The Connected Therapist | Private Practice, Self-Care, Marketing, Burnout, Counseling, Couples Therapy

9: Beyond the To-Do List: Goal Setting for Therapists Who Want to Thrive

As a therapist, you’re great at helping clients set goals—but what about your own? We want you to thrive and to feel fulfilled in your life and career. In this episode, we’re taking on compassionate goal setting—one that prioritizes sustainability, self-care, and meaningful progress over hustle and perfection. We talk through science-backed strategies that are more likely to get you the results you are hoping for and encourage you to take actionable steps toward your values-driven goals. 
 
Resources: 
Brené Brown Values Handout
Gretchen Rubin's Four Tendencies Quiz/resources
Episode 2: Setting Your Vision As A Therapist 
Episode 4: Self-Compassion in Therapy: Why It's Essential For Both You and Your Clients
Atomic Habits by James Clear
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
Partner: 
Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card  
 
Next Steps:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Leave us a written review wherever you are listening.
 
Let's Connect: 
Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/
Join the community: The Community + Membership
Get the newsletter
 

8: Feeling Stuck As A Therapist in Your Work With a Client? 5 Ways to Reconnect & Reset.

As therapists, we all experience moments of helplessness, hopelessness, or feeling stuck with a client. But what if these moments are invitations for deeper understanding rather than signs of failure? In this episode, we explore five key ways to shift from feeling ineffective to reconnecting with curiosity and presence in your work.
What We Cover:
Why therapists sometimes feel stuck
How countertransference plays a role 
5 ways to get unstuck, including:
Embracing the relational moment rather than trying to “fix” things.
Working experientially.
Shifting from judgment to curiosity.
Engaging in consultation and self-reflection.
Giving yourself permission to be human.
Before you move on with your day, take a moment to reflect: What’s one small shift you can experiment with in your work this week? Whether it’s noticing your own somatic responses, naming a relational dynamic, or reaching out for support—change happens in moments of presence, not perfection.
 
Resources: 
Episode 4: Self-Compassion in Therapy: Why It's Essential for Both You and Your Clients
 
Partner: 
Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card  
 
Next Steps:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Leave us a written review wherever you are listening.
 
Let's Connect: 
Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/
Join the community: The Community + Membership
Get the newsletter
 

7: Growing Your Therapy Practice: Practical Tips and Strategies For Getting More Clients

Building a thriving therapy practice takes more than just clinical skills—it requires strategy, networking, and visibility. In this episode, we share key insights on how to attract clients, connect with referral sources, and make it easier for people to find and work with you. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, these practical tips can help you create a more sustainable and fulfilling practice.
 
Tune in for actionable advice on:✨ Defining your niche to stand out✨ Building strong referral connections✨ Making it easy for clients to book with you✨ Leveraging online and local opportunities for growth
 
Sponsor: 
Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. 
Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card  
 
Next Steps:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Leave us a written review wherever you are listening.
 
Let's Connect: 
Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/
Join the community: The Community + Membership
Get the newsletter
 

6: How to Use Contracting to Create Safety, Agency, and Treatment Plans in Therapy

In this episode, we’re talking about contracting and treatment planning—  a dynamic, co-created process that foster safety, agency, and the potential for change, growth and healing for our clients.
🔹 What You’ll Learn:
How relational contracting moves beyond logistics to create deeper therapeutic alignment and the potential for change 
Why contracting (and treatment planning in this way) is a power-with way of working with clients
Key insights from NARM, IPNB, and experiential therapy models
How to document treatment plans in a way that honors both clinical and relational needs
 
Sponsor: 
Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. 
Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card  
 
Next Steps:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Leave us a written review wherever you are listening.
 
Let's Connect: 
Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/
Join the community: The Community + Membership
Get the newsletter
 

5: Take Charge of Your Financial Future: Money & Boundaries for Therapists

Money and having a meaningful career doesn't have to be at odds—yet many therapists struggle with financial stress, low wages, and the emotional challenges of discussing fees and setting boundaries in the interest of caring for clients. In this episode, we explore how to understand your money beliefs, shift your mindset, set boundaries, and create a sustainable practice that truly meets your needs.
 
What You'll Learn:🔹 How your money beliefs shape your practice🔹 Strategies for managing a sliding scale without burnout🔹 Setting financial boundaries to protect your energy🔹 When and how to raise your rates with confidence🔹 Defining your “rich life” as a therapist
 
Take one actionable step today: Reflect on your financial goals, review your rates, or set a boundary that aligns with your worth. Share your commitment with a friend or on social media for accountability!
 
Resources & Links:
Profit First
I will Teach You To Be Rich
Financial Feminist and Her First 100k (podcast and book)
Money Questions
Earnings Chart
ChatGPT Prompt for Determining Financial Needs 
 
Sponsor: 
Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. 
Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card  
 
Next Steps:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Leave us a written review wherever you are listening.
 
Let's Connect: 
Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connected.therapist/
Join the community: The Community + Membership
Get the newsletter

4: Self-Compassion in Therapy: Why It’s Essential for Both You and Your Clients

What if self-compassion is key in preventing burnout and deepening your work with clients? As therapists, we encourage our clients to be kind to themselves, yet we often hold ourselves to impossibly high standards. The way we speak to ourselves and sit with ourselves can shape our emotional resilience, our ability to show up fully in sessions, and our overall well-being. In this episode, we dive into the power (and science) of self-compassion and why self-compassion is a critical part of how we relate to ourselves to prevent burnout. We also talk through ways to help clients move into compassion with themselves and the reason that self-compassion is an important aspect of treatment. 
 
In This Episode, We Cover:
The science behind self-compassion and how it impacts our mental and emotional health.
How self-criticism and being unkind toward ourselves contributes to stress, imposter syndrome, and emotional exhaustion.
The three core components of self-compassion (Dr. Kristin Neff’s framework) and how they apply to therapy:
Self-kindness – Treating yourself with warmth and understanding instead of harsh criticism.
Common humanity – Recognizing that suffering and imperfection are part of the shared human experience.
Mindfulness – Acknowledging your emotions without judgment or over-identification.
Practical exercises to cultivate a self-compassionate.
How to integrate self-compassion practices into client sessions to help them shift from self-criticism to self-kindness/compassion.
 
Resources & Links:
Dr. Kristin Neff’s Work on Self-Compassion
The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook
Tara Broch on RAIN: Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture
Understanding Self-Compassion and Empathy with Juliane Taylor Shore (YouTube)
The Neurobiology of Compassion with Juliane Taylor Shore (YouTube)
 
Sponsor: 
Simple Practice: Use this link to access an exclusive 30-day free trial PLUS an additional month free when you add a credit card. 
Access an exclusive 30-day free trial for your network PLUS an additional month free when they add a credit card  
 
Next Steps:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Leave us a written review wherever you are listening.
 
Let's Connect:
Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.org
Join the community: The Community + Membership
Free Workshop: Community/Connection/Support/Consultation for therapists
Free Workshop: Money for therapists
 
 
 

3: Feeling Burned Out or Stressed? Tips for Self-Care and Completing the Stress Response Cycle in Difficult times.

In this episode, we explore therapist self-care, especially during challenging times when the world feels heavy. Whether it's the emotional toll of global events or the personal weight of the work we do, therapists often carry the pain and distress of our clients. It’s important to remember that self-care is not just a luxury, but a necessity to stay grounded, present, and effective in our roles. Without caring for ourselves, we risk burnout. 
 
We dive into secondary trauma (or vicarious trauma)—the emotional strain we experience when absorbing our clients’ pain—and how it can manifest in symptoms like emotional exhaustion, intrusive thoughts, or even difficulty finding joy. Research shows that crises, such as global disasters, heighten the risk of secondary trauma. To combat this, we discuss the importance of setting boundaries, completing the stress-response cycle, practicing self-care strategies like body awareness, breathing exercises, and journaling, and the value of seeking support through peer consultation. Strong social connections can also reduce the emotional toll, reminding us that we don’t have to carry the weight alone.
 
This episode provides not only resources for you as the therapist but also concrete tools to offer your clients when they are experiencing stress and/or burnout. 
 
Resources: 
Burnout by Emily and Amelia Nagoski 
Unlocking Us Podcast Episode (Brené Brown with Nagoski Sisters)
Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin Neff
Trauma Stewardship: An Everyday Guide to Caring for Self While Caring for Others by Laura van Dernoot Lipsky and Connie Burk
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
Compassion Fatigue: Coping with Secondary Traumatic Stress Disorder in Those Who Treat the Traumatized by Charles R. Figley
The Mental Health Coach Podcast with Juliane Taylor Shore on Boundaries
The Mental Health Coach Podcast: Navigating Stress and Managing It
The Mental Health Coach Podcast: Tips for Learning Your Nervous System and How to Move Back Into Regulation to Handle Life's Stressors
The Mental Health Coach: How to Manage Stress and Prioritize Self-Care
 
Let’s connect:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Follow us on Instagram @connected.therapist
Leave us a written review.
The Links: 
Our Website: www.theconnectedtherapist.org
Join the community: The Community + Membership
Free Workshop: Community/Connection/Support/Consultation for therapists
Free Workshop: Money for therapists
Get a free trial for Simple Practice and then $200 in account credit if you subscribe for at least three months. 

2: Planning Your Year with Intentionality: Set Your Vision As a Therapist for 2025

In this episode, we explore how therapists can approach the new year with intentionality, crafting a vision that aligns with their values, setting meaningful goals, and building sustainable routines to maintain balance and avoid burnout. Through a mix of reflection, practical strategies, and encouragement, we discuss how to create space for personal growth and well-being. Whether you're looking to streamline your practice, strengthen self-care, or find work-life harmony, this episode offers actionable insights to help you thrive in 2025.
 
If you want to set aside time to create your vision for 2025, we are offering a free workshop for therapists.
Align and Thrive: Setting Your Vision for Your Private Practice in 2025
 When: January 24th, 12-1 PM CST on Zoom 
What you’ll gain:
✔ Create a vision + set intentions✔ Determine how much money you hope to make✔ Identify your ideal schedule and caseload✔ Build community + accountability✔ Pinpoint needs, rhythms, and rituals for self-care and growth
 
Register here: https://jenalleytherapist.myflodesk.com/vision
 
Let’s connect:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Follow us on Instagram @connected.therapist
The Links: 
www.theconnectedtherapist.org
The Community + Membership
 
 

1: Feeling Alone as a Therapist? Let’s Change That – Welcome to The Connected Therapist

Welcome to the very first episode of The Connected Therapist! We are so glad you’re here.
 
This podcast was created with one mission in mind: to build a supportive, connected community where therapists can thrive—emotionally, professionally, and personally. Whether you’re just starting your career or have been in the field for decades, this space is for you.
 
In this episode, we are sharing:
A little about our journey as therapists and why connection matters so much to us.
The vision behind The Connected Therapist and how it aligns with our mission to help therapists build sustainable, fulfilling practices.
The unique challenges we face as therapists—like isolation and burnout—and how fostering community can make all the difference.
What you can expect from this podcast: honest conversations that normalize the challenges of being a therapist, practical business and marketing tips to grow your practice, clinical insights, expert interviews, and tools to support what matters most to you as a therapist.
As therapists, we pour so much into others, often forgetting to pour into ourselves. This podcast is here to remind you that you deserve care, connection, and a space to grow.
 
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Together, we can create something truly special. Let’s get started!
 
Let’s connect:
Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode.
Share this episode with a fellow therapist who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.
Follow us on Instagram @connected.therapist
The Links: 
www.theconnectedtherapist.org
The Community + Membership
Free Workshop: https://jenalleytherapist.myflodesk.com/vision
 

The Connected Therapist Trailer: Learn, Grow, Reflect, Thrive

Are you feeling isolated as a therapist, trying to grow your private practice, or wrestling with imposter syndrome? Or, maybe you’re someone who loves diving into therapeutic concepts, exploring business growth strategies, and discovering ways to expand both personally and professionally.
 
If any of that resonates, you’re in the right place. This podcast is all about helping therapists like you build emotionally and financially sustainable practices.
 
We’re your hosts, Gillian Amaro and Jen Alley—Licensed Professional Counselors and Supervisors, each with over 15 years of experience. We’ve been there: navigating burnout, battling imposter syndrome, and facing the loneliness that often comes with running a private practice.
 
We believe being both human and a therapist is a journey of continual learning, growth, and connection. Through this podcast, we’ll share practical tips, actionable strategies, and thought-provoking conversations to support you in creating a community, a practice, and a life you love.
 
If you’re ready to build a practice that feels good emotionally and financially, deepen your self-awareness, or learn more about experiential therapy, this podcast is for you.
 
We’re so glad you are here. grab your coffee—or better yet, throw on your tennies, pop in your earbuds, and let’s dive in!
 
Connect With Us: 
www.theconnectedtherapist.org
The Community + Membership
Free Workshop: https://jenalleytherapist.myflodesk.com/vision