Selling the Couch

Melvin Varghese, PhD

With over 1.5 million downloads, Selling the Couch is a top podcast for mental health private practitioners who think differently. Psychologist Melvin Varghese interviews successful therapists, top entrepreneurs, business/marketing, productivity, and social media experts. You'll learn how therapists get referrals, make money, work through fears, and how they've stopped "trading time for income." Melvin also shares the lessons as he grows his impact + income beyond the therapy room (podcasting, video, online courses, masterminds, investing, etc) and the tips, tools, and tech he uses to grow STC from a single-person business to the CEO of a 5-person 100% remote team. You get bite-sized and highly actionable tips to guide your private practice and entrepreneurial journey. read less
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Episodes

ENCORE: Where Should I Focus My Online Course Marketing?
5d ago
ENCORE: Where Should I Focus My Online Course Marketing?
One of the new things for STC this year is the incorporation of coaching calls into the podcast from time to time. Join us for a glimpse into today’s coaching call about online courses.Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching callHeather McKenzie, LCMHCSHeather McKenzie came through Online Course School as a beta student back in the fall of 2021. Online Course School is a live, eight-week experience that takes your online course from a simple idea all the way through the development stages so that you are ready to record. Heather created a course specifically focused on anxiety that can be found at Dial Down Anxiety. Like most of us who create an online course, she faced a common struggle about how to handle marketing time and costs to promote her course. Join us to hear the coaching call!McKenzie Counseling You’ll Learn:How to handle logistical challenges in the online presentation of your courseWhy Heather’s course is an eight-week course to help people understand anxiety and DBT emotion regulation skillsHow marketing options for an online course can be overwhelming for most people How to pinpoint your own superpowers in teaching and the style that works best for youHow to structure the content levels for promoting your course in six-month blocks:Start with webinars, both free and paid.Offer a downloadable guide or cheat sheet.Use a core blog post as a stand-alone feature that blows people away.Tips from Melvin about content levels:Offering too many things can confuse people, so stick with one core webinar.Less is more!Be thoughtful about using the words “webinar” and “workshop” so as not to intimidate people.Link your blog post videos to YouTube to drive more traffic back to your webinar.Consider that high-quality offerings through webinars, guides, and blog posts help to establish your authority as an expert and give people value that keeps them returning.How podcasting can help with future promotion by giving a call-to-action to your webinarWhy you need to take notes during the first offering of your course with beta students to know what content resonates the most; that content can be used for future free webinarsIn summary, five tools to market an online course that have evergreen potential:Webinar (start with live ones and then transition to evergreen ones)Downloadable guides or cheat sheetsCore blog postSelect podcast episodesMini-podcast Resources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitMentioned in this episode:We'd LOVE To Partner With You!➡️ Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit  ➡️ Looking to launch a successful podcast? Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop
ENCORE: Avoid These 3 Mistakes The Average Investor Makes
Mar 7 2024
ENCORE: Avoid These 3 Mistakes The Average Investor Makes
Today’s show focuses on one of my favorite topics, which is personal finance. Investing can be overwhelming and very confusing. Join us to learn how anyone can approach investing with knowledge and confidence.Our Featured Guest:Andy GuptaAndy Gupta and I have become good friends over the past couple of months. He is a kind and genuine person who worked for 20 years on Wall Street. He is a graduate of Harvard Business School who understands the ins and outs of investing, and he wants to make investing more approachable for average people. Andy has a particular passion for helping women understand investing, and he looks to use his wealth in ways that help others.Andy’s 30-day investing course: Anyone Can Invest NowAndy's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/418356686326993Andy's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/andy-guptaYou’ll Learn:Andy’s background of growing up in a family without wealth in Mumbai, India, and then going to college in the US while holding multiple jobs to make ends meetWhy Andy feels that his mission is to help others with investing so they can achieve financial security and freedomWhy Andy’s definition of financial freedom revolves around increased time spent with his family, creating a financial safety net for them, and making a positive impact on othersThree mistakes that the average investor makes:Trying to “time” the market“This is a fool’s errand. The difference in trying to time the market vs. staying in for the long haul is astronomical.”Believing that cash in the bank is safeYou are guaranteed to lose money every year because of inflation.Taking on too much risk by overexposing themselves in one areaIt's best to mix asset classes to reduce your risk and potentially increase your return for the level of riskAndy’s tips for investing smartly:Have a cash reserve on hand.Diversity by investing in asset classes that don’t “move together.”Resources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit
359: What Therapists Should Know As Billions Are Invested In Mental Health Startups
Feb 29 2024
359: What Therapists Should Know As Billions Are Invested In Mental Health Startups
Today’s session covers a topic that many clinicians are pondering. Many, like me, are having conversations with themselves in their heads about the available opportunities and the most efficient and ethical ways not to be left behind as technology presents new options in our field. The issue is how we can navigate the world of mental health tech startups that are available to join us to support our good work. Examples of what these startups provide are electronic health records, website design, marketing, and more. The truth is that the pandemic changed everything and catapulted the tech startup world into the range of billions of dollars. Don’t miss my enlightening conversation with today’s guest!Our Featured GuestMichael FulwilerMichael Fulwiler is Head of Brand Marketing at Heard, a company that assists therapists with bookkeeping and financial needs. I’ve come to rely on Mike’s expertise as a good friend as I navigate the aspects of STC, trying to be a protector of our field while staying in alignment with my values. In this session, Mike and I discuss the mindblowing numbers around the multitude of mental health tech startups and how clinicians can be informed about which ones are most likely to succeed or fail. We also discuss the vitally important topic of client data privacy and the top three considerations we should have before signing up for a product or service. Heard WebsiteYou’ll Learn: How to view tech startups in the mental health industry in terms of “headwind” and “tailwind” tendencies since the COVID-19 pandemicWhat the data shows about tech startups: 90% will fail!Why the big risk also comes with big opportunities in the startup worldWhat happens when a clinician contracts with a mental health tech startupWhy client data privacy is a valid concern when working with a tech startup (Hear Mike’s advice about watching out for red flags!)Top three considerations for a therapist about a tech startup:How they handle the data Whether or not there is a mental health professional on their team who helps with decisions and developmentHow compensation for therapists is structuredMike’s advice about doing your due diligence when contacted by a tech startupAn overview of Mike’s work and mission at Heard and what they provide for therapistsResources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitMentioned in this episode:Need Community Support? Join the MastermindIf you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist. But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients. Simplified SEO Consulting is team of mental health professionals genuinely want to help you attract
358: Why I’m Going Back to Private Practice
Feb 22 2024
358: Why I’m Going Back to Private Practice
I have big news! I’m going back into private practice! Don’t worry, though, because STC remains, and I’ll be adding 1-2 days of clinical work each week. In today’s session, I’m pulling back the curtain on my thought process as I’ve pondered this decision for quite a while. Do I have all the bits and pieces organized and figured out? The answer is NO, and that’s okay. I want to give you a glimpse into the messy middle of this decision and the three main reasons I have made this choice. You’ll Learn:What my life was like when STC began in 2015 when I was working in a group practiceWhy I feel a responsibility to provide mental health support in today’s worldThree reasons I feel drawn to private practice:I genuinely miss clinical work.The mental health landscape is changing like no other due to COVID-19, AI tools, and heavily financed mental health startups.A “hub and spoke model” can keep things in perspective for me. How I’m structuring my “hub and spoke model” with a flagship offering as the “hub” and other offerings as “spokes”Questions that I’m thinking about and weighing in my mind about private practice:Is the insurance route or private pay route better?Do I have a niche for private practice work?How I’m confronting my fears about taking this new stepThe hopes and dreams I have about stepping into a new phaseResources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitMentioned in this episode:So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist. But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients. Simplified SEO Consulting is team of mental health professionals genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo *Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any of our online, DIY SEO courses and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off of your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!Need Community Support? Join the MastermindIf you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.
357: Using Brainspotting To Work With Athletes
Feb 15 2024
357: Using Brainspotting To Work With Athletes
Today’s session is all about brainspotting, a powerful and fascinating psychotherapy technique that I have personally found to be helpful. Specifically, we discuss the technique as it is used to help performance athletes. Join us to learn more!Our Featured GuestThad Frye, LCSWThad Frye is a licensed clinical social worker in Boulder, CO. As a certified brainspotting consultant, Thad has gone through multiple levels of training in this therapy technique. In our conversation, Thad explains why he was motivated to pursue training in brainspotting after previously focusing his work with families through hospice care and end-of-life journeys. He describes the technical aspects of brainspotting and how he uses it in his work with athletes, specifically in those with the “yips,” a puzzling phenomenon of the loss of an ability.Thad Frye Counseling and Brainspotting Coaching for AthletesYou’ll Learn:Why Thad pursued training in brainspotting in 2016 as a way to serve families betterHow Thad experienced the somatic connection with his personal grief in new and real ways during his brainspotting trainingHow brainspotting differs from EMDRTechnical aspects of “inside window” and “outside window” reflexes within brainspottingHow different clients might respond during a brainspotting sessionHow training phases are structured in the brainspotting certification processWhy Thad chose to use brainspotting with performance athletesHow Thad uses brainspotting with athletes who experience muscle-guarding and the “yips”Resources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitMentioned in this episode:So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist. But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients. Simplified SEO Consulting is team of mental health professionals genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo *Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any of our online, DIY SEO courses and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off of your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!You're Invited to Join the Mastermind!Looking for a group of likeminded clinicians to help you grow your practice? You're in the right place. Check it out at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.
356: 7 Lessons I Learned From Two 7-Figure Entrepreneurs
Feb 8 2024
356: 7 Lessons I Learned From Two 7-Figure Entrepreneurs
As I’ve learned and grown as an entrepreneur, I have tried to study and learn from those who are further along on the journey. I’ve come to understand that I can learn as much from their hard lessons and challenges as I can from their successes. Today’s session is based on a podcast interview I listened to a couple of months ago. It featured Ali Abdaal and Sahil Bloom, two online creators who have built 7-figure businesses and audiences of over 6 million followers. In their insightful interview done in two parts, they talked a lot about life and business; I’m sharing seven lessons I picked up from them that I’m implementing in my business and personal life.  You’ll Learn: 7 Lessons I Learned from Ali and Sahil:Change the wealth scoreboard.Don’t define self-worth based on net worth. A new definition of success bases “wealth” on health, relationships, and the time I have for the things I enjoy.Set daily non-negotiables.Live with intention by identifying 3-5 things that must happen each day for me to be at my best.Friends over followersThe quality of my relationships greatly impacts my health. Schedule time to connect with genuine friends.More growth equals more haters.Sharing my message attracts people with a lot of pain, so I should default to empathy.Don’t be a slave to social media. Be careful about posting pictures of kids and sharing revenue numbers. This is difficult to navigate while still establishing credibility and the human connection that people crave. Build micro-businesses.These can generate cash flow with minimal involvement.An example: having an in-house agency along with doing a podcast.Connection over mass contentWith AI, content is easier than ever to create, but connection and authenticity help others know, like, and trust me. Resources:Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitMentioned in this episode:Need Community Support? Join the MastermindIf you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist. But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients. Simplified SEO Consulting is team of mental health professionals genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo *Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any of our online, DIY SEO courses and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off of your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!
355: Strategies for Securing Contracts (with schools and the government)
Feb 1 2024
355: Strategies for Securing Contracts (with schools and the government)
Today’s session covers the unusual topic of securing contracts from different agencies for mental health services. This aspect of therapy work is not what we normally think about as clinicians, but the connection between private practice and federal funding for programs that can be a wonderful niche. Whether you’ve ever thought about this topic or this is brand new to you, today’s conversation will be food for thought about opening new doors and opportunities in the therapy world. Join us to learn more!Our Featured GuestDr. Ajita RobinsonDr. Ajita Robinson is a dear friend, a highly respected colleague, and a sister in the faith. She has secured many millions in government contracts both for her private practice and in coaching other clinicians to do the same. In sharing her wealth of knowledge today, Ajita explains how to build relationships with government agencies and the top three things she looks for in available contracts. She shares the biggest mistakes our colleagues make in securing contracts and her unusual perspective on contracts that appear to already be given out. We wrap up our discussion with a transparent look at how Ajita’s strong faith influences her work and impacts the contracts she pursues. Website You’ll Learn:How working in marginalized communities led Ajita to pursue contracts with local and federal governments–and solved a problem she was passionate aboutHow Ajita leveraged what she knew firsthand about social programs, combined with her research skills, to access available systemsWhere a clinician should begin in forming connections and relationships that lead to government funding opportunitiesHow state-level certifications position a clinician for government contracts and can assist in the corporate contracting marketWhy the biggest barrier to securing government contracts is mismanaging money and not having your books in orderWhat business insurance is required to become a government subcontractorThe top three things Ajita considers with any contract opportunity: the scope of work, payable terms, and whether the contract is renewable or notHow Ajita has been able to strategically position herself to recover contracts when they have fallen through for othersThe biggest mistakes our colleagues make around securing government contracts: they think they aren’t qualified to pursue them, they aren’t open to partnering with others, and they get stuck in DIY-modeHow Ajita’s Christian faith aligns with the contracts she pursues, how she operates as a therapist, and how she functions as a Black, female business ownerAn overview of The Purposeful and Profitable Therapist Summit, an annual conference focused on diversifying income scheduled for July (2024) in Washington, DC Resources:Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitMentioned in this episode:You're Invited to Join the Mastermind!Looking...
354: Why Every Course Creator Should Start A Podcast
Jan 25 2024
354: Why Every Course Creator Should Start A Podcast
If you have ever considered creating an online course, or if you are already a course creator, you have probably thought a lot about marketing that course. The challenge is how to be thoughtful and creative in marketing your course, which becomes a separate income stream for your business. Starting a podcast is one of the best ways to market your course while creating a solid, compound income stream, and we are talking strategy today as I share what I’ve learned through my experience. Join us!You’ll Learn:Why starting a podcast has been one of the most rewarding personal and professional endeavors of my lifeWhy podcasts are the perfect way to produce authentic, evergreen content and establish trustHow a podcast becomes a way to avoid burnout and take self-care breaks while staying consistent with releasing and re-releasing contentHow podcasts allow dynamic ads, which are pure magic (Captivate makes it easy!) and help build your email listHow the podcasting format allows pre-roll, mid-roll, and end-roll ads to market your courses/resources consistentlyHow the “flywheel effect” serves to compound your efforts over time if you leverage your existing course students on your podcastResources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshopMentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.Need Community Support? Join the MastermindIf you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.
353: Setting Up An Email Series To Market Your Practice
Jan 18 2024
353: Setting Up An Email Series To Market Your Practice
Are you using an email sequence in your practice? In today’s session, we are exploring the question of why more clinicians don’t create email sequences, which I believe is a smart and logical move. I have found that most of our STC sales come via our email list, and not through social media platforms. I’ve learned the hard lessons about this topic, so I hope this conversation will help you avoid some of my mistakes in this area. Join us to learn more!Our Featured GuestAvivit FisherAvivit Fisher is the founder and owner of REdD Strategy and a marketing and business coach for therapists in private practice. Her work with therapists helps them attract their ideal clients through branding, digital marketing, and advertising. We will discuss what an email sequence is, why many clinicians aren’t creating it, and how you can repurpose existing content in your email sequence. We will cover why this tool makes sense in many ways and can be helpful to get more clients in the door. WebsiteYou’ll Learn:What an email sequence isHow an email sequence welcomes someone to your email list and draws them into your circleWhy more clinicians aren’t taking advantage of an email sequenceWhy your email list is a better way to build your audience–as opposed to social media platformsHow to pick a topic for an email sequence and strategically offer a lead magnetWhy an email sequence should be useful to your subscribers and keep their interests in mindAvivit’s example of her email welcome sequenceDetails about ideal email sequences for solo and group practitionersHow to handle the fear of unsubscribersThe top mistake therapists make in using an email sequenceResources:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Well, meet Upheal, a new AI-powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitMentioned in this episode:Need Community Support? Join the MastermindIf you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights...
352: When An Idea For An Online Course Comes From Therapy Sessions
Jan 11 2024
352: When An Idea For An Online Course Comes From Therapy Sessions
Many therapists have created online courses or have thought about creating an online course. It’s one of the best ways to increase your visibility, establish your expertise, and expand your audience and impact in the world. The course creation journey is not an easy one, and it’s full of challenges and ups and downs. Join us for a transparent look at the process from today’s guest!Our Featured GuestLinda Murphy, MEd, MA, LMHCLinda Murphy is a group practice owner in Florida, and she’s a member of the STC Online Course Mastermind group for therapists. Linda is the founder of the Banana Man Society and the Relationship and Divorce Counseling Center. She developed her idea to create a course for dealing with a difficult person because she saw that topic come up often for her clients, and she realized over time that there had to be a better way to distill and share information beyond 1:1 therapy. She created “Banana Man” as a metaphor for dealing with a difficult person–and the Banana Man Society was born. In this session, Linda gives an open, honest look at her course creation journey, along with insights into how she refined her idea. She shares tips and strategies she has learned that might be helpful to others in the course creation process. WebsiteYou’ll Learn:How to embrace the mindset of connection, support, and collaborationHow Linda realized in her first career, as a teacher, that connection is more important than contentHow Linda developed the idea for her online courseThe origins of Banana Man as a metaphor for options in dealing with difficult peopleWhy Linda created an animated video of the Banana Man story (through the STC Mastermind group)Linda’s best tips for others about creating a successful online course:Lean into who you are and be authentic.Market yourself and be creative with social media.Where Linda sees her course going in the future with a specifically targeted nicheLinda’s thoughts about the impact and benefits of the STC Online Course Mastermind group Resources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more athttps://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters  Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekitMentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.Need Community Support? Join the MastermindIf you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.
351: How to (Correctly) Pitch Podcasts with Dustin Riechmann
Jan 4 2024
351: How to (Correctly) Pitch Podcasts with Dustin Riechmann
Today’s session is a conversation about how to navigate guest appearances on podcasts. Whether you have future aspirations to launch a podcast or desire to grow your visibility by appearing on podcasts, this will be a helpful session for you! Podcasting offers possibilities for interesting connections and unimaginable opportunities. Join us to learn more!Our Featured GuestDustin RiechmannDustin Riechmann is a new friend with whom I connected on LinkedIn. From an engineering background, Dustin has become an internet marketing and copywriting whiz. His entire niche is focused on helping entrepreneurs pitch themselves to bigger and bigger podcasts, which is a huge accelerant to business growth. Podcasting appearances help you establish social proof and open the doors to partnerships you could never imagine. Dustin shares his background story of coming to this niche and what he has learned along the way. He gives practical insights into crafting pitches to podcasters and much more valuable information on this topic.You’ll Learn: The steps Dustin took as an engineer, consultant, entrepreneur, and digital marketer before his COVID-forced entrance into the podcasting worldWhy Dustin began guesting on established podcasts instead of starting his ownHow Dustin has used his three elements of a podcast pitch (relational anchors, clear service to the audience, and a clear and friendly call to action) to an 80% success rateWhy Dustin sees podcast guesting as a specific part of the umbrella of partnership marketingDustin’s mindset shift: “No one else has to lose for me to win. We can all win together!”How Dustin approaches his podcast pitch with his three elements, customizing the relational anchors to connect with the host on an authentic and personal levelAn overview of Dustin’s work and the Podcast Pitch PlaybookResources:Connect with Melvin On LinkedInWant to launch your podcast soon?Please check out our free podcasting workshop for therapistsWant to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: Connect with Dustin Riechmann: Website: Simple Success CoachingLinkedInGet Dustin’s FREE Podcast Pitch Playbook!Mentioned in this episode:Need Community Support? Join the MastermindIf you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI-...
ENCORE: How To Increase Fees With Existing Clients
Dec 28 2023
ENCORE: How To Increase Fees With Existing Clients
Today’s topic is one that many clinicians have navigated, are navigating, or will navigate in the future. It’s the idea of increasing fees with existing clients. I’ve seen this topic come up repeatedly in online groups for therapists, and I know it brings anxiety and confusion. Let’s dig into it together!Our Featured GuestsKelly Higdon and Miranda PalmerKelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer are therapists, private practice owners, and the founders of ZynnyMe, where they teach and train therapists to build valuable and gratifying businesses. Their year-long training program, Business School Bootcamp, is a super-powerful system that teaches therapists everything they wish they had learned in grad school about running a successful private practice. In this episode, Kelly and Miranda will discuss the idea that we are betraying our client if we increase fees, along with ways to work through that mindset. We will cover the nitty-gritty of how to communicate fee increases to clients with all the logistical nuances. Our conversation wraps up with simple scripts you can use during sessions to stay on track, be clear, and affirm your clients without causing feelings of abandonment.www.zynnyme.com Starting a Counseling Practice PodcastYou’ll Learn:Why the idea of increasing fees is intimidating even though many therapists are leaving a lot of money on the tableWhy increasing fees ties into mixed messages in our minds about our self-worth and valueHow the cumulative effect of a sliding scale adds up to significant amounts over time and reflects bias that we usually guard againstHow automation in today’s world allows us to avoid those difficult conversationsWhy the recommendation is to create a letter but have the conversation with the client in session; give them the letter after the conversation (or email virtual clients)Why the letter is a transitional object and shouldn’t make excuses for the fee increaseIdeas for scripting the notification letter and stating the fee increaseThe need for us to be honest with our clients to be able to continue providing great careThe misconception that schedules and fees should always stay the same; these are unrealistic expectations!How to present workable options to clients without feeling like you’re abandoning themWhy clinicians have to do what it takes to care for themselves before they can care for their clientsHighlights in the conversation with clients about increasing fees:Own your emotions about it.Let the client know the relationship with them is valuable to you.Check in with the client’s feelings and options moving forward.Why the window of notice should be long enough to prepare for termination or referralResources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.Mentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates...
ENCORE: Writing A Children's Book
Dec 21 2023
ENCORE: Writing A Children's Book
Have you ever considered writing a children’s book? I’ll admit that I’ve thought about it, and it might be a new endeavor in my future. Writing a children’s book takes creativity and planning, and much perseverance is required to navigate the publishing process. Join me as I talk to a longtime friend who has been through the process and published two children’s books.Our Featured GuestAmy JivaniAmy is a childhood friend of mine who has become a children’s book author. Her latest book, Meera’s Flowers, tells the story of a young girl celebrating an Indian holiday while living in America. She also wrote More Than Words: A Book About Body Language, a story about body language and feelings. Amy is a former first-grade teacher who is inspired by her students and her cultural background to write children’s books with ethnically diverse characters. Amy shares with us where she gets ideas for books and how the creative process works. We also discuss the concept of self-publishing compared to the traditional publishing route. We wrap up with Amy’s insights into the hardest part about writing and releasing a book during a pandemic.www.amyjivani.com You’ll Learn:Where Amy’s inspiration came from for Meera’s FlowersAmy’s advice for other aspiring writers:Write something you can champion.Storyboard your ideas as you begin.How the traditional publishing route requires resilience and seems like a “closed club”Why Amy decided not to self-publish her first bookHow Amy realized that creative stories could teach and reinforce important concepts to children in more memorable waysHow Amy gives herself creative space to think and produce rather than setting aside a disciplined time slotThe hardest part of what Amy has accomplished: getting publishers to see the quality of what she wrote and releasing a book during a pandemic when typical book promotion is a no-goHow Amy handles the newfound attention of being a published author with humilityResources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.Mentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.
ENCORE: Owning A Therapy Building During The Pandemic
Dec 14 2023
ENCORE: Owning A Therapy Building During The Pandemic
What would it be like to own and run your own group therapy practice--including the building? And to complicate matters, what if the whole endeavor is getting off the ground during a global pandemic? It might sound crazy, but you’ll hear the details from today’s guest who is making it all happen after facing down all the obstacles. Join us!Our Featured GuestKaren Grayson, PhD, LPCDr. Karen Grayson had a vision a few years ago of owning a therapy practice building, so she followed through with the big purchase in 2018. She’s here to help us navigate through the challenges of owning a therapy practice building during a pandemic. The Center for Inner Transformation, in St. Louis, is a place where Karen combines philosophy, therapy, and spirituality on an integrated pathway to her clients’ personal and collective development, and it’s also home for the practices of three other clinicians. She shares where the idea of buying a building came from, how she went into the process, along with practical steps that she took during the pandemic. We wrap up today’s conversation with four pieces of advice that Karen would give to her younger self about this undertaking.www.thecenterstl.comYou’ll Learn:How Karen began with the dream to purchase a therapy buildingHow she moved from vision to implementation through finding comfort in the unknownHow Karen’s journey unfolded from her teaching role to group therapyHow Karen purchased her office building in 2018, dealt with two colleagues who backed out after the purchase and endured a difficult neighbor in the office parkWhy Karen learned to be gentle with herself and fierce in her purpose, staying grounded in the uncertaintyHow the drawbacks in the process led to feelings of failure and depression for KarenHow she persevered with a deep commitment to her purpose and a willingness to failHow Karen learned the value in having support people in place from STCHow the pandemic has affected Karen and her endeavorsHow word-of-mouth referrals have benefitted Karen’s businessWhy we need to know what our strengths areHow Karen deals with her core wound of not being good enoughHow things worked out for Karen when she “let go and listened”Karen’s pieces of advice to her younger self about purchasing the building during a pandemic:Everything is an invitation for growth.The birthing process is always a hard thing.I’m not in charge of time.Be open to a larger container.Resources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.Mentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.
ENCORE: Long-Haul COVID-19 and Private Practice
Dec 7 2023
ENCORE: Long-Haul COVID-19 and Private Practice
Today’s show is about navigating long-haul COVID symptoms and life as a private practitioner. I wanted to have a non-academic conversation about this intriguing topic from a real-life perspective. Join us to learn more!Our Featured GuestRobert Cox, MA, LPC, NCCRobert Cox is a private practitioner in Kentucky. He contracted COVID back in December. After a few weeks, he noticed that his symptoms improved a little but then continued. You’ll hear Robert’s story of his long-haul COVID symptoms and navigating through it as a private practitioner, especially regarding what to disclose to clients.Tristn Jevon Center for RecoveryYou’ll learn:What it means to have “long-haul COVID”How long-haul COVID symptoms can vary with dementia-like brain fog, heart problems, physical exhaustion, night sweats, etc.Robert’s story of contracting COVID last December from his daughter and facing moments of panic because of his asthmaHow Robert’s symptoms were complicated by the death of his son in February 2021How Robert learned to deal with long-haul COVID by taking more time off and learning to be more efficient, organized, and focusedHow Robert’s exhaustion and fatigue are impacting his daily life and activity levelWhy there is no standard treatment protocol for long-haul COVIDHow Robert is using meditation to cope with the daily challenges of life and workWhat Robert has learned about having limits and setting boundariesHow Robert decided to share openly with his clients about his experienceWhat Robert has learned about his resilience because of the support from his wifeHow Robert is functioning better because of the system changes he has put in placeWhy Robert’s #1 message to everyone is to get the COVID vaccineResources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.Mentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.
ENCORE: Improving Your Sleep As A Therapist: Tips From A Sleep Psychologist
Nov 30 2023
ENCORE: Improving Your Sleep As A Therapist: Tips From A Sleep Psychologist
Today’s show is about one of my most favorite topics in the world: sleep. I’ll admit that my thinking about sleep has changed a lot over the years as I’ve learned more. Whether you’re a champion sleeper or someone who needs to pay more attention to rest, today’s show has helpful information and expert tips for you. Join us!Our Featured GuestLiz SlonenaLiz Slonena is a psychologist in Asheville, NC. She has expertise in sleep and insomnia, and I wanted to have her share her insights with us. Pandemic stressors and the blurred lines between work life and home life have been contributing factors to sleep problems for many therapists. We will discuss why quality sleep matters, the basics of sleep cycles, and how our hustle culture has impacted our sleep. We’ll finish up with practical tips about improving sleep.www.drlizlistens.com Use code #STC for premium access to Aura, an all-in-one wellness appFind Dr. Liz’s free mindful hypnosis videos on YouTubeYou’ll Learn:What happens during the normal sleep cycles:  light, restful, deep, and REMHow disruptions can affect sleep cyclesThe connection between quality sleep and moodHow sleep helps your immune system, neurogenesis, and muscle growth and repairHow deep sleep is the “washing cycle” for brain and body, flushing out negative thoughts and toxinsHow hustle culture and internalized capitalism (the belief that our worth is tied to our productivity and what we DO) can compound our sleep difficultiesWhy sleep is the first thing we cut away when cramped for time, even though it’s really our most effective superpowerThe specific challenges of entrepreneurship in getting enough sleepThe intricacies of racism and stereotypes related to internalized capitalismWhy rest is rebellious and radical empowermentThe importance of finding peace and balance in life through prioritizing restLiz’s tips for improved sleep:Clearly communicate boundaries to clients and colleagues about your hours and availability.Have a physical wind-down ritual for your body and mind to signal the transition from work.Write a gratitude or “win” list each night before bed.What’s up next for Dr. Liz? Become a Better Sleeper course and the podcast are coming soon!Resources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.Mentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.Need Community Support? Join the MastermindIf you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind...
ENCORE: 3 Ways To Become A Better Leader In A Post-Pandemic World
Nov 23 2023
ENCORE: 3 Ways To Become A Better Leader In A Post-Pandemic World
So much of what we do as clinicians revolves around leadership, even though we may not be comfortable thinking of ourselves that way. If we are truly leaders in what we do, it makes sense to learn all we can about making ourselves the best leaders possible. The world needs good leaders! Join us as we discuss all things leadership development in today’s showOur Featured GuestJevin KolethJevin Koleth is a leadership coach who happens to be a childhood friend of mine. He has vast experience in what it means to be a leader through his time as a regional manager for a major healthcare system in Texas. I want you to hear Jevin’s insights about why leadership needs to be developed first at the individual level before implementing the more popular team approach. We also dive into how leadership has changed as a result of the pandemic, and we wrap up with personal and real-life experiences from Jevin that can help you in your growth as a leader.Jevin KolethYou’ll Learn:Why effective leadership development has to begin at the individual level with a solid foundationThe first steps in an individualized approach to leadership training:Identify the person’s personal purpose and missionIdentify the person’s barriers to being their best selfHow Jevin becomes an accountability coach in helping people develop long-term habitsWhy the mass team approach to leadership training needs to FOLLOW after the foundational individual approachWhy it’s good to develop one’s self as a leader to be the best version of yourselfHow an impactful leader will come across with consistencyHow leadership has changed during the pandemic in the three areas of remote leadership, interpersonal skills, and team cultureJevin’s pearls of wisdom about going back to work in the officeWhy a leader’s goal should be positive outcomes from difficult conversationsHighlights of Jevin’s current work as a leadership coachResources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.Mentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.
ENCORE: Building A Directory For Trauma Therapists
Nov 16 2023
ENCORE: Building A Directory For Trauma Therapists
Today’s show is about building an online directory, which is hugely relevant to every clinician. Whether you’ve used an online directory to refer clients or thought about creating a directory to help other clinicians and clients, you know that it is a valuable resource that makes it easier to find a therapist who can help with very specific needs. Join us to learn more!Our Featured GuestLaura Reagan, LCSW-CLaura Reagan is a clinical social worker and integrative trauma specialist in Maryland who had the idea to create a directory for trauma therapists, Trauma Therapist Network. She’s a trauma survivor who has specifically worked around trauma for the past 19 years. Through her years of experience, she has learned a lot about the nuances of trauma therapy, the services available, and what services are lacking. Laura gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how her idea for the directory evolved, the logical steps in the creation process, and the helpful resources that are available in creating an online directory. We wrap up today’s conversation with a look at what has gone well in Laura’s process and the things that are being constantly tweaked along the way.Trauma Therapist NetworkYou’ll Learn:How Laura got the idea to create an online directory of trauma therapistsHow Laura saw the need and made the leap to create the online directoryHow the directory helps people find the specific therapy focus that aligns with their traumaHow the directory goes beyond finding a therapist but also helps inform and educate people about trauma and its effectsThe first steps Laura took to take the online directory from an idea to realityWhy Laura was willing to make the intentional commitment of time, effort, and money (lots of money!) to make the directory a thoroughly usable resource that helps people feel safe, hopeful, and reassuredHow Laura conveys the important message through the directory that trauma doesn’t define a person and that there is hope to improve and make a better lifeWhy Laura had to allow herself to receive help and support in the development processHow creating the directory has been similar to giving birth to a child and watching it grow and develop into what it was meant to beResources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapistsMentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.
ENCORE: When Chronic Health Concerns are Dismissed
Nov 9 2023
ENCORE: When Chronic Health Concerns are Dismissed
Welcome to a new season of STC! Today’s conversation is different from the typical STC session, as it was inspired by a thread created in the STC community about healthcare providers dismissing legitimate medical concerns. This situation is one that you might encounter personally or with your clients, so I hope you’ll find our conversation helpful and informative. Join us!Our Featured GuestDanielle Hughes, MA, LPCDanielle Hughes is in private practice in Loveland, CO. Danielle shared her perspective in the STC community as someone with a chronic illness who struggled for 12 years to get a proper diagnosis. She interacted with several healthcare providers who didn’t believe that her physical issues could be attributed to anything other than stress and trauma.It’s been quite a journey for Danielle, who was just recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that truly affects her energy levels on a daily basis. In today’s session, Danielle shares her story and the challenges she has overcomewith the fortitude to keep going when doctors attributed her problems to psychological issues. We also dive deep into practical questions you can ask insessions with clients who have chronic illnesses and related psychological concerns.Find Danielle Hughes on Facebook and Instagram, @daniellehughesLPCYou’ll Learn:About Danielle’s health journey that began with joint pain and fatigue in collegeHow she was dismissed by the medical community as her physical concerns were attributed to stress for 12 yearsHow Danielle found the fortitude to keep pushing forward with multiple doctors and specialists to get a diagnosis of an autoimmune diseaseAbout the route Danielle took with her PCP, the VA system, and multiple specialistsDanielle’s advice for clinicians dealing with clients with physical issues in addition to psychological concernsWhy it’s important to believe the client and not relate everything to trauma or anxietyHow clinicians can be most helpful by asking questions and being supportive to understand the whole of the client’s lifeWhy we should respond with compassion and curiosity when we are tempted to assume there’s nothing wrong with someone who appears “fine”About a typical day/week for Danielle, a clinician in private practice with a chronic autoimmune diseaseHow Danielle deals with days when she struggles to function as a clinicianResources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapistsMentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.
ENCORE: Real Advice To Therapists Launching An Online Course
Nov 2 2023
ENCORE: Real Advice To Therapists Launching An Online Course
Today’s episode is a valuable one if you are thinking about launching an online course sometime soon or in the future. My encouragement to you is to do it! Get started! Join me for this solo episode in which we discuss the basics.You’ll LearnThe most common reasons to launch an online course: to put your message out there to impact more people in different locations, to feel more fulfilled in your purpose, to diversify income streams, and to spark more creativityThe highlights of my online course creation story that began in 2015---complete with all the doubts and fearsHow my first online course has surpassed my wildest dreams in passing the $200K mark in revenueWhat it means to me to build a successful online course:I can build a life around my loved ones and self-care instead of fitting my loved ones and self-care around my career.We as a family can contribute time and resources to organizations that make the world a better place.I can create my ideal retirement schedule years before I actually retire.Why I want you to write down the completion to this statement: “A successful online course for me would mean . . .”Five pieces of advice to help you avoid the mistakes I made:Online course creation is a long road---don’t rush it!Don’t pick an online course platform because it’s cheap or free.The first version of your online course will not be the final version.See your online course as part of a larger value ladder rather than a one-off offering.Build your course in community with others.Resources:Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For TherapistsLooking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapistsMentioned in this episode:Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal. A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.