Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental health but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Monica Verman, Founder of Dr. Vermani Balanced Wellbeing, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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

I am a clinical psychologist in downtown Toronto, Ontario, as well as the founder of Start Living Corporate Wellness and the author of a new self-help/wellness book, A Deeper Wellness, Conquering Stress, Mood, Anxiety, and Traumas.

Tell us about yourself

I have always been drawn to helping people, even as a child, and although I began my studies at the University of Toronto without a specific goal in mind, I soon found myself drawn into the field of psychology. I worked in the field of psychology, sociology, women’s studies, and criminology throughout my schooling. Then I completed my Doctorate in psychology in 2007 and began my career as a registered clinical psychologist. Over the course of my 25-plus years of experience in this area of practice, I have worked with extreme populations, including 9/11 first responders, military personnel who are suffering from PTSD, prison populations, brain and spinal cord injury patients, and other trauma survivors, as well as a large number of patients struggling with mood, anxiety, high stress, and traumas. From the beginning of my career, I have been motivated by witnessing the courage, commitment, and hard work of my patients and the remarkable results of their efforts in our work together.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My patients — and their healing and growth — are my greatest accomplishment as a business owner. That said, I am also currently dedicating a great deal of my time and effort to making the same tried and true tools and processes that I use with my patients accessible and affordable to anyone looking to work on their mental health. I have recently published a book which is available worldwide in print, eBook, and (soon to be released) audiobook format, as well as a series of Corporate Wellness packages, complete with comprehensive online learning tools, based on my book.

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

Balance and trust that if you are not able to see someone in need, there are reliable resources available out there in the community to help support people in crisis.

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

  1. My biggest tip would be to make sure you are doing something that brings you joy and pride because you’re going to be dedicating a lot of time, effort, and energy to it!
  2. Be open to shifting and changing. Flexibility is key to seeing and acting on opportunities that may come along.
  3. Connect and surround yourself with the best talent you can find, and treat them with respect. They will make your business grow in ways you may not have envisioned.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I cannot overstate the role of dedication and authenticity in building and growing as a solopreneur. An authentic passion for your chosen field will carry you through on days when you’re feeling exhausted and challenged and lead you to seek new ways of interacting with people who want and need your services.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.drmonicavermani.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.monica.vermani
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmonicavermani/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VermaniDr
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvermani/

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.

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