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This is our monthly state of the field conversation and this one got real fast. It starts with the SimplePractice class action lawsuit, which if you have been on social media lately you have probably seen ads about. But Kelly and I use it as a jumping off point for a much bigger conversation about what therapists are actually agreeing to when we sign up for the tools we use every day. We talk through what cookies and tracking scripts actually do, why HIPAA compliance is not the same as your clients being protected, what it means when a terms of service says data can be used for research and development by the platform and all of its affiliates, and why those session transcripts some platforms are holding onto are a much bigger deal than most of us realize. We also get into the fact that the people investing in these EHR companies are often the same people investing in AI therapist chatbots built on what they call the largest dataset of real therapist interactions. So yeah. We connect those dots. And then we talk about what is underneath all of this for so many therapists right now. The isolation. The disembodiment. The way working for venture capital platforms has added a whole new layer on top of the burnout that was already there. The difference between being pulled toward a vision and being pushed by ethical rage, and why both of those are legitimate. We also share some things from our recent retreat, including what happens when therapists get into a room together and actually slow down long enough to feel what they have been carrying. If you have never watched our free Terms of Service training, this is your sign to go do that. It is at zynnyme.com/free and it features a mental health attorney and the folks at Person-Centered Tech. It is not just us. It is a real dive into what these documents actually mean. Topics: SimplePractice lawsuit, EHR data privacy, therapist burnout, private practice sustainability, telehealth vs in-person therapy, HIPAA and terms of service, venture capital in mental health, therapist isolation, nervous system regulation, AI and therapist data. Free Terms of Service Training: zynnyme.com/free Reach us at: [email protected] Learn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTube Website: https://www.zynnyme.com/ Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

What does it actually take to go from escaping a toxic nonprofit job to running a thriving 25-person trauma-focused group practice? Ginger Houghton, LCSW, has done it — and she's not sugarcoating the journey. In this episode, Kelly Higdon sits down with Ginger to talk through the real decisions, real mistakes, and real wins that shaped her practice over seven years. From nearly quitting over insurance credentialing in month one, to navigating a 1099-to-W2 conversion without losing her team, to finding the niche that made everything click — this is the conversation most group practice owners wish they'd had earlier. You'll hear Ginger's honest take on: Why VC-backed platforms are a trap (she worked for one for 35 days)The compliance and billing fundamentals that protect you long-termWhat she got wrong in her first 10 hires — and what changedHow profit sharing and "red carpet exits" built a stable, loyal teamThe mindset shift that takes you from clinician to sustainable business owner Whether you're still solo, quietly thinking about hiring your first clinician, or already scaling and feeling the growing pains — this episode will meet you where you are. Building a practice that works for your clients AND your life isn't just possible. Ginger's proof. Learn more about Ginger Houghton and her practice at: www.brightspottherapy.com Learn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTube Website: https://www.zynnyme.com/ Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast and leave a review: • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly/id1398391639 • Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5iY2FzdC5mbS9zdGFydGluZy1hLWNvdW5zZWxpbmctcHJhY3RpY2UtenlubnltZQ Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

Welcome back to Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories! Today, host Miranda Palmer sits down with Dr. Carmy, founder of Destined Horizons — a multi-state group mental health practice serving Georgia, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland. Dr. Carmy's path to therapy wasn't a straight line. From being the friend everyone came to for advice, to earning an MBA before finally answering her true calling as a therapist, her journey is one many practitioners will relate to. In this episode, you'll hear about: The real challenges of building a private practice from scratch — including burnout, balancing family life, and navigating the financial realities of running a group practiceHow she transitioned from solo clinician to group practice owner and the systems that made it possibleWhy finding community and support changed everything for her business and her well-beingHer passion for supporting other helping professionals and normalizing mental health care in Black and brown communities Whether you're just starting your private practice, thinking about expanding to a group model, or deep in the weeds of managing it all, this conversation is packed with honest, practical wisdom from someone who's been through it. Grab your coffee and let's dive in. Dr. Carmy's Websites: https://destined-horizons.com/ and https://www.drcarmy.com/ Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle Podcasts Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

This episode is a good one, y'all. Beth Rontal went from burnt-out costume designer to therapist to creating Documentation Wizard - a business that teaches therapists how to actually use their documentation as a clinical tool instead of dreading it. And honestly? The parallels between costume design and therapy work are kind of brilliant. We talk about the reality of getting licensed while raising kids, why falling behind on your notes is actually telling you something important about your practice, and how Beth went from supervising 50+ clinicians at an agency to building something sustainable on her own terms. Here's what I love about this conversation: Beth gets real about the fact that nothing is actually a "side gig" when you're passionate about it. We talk about the myth of balance (spoiler: it doesn't exist the way we think it does), why your body might be screaming at you to stop overworking, and how enforcement of your cancellation policy is actually about modeling healthy boundaries - not being a jerk. If you're trying to figure out how to fill your practice through actual relationships instead of SEO panic, or you're drowning in documentation and wondering why it feels so hard, or you're just tired of the hamster wheel and want to see what building something sustainable actually looks like - this one's for you. Beth's offering free resources on getting your notes done (link in show notes), and if you've ever dealt with an insurance clawback and felt completely lost, she does consultations for that too. Real talk about private practice, documentation, and what it actually takes to build something that doesn't destroy you in the process. Get Beth's free "25 Tips to Getting Notes Done": https://bit.ly/zynnyme Documentation Wizard: https://documentationwizard.com Insurance clawback consultations: Available through Documentation Wizard Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In this compelling episode of Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories, hosts Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer sit down for an honest, no-interview conversation about the seismic shifts in the mental health world right now. Drawing on their experiences supporting thousands of clinicians and leading Business School for Therapists, they dive deep into the growing influence of venture capital-backed therapy platforms, the realities of 1099 contracts vs. employment, and how insurance companies are reshaping the landscape—with a powerful impact on therapist autonomy and pay. Listen as Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer peel back the curtain on how big marketing and profit-driven systems are affecting therapists’ mindset, fees, and even their health. The duo discuss the importance of embodied practice, highlight the risks of burnout and autoimmune issues on the rise in the field, and share why it’s crucial to reconnect with your body, intuition, and core values when making practice decisions. You’ll hear practical guidance on navigating contracts, fee-setting for sustainability, and why group and community-oriented offerings may be the future for accessibility and authentic healing. If you’re feeling the pinch of working harder for less, or questioning the “way things are” in private practice, this episode will leave you with validation, tangible next steps, and a reminder: you have more agency than you think. Learn more about Business School for Therapists: https://bit.ly/BusinessSchoolYouTube Website: https://www.zynnyme.com/ Blog: https://www.zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: http://instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/zynnyme/ TikTok: @zynnyme Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In this episode, hosts Kelly and Miranda take on the messy realities of the mental health field today. They dive into everything from the latest challenges with insurance and the impact of AI on documentation to the emotional toll and ethical decisions many therapists are grappling with, especially those in marginalized or high-pressure environments. You’ll hear about the push-and-pull of staying in the system, fighting for change, or carving out new, sustainable practice models. Kelly and Miranda also share updates on healthcare negotiations, rising costs, and the importance of understanding how clinical work and finances intersect. It’s a candid, supportive conversation meant to validate what so many counselors are feeling right now, while encouraging everyone to find their own best way forward. Join us as we unpack the chaos, honor the complexity, and highlight new ways to thrive in practice! --- Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle Podcasts Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In this episode, host Miranda chats with Katie, a licensed professional counselor, author, and group practice owner specializing in high-risk teens. Katie shares her deeply personal journey into therapy, from overcoming her own struggles to building a successful practice through relentless visibility and networking. You'll hear how Katie navigated career pivots, from agency work to private practice, launching consulting programs, and now focusing on her upcoming book and signature treatment methods. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about following your curiosity, creating impact, and how embracing change can fuel your success as a therapist. --- Katie's Website: creativehealingphilly.com Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog YouTube: youtube.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle Podcasts

Miranda welcomes Cassidy, a therapist, group practice owner, and now published author based in Utah. Cassidy shares her compelling journey from teaching high school math to specializing in trauma therapy and ultimately writing a book about religious trauma affecting women in the LDS church. You’ll hear how Cassidy navigated the growing pains of private practice, set up a supportive leadership team, and found the personal inspiration and focus needed to tell her story. She gets real about the challenges of writing, the emotional rollercoaster of putting her truth on paper, and the practicalities of bringing her book to life. Whether you’re a therapist, aspiring author, or just looking for an honest conversation about healing and innovation in counseling, Cassidy’s insights offer inspiration and practical takeaways for your own practice or creative journey. --- Cassidy's Website: purpleskycounseling.com Join Us for our November 4th LIVE Training - Platform Contracts Exposed: What's Really at Stake for Your License, Your Ethics, and Your Practice's Future: news.zynnyme.com/platforms/ Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle Podcasts Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In this episode, we are joined by Laith from Person Centered Tech to tackle the surge of venture-backed online therapy platforms, like Talkspace, Alma, and Spring Health, and their impact on private practice. Together, they discuss why so many therapists are turning to these tech companies for supplemental income, and whether that’s as safe or sustainable as it seems. The trio dives into hidden risks around contract terms, HIPAA responsibility, AI recordings, and how therapists’ labor and expertise are being leveraged by big business. If you’re considering working with one of these platforms, don’t miss this honest, practical conversation about asking the right questions, understanding the real risks, and protecting your clients and yourself. Tune in and get the insights you need to make informed choices for your practice! --- Liath's Website: personcenteredtech.com Join Us for our November 4th Webinar: The Platform Playbook: How Tech Companies Exploit Therapists (And How to Protect Yourself) news.zynnyme.com/platforms/ Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle Podcasts Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In today’s episode, host Kelly sits down with Amity, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Florida, to explore her inspiring transition from working in a government civil commitment facility in Wisconsin to launching her own private practice - while navigating a cross-country move, burnout, and finding balance in her life and career! Amity shares the real-life challenges and triumphs she faced during her shift into entrepreneurship, what it was like to build a practice from scratch in a brand new state, and how she learned to shape her business around her core values: peace, stability, and flexibility. From leveraging online therapy platforms like BetterHelp for a quick financial start, to ultimately customizing her schedule to support her mental health and family life, Amity’s story is packed with honest insight, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone considering their own leap into private practice. Whether you’re on the fence about making the jump or seeking a fresh perspective on managing growth and self-care in your existing practice, this conversation delivers relatable lessons you won’t want to miss. Tune in as Amity and Kelly discuss the evolving definition of success, the power of intentional business-building, and the importance of aligning your work with your true values. --- Amity's Website: olson-counseling.com Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In this special episode, hosts Kelly and Miranda tackle timely issues shaping the world of mental health—from rising insurance rates and the hidden influence of state insurance commissioners to the expanding reach of AI in therapy. They discuss recent headlines, including dramatic insurance rate hikes, and share eye-opening stories about how legislation and business decisions directly affect therapists and their clients. Kelly and Miranda highlight why every therapist should know their insurance commissioner, the risks and opportunities AI poses, and how to track clinical outcomes to advocate for better pay and practice policies. Packed with real-world advice and empowering insights, this episode is a must-listen for any clinician navigating the evolving healthcare landscape. --- Join Us for our October 7th Free Training - Crossing State Lines in Therapy: A Guide to Staying Legal & Ethical with Ben Caldwell Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog YouTube: youtube.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In this episode, host Kelly sits down with Dr. Wiyatta to explore her inspiring journey from working in correctional and federal settings to building a thriving, bicoastal private practice. Dr. Wiyatta shares candid insights about why she chose the path of private practice, the pivotal moments that sparked her transition, and how she tailored her business to fit her life—including focusing on women's mental health and fertility counseling. You'll hear practical advice on building a practice with multiple income streams, the power of niching down, and the importance of creating a foundation before taking the leap. Dr. Wiyatta reveals how flexibility, autonomy, and the courage to do things her way have shaped not only her business, but her lifestyle—from cross-country moves to international speaking opportunities. Whether you’re on the fence about starting your own practice or looking for tips to refine your business, Dr. Wiyatta’s story is filled with valuable lessons, encouragement, and inspiration. Tune in for a conversation that’s both real and motivating, and discover how you too can design a practice—and life—that truly works for you. --- Dr. Wiyatta's Website: drwiyatta.com Join Us for [Webinar Name]: Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog YouTube: youtube.com/zynnyme Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In today’s episode, our host Kelly sits down with Jessica, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas who’s carved out a thriving solo private practice after years in the hospital and group practice worlds. Jessica opens up about her unconventional journey to entrepreneurship, how she overcame early doubts about running a business, and the personal work she did to reshape her relationship with money. Known for her unique blend of specialties—including sleep issues, chronic pain, PTSD, OCD, and radically open DBT—Jessica shares practical insights on building a specific niche, making the leap from agency to independent work, and finding joy in both clinical and business growth. Whether you’re on the fence about private practice or struggling with your niche, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and the reminder that, as Jessica puts it, “everything is learnable.” --- Jessica's Website: jessicafinktherapy.com Join Us for our upcoming October 7th Webinar - Crossing State Lines in Therapy: A Guide to Staying Legal & Ethical with Ben Caldwell. CE Credit Eligible! Sign up here: news.zynnyme.com/crossing-state-lines-in-therapy Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog YouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMe Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In today’s conversation, host Kelly Higdon sits down with Allison, a licensed marriage and family therapist and registered art therapist based in San Diego. Allison shares her inspiring journey from burnout in the mental health system to building a thriving private practice—one that’s grown and adapted through personal health challenges, parenthood, and even a global pandemic. Together, they dive into the realities of solo versus group practice, the importance of honoring neurodivergence as a business owner, and the lessons learned about timing, support, and sustainable growth. Whether you’re just starting out or thinking about expanding your practice, Allison’s story offers practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement for anyone looking to build a business that truly fits their life and values. --- Allison's Website: Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog YouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMe Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One

In today’s special episode, hosts Kelly and Miranda take a break from their usual client success stories to dive deep into the current landscape of the mental health field. Drawing on real-world data and their decades of experience, Kelly and Miranda unpack some of the most pressing concerns clinicians face right now—like the fear that fewer people are seeking therapy, how online directories and tech companies are shifting the playing field, and what the actual search data tells us about modern demand for therapy. They’ll also explore why therapists sometimes feel pressured to chase certifications, how to make intentional choices about training and specialization, and why finding your unique voice—and getting clear about your strengths—matters more than ever. If you’ve ever worried about competition, burnout, or whether private practice still has a place in today’s world, this episode is packed with encouragement, honest insights, and practical strategies. So grab your coffee and get ready to hear what’s really happening in the mental health field—and why there’s more opportunity for passionate clinicians than ever before. --- Learn more about Business School for Therapists: news.zynnyme.com/business-school/ Website: zynnyme.com Blog: zynnyme.com/blog YouTube: youtube.com/ZynnyMe Facebook: facebook.com/kellyandmiranda Instagram: instagram.com/zynnyme/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2456942/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/zynnyme/ Check out more episodes of the Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories podcast on these platforms + leave a review letting us know what you think: Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify Mentioned in this episode: Register Now - Starting a Profitable Private Practice: Build It Right, Earn More, Love Your Work From Day One