Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tonya Ratliff, Owner of Trinity Family Counseling Center, located in Davison, MI, USA.

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

We are a Private Christian counseling practice offering individual, couple, family, and group counseling services to adults, adolescents, and children.

Tell us about yourself

I acquired a Bachelor's degree in Psychology in 1981 and then was a stay-at-home mother to five children for 22 years before returning to school to obtain a Master's degree in Counseling. I have always had a heart for listening and caring about others and their challenges in life. Once my kids were all well on their way, I thought about what to do with the second half of my life. Becoming a counselor seemed like a natural, logical fit.

I was fortunate to be in the right place--at the right time--and took over my current practice from the former owner in 2012. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for 15 years and the owner and Director of counseling services at my practice for 10 years. I currently have six independent contractors and a graduate counseling intern working with me across a wide range of issues that bring clients into our practice. My motivation comes from the intrinsic reward of seeing others heal and take ownership of making changes in their lives for the better.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been establishing a brand and growing a reputation in the community for our professionalism and the quality care we provide for our clients.

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

Plain and simple--balance.

  • Balance between my counseling role and my owner role.
  • Balance between my working hours and my personal life.
  • Balance with my staff between being professional colleagues as well as their employer.

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

  1. Know and clearly define what you want to accomplish.
  2. Expect to feel discouraged and overwhelmed at times.
  3. Stay focused on the 'big picture' while also attending to millions of details!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I never dreamed when I graduated with my Master's degree that I would own my own practice within 5 years of beginning my career! It was a combination of discovering a deep sense of commitment to my skills and a never before recognized desire to be a leader, coupled with the remarkable timing of being in the right place at the right time and a willingness to 'listen' to God's plan for my life.

I've never had a single regret or wish that I'd done anything differently. I love my work, my staff, and our clients. I've also had a tremendous husband and silent partner who has supported every step--and misstep--along the way!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.trinityfamilycounseling.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrinityFamilyCounseling
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyaratliff/

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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