Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental health care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Paitra Surerus-Marsh, Clinic Director of Piece of Mind Counselling, located in Mississauga, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a counselling clinic in Mississauga, and our clients are anyone! From needing to chat about a bad day, or a boss, to trauma and relationship issues. We are an eclectic team of Registered Psychotherapists and Social Workers with years of experience and a wide breadth of practice. We create an inclusive, safe space for clients to work through and process difficult times in their life. Our vision has always been to provide high-quality service with a personal touch.
Tell us about yourself
I’m Paitra, a wife, a mom, a psychotherapist, and a business owner. I have been a psychotherapist for nine years, initially starting practicing alongside other full-time work until the birth of my daughter, when I decided to finally take the leap into being a self-employed business owner during my maternity leave. Despite my moments of doubt, I don’t regret my decision to follow my passion. It allowed me to have flexibility and presence with my daughter, but it also was filled with lessons for her to follow her dreams! In 2020 I took a long talk about my dream to step further and decided to merge with my bestie and colleague, which has allowed Piece of Mind Counselling to flourish!
During my early twenties is when I was directed to my path of helping people, after my personal experiences, my brother suffered a traumatic headache injury, and years following struggled with addiction and other misfortunes. One of my biggest life lessons was losing him too young and too early- oh, the emotions that I faced and continue to face in my journey! I knew then, with him by my side, that I was meant to help others in their moments of difficulties and suffering.
It probably started more as a self-help journey but has shaped me into the therapist I am today (along with too many other life experiences to place in this bio)! A therapist filled with understanding and compassion that focuses on connection and listening. A therapist that dives into emotions and creates normalcy and understanding around these things called feelings, an understanding, and connection with ourselves- this is what motivates and drives me daily, the ability to connect with others, spread compassion, and teach emotional healing.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Taking the plunge from being a solo contractor to growing a clinic with additional therapists, allowing us to meet the needs of more clients! Growing to the point of offering practicum placements to student therapists.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Owning a business in health- mental health is a challenge when it comes to balance. Balancing the books (financials) with providing help and support to clients (reason for getting into this line of work).
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Take your time, take the risk, and trust yourself!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.pieceofmindcounselling.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pieceofmindcounselling
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/piece.of.mind.counselling/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/piece-of-mind-counselling/
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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