Episodes
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Search engine optimization (SEO) is an essential aspect of marketing your private practice, as it helps potential clients find you online. In this episode, Josephine Hughes demystifies SEO, breaking it down into practical tips that even those intimidated by technology can easily understand. She emphasises the importance of having a clear and relevant URL, effective keywords, and engaging content like blogs to boost your website's visibility. Additionally, she highlights that while SEO is valuable, building trust through personal connections and networking within your community is equally crucial for gaining referrals. This episode offers a comprehensive overview of how to optimize your online presence while reminding listeners that authentic relationships are key to a successful practice.
Takeaways
SEO can be intimidating, but it's manageable.Understanding how search engines work is key to SEO.Your website's URL should reflect your services clearly.Using keywords effectively can improve your website ranking.Blogs help keep your website active and relevant.Alt text for images can enhance SEO.Internal and external links are important for SEO.Networking in your community builds trust and referrals.Personal connections are vital for gaining client trust.SEO is just one aspect of a comprehensive marketing strategy.Keywords
SEO, search engine optimization, counselling, marketing, private practice, online visibility, networking, trust, keywords, website optimization
Chapters:
00:14 - Understanding Online Counselling and SEO02:37 - Understanding Search Engine Optimization14:50 - Advanced SEO Strategies and Resources21:38 - Building Trust Through Community Engagement24:53 - Building Connections and Community
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In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, Josephine Hughes talks about quick and practical marketing tweaks you can make to your directory profile, website, and social media presence to attract more clients during the busy pre-Christmas period. If you've got a gap in your calendar, why not use it to audit your marketing materials? Josephine walks you through three key areas to focus on:
Your Directory Profile – Learn how to make your profile stand out with a compelling headline, clear and impactful sentences, and relevant keywords to catch the eye of potential clients, especially those facing seasonal struggles.Your Website – Josephine shares tips for enhancing your 'About Me' section to connect with clients on a personal level and ensuring your services page clearly communicates what clients can expect from therapy.Your Social Media – From ensuring your bio speaks to your ideal clients, to publishing posts about seasonal struggles (hello, Christmas stress!), this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you reach more clients on your social platforms.By the end of the episode, you'll be ready to implement small but effective changes that could bring a big impact, just like they did for Sara, who landed eight new clients in a fortnight. Tune in to get your marketing ready for the festive season and beyond!
Key Takeaways:Audit Your Directory Profile: Your headline is crucial! Be specific about the clients you help and use keywords that resonate with people’s current struggles, like "difficult family relationships" during the festive season. Also, ask someone else to check if your profile makes sense to non-counsellorsRevamp Your 'About Me' Page: Your bio should highlight your personality and experience in a way that speaks directly to potential clients’ concerns. Remember, it’s not about you—it's about how you can help them.Make Your Website Clear and User-Friendly: Is it obvious what you do and how clients can benefit from working with you? And don't forget that all-important call to action—make it easy for people to reach out!Social Media Bio Optimisation: Make sure your social media bio includes key details like your location, the issues you work with, and a link to your website. It's all about getting found by the right people.Don't Forget to Post About Your Availability: It’s easy to forget to let people know you're taking clients, but a simple post about available spots can create a sense of urgency and get those enquiries rolling in!Keywords
counselling marketing, attract clients, directory profile tips, private practice growth, therapy website optimization, client inquiries, festive period counselling, social media for therapists, therapy growth group, mental health marketing strategies, counselling niche identification, effective therapy bios, client connection strategies, keywords for therapists, therapy marketing audit, increase client bookings, counselling services promotion, therapist visibility online, engaging therapy content, holiday season mental health support
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on
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Missing episodes?
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Does the thought of social media fill you with dread? Navigating social media can be particularly daunting for introverts, but in this episode, Josephine Hughes offers practical strategies for using social media platforms effectively while remaining true to oneself. The episode also contains creative ideas for December social media posts, highlighting ways to engage with followers during the holiday season while addressing the challenges many face during this time. Therapists are offered advice on how to maintain consistent posting over busy periods.
Takeaways:
Introverts can find social media overwhelming, but it can be a valuable tool for sharing thoughtful ideas. Social media allows introverts to connect meaningfully with their audience without compromising their privacy. Creating a professional social media presence can help attract clients who resonate with your reflective nature. Quality over quantity is crucial for introverts; thoughtful posts can engage and connect deeply with others. Introverts can use social media to build a supportive community around shared values and interests. December offers unique opportunities for introverts to create engaging content while remaining true to themselves.Keywords
introverts, social media, client attraction, authenticity, self-expression, mental health, December engagement, thoughtful posts, community building, privacy
Chapters:
02:30 - Intro to Social Media for Introverts02:00 - The Dilemma of Sharing on Social Media04:21 - The Power of Thoughtful Reflection13:39 - Creating Community, Not Performance18:44 - Using Social Media for December Engagement21:04 - Navigating Holiday Challenges for Clients27:42 - Final Thoughts and EncouragementSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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In this episode, Josephine Hughes reflects on her experience at the Independent Podcast Awards, sharing insights on achieving dreams, the importance of community, and the unique role of counsellors. She emphasizes that success is attainable by being true to oneself, taking small steps, and seeking support from others. The conversation highlights the need for therapists to promote their services and the impact they can have on clients' lives.
Takeaways
The warmth of connection can profoundly impact individuals.Achieving dreams is possible through determination and authenticity.Organisational skills are not a prerequisite for success.Mindset plays a crucial role in finding opportunities in therapy.Taking small, manageable steps can lead to significant progress.Community support is vital for personal and professional growth.Counsellors hold a special place in their clients' hearts.Networking can open doors to new opportunities.It's important to communicate the value of private practice therapy.Every step taken brings you closer to your goals.Keywords
Independent Podcast Awards, counselling, private practice, achieving goals, community support, mindset, therapy, personal growth, networking, podcasting
Chapters:
00:01 - Introduction to the Awards Night00:40 - The Impact of Connection00:51 - Dreams and Goals: A Personal Journey01:12 - Networking and New Opportunities03:09 - The Importance of Small Steps03:54 - Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear08:53 - Learning from Others: Jo's Story10:00 - Reframing Mindsets: The Power of Belief11:49 - The Need for Awareness in Therapy23:20 - Finding Support and Community25:36 - Closing Thoughts and Encouragement25:59 - Outro and Further ResourcesThe podcasts mentioned in the episode are Gloriously Unready, Jo's Art History Podcast, and It's a Continent
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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Have you ever recommended breathing techniques to clients to help them manage panic attacks, trauma or anxiety? Have you considered how breathing may be able to help clients who feel angry? And if so, are you aware that some breathing techniques may be unsuitable depending on the client's existing breathing patterns?
In this podcast episode, Josephine Hughes interviews Nicola Pott, a trained counsellor and EFT practitioner with a background in physiotherapy. Nicola emphasises the importance of understanding individual breathing patterns to effectively manage anxiety, panic attacks, and anger. She shares her experiences with clients, illustrating how breath work can empower individuals to regain control over their symptoms and foster emotional healing. The conversation also highlights the significance of integrating somatic approaches into therapy, as Nicola explains how she tailors her techniques based on the physiological needs of her clients. Additionally, she introduces her training program, "Breathing for Calm," aimed at equipping other therapists with the knowledge and skills to safely implement breath work in their practices.
Takeaways:
Breath work can help reduce anxiety and panic attacks by correcting over breathing patterns. Counsellors benefit from understanding physiological aspects of breathing to assist clients better. Different breath work techniques should be tailored to individual client needs for maximum effectiveness. Medical precautions are essential when using breath work, especially for pregnancy and stroke survivors. Nicola integrates her physiotherapy knowledge with counselling to adopt a somatic approach. Teaching clients about their breathing patterns empowers them to manage panic symptoms effectively.Keywords
breathwork, counselling, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, emotional freedom technique, somatic approach, physiotherapy, mental health, trauma, breathwork, therapy, training, counseling, EFT, trauma, anxiety, private practice, insurance, client care
Chapters:
00:40 - Introduction to Breath Work and Its Benefits01:29 - Nicola's Journey into Counselling05:20 - Understanding Breathing Patterns and Panic Attacks08:08 - Empowering Clients Through Breath Work18:43 - Integrating Breath Work for Trauma and Anger Management12:57 - Case Study: Amy's Transformation Through Breath Work27:20 - Developing Effective Breath Work Techniques27:38 - Training Others in Breath Work49:42 - Conclusion: The Future of Breath Work in TherapyYou can find details of Nicola's Breathing for Calm course HERE and if you'd like to read more about Nicola's therapy practice, click HERE
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website:
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Embracing a growth mindset is crucial for overcoming self-doubt and navigating challenges, as highlighted by Josephine Hughes in this episode of the Good Enough Counsellors podcast.
She emphasises the importance of viewing experiences as opportunities for learning rather than assessments of personal worth. Josephine shares her recent journey of stepping out of her comfort zone by hiring a business coach, which initially sparked doubts but ultimately reinforced her decision. Throughout the podcast, she encourages therapists to approach new endeavours with a playful attitude, drawing on personal anecdotes to illustrate how playfulness can alleviate anxiety and enhance creativity. By connecting with one's core values and maintaining a supportive network, individuals can cultivate resilience and confidence in their professional journeys.
Takeaways:
Seeing challenges as opportunities to learn fosters a growth mindset and resilience. Criticism does not define your worth; it's a chance to embrace growth and learning. Embracing a playful attitude can lead to more enjoyable and successful experiences. We are often more likely to take risks when we believe in our ability to grow. Our past experiences and values should guide us, rather than external judgments. Investing in coaching or personal development is essential to our growth and success. Think about the value of therapy or coaching in terms of years of investment rather than an hourly rateKeywords:
growth mindset, business coaching, overcoming self-doubt, marketing for therapists, playfulness in learning, personal development, investing in yourself, therapy growth group, private practice success, fear of judgment, embracing challenges, coping with criticism, self-improvement strategies, nurturing creativity, building confidence, effective decision-making, accountability in business, learning from failure, fostering resilience, therapist support network
Chapters:
00:38 - Introduction to Growth Mindset00:48 - The Challenge of Big Decisions03:40 - Embracing Playfulness in New Experiences10:19 - The Power of a Growth Mindset13:26 - Learning from Mistakes: A Personal Journey14:43 - Finding Your North Star22:13 - Investing in Yourself and Your Future27:01 - Conclusion: Embrace the JourneySetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of...
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Have you ever sat in front of blank computer screen, stuck about how to describe yourself in a directory profile entry? You doubt whether you've got anything unique to offer and worry you'll mislead clients if you claim any special expertise. In this episode, Josephine Hughes discusses how imposter syndrome hinders therapists from writing effective profiles, and offers practical tips to make directories appeal to potential clients. By embracing their experiences and asserting their value, therapists can create profiles that truly connect with potential clients and reflect their authentic selves.
In today's episode:
How imposter syndrome often leads therapists to feel unworthy and hesitant to market themselves effectively. The impact of sharing your personal journey as a therapist to build trust with potential clients. Whether niching down in your practice is appropriate at the start of your private practice careerThe dangers of mimicking other therapists' profiles because authenticity is crucial for connecting with clients. How to state you can help clients without feeling pushy or salesy. A reframe about the purpose of your profile and how that helps with imposter syndrome.Keywords
Impostor Syndrome, therapists, directory profiles, self-doubt, qualifications, niching, client connection, marketing, therapy, personal branding, psychology today, counselling directory
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Impostor Syndrome in Therapy Marketing
04:06 The Impact of Qualifications on Client Perception
07:58 Overcoming the Fear of Niching
10:53 Claiming Your Expertise and Value
14:50 Practical Tips for Writing Your Profile
To access Josephine's Make Your Profile Work training, please click HERE to join Therapy Growth Group
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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Do you find it difficult to post on social media - perhaps you’re always double and triple checking what you say? Maybe you worry about what others will think or you compare yourself to other private practice counsellors who seem much more knowledgeable than you. In this week’s episode, Josephine Hughes discusses the impact of imposter syndrome on private practice therapists and their social media marketing and how to combat it. The second part of the episode includes ideas for posts in November 2024.
In today’s episode:
How to tell if you’re affected by imposter syndrome in your marketingHow imposter syndrome affects your willingness to postWhy self-doubt can be helpful in your marketingWhat to do about criticism on social media and how to counter shameHow focusing on your clients’ needs can helpThe importance of relatability and authenticityGet practical ideas for using the following awareness events:
Movember and Men’s Health Awareness MonthLung Cancer and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness MonthsAnti-Bullying and Self-Care WeeksStress Awareness Day White Ribbon DayKeywords
imposter syndrome, social media, self-doubt, vulnerability, mental health, awareness events, public humiliation, personal growth, sharing experiences, community support
Chapters
00:00 The Impact of Public Humiliation
02:00 Understanding Imposter Syndrome
06:14 The Value of Self-Doubt
09:53 Embracing Vulnerability and Criticism
14:04 Learning from Failure
16:06 Social Media Strategies for November
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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If traditional counselling isn't working for you, what are the alternatives? Join Josephine Hughes and Katie Bowers as they discuss Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). They discuss the challenges Katie faced in her early counselling experiences, her eventual shift to EFT, and how it has helped her and her clients process trauma and anxiety. The conversation highlights the importance of mindfulness, the nervous system's role in emotional regulation, and the practical applications of EFT in everyday life. Katie shares her personal experiences with EFT, illustrating its effectiveness in managing anxiety and building confidence, particularly for mothers navigating life transitions. The episode concludes with insights into the science behind EFT and its growing recognition in the therapeutic community.
In today's episode:
How EFT combines mindfulness and compassion for healingHow EFT offers a practical approach to emotional regulationUsing EFT in everyday situations to manage anxiety and calm the brain's response to stressKatie's story of how EFT helped her more than traditional counselling techniquesYou can find Katie at her website, on Instagram, Facebook and in her Mums Seeking More Facebook group.
Katie trained here.
Chapters
00:00 The Healing Power of EFT
01:38 Katie's Journey into Counseling
04:56 Transitioning from Traditional Counseling to EFT
07:48 Discovering EFT and Its Impact
09:15 Understanding EFT: Mechanisms and Benefits
11:12 Real-Life Applications of EFT
17:30 Building Confidence Through EFT
22:30 Working with Clients: Focus on Mums
23:57 EFT vs Traditional Counselling
25:18 The Science Behind EFT
30:15 The Process of Unpacking Trauma
39:01 Conclusion and Resources
Keywords
EFT, Emotional Freedom Techniques, trauma, counselling, mental health, mindfulness, nervous system, self-help, therapy, personal growth
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed...
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How can you get clients to book in once they've looked at your Psychology Today or Counselling Directory profile? In this episode of the Good Enough Counsellors podcast, Josephine Hughes discusses the importance of building trust with potential clients in therapy. She explores client concerns about booking sessions and the effectiveness of video content in establishing a therapist's credibility. Josephine also addresses common fears around creating video content and encourages therapists to embrace visibility as a means to attract clients.
In this episode:
Why clients may feel nervous about paying in advanceHow directories provide a sense of safety for clientsThe ways that blogs and videos can showcase expertise and attract clientsWhy video marketing is crucial for engagementReassurance that authenticity is more important than a polished productionThe ways that video can address client concerns effectivelyWhat to consider when using video on your websiteHow using YouTube can also enhance discoverabilityKeywords
therapy, marketing, client trust, video marketing, counselling, online presence, therapist visibility, social media, client engagement, mental health
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Client Concerns
03:04 Building Trust Through Marketing
05:52 The Power of Video Marketing
09:49 Overcoming Video Anxiety
17:03 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement
Click HERE to join the 2024 Live Feed Challenge
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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Are you struggling to get started? Discover how to overcome your stuckness by exploring why starting new projects can feel impossible and how you can break through your inertia. Whether you're planning a private practice, group therapy sessions, or an online course, host Josephine Hughes dives deep into an understanding of what's holding you back.
In today's episode
How feeling overwhelmed, lacking confidence, and not knowing where to start are common challenges that can prevent people from getting started on projects.Breaking tasks down into smaller steps and seeking support and guidance can help overcome these challenges.Acknowledging and overcoming fears of judgment and rejection is important for moving forward with projects.Prioritising projects, making time for them, and taking small actions can lead to progress and success.Every step taken brings one closer to achieving their goals.Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Struggling to Get Started
02:05 Challenge 1: Feeling Overwhelmed and Unsure
06:01 Challenge 2: Lack of Time
08:51 Challenge 3: Fear of Judgment and Rejection
10:45 Digging Deeper: What's Really Stopping You?
14:04 Conclusion: Taking Steps Towards Your Dreams
Keywords
getting started, challenges, overwhelm, confidence, fear of judgment, fear of rejection, taking action, breaking tasks down, seeking support, prioritising, small steps, private practice, counsellors
Live Feed Challenge
Join Josephine's Live Video Feed Challenge Facebook group HERE
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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Does the thought of not knowing enough about social media and technology put you off even trying to have a social media page? You're not alone. Listen to this episode to learn how much technical knowledge is actually needed and how you can still have an effective feed with minimal technical ability. The episode also contains post ideas for the month of October.
In this episode:
You don't have to be tech-savvy to use social media effectively as a therapist.Using personal photos and sharing meaningful experiences can be a powerful way to connect with potential clients.Canva is a user-friendly tool for creating graphics and visuals for social media posts.October offers various themes and awareness months/weeks that therapists can use to create engaging and relevant content, including ADHD Awareness Week, Halloween and autumn as a metaphor for changeMixing up the types of social media posts, including information, topical, and interactive posts, can help build a following and establish trust with potential clients.Advice on how many posts to share each weekKeywords
social media, therapist, fear, confidence, technical skills, communication, potential clients, October, awareness months, awareness weeks, themes, season, holidays
Chapters
00:00 Overcoming the Fear of Using Social Media
03:02 The Power of Social Media and Reaching Potential Clients
09:43 Ideas for Social Media Posts in October
12:47 Using Seasonal Themes and Metaphors
14:16 Creating Engaging and Varied Social Media Posts
15:42 Taking Action and Getting Started
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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Are you a counsellor intimidated by the idea of making a video for listings such as Psychology Today or Counselling Directory? Before you scroll by, listen to how videos can help you reach more clients and learn how to make a professional 15 second video.
In this episode:
Why incorporating video can transform your online presence and attract more clientsCommon concerns and how to overcome them - yes, even that fear of seeing yourself on screen!Practical tips for crafting a 15-second clip that encapsulates who you are and what you offerWhether you need any special equipmentKeywords
video creation, directory profile, connection with clients, 15-second video, tips for making a video, therapist on video, video marketing, SEO for therapists, Psychology Today, Counselling Directory
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Importance of Video Creation
02:32 Benefits of Using a Video in Your Directory Profile
07:56 Tips for Making a Meaningful 15-Second Video
12:42 Creating a Good Video with a Smartphone
15:06 Overcoming Self-Consciousness and Making a Connection
If you'd like to join the Live Video Challenge for Counsellors, you can do so HERE. Go on, give it a go!
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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How can you use email counselling and how does asynchronous therapy work? Join Chloe Foster to hear all about how you can make your practice more flexible and accessible with email counselling. Chloe specialises in helping LGBTQ clients and she shares more about their therapeutic work together with a discussion on the importance of checking pronouns.
In this episode:
How choosing a niche, such as working with the LGBTQ community, can help attract clients who are specifically looking for a counsellor who understands their unique experiences.The importance of asking clients about their pronouns and creating a safe and accepting environment for LGBTQ individuals.How raising prices helped both to manage Chloe's client load and create space to develop other income streams. How email counselling provides flexibility for both counsellors and clients, and how asynchronous therapy eases the mental load on the therapistThe importance of effective training for email counselling to set clear boundaries, ensure effective communication and minimise misunderstandings.Keywords
email counseling, LGBTQ community, niche, pronouns, training, pricing, client load, email counselling, flexibility, pricing, boundaries, training, recorded courses
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and the Potential of Email Counselling
06:18 Choosing a Niche: Working with the LGBTQ Community
11:33 Creating a Safe and Accepting Environment: Asking About Pronouns
15:14 The Importance of Understanding and Accepting Transgender Individuals
20:10 Developing Resources: Enhancing the Value of a Counselling Practice
23:25 Setting Pricing and Boundaries: Maintaining a Sustainable Practice
24:24 Raising Prices in Private Practice
26:29 The Benefits of Email Counselling
32:06 Exploring Email Counselling
36:54 Developing Email Counselling Training
46:29 Embracing New Approaches in Counselling
Download Chloe's free guide on Email Counselling and check out the website HERE
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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What can you do if you're experiencing a slowdown in client enquiries and bookings? First, check your statistics to make sure what's actually happening. Next, see what you can do to improve your existing marketing. If you're fully utilising your current advertising spend, what other approaches can you take to promote your private practice? This practical episode helps you to identify ideas of how you can reach more potential clients.
In today's episode:
Comparing your client numbers over time can help you recognise seasonal fluctuations and alleviate doubts about your practice's success.Use the summer slowdown to focus on marketing efforts and attract new clients.High-touch marketing, such as word-of-mouth referrals, can be effective in reaching potential clients.Overcoming self-doubt and fear of rejection is crucial in taking action to address gaps in your schedule.Take practical steps, such as utilising marketing strategies and seeking support from peers, to grow your private practice.Chapters
00:00 Navigating Seasonal Fluctuations in Private Practice
04:01 Strategies for Addressing Gaps in Your Schedule
09:21 The Power of High-Touch Marketing
13:13 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear of Rejection
16:08 Practical Steps for Growing Your Private Practice
Keywords
private practice, slowdown, client numbers, seasonal fluctuations, marketing, client gaps in schedule, high-touch marketing, word-of-mouth referrals, summer slump, growing private practice
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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What do you do when you're faced with endings, cancellations and decreased client enquiries in your private practice? How can you handle the inevitable fear that arises? The fight, flight and fear responses are explored, together with practical advice on what to do.
In this episode:
Understanding how fight, flight and freeze manifest themselves in your practiceHow fear stifles creativity which is essential for marketingWhat neuroscience teaches about rest and creativityPractical tips for boosting creativityHow to organise time for marketing initiativesChapters:
00:00 Dealing with Reduced Client Numbers
02:09 Understanding and Managing the Fight, Flight, and Freeze Responses
05:01 The Role of Creativity in Marketing and Overcoming Fear
09:25 Rest and Allowing the Brain to Make Connections
13:11 Practical Tips for Marketing and Growing a Private Practice
16:01 The Importance of Self-Care in Marketing and Attracting Clients
Keywords:
reduced client numbers, private practice, fear, panic, fight response, flight response, freeze response, creativity, marketing, rest, brain connections, practical tips, self-care
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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What can you do to manage your social media presence over breaks and holidays? Listen to Josephine's struggles with turning off social media, the fear of missing out on clients and what to do about it. In the second half of the episode, Josephine provides ideas for social media posts in September, focusing on themes such as fresh starts, transitions, and awareness days.
In this episode:
Taking breaks from social media is important for mental health and well-being.Scarcity thinking can lead to anxiety about missing out on clients, but it's important to acknowledge that there is plenty of support available.Setting boundaries and modelling self-care is essential for maintaining a healthy social media presence.Social media ideas for the month of SeptemberLearn how to use the following social media dates:
World Suicide Prevention Day (10th)Youth Mental Health Day (19th) – Theme: #ControlTheScrollSexual Health Awareness Week (11th)Bisexuality Awareness Week & Bi Visibility Day (23rd)Celebrate quirky days such as Ginger Cat Appreciation Day (1st), Read a Book Day (6th), Blame Someone Else Day (13th), Batman Day (21st), Ask a Stupid Question Day (28th).
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:11 Struggles with Taking Breaks from Social Media
03:39 Overcoming Scarcity Thinking and Setting Boundaries
06:07 Managing Social Media Presence During Holidays
10:24 Ideas for Social Media Posts in September
16:34 Conclusion
Keywords
social media, breaks, holidays, scarcity thinking, self-care, boundaries, fresh starts, transitions, awareness days
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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Is it true that you have to be "sorted" to be a counsellor? Josephine interviews Samantha Lee about her journey into private practice counselling and how she uses inner child therapy. Samantha shares her initial struggles and insecurities as a counsellor and how she overcame them. She discusses her experience with building a business page and finding her authentic voice through poetry and describes the importance of inner child work. The interview ends with a plea to therapists to consider what constitutes a "successful" private practice and how this is individual based on your circumstances.
In this episode:
Samantha's transition to being in private practiceBeing open and honest about struggles and insecurities as a counsellor can help clients feel more comfortable and understood.Inner child work can be a powerful tool in counselling, helping clients understand and heal from past experiencesWhy therapists find it helpful to do their own inner child work before using it with clientsBuilding a private practice takes time and involves various stages and elements that need to be worked through gradually.Success in private practice is not determined by the number of clients or working full-time, but by adapting the practice to suit individual needs and maintaining self-care.Self-care and setting boundaries are crucial for therapists to avoid burnout and maintain their well-being.Having multiple income streams, such as courses, can provide stability and support during challenging times.It is important to prioritise long-term goals and consider how the private practice will be managed in the future.Keywords
counselling, therapist, inner child, struggles, authenticity, vulnerability, continuous professional development, learning, inner child work, personal growth, courses, private practice, self-care, boundaries
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Struggles as a Counsellor
04:04 Finding Authenticity Through Poetry
11:36 The Power of Inner Child Work
15:55 Embracing Vulnerability as a Counsellor
25:27 The Importance of Continuous Professional Development
26:28 The Power of Inner Child Work in Therapy
27:54 Creating Courses Based on Personal Experience
33:44 Challenges and Adaptation in Building a Private Practice
35:04 Self-Care and Setting Boundaries for Therapists
36:01 The Role of Multiple Income Streams in Private Practice
37:51 Prioritising Long-Term Goals in Private Practice
43:30 Self-Love and Being Your Own Number One Fan
45:25 Physical Health and Self-Care for Therapists
47:47 Avoiding Comparison and Pressure in Private Practice
You can find Samantha's website and details of her course HERE and on Facebook at Samantha Lee Counselling
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients
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Did you know it takes just a tenth of a second to form an opinion based on someone's appearance, making your profile picture crucial in attracting potential clients? Our brains process images faster than text so how you appear is just - if not more - important than what you say. By taking some care over your photo, you'll be able to communicate important therapist qualities such as competence, warmth and professionalism.
In today's episode:
Why photos work so well in selecting counsellors from a directoryCommunicating your values through your photoAdvice if publishing an online photo goes against your culture's valuesTips for taking a good photoChoosing the right clothes for your photoHow to afford a professional headshotTips for using your own phone or cameraChapters:
00:00 The Importance of Your Profile Picture
02:01 Communicating Qualities Through Your Photo
04:23 Tips for Taking a Good Profile Photo
08:45 Choosing the Right Clothing for Your Photo
12:09 Considerations for a Professional Headshot
13:33 Taking a Good Photo with Your Phone or Camera
Keywords
profile picture, therapist photo, online presence, first impression, competence, warmth, empathy, approachability, head and shoulders, plain background, good lighting, clothing choice, professional headshot
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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Do you feel anxious about being visible online? If you do, you're not alone. However, potential clients find photos and videos a helpful way to relate to therapists and lack of visibility may be hampering your marketing efforts. So this episode delves into how you can feel more comfortable with being on camera and how embracing your authentic self can help you connect with clients.
In today's episode:
how perfectionism and imposter syndrome can hold you back but how making mistakes can actually inspire others and create connectionwhy focusing on the message is more important than your appearancewhat the "Spotlight Effect" is and how it can help you feel more comfortablewhy self-consciousness isn't a bad thingChapters
00:00 Introduction: Fear of Being Seen
01:09 The Importance of Visual Content
04:54 Self-Consciousness: A Social Skill
07:30 Shifting Focus from Appearance to Value
08:30 Embracing Imperfections
13:20 Self-Compassion and Being Authentic
15:12 Closing Remarks
Keywords
camera shyness, anxiety, therapists, online presence, trust, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, self-compassion, authenticity
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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