Эпизоды

  • In today’s fast-paced world, therapists often find themselves juggling various systems for billing, progress notes, treatment planning, and administrative tasks.

    This inefficiency can lead to burnout and suboptimal care.

    In this episode, Ryan Fuller, co-founder of My Best Practice, discusses these challenges and how their electronic health record (EHR) system addresses them.

    Ryan shares his journey from juggling multiple systems for clinical work, research, and administrative tasks to creating a seamless, integrated solution for mental health professionals.

    We discuss the challenges faced by therapists and the significant improvements My Best Practice brings to clinical practice, administration, and research.

    Ryan explains the early stages of developing My Best Practice, outlining the key functionalities they aimed to address—clinical documentation, research integration, and business administration.

    The discussion moves to the onboarding process, emphasizing the platform's user-friendly migration services, which make it easy for practices to switch from other popular EHR systems like Simple Practice.

    As the conversation progresses, Ryan touches on future advancements, including AI-driven progress notes, and why user feedback is crucial in shaping these features.

    If you’re curious about what thought, planning, and ideas go into creating an EHR platform, and how it can help you streamline your private practice, listen up!

    Key Takeaways:

    Unified EHR System: My Best Practice integrates clinical, research, and administrative functionalities into one seamless platform.

    White Glove Migration Service: The platform offers an extensive and supportive migration process to help practices switch EHR systems smoothly.

    Evidence-Based Focus: Developed with a strong emphasis on evidence-based care, the system supports therapists in delivering high-quality treatment.

    AI-Driven Progress Notes: Upcoming features include AI-generated progress notes designed to save therapists significant time while maintaining data security.

    User-Centered Development: My Best Practice continually evolves based on user feedback to enhance functionality and ease of use.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    Get 3 months free of My Best Practice

    Survey About Using AI in Therapy Practice

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation Podcast, Daniel Fava welcomes Nate Hendrikse, founder of Navigator Bookkeeping, to discuss the journey of scaling a private practice from a financial perspective.

    Nate shares his background as a former teacher and how his passion for personal finance led him to start his own bookkeeping business.

    With an empathetic understanding of the struggles private practice owners face, Nate breaks down key strategies for understanding and improving their financial stories.

    Nate delves into the importance of having a clear financial story and how it can alleviate stress and confusion for practice owners.

    He emphasizes the need for tracking essential metrics and creating a dashboard to maintain a comprehensive view of the business's financial health.

    As therapy practices grow, Nate highlights the challenges of optimizing clinician pay structures and provides practical tools and tips to ensure that practices remain profitable and sustainable.

    Knowing some of the blind spots and things to avoid can help therapists step confidently into scaling their business and growing their team.

    If you own or manage a private practice and are looking to scale effectively, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice from Nate Hendrikse.

    Key Takeaways:

    Understanding Your Financial Story: Learn how to identify and interpret the trends in your practice's financial data to make informed decisions.

    The Importance of Data: Utilizing financial reports and dashboards can help track essential metrics and uncover financial blind spots.

    Optimizing Clinician Pay Structures: Discover strategies for creating fair and profitable pay structures for clinicians to ensure sustainability as your practice grows.

    Creating a Financial Dashboard: Simple yet effective ways to track financial health metrics to keep your business on course.

    Navigating Growth Challenges: Practical advice on managing the nuances and complexities that come with scaling a private practice.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    Navigator Bookkeeping Website

    Clinician Profitability Tool

    Nate’s LinkedIn

    Navigator Bookkeeping YouTube Channel

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  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, Daniel Fava sits down with Michael J. Silva to discuss strategies for building a successful private practice without heavily relying on low-paying insurance contracts.

    Silva shares his journey from experiencing early career burnout in corporate healthcare to establishing a flourishing cash-based sports medicine practice.

    Alongside offering practical advice for navigating the transition to a cash-based model, Silva highlights the importance of finding your niche and over-delivering value to clients.

    Michael details his process of identifying and eliminating unprofitable insurance contracts, emphasizing the importance of knowing your numbers.

    By focusing on a motivated and health-conscious clientele, Silva and his team were able to build a thriving practice with a low cancellation rate and highly satisfied clients.

    Silva’s insights provide valuable lessons for mental health therapists, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers aiming to enhance their business models and client relationships.

    For those interested in scaling their practices successfully, this episode serves as an excellent resource.

    Key Takeaways:

    Identify and Focus on Your Niche: Michael emphasizes the importance of targeting a specific, motivated clientele to reduce cancellations and increase job satisfaction.

    Know Your Numbers: Understanding the costs of running your practice versus what you get reimbursed by insurance companies is crucial for financial health.

    Build a Superior Client Experience: Over-deliver on value and create an exceptional customer experience to retain clients and build a strong reputation.

    Gradually Transition Away from Low-Paying Contracts: Start by weeding out the least profitable insurance plans while ensuring you provide referrals for clients you can no longer serve.

    Leverage Community Roots and Network: Utilize your local connections and provide content that positions you as an expert in your specific niche to attract cash-paying clients.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    https://michaeljsilva.com

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, host Daniel Fava sits down with Dr. Elisabeth Morray to delve into the critical topic of niching in therapy.

    As they discuss the journey from being a generalist to identifying and embracing a niche, Elisabeth provides actionable insights for private practice owners looking to grow their businesses authentically.

    They explore the balance between general practice and specialization, how continuing education plays a critical role, and the fear of potentially losing clients by narrowing one’s focus.

    Throughout the conversation, Elisabeth shares her career journey, from her early focus on eating disorders and women's health to her current roles at Alma and her private practice.

    This episode is packed with website ideas and insights related to niching down in therapy, the importance of finding a niche that resonates deeply with one's values, and how to market authentically.

    By highlighting real-world applications and personal experiences, Daniel and Elisabeth offer valuable guidance for therapists looking to elevate their practice.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Power of Continuing Education: Investing time in ongoing learning, both in familiar areas and new fields, can bridge the gap between interest and expertise.

    Importance of Community: Building a network of professionals with shared interests can expand perspectives and provide support.

    Balance Between Personal and Professional: Utilizing one's lived experiences and personal journey can deeply enhance professional practice and authenticity.

    Flexibility in Niching: Adopting a niche doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach—therapists can pivot and evolve based on their experiences and seasons of their life.

    Authentic Marketing: Sharing relatable, educational content on your website can resonate more with potential clients and help normalize their experiences.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    Alma Website

    Elisabeth’s LinkedIn Profile

  • In this episode of The Private Practice Elevation Podcast, Daniel Fava chats with David Frank, founder of Turning Point Financial Planning, about the intricate relationship between money and psychology.

    Both professionals share their journeys, showing how their careers transitioned towards serving the mental health community.

    David provides insights into his role in assisting therapists with their financial planning, covering both personal finance and business structures.

    Throughout the episode, David Frank delves into the psychology of money and common mindsets that arise for business owners, particularly therapists.

    He explains how deep-seated beliefs and patterns from childhood influence financial behaviors and decisions. David also discusses the crucial role of conversation and speaking with trusted individuals in overcoming financial shame and anxiety. The importance of community, having professionals like financial planners on your team, and maintaining a stance of curiosity and non-judgment about financial matters are emphasized.

    The episode wraps up with actionable advice for therapists and business owners on managing their financial lives more effectively and with greater insight.

    Key Takeaways:

    Influence of Childhood on Money Mindset: Childhood experiences significantly shape financial behaviors and attitudes. Awareness and exploration of these can help in overcoming financial blocks.

    The Role of Community and Conversation: Sharing financial concerns with trusted individuals or professionals can alleviate shame and provide new perspectives, reducing anxiety.

    Curiosity and Non-Judgment: Adopting a curious, non-judgmental approach to financial issues can foster better understanding and more effective decision-making.

    Investing and Patience: Success in investing often requires patience and the ability to endure market fluctuations without reactive decision-making.

    Financial Planning for Therapists: Tailored financial planning services can bridge the gap between personal and professional finances, providing clarity and reducing stress for therapists.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    Turning Point Financial Life Planning

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, host Daniel Fava dives deep into the differences between WordPress.com and WordPress.org, helping private practice owners make informed decisions about their website platforms.

    Daniel seeks to remove the confusion that many people face when choosing between these two WordPress platforms.

    In fact, some don’t even know that WordPress has TWO options for building a website with their platform.

    But there are, and many folks get confused or choose the wrong platform when building their first website for their private practice.

    In this episode, Daniel demystifies WordPress by breaking down the four main differences between Wordpress.com and Wordpress.org: ownership and control, cost, customization and flexibility, and maintenance and security.

    Each aspect is crucial for private practice owners to consider as they plan their online presence.

    With insightful comparisons and real-world examples, he guides listeners through the complexities of WordPress choices, making the decision clearer and more strategic for long-term practice growth.

    Key Takeaways:

    Ownership and Control: WordPress.org offers full control over customization, themes, and plugins, while WordPress.com provides a more managed but restrictive environment.

    Cost Considerations: WordPress.org requires paying for hosting and domain services, whereas WordPress.com uses a tiered pricing model with different levels of functionality.

    Customization and Flexibility: WordPress.org allows unlimited customization, making it ideal for growing practices, while WordPress.com is limited to predefined themes and plugins.

    Maintenance and Security: WordPress.org demands active management of updates and security, but offers complete control, while WordPress.com handles this for you in exchange for reduced flexibility.

    Future Proofing Your Practice: Starting with WordPress.org provides room for growth and prevents the need for future platform shifts, making it a robust option for long-term private practice elevation.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    Article: What’s the Difference Between WordPress.com & WordPress.org?

    Episode 131. Secure, Reliable, and Fast: The Benefits of Managed WordPress Hosting for Your Private Practice Website

    Our WordPress Care Plans & Hosting

    Get started with our services by scheduling a call

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, your host, Daniel Fava, dives deep into the simple essence of content marketing plans tailored for private practice growth.

    In the ever-evolving landscape of private practice, engaging with and attracting clients goes beyond face-to-face therapy sessions.

    An integral part of this modern approach to building a successful practice lies in a solid content marketing strategy. This means that you’re consistently publishing and sharing new content on your website.

    But content marketing is not just about producing content; it's about creating a strategic roadmap to reach and engage with your target audience effectively.

    Daniel breaks down the concept into an easily digestible 3-step plan, showcasing the importance of having a structured approach to increase website traffic and highlight your services.

    Daniel underscores the key reasons for adopting a content marketing plan, emphasizing trust-building, client education, attracting the right clientele, maintaining connection with current clients, and distinguishing oneself from competitors.

    Later, he provides a simplified, yet potent three-step strategy

    Key Takeaways:

    Content is Key: A substantial content marketing plan cultivates trust, educates potential clients, attracts the right fit, keeps you connected with clients, and sets you apart from the competition.

    Three-Step Approach: Daniel lays out an approach starting with creating detailed service pages, supporting them with targeted blog posts, and then sharing the content across social media and Google Business profiles.

    Simple Execution: Daniel simplifies the concept of content marketing and suggests using a Google Sheet for blog post ideas, ensuring consistency in execution.

    SEO Focused: Emphasizing the importance of SEO, the content should be geared towards showcasing expertise in specific service areas.

    Commitment to Clients: A content marketing plan should resonate with your dedication to your clients by clearly communicating services and providing valuable information.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    Schedule a Free Clarity Call today

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, host Daniel Fava welcomes David Sturgess, a seasoned mental health professional and business consultant, to discuss the pivotal shifts required when transitioning from therapist to business owner.

    The journey from being an agency therapist or employee to becoming a business owner of your private practice is filled with unique challenges and opportunities.

    For therapists considering this path, understanding the nuances of business, the value of time and money, and the intricacies of marketing can be the difference between thriving and merely surviving.

    David Sturgess has a compelling background in mental health, with over 16 years of experience in the field. His journey began as a 911 operator and first responder, which unfolded into a strong interest in psychology and led his current career.

    David worked for several years in youth residential treatment facilities and transitioned into private practice six years ago as a result of desiring to be more present for his family and to alleviate burnout.

    Currently, David is a consultant with Wise Practice Consulting, where he focuses on helping solo practice owners navigate the transition from clinical work to business ownership.

    In this episode, David imparts his insights on three major changes that are crucial for therapists ready to delve into the entrepreneurial world and see lasting success.

    Key Takeaways:

    Recognizing the need for assistance in business matters is critical for therapists transitioning into business ownership.

    Clinicians must adopt a realistic approach to time management and financial planning, ensuring their practice remains profitable.

    Investing in professional services such as website design can have a significant ROI and is essential for effective marketing.

    Understanding the role of a quality website as an always-on marketing tool can help improve visibility and attract potential clients.

    A niche focus can evolve and needs to be communicated effectively to reach the intended audience.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    http://www.wisepracticeconsulting.com

    Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with David

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, host Daniel Fava interviews special guest Steve Cuffari, a marriage and family therapist and current client of Private Practice Elevation about his experience investing in SEO for his private practice.

    Daniel and the Private Practice Elevation team have been helping Steve expand his practice’s visibility through SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for about two years now.

    Steve shares his journey of transitioning from working at an organization to starting his own private practice - without taking insurance from the get-go.

    He discusses the importance of investing in a website and SEO to attract clients and shares valuable insights on honing your message, tracking numbers, and staying competitive.

    Steve's story is a testament to the power of facing fears and investing in yourself to achieve success in private practice.

    Tune in to learn from his experiences and gain valuable tips for your own practice.

    In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

    What led Steve to invest in a new website and especially place a high emphasis on SEO

    Why he chose to work with Private Practice Elevation

    The importance of facing his own fears and realizing that his own growth was worth investing in

    What made Steve stay the course and continue working on SEO for two years running

    The challenges he faced over the course of long-term SEO strategy building

    How we had to pivot his SEO approach at times to make sure his ideal local client could find him

    How SEO has impacted Steve’s business for the better

    The key lessons Steve learned and things you need to know before you invest in SEO for your private practice

    The importance of knowing your numbers and tracking the data related to your website and conversions

    This Episode Is Brought To You By

    Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private practices. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians who come together for education, training, and events.

    Learn more about building a thriving private practice with Alma at helloalma.com/elevation.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    In Touch Family Counseling - Steve’s Private Practice

    Private Practice Elevation’s SEO services

    Book - Donald Miller’s Building A Storybrand (affiliate link)

  • Work-life balance is a myth! But rhythms of life and the changing of seasons are something that we can all embrace.

    In this episode, I sit down with Amy Dover, a seasoned therapist and successful group practice owner.

    Amy has an inspiring story of transitioning from various practice settings to building her own flourishing group practice in Enterprise, Alabama.

    Throughout our conversation, Amy opens up about the rapid growth of her practice and the different seasons she's experienced as an entrepreneur.

    We dive into the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and why Amy prefers to think in terms of finding a rhythm rather than balance. Because, honestly, balance never comes and only creates frustration.

    She shares her insights on how to adapt to the changing demands of personal life and business, providing valuable advice for anyone looking to grow their practice while staying grounded.

    Key Takeaways

    Rethinking Balance: Amy encourages us to move away from the rigid idea of work-life balance and instead find a rhythm that works for both our personal and professional lives.

    Embracing Seasons: Understanding and embracing different seasons—whether it's a time of rapid growth or a slower period—can help in managing personal and business development effectively.

    Managing Growth: Amy’s journey emphasizes the importance of being a savvy businessperson. Knowing the financial and administrative aspects of your practice is essential for success, and requires a mindset shift from therapist to business owner.

    Leadership Lessons: Transitioning from a solo practice to a group practice requires continuous learning and adaptation in leadership styles and team dynamics.

    Consulting and Support: Having a mentor or joining a consulting group can provide crucial support and guidance through the stages of growing your practice.

    Amy's experience and wisdom offer a roadmap for navigating the complexities of practice growth while staying true to your values.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    Wise Practice Consulting

    FREE Webinar: Is It Time To Grow? Should I Start a Group Practice?

    This Episode Is Brought To You By

    Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private practices. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians who come together for education, training, and events.

    Learn more about building a thriving private practice with Alma at helloalma.com/elevation.

  • In this episode of The Private Practice Elevation Podcast, Daniel Fava and Dr. Joshua Rosenthal dive deep into the transformative journey from solo practice to a thriving group enterprise.

    Dr. Rosenthal shares his pearls of wisdom on leadership, emphasizing the importance of clarity in your professional and personal goals. He advocates for creating roles that align with your passions and strengths, a strategy that has proven successful for both him and his team.

    Discover how Dr. Rosenthal navigated the complexities of scaling a business, from the inception of the Big Apple Day program—a summer camp for children ages 6-12 with developmental, social and/or learning difficulties.—to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and reflection within his team of over 300.

    He candidly discusses the challenges of retention and the financial balancing act required to sustain growth.

    Dr. Rosenthal also unveils his evolved leadership approach, where he focuses on growth and empowering a core leadership team, ensuring that the quality of service remains consistent across the board. This top-down approach underscores the critical role of leadership in shaping employee experiences and, by extension, customer satisfaction.

    Join us in this episode as we unpack the highs and lows of growing in leadership as you step into private practice growth. Dr. Rosenthal's story is not just about the success of his practice but also about the resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking that are the hallmarks of effective leadership.

    Key Takeaways:

    Joshua Rosenthal, PsyD, shares several key takeaways from his experience in building and managing his private practice, then a summer camp, and later, his role as a CEO. Here are the main points:

    Difficulty and Opportunity: Rosenthal emphasizes that the difficulty of starting a venture is essential, as it allows for the discovery of opportunities and growth. He acknowledges that the process was hard and that he could not replicate it now, but at the time, it was the right fit.

    Staff Retention and Financial Challenges: Hiring good people was only part of the challenge; retaining them as the camp grew and expenses increased became a significant issue. Despite increasing costs, there was a limit to how much the camp fees could be raised, leading to financial strain.

    Leadership and Team Dynamics: Rosenthal learned about leadership, team cohesiveness, and the importance of reflecting on what works and what doesn't. This iterative process was crucial for personal growth and improving the camp each year.

    Trust and Business Relationships: He discusses the importance of trust in business relationships, even though it comes with the risk of being hurt. His experiences shaped his decision-making and ultimately contributed to his success.

    CEO Role Evolution: Rosenthal's role as CEO evolved from micromanaging to focusing on supporting his leadership team. He stopped seeing patients to concentrate on business growth, profitability, and new service lines. He also highlights the importance of having a leadership team that can manage different aspects of the business, allowing him to focus on growth and strategic planning.

    Importance of Leadership: The CEO's mood and approach can significantly impact the entire company. Rosenthal stresses that leadership starts at the top and that the experiences customers have are a reflection of the company's leadership.

    Starting with an MVP: The camp began with a minimal viable product and evolved significantly over time. Rosenthal followed an organic growth approach, letting the project develop naturally without forcing it.

    Free Guide From Our Sponsor: Building Your Dream Caseload

    Growing a caseload of clients you’re passionate about working with can help you build a career that’s both impactful and sustainable. But it’s often easier said than done — which is why our sponsor, Alma, has created a guide to help you identify and connect with clients who fit your practice.



  • In this conversation with Steve Bisson, you’ll learn all about mentorship - both giving and receiving - within private practice.

    Steve discusses both his personal experience and the broader implications of mentorship in the professional development of therapists and mental health workers.

    The episode delves into the core facets of finding and offering guidance in an often complex and challenging career path.

    Throughout the episode, we unpack the nuanced differences between mentorship and other forms of professional development tools such as business coaching, as well as the organic nature of establishing pivotal mentoring relationships.

    The discussion emphasizes the importance of authenticity and trust in these relationships, illustrating how mentorship can significantly influence personal growth and career progression.

    The episode is filled with anecdotes and strategic advice, inviting both new practitioners and experienced professionals to consider the impact of mentorship on their journey through the mental health field.

    Key Takeaways:

    Mentorship can be a pivotal factor in the personal and professional development of mental health professionals, often provided informally and based on mutual respect.

    The difference between business coaching and mentorship lies in the financial component and the structure; mentorship is often more organic and less goal-oriented.

    Seeking out mentors or becoming a mentor is an exercise in generosity, leveraging one's experience and knowledge to empower others.

    It's crucial to establish mentoring relationships that feel authentic and comfortable for true growth and learning.

    Mentorship extends beyond monetary value and is deeply rooted in the spirit of giving and leaving a legacy.

  • In this special episode of the Private Practice Elevation Podcast, Liz Fava, wife of host Daniel Fava, flips the tables around and interviews Daniel.

    If you’ve listened to this podcast for some time, you’ve likely gotten a small glimpse into Daniel’s life and Private Practice Elevation.

    But have you ever wondered how this all got started? What was Daniel doing prior to helping therapists level up their private practices? What did it look like in 2016 when Daniel took a leap of faith and started his business?

    What does the PPE team look like now and what services do they offer and why? What does the future look like for PPE? And, of course, what are some of Daniel’s favorites? Such as food, drink, books, etc.

    In a candid conversation with his wife Liz Fava on his podcast, Daniel Fava, the founder of Private Practice Elevation, opens up about the origins of his online marketing agency, the services it offers, and his journey through entrepreneurship and life.

    Daniel also reveals his favorite aspects of his role and personal interests.

    Tune in to gain insights into the world of private practice elevation and learn more about Daniel's expertise in helping therapists succeed online.

    In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

    Daniel’s background from college to early work in marketing agencies and how he fell in love with website design

    What Daniel was doing before launching his business and his role in marketing for a non-profit organization

    The challenges of leaving a full-time job to transition to building a business

    How Private Practice Elevation transitioned from a focus on courses to full-service website design, development, and SEO catered to therapists

    Insights on building a team and how hiring has helped Daniel improve services to serve clients better

    All the current roles that Daniel’s team plays at Private Practice Elevation

    How Private Practice Elevation’s services have evolved over the years and why Daniel decided to focus solely on website design and development and SEO

    An overview of Private Practice Elevation’s current services and what each of them provides for therapists and private practices

    Lots of candid responses about the challenges of growing a business

    Plus Daniel’s personal favorites in food, drinks, movies, books etc.

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, host Daniel Fava dives deep into the significance of establishing core values for your private practice.

    Crafting core values goes beyond traditional marketing—these guiding principles shape the culture, decision-making, and strategic direction of your therapy practice.

    After sharing about what core values are, Daniel transitions into a solo discussion on the essence of core values and their profound impact on business operations.

    He delves into the purpose of having core values, including aligning your team's actions, enhancing company culture, and influencing how you serve clients.

    Through three main tips, Daniel illuminates the process of creating actionable and meaningful core values.

    In the candid sharing of Private Practice Elevation's own set of core values, you’ll gain insights not only into building your own values but also into the ethos that guides Daniel's successful team at PPE.

    Tune in to the full episode for a dive into the world of private practice core values with Daniel Fava, and stay connected with Private Practice Elevation for more invaluable lessons to take your practice to new heights.

    Key Takeaways:

    Core values are the fundamental beliefs that guide your private practice's culture, decision-making, and actions.

    The process of creating core values should involve reflecting on your practice's mission, involving your team, and striving for simplicity and actionability.

    Private Practice Elevation's core values include striving for excellence, leading with authenticity, being creative, displaying kindness, and ensuring accountability.

    Core values are crucial not only for internal governance but also for building trust with clients and setting a standard in the industry.

    Regular review and adherence to core values are essential for business growth and team leadership.

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, host Daniel Fava interviews Brent Stutzman on how to position yourself as the number one trusted therapy practice in your area.

    With around seven years of experience, Brent ventured into the marketing realm when his wife, a therapist, decided to start her own private practice.

    His journey began with branding and marketing, which he mastered through self-learning due to budget constraints. He successfully launched 'Kid Matters Counseling' with his wife, achieving a waiting list status before its onset.

    Eventually, Brent expanded his expertise to help other therapists establish and grow their practices, learning the critical importance of positioning as a trusted authority in the market. He also has launched TheraSaas, a powerful CRM for private practices.

    His work is significantly impacted by the StoryBrand framework, which he has adeptly applied to launch over twelve practices across the country. As a certified Storybrand Guide, Brent emphasizes the power of storytelling and how therapists can become trusted guides for their clients.

    Brent states that this transition - moving from YOU being the center of your marketing to having your clients be the hero - has the potential to help take your marketing to a new level of success.

    In this episode, Brent provides five steps to establish yourself as a guide, including demonstrating empathy, providing a sense of safety, demonstrating authority, illuminating the problem, providing a plan, and calling the hero to action.

    Tune in to learn how to position yourself as the go-to practice in your community.

    In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

    The brain's role in survival and calorie conservation - and what this means for your marketing

    The Importance of clear and simple communication to engage potential clients

    The importance of storytelling in building trust and positioning oneself as a guide for your ideal clients

    The shift from telling your own story to inviting clients into a story where they are the hero

    The need for clear and simple communication to capture and maintain attention

    Brent’s five steps to establish trust and position oneself as a guide

    Examples of guides in literature and movies, such as Dumbledore in Harry Potter and Gandalf in Lord of the Rings.

    Brent Stutzman highlights the importance of guides demonstrating empathy and providing a sense of safety

    How to be the guide while still demonstrating authority and expertise

    Brent Stutzman shares how to position yourself as a guide.

    Website and copywriting tips to position yourself as a guide and call your clients to action

    The ultimate transformation in your marketing: when heroes become guides

    This Episode Is Brought To You By

    Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private practices. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians who come together for education, training, and events.

    Learn more about building a thriving private practice with Alma at helloalma.com/elevation.

    Links mentioned in this episode:

    Brandyourpractice.com

    TheraSaas Website

    Free Course: How to Turn Calls Into Clients

    Ultimate Guide to Growing a Private Pay Practice

    Building A Story Brand by Donald Miller (affiliate link)

    Kid Matters Couseling

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, host Daniel Fava sits down with Shannon Heers to discuss the topic of cultivating clinical confidence in private practice.

    This conversation offers an in-depth look into the struggles that therapists often face, including impostor syndrome and the feeling of isolation when stepping out into the entrepreneurial world of private practice.

    Together, they unpack strategies for growing confidence as a clinician, providing high-quality service to clients, and finding the necessary support systems.

    Shannon Heers shares insights from her extensive experience in the realm of clinical supervision, highlighting the common issue of impostor syndrome among private practice therapists and the importance of developing a solid theoretical framework to guide interventions.

    She emphasizes the value of connecting with others to overcome feelings of being overwhelmed or isolated within the practice.

    With practical tips and relatable anecdotes, this episode aims to empower private practice therapists to build their confidence and extend their support networks.

    The discussion delves into Shannon Heers' unique approach with Firelight Supervision, and how the resources provided there, such as group and individual consultation, can play a pivotal role in a clinician's professional development and personal growth.

    This episode not only explores the challenges therapists face but also offers actionable solutions to help them thrive in their practices and as business owners.

    Key Takeaways:

    Developing clinical confidence is a continuous journey, and seeking support through supervision and consultation can significantly help.

    Impostor syndrome is a widespread issue among therapists, particularly when beginning private practice or encountering new challenges.

    Having a strong theoretical orientation or framework can provide direction and improve confidence when working with clients.

    Connection and community are crucial; therapists should find their "clinical support" to share struggles and triumphs with, ensuring they don't feel alone in their journey.

    Firelight Supervision offers a myriad of resources, including a free clinical confidence ebook and various consultation services.

    This Episode Is Brought To You By

    Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private practices. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians who come together for education, training, and events.

    Learn more about building a thriving private practice with Alma at helloalma.com/elevation.



  • The digital age has opened up a plethora of opportunities for private practice owners to expand their reach and refine their marketing strategies.

    Yet, with an overwhelming array of tools and resources available, deciphering which ones truly bolster one’s online presence can be a daunting task.

    So, in this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, we shed light on the most effective platforms and strategies for private practice marketing—straight from an agency that uses them.

    We’ll dive deep into the treasure trove of tools and platforms that can significantly ease the journey of building a private practice website and mastering online marketing.

    These insights are not just mere tips but are used by the Private Practice Elevation team to optimize and streamline processes both internally and for clients.

    From website-building basics to advanced SEO tactics, we’ll outline the comprehensive lineup of resources that power successful online presences for private practices.

    Whether it's WordPress with its unlimited customization possibilities, the user-friendly and visually engaging Divi theme, or the security-strong hosting services of Flywheel, we’re going to unpack our own digital toolkit that makes practice marketing effective and efficient.

    As an added layer, we’ll touch on analytics with Google Analytics, email marketing with ConvertKit, and the webinar-hosting capabilities of Easy Webinar.

    Listen up and discover new tools and resources to help you on your private practice website-building journey.

    This Episode Is Brought To You By

    Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private practices. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians who come together for education, training, and events.

    Learn more about building a thriving private practice with Alma at helloalma.com/elevation.




  • In this episode of The Private Practice Elevation Podcast, Daniel Fava had a conversation with Jane Carter, a therapist and business coach for solopreneurs.

    The episode focused on the importance of bringing fun and self-compassion into the process of building a business.

    While building a business can be hard and challenging, finding ways to make it fun is essential to avoid burnout and maintain motivation.

    Throughout the conversation, Jane and Daniel discussed the significance of self-awareness, reframing negative thoughts, and seeking support from others in navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

    The themes discussed in this conversation provide valuable insights and strategies for entrepreneurs to build successful businesses while maintaining their well-being and sense of self.

    Key Takeaways:

    Building a business should be fun, as it helps solopreneurs avoid burnout and stay motivated.

    Storytelling is an effective marketing strategy that can make business more engaging and enjoyable.

    Solopreneurs should practice self-compassion and separate their own responsibility from unnecessary blame or shame.

    Having a support system of friends, coaches, or therapists can provide empathy, reflection, and encouragement to solopreneurs.

    Solopreneurs can reframe their stories and approach problems as leaders, taking ownership and finding solutions.

  • In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation podcast, host Daniel Fava sits down with Joshua Brummel, co-founder of Therapy Flow, to delve into the intricacies of using paid ads to elevate private practices.

    The conversation kicks off with a glimpse into Joshua's background and how Therapy Flow evolved from a marketing agency into a specialized service for therapists. The company now offers a "done for you" practice development program that focuses on implementing digital strategies like Google Ads and Facebook ads, along with a HIPAA-compliant CRM system.

    Their discussion covers crucial elements for success in paid advertising, emphasizing the importance of a website that converts traffic effectively.

    They highlight the need for clear tracking mechanisms to gauge the return on investment (ROI) from ads. Joshua stresses the significance of having a solid sales process in place before diving into paid advertising to ensure that potential client inquiries translate into actual conversions.

    The conversation extends to the expectations from the initial phase of running paid ad campaigns. They spotlight the learning period of 3-7 days where data acquisition occurs, advising patience and observation before making adjustments. They also explore the calculation of ROI from ads, emphasizing the importance of understanding the lifetime value of a client to accurately gauge the success of ad campaigns.

    Joshua emphasizes that while paid ads require meticulous attention to detail, they can serve as a powerful growth accelerator for practices, offering a rapid influx of inquiries and clients when managed effectively. He presents paid ads as a "dial experience," a tool that allows practices to control and intensify their referral volumes swiftly, complementing long-term strategies like SEO.

    In conclusion, the episode emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between long-term strategies like SEO and short-term boosts from paid ads, advocating for a strategic balance between the two for sustained practice growth.

    In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

    The big picture of paid ads and user intent.

    Evolution and competition in paid ad platforms.

    Joshua Brummel's experience with managing ad spend.

    Recommended starting budget for Google Ads for therapy practices.

    Using Facebook and Instagram ads for lower budgets.

    Importance of having a website that converts before investing.

    Importance of website conversion for successful Google ads

    Evaluating the effectiveness of ads and sales process

    New, more, better framework for website and ads

    Learning period of 3-7 days for ads

    Tracking conversions and intake process for success

    Google ads work best for practices with existing clients

    Calculating return on investment for ads

    Determining lifetime value of therapy clients to determine ad budget

    Ads as a profitable source for consistent client acquisition

    How paid ads can provide a quick return on investment for therapy practices

    Technical details of running ads can be complex and time-consuming

    How using both paid ads and SEO can provide stability and growth



  • Introduction

    In the world of SEO (Search Engine Optimization), text-based content often takes center stage.

    Those who have done any work on their website’s SEO, you likely have spent a significant effort in crafting compelling articles, adding content to your pages, and optimizing keywords.

    However, in the pursuit of improving website rankings, one vital element is often overlooked—images.

    In this episode of The Private Practice Elevation Podcast, we'll explore the importance of optimizing images for SEO and provide you with tips and tricks to ensure your visual content doesn't go unnoticed by search engines.

    Why Image Optimization Matters for SEO

    Enhanced User Experience: High-quality, well-optimized images can significantly enhance the user experience on your website. Fast-loading pages with attractive visuals keep visitors engaged and reduce bounce rates, which are crucial ranking factors for search engines.

    Ranking in Google Images: Google Images is a popular search engine in its own right. Optimized images have a better chance of ranking here, driving additional organic traffic to your website. This is particularly advantageous if your site relies heavily on visual content, such as e-commerce stores or photography portfolios.

    Page Loading Speed: Image optimization plays a crucial role in improving page loading speed. Slow-loading pages can result in a poor user experience and negatively affect your SEO rankings. Compressed and properly sized images can help mitigate this issue.

    Mobile Optimization: With the increasing use of mobile devices for web browsing, image optimization becomes even more critical. Smaller file sizes ensure faster load times on mobile networks and better performance for mobile users.

    Tips and Tricks for Optimizing Images for SEO

    Choose the Right File Format: The most common image formats are JPEG, PNG, and GIF. JPEG is ideal for photographs and complex images, while PNG is better for images with transparency. Use GIFs for animations. Choosing the right format can significantly impact image quality and file size.

    Resize Images: Before uploading, resize your images to the exact dimensions needed for your website. This reduces unnecessary file size and ensures a faster loading time.

    Compression: Use image compression tools or plugins to reduce file sizes without sacrificing quality. There are many online tools and WordPress plugins available for this purpose.

    Descriptive Filenames: Give your image files descriptive filenames that include relevant keywords. For example, instead of "IMG001.jpg," use "red-convertible-car.jpg" if the image depicts a red convertible car. This helps search engines understand the image's content.

    Alt Text: Always include descriptive alt text for your images. Alt text not only improves accessibility for visually impaired users but also provides search engines with context about the image. Use relevant keywords naturally within the alt text.

    Image Titles: Consider adding titles to your images, but use them sparingly and make sure they are concise and descriptive.

    Monitor Performance: Regularly monitor your website's performance, including image load times. Tools like Google PageSpeed Insights and GTmetrix can help identify areas for improvement.

    Conclusion

    Optimizing images for SEO on your private practice website is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of digital marketing. By following these strategies, you can enhance your website's user experience, improve page load times, and increase your visibility in search engine results, including Google Images.

    Remember that SEO is an ongoing process, and regularly optimizing your images is essential to maintaining and improving your website's performance in the ever-competitive online landscape. Start prioritizing image optimization today and reap the benefits of improved search engine rankings and user engagement.