Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Wendy Cohen, Founder of Family Matters Therapy, located in Winnetka, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am the founder of Family Matters Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. My customers are individuals, couples, and families who are looking for mental health support. Many couples are looking to become more connected and better communicators. Many families are looking for the same. I see a lot of teens and children who have challenges with managing stress, managing their emotions, or just need to learn and practice skills so they can manage life. I also see families who were victims of the Highland Park parade shooting. I work with individuals and families experiencing trauma. We also have a variety of groups we offer throughout the year. Some examples are girl empowerment. LGBTQA teen processing, parents who have a child who is LGBTQA and are looking for support, education, and community.
Tell us about yourself
I have worked in the field of social service and counseling for 26 years. I have always been a helper. I love working with people and communities. I have a daughter and three stepdaughters, and they are all in college. My husband and I are empty nesters this year for the first time. With the government student loan forgiveness program finally helping me with my student loans, I was able to work in any job. For many years in order to qualify, I worked in non-profit jobs working paycheck to paycheck. Once I had freedom of choice with my career, I knew the sky was the limit. I had no business background, but with the help of my husband and father-in-law, I was able to hit the ground running and provide a service to people with my complete control and goals. Every day I feel so grateful for this opportunity. I know how important mental health care is for people, and I feel so motivated and proud to be trusted and successful in my work.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My largest accomplishment so far is opening my doors in June and having a full caseload in a little over a month. I have already hired two terrific therapists to help me out and have rented a third office. I guess it would have been easier to say I am full-turn people away. However, it is extremely hard to say no when people seek you out because you have created a service. Onward for me to serve and grow as much as I can.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I think about others who are expecting me to help them make a change. The pressure of putting out a product or service and the pressure of thinking about failing. Hiring employees who are then counting on you for their paycheck is also more stressful. It is some pressure that I didn’t expect to feel.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Hire a consultant or expert to help you. It is worth every penny, and never turn down the help.
- Take risks if you can, and if you can, be grateful.
- Take breaks. Time for yourself. Even if you have to put it on your calendar, don’t skimp on this.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.fmtherapy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/familymatterstherapy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familymatterstherapy/
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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