Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gail Post, Ph.D., a Licensed Psychologist based in Jenkintown, PA, USA.

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

I am a clinical psychologist, licensed in PA and authorized to also provided telehealth in over 30 US states through PSYPACT. I am also a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. I have been in clinical practice for over 35 years and work with teens and adults; however, I have also developed a specialty in working with families of the intellectually and musically gifted over the past 10 years. I provide psychotherapy but also workshops and coaching/consultation, with an emphasis on working with parents of the gifted.

Tell us about yourself

I had a long-standing desire to work in the counseling field working to help others, but in particular, to focus on the psyche was the dream that I pursued. It led me to pursue a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, as this provided extensive training and experience and gave me a range of options as I launched my career. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings, but working in private practice allows me to have the flexibility and freedom to make my own hours and set my own pace. This was particularly helpful when my children were young! I still find my work intriguing and energizing - even after all this time.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would say that a meaningful accomplishment for me involved developing and maintaining a successful private practice, especially since I do not take insurance. I have had several additional niche specialties, such as eating disorders, obesity treatment, and now, giftedness, which allows me to remain focused on the latest theory and research available to guide my work. I am also excited that I have been able to pivot to be more selective in my activities and to focus now on writing - through my blog, online articles, several book chapters, and my new book, The Gifted Parenting Journey - which lets me disseminate information widely that is hopefully helpful to others.

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

Like all private business owners, I do not have the luxury of a pension, paid time off, paid vacations, and certainty about my earnings. But I am grateful that I have the choices and options I do as a sole practitioner.

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

  1. Be willing to consider the long game. Don't expect to be successful immediately, and plan to be broke for a while! Be flexible about changing course when necessary, not sweating the small stuff, and reevaluating your original plans.
  2. Be realistic about your strengths and weaknesses - and play to your strengths.
  3. Don't underestimate the importance of a solid foundation in your education, training, and experience. This allows you to be an authority from a position of strength and clarity rather than just winging it! But regardless of your earlier education and training, always embrace the importance of learning something new throughout your career. It will enhance your success - but even more, will increase your own satisfaction and engagement in your work.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.gailpost.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GiftedChallenges/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gailpostphd/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/giftedchlnges
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gail-post-ba177a22/

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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