Creating Your Dream Private Therapy Practice

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Anne Morrison, Therapist and Coach based in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, UK.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I have two arms in my private practice. Firstly, as a therapist helping clients who are living with fears, anxiety, or past trauma (www.annemorrison.co.uk). Secondly, coaching and mentoring other therapists and counsellors who are developing their own thriving therapy practice (www.annemorrisoncoaching.com).

Tell us about yourself

I came across coaching when studying for my MBA as a 'mature' student. I was excited by the concept and investigated further. Once I'd completed that degree, I trained as a coach.

In 2002 I started my journey as a coach and therapist, training in different therapeutic interventions, including NLP, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and BrainWorking Recursive Therapy. Prior to that, I worked in the private and not-for-profit sectors.

I now work exclusively online with clients from around the world, dividing my time between my therapy clients and coaching other therapists and counsellors.

When not seeing clients, I enjoy many things, including modern jive, yoga, and going for walks with my husband. It's important to look after your own health and well-being as a therapist and counselor.

After 20 years, I still get excited by knowing that I make a difference in the lives of my clients, whether that is helping resolve a long-held trauma or seeing a therapist grow in confidence as they create their therapy business and work with their ideal clients.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being in private practice for over 20 years! Many therapists don't survive the first five years, and of those that do, many struggles with the uncertainty of working for themselves. I'm also proud of my online course, Designing the Dream, written specifically for therapists and counsellors to help them develop their own thriving private practice.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Working for yourself as a therapist or counsellor means that, at first, you are 'it.' You are often responsible for everything from delivering your therapy to marketing and admin. It can be very stressful, particularly if you haven't been in business before. Many who train as therapists often don't consider this aspect. It's also important to build connections and networks with other therapists and business owners. It can be lonely working for yourself. Ask or remind clients that they can give your name to their contacts. Doing this can feel too pushy for some. It is, however, one of the best ways to build your therapy practice.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

My top tips are:

Unless you have other income to support you, start slowly. Perhaps working in a 'day' job and transitioning into full self-employment as you build your client base.
Get to know your finances, and don't be afraid to set your fee levels at a higher rate than you might feel 'comfortable.'
Ask for help - whether that's from another business owner or a coach.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.annemorrisoncoaching.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnneMorrisonTherapyCoaching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annemcoaching/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/annemcoaching
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemorrisoncoach/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.