The Connected Therapist | Private Practice, Self-Care, Marketing, Burnout, Counseling, Couples Therapy

In this episode, we’re joined by one of our own community members, guest Linder Dwyer, a Licensed Professional Counselor and private practice owner in Austin, Texas, who shares her personal journey of finding connection and support in our community and membership. Whether you’re craving support, feeling stuck in isolation, or just curious about what it’s like inside our membership, this episode gi...

So many therapists dream of private practice — the flexibility, autonomy, and freedom to do meaningful work on your own terms. But what’s the truth behind the dream? In today’s episode, we are breaking down the real-life expectations vs. reality of running your own therapy practice. Whether you're just starting out, building your caseload, struggling with the business aspects of your practice, or...

In this episode, we're diving into one of the most important — and often overlooked — parts of the therapeutic process: the termination session. Whether therapy is ending because goals have been met or life circumstances are shifting, how we close out our work with clients matters. You'll learn: What termination sessions are and why they’re essential Common reasons therapy might end — and how to t...

In this episode, we dive into the essential elements of a first therapy session—how to build connection, uncover your client’s deeper "why" for seeking therapy, and begin contracting to co-create a strong foundation for working together and treatment planning. Whether you're a new therapist or a seasoned clinician looking to refresh or reflect on your intake process, this conversation offers pract...

In this episode, we dive into one of the most important but often overlooked parts of building a thriving therapy practice: the intake call. Whether you're a new clinician or a seasoned therapist refining your systems, this conversation will help you feel more confident, clear, and grounded in how you approach these early conversations with potential clients. You'll learn: The true purpose of an i...

Loneliness has officially been declared an epidemic due to its significant impact on both mental and physical health—and therapists are not immune. In fact, despite being in a profession centered on connection, many therapists quietly experience deep loneliness and isolation. In this episode, we explore the reality that therapists need community too. Whether it’s through peer consultation, authent...

As therapists, we're trained to hold space for others—but what about holding space for ourselves? In this episode, we explore the deeply human practice of setting boundaries with ourselves—not from a place of perfection, but with self-compassion and care. We talk about the habits that quietly lead to burnout—like overbooking, saying yes when we need to say no, people-pleasing, and ignoring our own...

In this episode, we explore one of the most important and often tricky parts of being a therapist: setting and holding boundaries with clients. We’ll talk about the difference between internal boundaries and external boundaries and why both are essential for sustainable, ethical practice.   We’ll also dive into common challenges therapists face and explore how to reset boundaries with clarity and...

Many therapists resist niching down because they worry about limiting their opportunities (or they are concerned they will be bored just seeing one issue or concern). But the truth is, defining your ideal client actually makes it easier to build a practice you love while attracting the right people who need your help. In this episode, we’re breaking down why having a clear niche helps you prevent...

Tax season can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate it with more confidence. In this episode, we break down essential tax concepts for therapists in private practice, including key deductions, tax-saving strategies, and smart financial planning tips. Learn how to track expenses, make informed investments, and set yourself up for a less stressful tax sea...

Do you ever feel stuck or unmotivated in working toward a goal despite your best efforts? You’re not alone. In this episode, we explore how fear, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs—like perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and procrastination—can keep us from moving forward. We share personal insights and common struggles we face when pursuing goals along with practical strategies (and encouragement to...

As a therapist, you’re great at helping clients set goals—but what about your own? We want you to thrive and to feel fulfilled in your life and career. In this episode, we’re taking on compassionate goal setting—one that prioritizes sustainability, self-care, and meaningful progress over hustle and perfection. We talk through science-backed strategies that are more likely to get you the results yo...

As therapists, we all experience moments of helplessness, hopelessness, or feeling stuck with a client. But what if these moments are invitations for deeper understanding rather than signs of failure? In this episode, we explore five key ways to shift from feeling ineffective to reconnecting with curiosity and presence in your work. What We Cover: Why therapists sometimes feel stuck How countertra...

Building a thriving therapy practice takes more than just clinical skills—it requires strategy, networking, and visibility. In this episode, we share key insights on how to attract clients, connect with referral sources, and make it easier for people to find and work with you. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, these practical tips can help you create a more sustainable and fulfi...

In this episode, we’re talking about contracting and treatment planning—  a dynamic, co-created process that foster safety, agency, and the potential for change, growth and healing for our clients. 🔹 What You’ll Learn: How relational contracting moves beyond logistics to create deeper therapeutic alignment and the potential for change  Why contracting (and treatment planning in this way) is a pow...

Money and having a meaningful career doesn't have to be at odds—yet many therapists struggle with financial stress, low wages, and the emotional challenges of discussing fees and setting boundaries in the interest of caring for clients. In this episode, we explore how to understand your money beliefs, shift your mindset, set boundaries, and create a sustainable practice that truly meets your needs...

What if self-compassion is key in preventing burnout and deepening your work with clients? As therapists, we encourage our clients to be kind to themselves, yet we often hold ourselves to impossibly high standards. The way we speak to ourselves and sit with ourselves can shape our emotional resilience, our ability to show up fully in sessions, and our overall well-being. In this episode, we dive i...

In this episode, we explore therapist self-care, especially during challenging times when the world feels heavy. Whether it's the emotional toll of global events or the personal weight of the work we do, therapists often carry the pain and distress of our clients. It’s important to remember that self-care is not just a luxury, but a necessity to stay grounded, present, and effective in our roles....

In this episode, we explore how therapists can approach the new year with intentionality, crafting a vision that aligns with their values, setting meaningful goals, and building sustainable routines to maintain balance and avoid burnout. Through a mix of reflection, practical strategies, and encouragement, we discuss how to create space for personal growth and well-being. Whether you're looking to...

Welcome to the very first episode of The Connected Therapist! We are so glad you’re here.   This podcast was created with one mission in mind: to build a supportive, connected community where therapists can thrive—emotionally, professionally, and personally. Whether you’re just starting your career or have been in the field for decades, this space is for you.   In this episode, we are sharing: A l...

Are you feeling isolated as a therapist, trying to grow your private practice, or wrestling with imposter syndrome? Or, maybe you’re someone who loves diving into therapeutic concepts, exploring business growth strategies, and discovering ways to expand both personally and professionally.   If any of that resonates, you’re in the right place. This podcast is all about helping therapists like you b...