updated on Standards of Care: Therapists need to remain informed on evolving standards, such as requirements for gender-affirming surgeries or hormone use, by consulting resources like WPATH. About Dara Hoffman: Dara Hoffman (they/them) is a nonbinary, queer-identified licensed professional counselor in Colorado Springs, Colorado who has 18 years of experience serving the trans and nonbinary community. As the author of YOU AND YOUR GENDER IDENTITY: A GUIDE TO DISCOVERY, Dara has been recognized nationally as an expert trainer and presenter, sharing their knowledge with organizations, businesses, and conferences across the country. Currently, Dara provides supervision to interns and licensure candidates and works as a contract trainer and facilitator for various organizations. After closing their private practice two and a half years ago, Dara is in a transformative period, taking intentional steps toward new ventures that resonate deeply with their life’s purpose. As they navigate their own health challenges, Dara is committed to honoring this journey, knowing it will shape and inform the meaningful work they will offer in the future. Dara lives in Colorado Springs with their cat, Mew and can be found frolicking in hot springs, drum circles and karaoke bars, studying astrology, and hosting gatherings at their home for their beautiful circle of friends. Connect with Dara: Website: Email: To get updates about future consultation groups: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/33614077
info_outline
81. The Ins and Outs of Clinical Consultation for Psychotherapists
10/17/2024
81. The Ins and Outs of Clinical Consultation for Psychotherapists
Hello everyone! I am so excited to be starting this new journey with my fellow therapists so we can learn and grow together. In this inaugural episode, I'll share about my journey into solo private practice, along with challenges and solutions to getting the peer support we all need to do this work. You’ll get a “behind the scenes look” at how the idea for live, fictionalized case consultation came to be and the importance of getting clinical consultation. There will be some do’s and don’ts for participating in group consultation and prepping a group of therapists to discuss a fictionalized case. “The most important thing we can do in consultation is get curious, ASK QUESTIONS. If you're hearing someone present a case and you're feeling like, oh, that sounds awful, off, or I would never do it that way, ask questions. Find out what are the other dynamics that you may be missing.” - Jeanene Wolfe Learn More About: Get to know me My journey into solo private practice How the idea for live, fictionalized case consultation came to be Importance of getting clinical consultation And so much more! To participate on October 22, 2024: To get updates about future consultation groups: Connect with me: Instagram: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanenewolfelcsw/ Website: https://collaboasis.com/
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/33499652
info_outline
80. Holistic Approaches to Chronic Pain: Navigating Trust, Self-Compassion, and Collaborative Care with Dr. Jaimee Arnoff
10/10/2024
80. Holistic Approaches to Chronic Pain: Navigating Trust, Self-Compassion, and Collaborative Care with Dr. Jaimee Arnoff
Welcome to another episode of the Colleague Down the Hall podcast, Jeanene Wolfe sits down with Jaimee Arnoff, Ph.D., to discuss the complex biopsychosocial nature of chronic pain. Dr. Arnoff delves into the multifaceted aspects of chronic pain, encompassing biological, psychological, and social components.. Dr. Arnoff shares her personal journey and emphasizes building rapport with clients who feel alienated by the medical system, highlighting the significance of validating their experiences. The discussion transitions to addressing grief, loss, and the importance of self-compassion, alongside practical techniques for retraining the brain through somatic tracking and mindfulness activities. Cultural and societal influences on pain perception are also considered, emphasizing the role of support systems and collaborative care with medical providers. “In terms of working with clients with chronic pain, I always like to remind them, just because pain can be addressed psychologically does not imply that it's imaginary.” - Dr. Jaimee Arnoff Key Points: ***Biopsychosocial Understanding of Chronic Pain: Chronic pain is not merely a physical issue; it involves biological, psychological, and social factors. Dr. Jamie Arnoff emphasizes that addressing all these components is crucial for effective treatment and support. ***Building Trust and Rapport: Establishing trust with clients who have experienced chronic pain and may have had negative interactions with the medical system is essential. Validating their experiences and showing empathy can help build a therapeutic relationship. ***The Importance of Self-Compassion: Techniques like self-compassion, safety reappraisal, and mindfulness activities are key to pain reprocessing therapy. They help clients reframe their relationship with pain and regain trust in their bodies. ***Cultural and Societal Influences: Treatment for chronic pain must consider cultural and societal factors, as these shape clients’ lived experiences and access to support. Involving family members and caregivers in therapy can enhance the effectiveness of interventions. ***Collaboration and Advocacy: Collaborating with medical providers and advocating for clients is crucial. Having support systems in place, such as someone to accompany clients to appointments and using tools like spoon theory to understand communicate energy levels, can improve care and reduce the burden on clients. About Jaimee Arnoff, Ph.D: Dr. Jaimee Arnoff is a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in adolescents and young adults with internalizing disorders, including those in the Deaf Community, at her private practice in Beacon, NY. Dr. Arnoff is certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy and has been featured on multiple podcasts discussing mental health treatment for chronic pain including Confidently Insecure and Behavioral Health Today. She is on the Founding Providers Board for the venture-backed digital health company, Flowly, that combines virtual reality and biofeedback training for chronic pain patients. She also provides them and other agencies with workshops for individuals, their families, and providers on how to manage physical pain therapeutically. As an individual who experiences chronic pain personally, she hopes to reduce the stigma of seeking out therapy services as a treatment for chronic pain. Connect with Jaimee: Website: BFFTherapy.com Instagram: @BFFTherapy Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/33317337
info_outline
79. Understanding Anti-Semitism: Enhancing Therapeutic Practices for Jewish Clients with Dr. Liya Levanda
10/03/2024
79. Understanding Anti-Semitism: Enhancing Therapeutic Practices for Jewish Clients with Dr. Liya Levanda
In today’s episode of the Colleague Do wn the Hall Podcast, Jeanene Wolfe interviews Dr. Liya Levanda, a specialist in Jewish clinical issues and the impact of anti-Semitism on mental health. They discuss the IHRA and Jerusalem Declaration definitions of anti-Semitism, emphasizing the need for therapists to understand these frameworks to better support Jewish clients. Dr. Levanda addresses stereotypes in media and clinical settings, such as misconceptions about Jewish wealth or identity, and the importance of not making assumptions about clients’ racial or cultural backgrounds. They delve into Jewish identity's complexity, including religious and cultural aspects, and the significance of matrilineal descent. The episode also covers the challenges faced by Jewish therapists, strategies to prevent burnout, and resources for further learning. Dr. Levanda underscores that understanding and supporting Jewish clients contributes to broader diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in mental health. “I, being Jewish, have had the privilege of having my whole life to have learned about this, and it does take a while, and even still, it feels like there's just always more and more to learn. And a lot of people will ask me, I want to support Palestinians, and I also want to support Jewish clients,how do I do that? And my answer for them is that you don't have to pick. I think a lot of mental health professionals feel like they have to choose one or the other, and that their practice can only be available to Palestinians and Muslims or only available to Jews and Israelis. And my answer is that that doesn't have to be the case. I think we have such a unique role as mental health professionals, in not only our jobs to help and to mitigate harm, but also in our ability to connect with this sense of common humanity, we can identify you know, each person here has a story and has a perspective, and sometimes perspectives conflict.”- Liya Levanda In this episode, let’s delve into: ***Understanding Anti-Semitism Definitions: Dr. Levanda explains the IHRA and Jerusalem Declaration definitions of anti-Semitism, stressing the need for therapists to be familiar with these frameworks to accurately recognize and address anti-Semitic beliefs and behaviors in clinical settings. ***Challenging Stereotypes and Misconceptions: The episode highlights the prevalence of stereotypes, such as the notion that Jews control financial institutions or media. ***Complexity of Jewish Identity: Therapists should ask clients how they identify, without making assumptions about their racial or cultural background, to provide more personalized and respectful care. ***Creating Safe Therapeutic Spaces: Therapists should foster environments where Jewish clients feel safe discussing their identity and experiences. ***Support for Jewish Therapists: The conversation addresses the unique challenges faced by Jewish therapists, especially in the context of increased anti-Semitic incidents. ***Ongoing Education and Advocacy: Mental health professionals are encouraged to continue their education on Jewish issues and anti-Semitism, utilizing resources such as Dr. Levanda's website and organizations like the Association of Jewish Psychologists. Increased knowledge can help create a more inclusive and supportive therapeutic environment for Jewish clients. About Dr. Liya Levanda: Liya Levanda, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist. She provides training and workshops on Jewish clinical issues, including antisemitism, as they pertain to mental health professionals. Over the past decade, she has passionately advocated against antisemitism, with appearances ranging from local universities’ Jewish student union chapters to national organizations, regional psychological associations, and even podcasts. Dr. Levanda actively seeks to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to challenge antisemitic beliefs and provide clinicians with relevant tools to improve their practice, grounded in the belief that there is no such thing as a “dumb” question. Connect with Dr. Liya: Website: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/33315552
info_outline
78. Lessons Learned After One Year in Solo Private Practice with Erin Hoffman
09/26/2024
78. Lessons Learned After One Year in Solo Private Practice with Erin Hoffman
In today’s episode of the Colleague Down the Hall podcast, Jeanene Wolfe speaks with Erin Hoffman who is back on the podcast to reflect on her first year in private practice. (See Episode 27 as she discusses getting started in private practice.) The episode delves into the complexities of running a solo private practice and the financial and administrative hurdles therapists face in private practice work. Erin discusses the critical role of boundaries in maintaining well-being, the significance of peer support, and the continuous need for growth as professionals. Together, they underscore the value of community, self-awareness, and ethical decision-making in adapting to the realities of private practice. “If we don't fill our cups and we don't understand what leads to burnout, that is ultimately going to affect our clients. And the quality of work that they receive. I think I got a LinkedIn request from Better Help who offered me to see 40 clinical hours a week but what was so great about it is that I could make six figures, but hopefully in private practice, we're going to be taking a bigger income home. But there are just some things that I found out I'm not willing to do, like, I would be miserable seeing that many clients per day. So I think like when you said, we have to really be aware of our needs because we are the product, like we are the tool, what we are providing is coming 110 percent from us, from our minds, from our energy levels, from our, you know, what we can serve as far as that goes, giving that to our clients.” - Erin Hoffman In this episode, let’s talk about: ***Balancing Personal and Professional Lives: Therapists often face blurred lines between their personal and professional lives and needing to navigate this. ***The Necessity of Boundaries: The importance of time management and learning to say no to clients to avoid burnout and maintain the quality of therapy. ***The Importance of Peer Support: Connecting with colleagues and building a supportive network is critical to managing the challenges of private practice. ***Adapting to the Realities of Therapy: There are significant differences between the idealized view of therapy in graduate school and the actual practice, requiring flexibility and self-awareness. ***Managing Countertransference and Ethical Dilemmas: Therapists must be mindful of their own biases and emotions, particularly when navigating challenging client interactions and ethical practices. ***Building a Supportive Community: The importance of sharing experiences and learning from peers, underscoring the importance of kindness and support within the therapeutic community. About Erin Hoffman: Erin is an LCPC in Illinois and specializes in working with adults who had the experience of an emotionally unavailable parent or caregiver in childhood. I practice through a trauma informed lens and include focus on both the mind and body as teammates in the healing process. Connect with Erin: Website: Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/33219517
info_outline
77. Balancing Therapy Practice and Parenthood: Strategies for Back-to-School Season
08/22/2024
77. Balancing Therapy Practice and Parenthood: Strategies for Back-to-School Season
Here’s another episode of The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast. In today's episode, I explore the challenge of balancing a therapy practice with the demands of parenthood during the back-to-school season. I talk about strategies to manage this seasonal stress and maintain well-being, from setting boundaries at work to adjusting your practice schedule to accommodate family needs. I also share practical tips on using EHR systems, streamlining client scheduling, and outsourcing tasks to lighten the load. “Remember it's okay to say no to extra commitments that don't align with your top priorities. In fact, it's more than okay. It can be vital if you've ever reached that extra crispy level of burnout, you know what I mean? So if you're someone who has trouble saying no, especially with extracurricular activities your kids might be involved in, decide how much time you have to give, if any, and stick to that amount.” In this episode, let’s talk about: ***Set Boundaries at Work: Reassess your work schedule to better align with family needs, particularly during the back-to-school season. Saying no to extra commitments and setting clear work boundaries can help reduce stress and prevent burnout. ***Streamline Practice Management: Utilize EHR systems for scheduling, billing, and client records. Consider features like self-scheduling and automation tools to minimize administrative tasks and improve efficiency. ***Outsource and Delegate Tasks: Don’t hesitate to ask for help, whether it's hiring a virtual assistant, getting extra help at home, or leveraging support from your clinical consultation group. Delegating tasks can ease your workload significantly. ***Prioritize Self-Care and Presence: Focus on quality time with your family, practice self-care, and accept imperfection. Remember that balancing a therapy practice and parenting is challenging, and giving yourself grace is essential to navigating this busy season. Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/32672827
info_outline
76. Normalizing and Managing Imposter Syndrome in Private Practice
08/15/2024
76. Normalizing and Managing Imposter Syndrome in Private Practice
Welcome to another episode of The Colleague Down the Hall podcast where I delve into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome, especially as it relates to therapists in private practice. I unpack the insidious nature of this phenomenon, where self-doubt creeps in despite years of experience and success, making professionals feel like frauds. In this episode, I offer practical strategies like creating a "book of evidence" and an "imposter syndrome survival kit" to combat these feelings, while also highlighting the importance of community support and self-compassion. Listen in for valuable insights and tools to navigate this challenge in your professional journey. “Remember, you're not alone in this. Imposter syndrome is a shared experience. I've been in this field for over 30 years, and I still find myself experiencing it. I don't always recognize it at first, but it doesn't have to dictate your professional journey. By acknowledging it, talking about it, and taking steps to manage it, you can reclaim your confidence and continue doing the very important work you do for your clients and your communities.” Here are the key highlights: ***Imposter Syndrome is Common: Imposter syndrome is a widespread experience where self-doubt and feelings of being a fraud can undermine confidence. ***Strategies to Counteract Imposter Syndrome: Creating tools like a "book of evidence" to document successes and an "imposter syndrome survival kit" can help ground you in your achievements and provide support when self-doubt arises. ***The Importance of Community Support: Connecting with colleagues or mentors can normalize the experience of imposter syndrome, offering reassurance and valuable perspectives that combat feelings of isolation. ***Self-Compassion is Crucial: Practicing self-kindness and allowing yourself to embrace imperfections can help mitigate the harsh self-criticism that often accompanies imposter syndrome. ***Prioritizing Self-Care: Engaging in self-care practices, from mindfulness to time outdoors to somatic techniques, builds resilience and helps manage the pressures that contribute to imposter syndrome. Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/32588982
info_outline
75. Measuring Success: Key Performance Indicators for Private Practice Growth
08/08/2024
75. Measuring Success: Key Performance Indicators for Private Practice Growth
Here’s another episode of The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast where I dive into a crucial topic for private practice owners: Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Understanding which KPIs to track to transform your practice from merely surviving to thriving. KPIs are metrics that offer insights into how effectively your practice is meeting its business objectives, from financial health to client satisfaction and operational efficiency. Understanding these KPIs isn't just about numbers, it's about gaining insights into what's working and what isn't. Join me as we unlock the power of KPIs to enhance your private practice journey. “I talk to a lot of therapists who don't really understand that having a therapy practice is running a small business, and so I really encourage you to get into that mindset. There are things that you have to do as a small business, there are things that you need to learn about to run an effective small business, and so try and wrap your head around that and reach out for some resources. Remember the goal of tracking KPIs is not just to collect data, but to create a roadmap for improvement. Each KPI you track should lead to actionable insights that drive your practice forward.” Hear more about: ***Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are metrics that help private practice owners understand how effectively their practice is achieving its business objectives. ***Client Retention Rate: This KPI measures the percentage of clients who return after their initial visit. ***Tracking missed appointments is crucial as they directly impact revenue and scheduling efficiency. ***Gathering feedback through surveys helps quantify client satisfaction. ***Operational Efficiency: This KPI can be measured by looking at the ratio of administrative costs to total revenue. ***Ways to Set Up and Implement KPI Tracking ***By harnessing the power of KPIs, private practice owners can enhance their business operations, improve client satisfaction, and ensure sustainable growth. Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/32495557
info_outline
74. Choosing Your Private Practice Path: The Pros and Cons of Working Solo or Joining a Group
08/01/2024
74. Choosing Your Private Practice Path: The Pros and Cons of Working Solo or Joining a Group
Welcome to another episode of The Colleague Down the Hall Podcast! In today's episode, I’m diving into a pivotal decision that many therapists face: should you start your own solo private practice, or is joining a group practice the better path? Each option offers distinct benefits and challenges that can greatly impact your career satisfaction and personal life. We’ll explore the pros and cons of both paths, providing examples and steps to guide your decision-making process. Starting with solo private practice, we'll discuss the allure of independence, clinical autonomy, flexibility, and financial potential. We'll also cover the challenges of administrative load, isolation, and uncertain income. On the flip side, joining a group practice offers a built-in community, shared resources, and a collaborative environment, but comes with its own set of drawbacks like less autonomy and revenue splitting. "Solo practices often highlight the independence to make decisions and the responsibility of managing the way your practice functions. Group practices can provide a built-in support system and admin support which can ease the burden of day-to-day operations. Reflect on your personal and professional goals, perhaps by writing them down or discussing them with a mentor. As you navigate this decision, think about how each model aligns with your values, career aspirations, and lifestyle needs, and seek advice from mentors or trusted colleagues to help clarify your path. And remember, this choice doesn’t have to be permanent. Many solo practitioners started out with a group practice before deciding they wanted to go out on their own." In this episode, I delve into solo private practice vs joining a group in these areas: ***Understanding The Nuances Of Solo Practice Vs Group ***Financial Differences ***Flexibility With the Work Experience Itself, i.e. Schedule, Time Off, etc ***Decisions Around Client Populations You Work Best With ***How Policies and Procedures Are Handled ***Type of Support Around Clinical Issues and Decision-making ***Administrative Tasks and How They Are Managed Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: *Join my free therapist Facebook group: *Connect on LinkedIn:
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/32365137
info_outline
73. (From the Archive) Fictionalized Case: Working With a Minor Who is Using THC
07/25/2024
73. (From the Archive) Fictionalized Case: Working With a Minor Who is Using THC
In this episode of Colleague Down the Hall, a group of my colleagues discuss the complexities and ethical considerations in adolescent therapy, particularly in a case involving cultural factors, parental skepticism towards mental health treatment, and the issue of confidentiality regarding a client's substance use. We delve into the importance of understanding family dynamics, addressing cultural aspects, and navigating the delicate balance between maintaining client confidentiality and ensuring the client's well-being, especially when substance use is involved. This case presents the challenges therapists face in making informed decisions that respect the client's autonomy while considering the broader context of their family and cultural background. “I think also in here is the inherent systemic racism that dad has experienced his whole life and wants his son to do really well in a society where you're constantly swimming upstream, no matter how hard you work. So I wonder how much is just pure concern and love for his son, that they really want, that's really important to help them have every opportunity. Because I mean, we all want that for our children. But when you're in a society that you recognize puts limits, just by virtue of your skin color, that I think that would be, I mean, I can only speak as an outsider, but I could see how that could really drive you to drive your kid. Because you really want them to have that opportunity and to be able to achieve”- Lise Key points from this episode: Challenges of Therapy with Adolescents: The case of 16-year-old Paul highlights the complexities of working with adolescents in therapy, especially when there is parental skepticism towards mental health treatment. Cultural Considerations: Paul's identity as an African American male is relevant, influencing both the therapist's approach and the parents' perception of therapy. There is an emphasis on understanding and addressing cultural factors in therapy. Parental Attitudes and Family Dynamics: Paul's parents' views on mental health and therapy, along with their high expectations and perceived judgment, significantly impact Paul's situation and his progress in therapy. Confidentiality and Ethical Dilemmas: The therapist faces a dilemma regarding whether to disclose Paul's marijuana use to his parents, weighing the importance of confidentiality against the potential risks of substance use. Therapeutic Progress and Skills: Paul has shown progress in managing his anxiety through various therapeutic techniques, such as mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Consultation and Peer Support: The therapist seeks advice from colleagues, demonstrating the value of professional consultation and peer support in navigating complex cases. Documentation Practices: The importance of careful and thoughtful documentation in therapy is discussed, considering legal and ethical implications. Connect with Jeanene: *Get your free Four Keys to Private Practice Peace of Mind workbook: https://collaboasis.com/4keysworkbook *Join a clinical consultation group: https://oasisfortherapists.thrivecart.com/enrollment *Learn more about clinical consultation groups: https://collaboasis.com/ *Join my free therapist Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/oasispcgt *Connect on LInkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeanene-wolfe-lcsw-64042220a/
/episode/index/show/8a069602-cd5d-4aeb-883a-98482ee9ffb0/id/32290272