Therapy For Your Money

Julie Herres

Welcome to Therapy for your Money, a podcast about all things money and finance for private practice owners! If you are ready to feel confident and in-control of your financial life, then you are in the right spot. Therapy for our Money is hosted by Julie Herres, the CEO and Founder of GreenOak Accounting. She and her firm specialize in working with private practice owners across the United States, and have assisted hundreds of private practices with increasing their financial stability and profitability. She is on a mission to share her best practices she's learned along the way through her successful career as an accountant, discusses financial topics with a wide variety of guests, and help her listeners make data driven decisions to help their businesses.

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode 206: How Much Is Too Much? The Rent Equation That Can Make or Break Your Profit

    The Rent Equation That Can Make or Break Your ProfitRent usually isn’t your biggest expense — payroll almost always takes that spot. But rent is one of the biggest long-term commitments you’ll ever make in your practice. When you sign a 5- or 10-year lease, that decision follows you. And I’ve seen it go both ways. I’ve seen beautiful spaces help practices grow efficiently and profitably. And I’ve seen gorgeous offices turn into financial anchors that are almost impossible to escape. In this episode, I’m walking you through the simple math that determines whether your space supports your profit… or slowly squeezes it. Because every practice deserves to be profitable — and the math has to math. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: 1️⃣ The ideal percentage your rent should fall within (And why 3–10% of gross income is your guardrail.) 2️⃣ How to reverse engineer your space before you sign the lease We break down real examples so you can calculate exactly how many sessions your space needs to generate. 3️⃣ Why utilization matters more than square footage Just because you’re open 40 hours doesn’t mean you can only schedule 40 hours — and that mindset shift can completely change your profitability. Final Thoughts It’s easy to fall in love with a space. It smells good. It looks beautiful. You can picture your dream practice there. But this is business. Before you sign anything, run the math. Reverse engineer it. Stress test it at 85% utilization. Ask yourself what happens if hiring takes longer than expected. Your space should support your profit — not strangle it. Ready to Run the Numbers? If you want to walk through the calculations step-by-step, I’ve written a detailed blog post that breaks everything down: 👉 Read the full blog here: https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/post/maximizing-your-space-how-to-make-physical-therapy-clinic-real-estate-work-for-your-bottom-line Do the math before you sign. Your future self — and your profit margin — will thank you. And remember… every practice deserves to be profitable. Links and Resources Money for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startupGreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.comTherapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.comProfit First for Therapists - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.comProfit First Academy - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com/Academy Podcast Production, Audio Mixing, and YouTube Video Production by James Marland

    17 min
  2. MAR 6

    Episode 205: Divorce as a Practice Owner: What You Need to Know

    Divorce is hard. It’s emotional. It’s overwhelming. And when you own a private practice, it can feel even more complicated. Your practice isn’t just a job—it’s an asset. It’s a cash flow machine. It’s how you pay your bills, support your family, and serve your clients. So what happens to it in a divorce? How is it valued? Could you lose it? What about taxes, debt, or access to your bank accounts? In this episode, I’m walking you through what you need to know about divorce as a practice owner—from business valuation to protecting your income-generating asset—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. If this is something you’re going through (or even just want to be prepared for), this episode will help you understand the financial realities and protect what you’ve built. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How your private practice is treated as an asset in a divorce Why business value is not the same as cash in handWhat happens with taxes, joint returns, and past tax debtPractical steps to protect your business access and systemsWhy your practice can be your rebuilding plan on the other sideDivorce is never easy. But if you get to keep your practice, you are keeping the very thing that allows you to rebuild. Listen to this episode for practical guidance, calm perspective, and clear next steps. And if you know another practice owner who could benefit from this conversation, share this episode with them. They don’t have to navigate this alone. Links and Resources GreenOak Accounting: greenoakaccounting.com – Book a free consultation or explore services for practice owners.Money for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startupGreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.comTherapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.comProfit First for Therapists - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.comProfit First Academy - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com/Academy Podcast Production, Audio Mixing, and Youtube Video Production by James Marland YouTube

    21 min
  3. FEB 27

    Episode 204: Looking Back at 2025, Ahead to 2026 with Jacquie & Julie

    In this quarterly review episode, Julie and Jacquie reflect on what private practice owners experienced in 2025 and what to expect in 2026. From staffing challenges and rising expenses to burnout and big leadership transitions, they share what they are seeing behind the scenes with real practices. If you want clarity, stability, and a plan for navigating uncertainty, this conversation will help you focus on what you can control and build a business that lasts. 3 Reasons to Listen Learn what is actually happening in private practices right now. Get real insights from end-of-quarter reviews with dozens of practice owners. Avoid the most common financial mistakes owners are making.From lifestyle creep to overpaying clinicians to stepping back too quickly, they break down where practices are getting into trouble and how to prevent it.You will learn why emergency funds, intentional growth, and strong leadership habits matter more than ever in a changing economy.Highlights [00:01:31] Private practice is still viable Success remains possible across models. [00:02:43] Awareness, intention, attention Three traits of stable practices. [00:03:23] Clinician pay expectation mismatch High pay, low caseload tension. [00:04:14] Benefits must match revenue Sustainability over generosity alone. [00:05:35] Owner draws under pressure Lifestyle creep creates hidden risk. [00:06:56] Emergency funds are essential Risk planning protects your practice. [00:07:41] Something will always happen Plan for inevitable disruptions. [00:08:57] Ten years of steady growth Slow growth beats flashy scaling. [00:09:51] Strong foundations matter most Structure supports long-term success. [00:10:21] The power of saying no Alignment over shiny opportunities. [00:11:23] Advisors prevent bad decisions Outside perspective adds clarity. [00:13:47] Owners want to step back Burnout driving leadership changes. [00:14:26] Gradual clinical director transition Shift responsibilities slowly. [00:16:54] One-year transition timeline Stability requires patience. [00:17:19] Never abdicate responsibility Stay engaged with your numbers. [00:18:35] Protect yourself from surprises Keep access to key systems. [00:20:23] 2026 uncertainty ahead Insurance and intake instability. [00:21:16] Control what you can Focus on efficiency and accountability. [00:22:27] Hard conversations are necessary Actionable steps over blame. [00:23:29] You always have choices Ownership means responsibility. Resources & Links Schedule a free consultation with GreenOak Accounting: https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/consultationMoney for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startupGreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.comTherapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.comProfit First for Therapists - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.comProfit First Academy - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com/Academy Podcast Production, Audio Mixing, and YouTube Video Production by James Marland Get the All About Taxes Course.

    27 min
  4. FEB 20

    Episode 203: Common Tax Credits and Deductions for Practice Owners in 2026

    Common Tax Credits and Deductions for Practice Owners in 2026 Tax season doesn’t have to be a mystery, and you might be leaving money on the table without even realizing it. In this episode, Julie Herres sits down with Adam Rook from the GreenOak Accounting tax team to break down the most common tax credits and deductions practice owners may qualify for—both on the business and personal side. Whether you run a solo or group practice, you’ll walk away with clarity about the tax savings that could make a real difference for your bottom line. 3 Reasons to Listen Cut Through the Confusion: Learn the difference between tax credits and deductions—so you’ll understand exactly how each one impacts your taxes.Find Money-Saving Opportunities: Discover which credits and deductions are actually available (and common!) for private practice owners in 2026, and learn what to ask your tax preparer.Avoid Costly Mistakes: Get tips on documentation, common pitfalls, and why you should never take your tax advice from TikTok (really!).Resources and Link GreenOak Accounting: greenoakaccounting.com – Book a free consultation or explore services for practice owners.Money for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startupGreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.comTherapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.comProfit First for Therapists - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.comProfit First Academy - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com/Academy Podcast Production, Audio Mixing, and YouTube Video Production by James Marland Get the All About Taxes Course.

    25 min
  5. FEB 13

    Episode 202: A Profit First Journey: Confessions of a First-Year Practice Owner

    A Profit First Journey: Confessions of a First-Year Practice Owner Starting a private practice can feel equal parts exciting and overwhelming—especially when it comes to money. In this episode of Therapy for Your Money, Julie sits down with Alex Antonucci, a first-year practice owner who isn’t afraid to share the honest, behind-the-scenes reality of building a financially sustainable practice from the ground up. Alex opens up about student loan debt that rivaled the cost of his home, feeling unsure about retirement savings, and the mental load that comes with not quite knowing where your money stands. He also shares how implementing Profit First before opening his doors gave him clarity, confidence, and a financial system that now supports both his business and his life. If you’re a solo practice owner—or dreaming about growing into a group practice—this conversation is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out to start. You just need a system that helps you make clear, values-aligned decisions along the way. 3 Things to Listen for in This Episode What it really feels like to start a practice with debt and uncertainty. Alex shares candidly about student loans, financial anxiety, and why he didn’t want money stress to follow him into practice ownership.How Profit First reduced decision fatigue.  Instead of constantly wondering “Can I afford this?”, Alex explains how letting the numbers guide decisions freed up mental energy and reduced stress.Planning for growth before hiring. From building buffers to offering generous benefits like PTO and retirement contributions, Alex walks through how he’s preparing to hire sustainably—without panic or guesswork.Resources & Mentions Billing Assistant Pro by Productive TherapistVirtual Assistant Support – Productive TherapistProfit First for Therapists (my book!)Profit First AcademyTherapy For Your Money websiteGreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.comTree Pittsburgh - non-profit mentioned by Alex Alex Antonucci, LPC’s practice page - https://www.waxwingwellness.com/about Podcast, YouTube,  and Other Written Assets Produced by James Marland

    23 min
  6. FEB 6

    Episode 201: How Ginger Used Red Carpet Exits to Transform Her Practice from 1099 to W2

    Making the shift from independent contractors (1099s) to employees (W2s) can feel overwhelming for private practice owners—and let’s be honest, it can stir up a lot of big feelings for your team too! In this episode, Julie Herres sits down with Ginger Houghton, owner of Bright Spot Therapy, to unpack how Ginger’s “red carpet exit” approach turned what could have been a stressful transition into an experience rooted in trust, growth, and long-term success. Whether you’re considering this move or already knee-deep in the process, Ginger’s story offers practical strategies and plenty of encouragement. Three Reasons to Listen / Three Things You’ll Learn How to Build Trust During Big Changes: Hear Ginger’s actionable steps for fostering open communication and emotional safety—before, during, and after a major team shift.Red Carpet Exits Explained: Discover what “red carpet exits” actually look like, and why supporting clinicians to leave well can help your culture (and numbers) thrive.How to Prep for a Smooth 1099-to-W2 Transition: From timelines and tough conversations to financial realities and math tools, get a real-world roadmap for making this change without losing your team.Resources & Links Mentioned Bright Spot Therapy: https://brightspottherapy.com Ginger Houghton’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginger-houghton-03ba61172/ Ginger’s Course: Navigating the 1099-to-W2 Transition: https://ginger-s-site-0d8f.thinkific.com/products/courses/from-1099-to-w2-courseGinger Houghton’s Coaching Link: https://ginger-s-site-0d8f.thinkific.com/products/live_events/coachingGreenOak Accounting – Free Consultation https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/consultationProfit First for Therapists (my book!)Profit First AcademyTherapy For Your Money websiteGreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.comPodcast Production by James MarlandGet the All About Taxes Course.

    35 min
  7. JAN 30

    Episode 200: How I Would Start My Private Practice: with $5000 (3 of 3)

    If you’ve ever dreamed about opening your own private practice, but the numbers are making your head spin (hello, startup costs!), this episode is for you. I’m walking you through exactly how I’d build a private practice with a $5,000 budget. Where I’d spend, what I’d skip, and the mindset shifts that will help you stay sane and avoid financial overwhelm. There’s a lot of advice out there, but let’s get real: you don’t need a giant pile of cash to get started, you just need a plan that works for you. Review episodes 198 and 199, where I review starting your practice with $1,000 and $3,000.  If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I be spending here? Is this something I can do myself?”—I’m sharing my honest take and the real-life steps I’d take if I were starting from scratch. This isn’t about cutting every corner; it’s about building wisely, not just quickly. Top 3 Reasons to Listen Learn where every dollar matters: I break down exactly how I’d prioritize spending when you’ve only got $5,000 to launch your practice.Get the no-fluff outsourcing list: Curious what’s actually worth outsourcing early on (and what can totally wait)? I’ve got you.Practical, fast-action steps: Walk away with real-world ways to move faster—without tossing money out the window.Resources I Mentioned Billing Assistant Pro by Productive TherapistVirtual Assistant Support – Productive TherapistProfit First for Therapists (my book!)Profit First AcademyTherapy For Your Money websiteMoney for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startupGreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.comTherapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.comPodcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation Studio https://www.coursecreationstudio.com/

    19 min
  8. JAN 23

    Episode 199: How I Would Start My Private Practice: with $3000 (2 of 3)

    Starting a private practice with a limited budget can feel daunting—but with the right plan, $3,000 can go further than you think! In this episode, Julie Herres shares exactly how she’d launch a new practice if she had $3,000 to spend. Discover the must-haves, the smart shortcuts, and the areas where a little investment makes a big difference. Listen to Discover What to prioritize with a $3,000 start-up budgetWhat tasks are worth outsourcing (and which to DIY!)Practical advice on physical space, software, and keeping expenses leanUnderstand the real timeline for getting up and runningHow to avoid common money traps when launching your practiceLinks and Resources  TherapyFlow CRM: https://crm.mytherapyflow.com/ Upwork https://www.upwork.com/ Fiverr https://www.fiverr.com/ Vistaprint:  https://www.vistaprint.com/ Meg Business All-in-one billing, credentialing and front desk solutions: https://www.megbusiness.com/ Google Business Address Verification Guidelines For Your New Location: https://help.relentless-digital.com/google-business-address-verification-guidelines-for-your-new-locationWhy You Need a Physical Office Address to Claim a Profile: https://succeedingsmall.co/google-my-business-guidelines-for-small-businesses-why-you-need-a-physical-office-address-to-claim-a-profile/Money for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startup GreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.com Therapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.com Profit First for Therapists - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com Profit First Academy - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com/Academy Podcast Production and Show Notes by Coursecreationstudio.com

    15 min
4.9
out of 5
53 Ratings

About

Welcome to Therapy for your Money, a podcast about all things money and finance for private practice owners! If you are ready to feel confident and in-control of your financial life, then you are in the right spot. Therapy for our Money is hosted by Julie Herres, the CEO and Founder of GreenOak Accounting. She and her firm specialize in working with private practice owners across the United States, and have assisted hundreds of private practices with increasing their financial stability and profitability. She is on a mission to share her best practices she's learned along the way through her successful career as an accountant, discusses financial topics with a wide variety of guests, and help her listeners make data driven decisions to help their businesses.

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