Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amber Cohen, Owner and Director of The Cohen Clinic, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Cohen Clinic is a group therapy practice focused on helping people decrease their distress and live to their fullest potential. We are a team of 8 Psychologists, Psychotherapists, and Social Workers. Our clients are individuals 16 years old and above, couples, and families. Our focus is on assisting clients in gaining a better understanding of themselves while building effective coping skills to enact change. Using evidence-based approaches, the therapy we provide is proven to increase happiness and motivation.
Tell us about yourself
Since high school, I have been interested in psychology and business. Owning a clinic has allowed me to explore both interests. My motivation is two-fold: to create a professional practice where therapists are given opportunities to learn and gain support and to provide quality mental health treatment to Ontarians. Every day there are new clinical and administrative problems to solve, and the opportunity to tap into my creativity in order to better assist my community is energizing!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I feel really proud of the culture at the clinic. During my career, I worked at four other practices, and I took many lessons from those experiences. Therapist burnout is real, and this has a negative impact on supporting our community's mental health needs. I have been working to foster an environment where therapists can explore their clinical interests, gain learning opportunities, engage in clinical consultation, and have social opportunities with colleagues. I believe that there is a strong culture of warmth and support at the clinic, and the proof is in the longevity of many of the therapists at the clinic.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Navigating the ups and downs of business ownership is an ongoing process. I have to call upon my coping strategies in order to not allow my thoughts and mood to sink during difficult periods. Like all things in life, it's important to keep paddling through the waves as calmer waters will inevitably appear. There will always be highs and lows. I work to celebrate the wins and learn from the losses.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Focus on controlling what is actually under your control.
- Build a professional support network you can bounce ideas off of.
- Set long, medium, and short-term goals.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Celebrate the wins no matter how small they are. There is never going to be a point where you're done growing, so it's important to appreciate and enjoy the journey!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thecohenclinic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecohenclinic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecohenclinic/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-cohen-clinic/
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.