Conquering Your Marketing Fears:

One of the most common reasons why therapists have difficulty building their private practice is fear. Many of us spend hours each week helping our clients conquer their fears, however we have difficulty getting out of our comfort zone and sharing professional selves with the community. Here are three things to consider when trying to conquer your fears around promoting your practice. 

1. IT ISN'T ABOUT SELLING YOURSELF. IT IS ABOUT BUILDING AUTHENTIC CONNECTIONS. 

Many therapists don't enjoy marketing because it feels like "schmoozing," or "selling." However, the best marketing doesn't happen this way. Building solid relationships involves creating authentic connections with individuals in the mental health community who have a passion for working with the same types of clients as you. In my piece on Creative Networking, I discuss ways to build these authentic connections. Next time you find yourself in fear over going to a networking event remind yourself that your only job is to find people who have the same passions as you and to learn more about them and their work. 

2. YOU HAVE AN INCREDIBLE AMOUNT TO SHARE. 

In case you have forgotten, you have an incredible amount of knowledge and wisdom to share with the world. If you are a licensed therapist you have likely been in school for many years, you have competed an advanced degree, and 3,000 licensing hours. In addition, you have been with people during some of the most difficult times in their lives. After all of that, marketing is a piece of cake. Don't forget how far you have come and how much you have to share with the community. 

3. PROMOTING YOUR PRACTICE HELPS CLIENTS GET THE HELP THEY NEED.

There are so many clients who need help, and there are many clients who either don't have access to therapy or who cannot find the right therapist. Spend time reflecting on this fact. Many amazing therapists are afraid to market themselves, and inevitably the ones who do will end up treating the most clients. There are clients out there who need and want your help and promoting your practice provides them with the resources they need. 

4. NO ONE IS GOING TO DO IT FOR YOU. 

The cold hard fact is that no one else is going to build your private practice for you. Although it can be fear producing at times you have an incredible amount of knowledge, wisdom, and experience to share with the world. Challenge yourself to find just one hour each week where you spend time learning about another person’s business and sharing your passions with them. I have a feeling you will be surprised by the magic that happens when you begin forming a web of connection.