The Therapist Mom Podcast: Launch and Grow Your Private Practice

Ashley Comegys
  • 5.0 (21)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Weekly

Motherhood and private practice aren’t two separate worlds, they’re your whole world colliding every day. The Therapist Mom Podcast is your weekly reminder that you can build a practice that fits your life, not the other way around. Being a therapist and a mom isn’t about balance, it’s about building differently and refusing to play by rules that were never written for us. Hosted by Ashley Comegys, a therapist, coach, and mom of three. You’ll hear candid stories, rebellious truths, and practical strategies for designing a practice that gives you freedom, flexibility, and room to breathe. The Therapist Mom Podcast is your permission slip to build a private practice that works for your real life. Each week, you’ll get honest conversations and practical strategy around starting, growing, and running a private practice, without the hustle, guilt, or burnout. We’ll talk about boundaries, money, motherhood, and dismantling the systems that were never built for us in the first place. Because you’re not “just a mom” or “just a therapist.” You’re both, and deserve a business that recognizes and respects that. If you’re ready to build a flexible, values-aligned private practice that gives you time freedom and the autonomy you’ve been craving, you’re in the right place.

  1. 2d ago

    Ep 177: Parenting a Child with ADHD as a Therapist Mom with Dr. Carrie Jackson

    Parenting a Child with ADHD as a Therapist Mom with Dr. Carrie JacksonADHD Parenting Strategies, Late Diagnosis in Women, and Running a Practice with an ADHD BrainIf you can regulate with clients all day and then walk in the door and feel like you have nothing left for your own kids, this episode is for you. If your mornings run late no matter how early you start, or your routine chart has become something you point at fifty times a day, this one's for you too. I'll be honest, I wanted this conversation for me. I have several kids with ADHD and other kinds of neurodiversity in my house, and I was diagnosed with ADHD myself within this last year. So I sat down with Dr. Carrie Jackson, a licensed child psychologist, founder of SoCal Child Psychology in San Diego, and someone who was also diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. We talked about what it's really like to parent ADHD kids when you're also a therapist and business owner, and the practical tools that make home feel a little less chaotic. What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy so many women are diagnosed with ADHD later in life: and why motherhood, postpartum, and perimenopause are often when the coping strategies stop working.Why starting earlier won't fix your ADHD mornings: and how to make time visible so your kids don't have to rely on memory.How to handle the constant talking without crushing your kid's excitement: simple cues that tell your child "I hear you, give me one minute."How to stop the ADHD mental load from defaulting to mom: one small structural shift that gets both parents in the loop from day one.The systems Carrie uses to run two businesses with ADHD: delegating, automating, time blocking, and a shutdown routine that sets up tomorrow. Episode TimestampsTimestamps are approximate and should be confirmed after the final edit. [05:20]: Late ADHD diagnosis in moms and the overlap with postpartum and perimenopause[08:30]: How parents discover their own ADHD during their child's evaluation[10:20]: Why therapist parents struggle to spot ADHD in their own kids[11:00]: Regulating after a day of therapy sessions and dealing with overstimulation at home[17:40]: ADHD morning routines and making time management external[26:15]: The ADHD mental load, school advocacy, and sharing it with a partner[29:50]: Running a private practice and business with ADHD: delegating, automating, and time blocking[35:10]: How Carrie started creating content and why it works with an ADHD brain[37:50]: Social media and brand partnerships for therapists who want income beyond client hours Top Takeaways on Parenting a Child with ADHD as a Therapist Mom1. Why Starting Earlier Won't Fix ADHD MorningsWhen mornings always run late, most parents try waking everyone up earlier. Carrie has watched families do this again and again, and it usually still runs late. The issue isn't the start time. It's that time management, planning, and organization usually happen inside the brain, and ADHD brains don't do that internal math. Here's how you can start making time visible today: Step 1: Put clocks in more than one place, like the bathroom and by the front door, so your kids see the time where they're actually doing the task.Step 2: Use digital clocks. A lot of kids can't easily read analog clocks anymore.Step 3: Move the routine chart (or a piece of it) to every spot where a step happens. If you're saying "go look at your chart" every morning, you've become the chart. 2. How Therapist Moms Can Regulate After a Day of SessionsWe spend all day holding other people's emotions, and then we're expected to show up calm and regulated for our own kids. Carrie works with ADHD kids one hour at a time, with every skill she has, and she still feels overstimulated afterward. You have your kids all day. Acknowledge how hard that is first. Needing quiet time away from your kids doesn't make you a bad parent.Look for support through therapy, after-school activities, and extracurriculars.Try noise-reducing earplugs like Loop. They don't block your kids out, they just turn the volume down.For constant talking, have your child jot a quick sticky note or drawing so they won't forget, or use a cue like a hand on their shoulder that means "I hear you, give me one minute." 3. Sharing the ADHD Mental Load So It Doesn't All Default to MomA diagnosis can bring relief and then a whole new pile of work: IEP meetings, school calls, therapy homework, medication appointments. In most families, that load defaults to mom. That's a systemic pattern, not a personal failure. Ask every provider and school to have both parents' contact information from the start.If you notice you're the only one getting emails and calls, say something. Ask them to reach out to both of you.Split specific appointments with your partner so the coordination isn't all yours. 4. Running a Private Practice with ADHD: Systems That WorkCarrie runs two businesses with ADHD, and she's clear that she doesn't do it all herself. Here's what works for her brain: Delegate or automate repeatable tasks: Training someone can feel like more work than doing it yourself, but repeatable processes are worth handing off. Use automated appointment reminders in your EHR or scheduler.Time block your to-do list: Put tasks on your calendar, not just client sessions, so you have to estimate how long things take.Use a shutdown routine: Check urgent emails, sign notes, close tabs, and choose your number one priority for tomorrow.Start with the tools you already use: Digital tools that sync across your phone and computer usually beat buying something new. Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeCarrie's free webinar, 3 ADHD Parenting Tools for a Calmer, Happier HomeCarrie's websiteSoCal Child PsychologyCarrie on InstagramTherapist Brand Partnership Accelerator waitlist ⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here 🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking 🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period 📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower 📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE 📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com 🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

  2. Oct 26

    Ep 176: How to Cancel Clients When Your Kid Is Sick

    Navigating Sick Days in Private Practice as a Therapist MomThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is filled with practical strategies for navigating those inevitable sick days when motherhood and private practice collide. If you’ve ever found yourself juggling a client caseload while fielding that dreaded call from daycare or school, wondering how you’ll reschedule appointments, protect your income, or just get through the day without guilt, you’re in the right place. As a fellow therapist, mom, and business owner, I know firsthand how disruptive a last-minute sick child can be to your day, your schedule, and your sense of control. It’s never as simple as just “calling out”—when you’re the boss, the admin, and the backup caregiver, every decision can feel loaded. Let's talk about how to manage these moments with less overwhelm, a lot more clarity, and absolutely no shaming yourself for being human. In this episode, I share my honest experience from when my daughter came home sick, and how I went from chaos to calm—not because it was easy, but because I put a few key systems in place before the next inevitable sick day hit. If you’re building a private practice around the (sometimes sticky, sometimes snotty) realities of motherhood, this one’s for you. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeMaking a Sick Day Plan: How to quickly assess your options when your child is unexpectedly sent home and how to set boundaries around rescheduling and cancellations.Streamlining Client Communication: The templates and systems I use to let clients know about cancellations with clarity and compassion—without overexplaining or apologizing excessively.Building a Buffer for Lost Income: Why planning for the unpredictable protects your financial and emotional well-being, and how to start doing this right now. Episode Timestamps00:02: Introduction to the realities of balancing private practice and motherhood in real time.00:54: Story of receiving the daycare call—scrambling to rearrange appointments and the cascading impact.04:12: Discussing the emotional fallout: income loss, guilt, and second-guessing yourself.09:11: Tactical advice on what most workplaces provide that private practitioners often lack—and why you need a plan.11:23: Step-by-step checklist for handling cancellations and communication.13:58: Using systems and templates to minimize chaos during child sick days.17:53: How to protect your income and create a “sick day buffer” in your practice.19:36: Reframing the experience: Why you’re not alone if this feels hard—and why you’re not failing. Top Takeaways on Navigating Sick Days as a Therapist Mom1. Proactive Planning for Sick DaysLet’s break this down: You can’t control when a child gets sick, but you can control how you respond. A key theme that emerged in this episode is the importance of having a simple, go-to plan ready—before the chaos starts. I shared how I developed my own “sick day checklist” so that when that daycare number pops up, I don’t freeze or panic—I follow the plan. For example, knowing which appointments to cancel, how to assess if you can see any clients from home, and deciding with confidence (not guilt!) helps you feel less out of control in the moment. 2. Streamlining Communication with ClientsHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY: Step 1: Have a saved message template for last-minute cancellations. I use, “My child is sick, I need to cancel today’s session. I’m so sorry for the short notice. You’ll have priority for open slots this week.”Step 2: Use an online scheduling tool or EHR that allows clients to rebook themselves. I use Jane, but anything that cuts down on back-and-forth is a lifesaver.Step 3: Don’t overexplain. Your clients understand more than you think, and they don’t need all the details about your child’s illness to respect your boundaries 13:58. 3. Avoiding Common PitfallsWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do when sick days hit: Mistake 1: Waiting until the last minute to decide on cancellations—this only increases your stress.Mistake 2: Feeling obligated to apologize excessively or justify every detail to clients.Mistake 3: Not building a financial cushion for missed work—sick kids are inevitable, but an income “buffer” is empowering, not optional. If you’ve been holding your breath every time the school nurse calls, or if you’re tired of feeling like you have to choose between being a good mom and a good therapist, you’re not alone. This episode is here to help you set compassionate boundaries, streamline your sick day strategy, and give yourself the same grace you give your clients. ⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here 🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking 🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period 📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower 📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE 📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com 🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

  3. Oct 19

    Ep 175: When to Hire Help in Your Private Practice

    When (and How) to Get Admin Support in Your Private PracticeBuilding Systems, Trusting Tech, and Keeping Your Practice Human with Julie Durnan of JaneIf you've ever felt that little flinch when another company shows up promising to make your practice easier, you're not being cynical. You're being a good clinician. So much of the tech in our field was built by people who have never sat with a client and don't understand what's at stake when you're holding someone's mental health and their private information in your hands. We've learned to be wary, and honestly, for good reason. But wary doesn't have to mean doing it all alone. In this episode, Ashley talks with Julie Durnan, a naturopathic doctor who spent 20 years on every side of a clinic: the treatment room, the front desk, and the business behind it all. Julie built GingerDesk to give practitioners their time back, and when it was acquired by Jane in 2026 she stayed on to lead what's now Jane Admin Services. She's a founder, a builder, and a mom, and she still owns a clinic and sees patients, so everything she shares comes from the practitioner's chair first. This one is for the solo or newer practitioner who is holding all of it themselves, staring at the admin pile, wondering when they're actually allowed to get help, and trying to tell the difference between a company that truly cares and one that just says the right things. Julie's answer starts with a four-week-old baby strapped to her chest and a front desk that just quit, and it ends somewhere genuinely useful for your practice. What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow to tell the difference between tech built for a bottom line and tech built by people who have actually done the workWhy about 90% of a sustainable practice is systems, not marketing, and where to beginWhen to bring in admin support, and the first tasks to hand off without losing controlHow to price your work so that getting support is actually possibleThe one intake system every new practice needs before anything else Episode Timestamps[00:03] The earned distrust of tech in our field, and why not every company is the same[02:14] Meet Julie Durnan: naturopathic doctor, founder of GingerDesk, now Head of Admin Services at Jane[07:16] When motherhood and business collide, and why chasing perfect balance keeps you stuck[13:58] Making peace with messy, and the glass balls versus plastic balls of practice and parenting[17:12] When and how a solo practitioner should bring in admin support[25:09] What real customer care looks like, from feature requests to support[29:17] What Jane Admin Services actually does for practitioners[35:23] The one system every new practice needs Top Takeaways on Building a Supported, Sustainable Practice1. Not All Practice Tech Is Built the Same The distrust is earned, and Julie doesn't argue with it. What makes a company different is who built it and the question they ask when they make decisions. Jane was started by a clinic owner, so the question in the room is never "how does this move a metric," it's "how does this help the clinic." When you're sizing up any tool or company, listen for whether the people building it have actually run a practice. 2. Systems, Not Marketing, Keep a Practice Alive Julie opened her first clinic believing that if she marketed well and treated patients well, everything else would fall into place. Then her front desk quit three months in and every system walked out the door, because it all lived in one person's head. The lesson: most of running a practice is building repeatable systems. Start by getting what's in your head onto paper so your practice can survive one person leaving. 3. Stop Chasing Balance, Build Around Priorities and Seasons Julie's reframe is to drop the idea of perfect balance and ask instead, "what do I need to protect today?" Some days that's a work sprint, some days it's your kid, some days it's a walk outside so you're actually useful to both. Make peace with messy, know your glass balls from your plastic ones, and let the rest be imperfect. Protecting one non-negotiable, for Julie it's exercise and time in nature, is what keeps the whole thing sustainable. 4. Know When to Bring in Support, and How to Do It Right The best time to get admin help is earlier than you think, while systems are still simple to set up. Begin with the smallest task to build trust, then expand. Two things matter most: charge enough that outsourcing admin is warranted, which is about pricing your work fairly rather than having a huge caseload, and define your expectations before anyone starts, the role, the hours, the tasks, and the outcome you want. Most hiring regret is really an onboarding and expectations problem. Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeLearn more about Jane and book a free demo HERE and use code ASHLEY1MO for a one month grace period when you sign up ⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here 🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking 🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period 📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower 📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE 📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com 🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

  4. Oct 12

    Ep 174: The Hidden Costs of Therapy Platforms for Therapists

    Navigating Therapy Practice Platforms: The Hidden Costs and Real Choices for Therapist MomsThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you make empowered, informed decisions about using therapy practice platforms like Headway, Alma, Grow Therapy, and Rula. If you’ve been feeling stuck in the overwhelm of private practice logistics, second-guessing your platform choices, or wondering if you’re missing better options for building a sustainable practice, you’re in the right place. As someone who’s navigated this path since earning my LCSW back in 2015—and made plenty of “learn as you go” decisions—I know how heavy the pressure can feel when you’re trying to grow a career and a family at the same time. You deserve honest, non-judgmental guidance about what these platforms truly offer (and what they don’t), so you can run your practice your way—and fully own your choices. Let’s dig into what today’s shifts in practice management mean for you, your paycheck, and your peace of mind. What You’ll Learn in This Episode1. Why Providers Turn to Therapy Platforms: Learn why therapy platforms seem appealing (especially for moms and those craving more control and time freedom), and the nuanced realities behind their promises. 2. The True Costs and Risks of Platform Dependency: This episode breaks down the recently announced Headway marketplace fee, explores the bigger business model behind these platforms, and helps you rethink what these costs mean for your own financial goals and practice autonomy. 3. Catalyzing Change Without Shame or Guilt: Discover how to make empowered, shame-free choices about which tools you use, and get practical steps for reclaiming control—whether you stay on a platform or build something on your own terms. Episode Timestamps00:02: The vital importance of ownership, autonomy, and nuance in building your private practice as a mom.02:07: Headway’s new marketplace service fee and why it’s causing such a stir for therapists.03:54: Navigating shame, judgment, and real-life reasons why so many providers choose these platforms.06:37: What therapy platforms actually do for you: credentialing, billing, marketing—and the limitations.09:35: Real talk on the harm of shaming colleagues for their platform choices and how support—not shame—moves us forward.14:46: Running the numbers: A breakdown of the true financial impact of Headway’s marketplace fee.17:39: Venture-backed business models, changing contracts, and the critical risks of relying on platforms for your caseload.20:12: Strategic steps you can take now—whether you want to stay on a platform or build your own credentialing foundation. Top Takeaways on Navigating Therapy Practice Platforms1. You Deserve Choices—Not ShameLet’s break this down: Every therapist mom’s life context is different. Many turn to platforms like Headway because the idea of handling credentialing, billing, and non-stop marketing feels overwhelming or simply isn’t possible in their current season. That doesn’t make you less professional or less committed. The real issue isn’t with those who use platforms—it’s with systems that don’t make alternative paths clear or accessible. Shame has no place here; instead, let’s get curious and strategic about what works for your reality 03:54. 2. Know the True Cost—And Stay InformedHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY: Step 1: Run the math for any platform you’re considering or already using—$10 a session adds up to thousands each year. Step 2: Check if your profile is listed in platform marketplaces without your knowledge and adjust your settings to direct clients to you personally, if possible 15:16. Step 3: Stay informed about sudden platform changes. The real concern isn’t just one fee—it’s the business model where your reliance on their referrals puts your income and autonomy in their hands. 3. Planning for Freedom—Without PanicWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do: Mistake 1: Don’t assume using a platform is your only path, or that you’re “stuck” forever—credentialing is hard, but absolutely doable with support and learning 22:30.Mistake 2: Don’t let shame or peer judgment keep you from making the best choice for your family or business right now.Mistake 3: Reacting in panic (rage-quitting a platform overnight) rather than planning a thoughtful, stepwise transition if that’s where you want to go. Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeFree CEU on Credentialing Your Own Practice: Practical guidance on the credentialing process, hosted by Kim Tolson and others.Kim Tolson’s Bill Like a Boss Course & Membership: Step-by-step support for learning how to credential for your own private practice. ⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here 🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking 🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period 📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower 📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE 📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com 🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

  5. Oct 5

    Ep 173: Why Every Therapist Needs Perinatal Mental Health Training

    Why Every Therapist Working With Parents Needs Perinatal Mental Health TrainingPerinatal Mental Health Training for Therapists Who Work With ParentsPregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood are not ordinary life stages with a baby added on top. Anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, identity shifts, relationship strain. All of it can look and behave differently during the perinatal period. And yet most of us walked out of grad school having never heard the word perinatal. If you see parents in your practice, and almost all of us do, this episode is for you. Even if you would never call yourself a perinatal specialist. I sat down with Melissa Medjuck and Kate Borsato, co-founders of The Perinatal Collective, a team of more than 20 therapists supporting families across Canada. We talk about what makes this stage clinically distinct, why the standard interventions often do not land with new parents, and the gaps most training programs leave us to fill on our own. I will be honest, I did not get this training in grad school either. I came to it after my first baby, and I think back on clients I saw before that certification and wish I had known what I know now. That is exactly why this conversation matters. What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy the perinatal period is clinically different from anxiety or depression at any other life stageWhat a generalist therapist can miss or misread when a new parent is in the roomWhy intrusive thoughts and postpartum OCD are so common, and how to tell them apart from actual riskHow untreated perinatal struggles show up years later in your clientsWhy you do not need full certification to support parents well, and where to start Episode Timestamps00:00: Introduction—why honest, strategic perinatal mental health conversations matter for all therapists00:47: Guest intros and the Perinatal Collective’s mission to ensure no parent waits for care05:35: The shocking lack of perinatal education in most counseling and social work training12:11: What makes pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood fundamentally different clinically14:04: The influence of systems—childcare, gender roles, finances—and why mental health never exists in a vacuum23:29: Why every therapist (not just perinatal specialists) needs basic training to support parents29:00: The danger of missing (or mishandling) issues like intrusive thoughts or dad’s postpartum depression33:31: Creating the Perinatal Mental Health Conference—filling the gap with relevant, nuanced, real-world education Top Takeaways on Perinatal Mental Health Training1. The perinatal period is clinically distinct, not just new-parent stressWhen a client is building a family, every dimension of life shifts at once. Hormones, sleep, identity, relationships, the body itself. On top of that, the stakes feel impossibly high, so an ordinary worry can balloon into something that runs all day. Kate names it well: this is the before-and-after pivot of a person's life. If you treat it like regular anxiety that happens to coincide with a baby, you will miss what is actually going on. 2. Most of us got nothing on this in grad schoolKate, Melissa, and I all said the same thing. Nobody mentioned perinatal mental health in our training. The good news is you do not have to go get fully certified to help. A few courses, some focused learning, or a conference can teach you what presents differently and where your usual interventions fall flat. Telling a new parent to rest and ask for help is lovely in theory and often useless in their actual reality. Learning the nuance is what makes you useful. 3. Intrusive thoughts and postpartum OCD are common and misunderstoodAround 50% of moms report intrusive thoughts about intentionally harming their child, and nearly all parents have intrusive thoughts about their child being hurt. These are anxiety-based, not dangerous, but when a provider does not know the difference, they can mishandle a disclosure badly and shut a parent down for good. Knowing how to sit with a scary thought, ask direct questions, and tell an intrusive thought apart from genuine risk is some of the most important work you can do here. 4. You do not have to specialize, but you do have to know when to referPerinatal struggles do not disappear on their own. Clients show up years later still carrying what started in pregnancy or postpartum. Dads and non-birthing parents experience postpartum depression too, which surprises a lot of providers. The goal of this episode is not to send you running for a certification. It is awareness: recognize when something perinatal is in the room, and either build the skills or refer to someone who has them. Resources Mentioned in This EpisodePerinatal Mental Health Conference (virtual, November 4 to 6, 2026, 55+ sessions): https://perinatalcollective.com/conference — use code EMPOWER15 for 15% off registrationThe Abundant Therapist Mastermind: https://perinatalcollective.com/the-abundant-therapist-mastermindThe Perinatal Collective website: https://perinatalcollective.com/Follow The Perinatal Collective on Instagram: @theperinatalcollective and @insidethepractice ⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here 🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking 🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period 📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower 📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE 📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com 🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

  6. Sep 28

    Ep 172: Is It Ethical for Therapists to Use AI in Private Practice?

    AI for Therapists: HIPAA Compliance, Therapy Notes, and Keeping Your Clinical JudgmentLet's be honest. Most of us are either all in on AI or convinced it's the beginning of the end for our profession. I think the truth lives somewhere in the messy middle, and that's exactly where this episode sits. This is a replay of episode 137, and I'm bringing it back because the AI conversation in our field hasn't slowed down one bit. I'm not here to convince you to use AI or to scare you away from it. I'm sharing what I've seen, where I have real concerns, and how an AI documentation tool helped me catch up on notes during a postpartum season with a baby who wasn't sleeping and a military move on the horizon. If you've been curious but cautious, or you've felt judged for even thinking about it, this one's for you. What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy the AI conversation feels so loaded for therapists, and how fear of the "ethics police" can shut down the nuance we needThe difference between consumer AI and healthcare grade AI, and why the real ethical question isn't "is it AI?" but "who controls the data?"My non-negotiable checklist for choosing an AI tool, including HIPAA compliance, a BAA, encryption, and making sure it isn't training on your client dataWhere I use AI in my practice and where I never will (spoiler: clinical judgment stays with me)A simple script for talking to clients about AI note taking, plus what to do if a client says no Episode Timestamps[00:52]: Why this episode isn't about convincing therapists to use or avoid AI in private practice[04:16]: Confidentiality fears, ethics anxiety, and when caution tips into paranoia for therapists[05:01]: How big box therapy platforms earned our distrust around client data[07:00]: Consumer AI tools like ChatGPT vs. HIPAA compliant AI built for healthcare[08:24]: The real ethical question about AI in therapy: who controls the data[12:11]: How an AI note template improved my documentation for insurance clients[14:43]: The boundaries I keep around AI in my private practice[16:42]: What to look for in an AI tool for therapists: HIPAA, BAA, encryption, and data training[20:23]: Therapist judgment, working mom realities, and the systems that squeeze our time[21:49]: How to talk to therapy clients about AI note taking and consent[23:15]: Staying sustainable, ethical, and judgment free as a profession Top Takeaways on AI for Therapists1. The Ethical Question Is About the Data, Not the TechnologyChatGPT and other consumer tools are not HIPAA compliant, and they should never touch client information. But healthcare grade AI tools exist, and they're built around encryption, access controls, and a signed BAA. Before you decide AI is off limits, ask the questions that actually matter: Where does the data go? Who can see it? Who controls it? 2. What to Look for in an AI Documentation ToolIf you're considering AI for therapy notes, here's your starting checklist: HIPAA compliant: Anything touching your notes has to protect client informationA BAA available: Same standard you hold your EHR toData encryption: Non-negotiableNo training on your client data: Your sessions should never be teaching the AIBuilt for healthcare: Not a general tool with a healthcare feature tacked on 3. AI Is a Productivity Tool, Not a ClinicianI use AI to help draft documentation, write letters to other providers, and make sure I'm capturing what matters. I review and edit every note. What I don't use it for is diagnosing, choosing a treatment approach, or any clinical decision. I went to school for that. The AI didn't. Keeping that line clear is what keeps me inside my ethical boundaries. 4. Talking to Clients About AI Doesn't Have to Be ComplicatedYou don't need to over explain. Something like, "I'm looking at using a secure tool to support documentation so I can stay more present in sessions. I'll send you a letter with more detail and a consent form if you're open to it." And if a client says no? That's their right. You can still dictate a summary after session and get a stronger note than typing it from scratch. Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeBerries AI (the AI documentation tool I use): Use code RAISEDTOEMPOWER for $50 off ⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here 🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking 🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period 📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower 📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE 📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com 🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

  7. Sep 21

    Ep 171: Simplify Your Private Practice Marketing

    Simplifying Private Practice Marketing: Strategies for Therapist MomsThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with real-world, actionable insights to help you market your private practice in a way that actually fits your life (without burning out or losing yourself along the way). If you’ve been overwhelmed by marketing, felt that tug to do “all the things,” or are wondering how to draw in the right clients while honoring your limits as a parent, you’re in the right place. As someone who’s navigated the juggle of motherhood, private practice, military spouse life, and all the messy, beautiful realities that come with it, I know firsthand how easy it is to fall into the trap of comparison and hustle. Spoiler: You don’t have to. Sometimes, it’s a small pivot—giving yourself permission to simplify or say no—that makes all the difference for your sanity and your referrals. In this episode, I’m sharing the strategies that have helped me (and the therapists I support) step out of marketing survival mode, focus on what actually works, and drop the guilt about not doing it all. Whether you’re brand new to private practice, shifting from full-time work, or a seasoned therapist looking to fine-tune your systems, this episode was designed with you in mind. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to Ditch “Survival Mode” Marketing: Why doing more isn’t always better—and how intentional simplicity can make marketing less overwhelming.Finding YOUR Aligned Strategies: Discover how to identify the few strategies that actually move the needle for your unique client base.The Two Non-Negotiables for Long-Term Success: Learn why a website and intentional networking are critical, no matter what else you try. Episode Timestamps00:00: Honoring the realities of building a private practice as a mom and why “all-in” marketing isn’t always the answer.01:54: Moving beyond hustle—how to choose marketing strategies based on what works for you (not just copying others).06:57: Why feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by marketing doesn't mean you’re failing—it might just mean you need to edit your approach.13:00: The 3–5 Strategies Rule: How to simplify and select only the most effective ways to reach your clients.19:32: Why having your own website—and building real referral connections—are must-haves, not optional extras.26:12: Practical reflection: How to audit your current marketing efforts and let go of what isn’t serving you. Top Takeaways on Simplifying Private Practice MarketingIntentional Marketing Beats Doing Everything Let’s break this down: “Spaghetti at the wall” marketing—trying every single platform or strategy just because someone else is doing it—doesn’t automatically lead to more clients. In fact, it often leads to burnout, self-doubt, and wasted energy. I’ve been there: signing up for every directory, half-heartedly posting everywhere, all because it looked like “the answer” for someone else. The truth? When you focus on what feels sustainable for you and matches where your clients actually search, your marketing becomes more effective and much less draining. 02:22 for my candid story on this shift. Focus on 3–5 Core Marketing Strategies Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY:Step 1: Audit what you’re currently doing—where are clients actually finding you? Which activities drain your energy?Step 2: Identify your top 3–5 marketing strategies. Non-negotiables? A clear, client-friendly website and intentional networking with referral sources.Step 3: Give yourself permission to let go of anything that isn’t moving the needle, even if it works for others. Simplicity = sustainability and results. 13:00. Don’t Let Comparison or “Shiny Objects” Derail You We all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do when applying these strategies:Mistake 1: Switching strategies every time someone else says there’s a “better” way—this prevents you from gaining traction.Mistake 2: Confusing social media engagement (likes, views, followers) with real client inquiries and actual business growth. ⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here 🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking 🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period 📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower 📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE 📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com 🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

  8. Sep 14

    Ep 170: How to Know You're Ready to Start a Private Practice

    How to Stop Waiting for the "Perfect Time" to Start Your Private PracticeThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is filled with honest, practical insights to help you finally take action on starting your private practice—even if life feels busy, messy, or overwhelming. If you’ve been caught in a cycle of waiting, over-preparing, or second-guessing every move, and wonder if you’ll ever feel “ready,” you’re in exactly the right place. As someone with over a decade in private practice, and as a mom who has built a business while juggling motherhood, unpredictability, and those all-too-familiar waves of self-doubt, I know firsthand that the moment you feel fully ready rarely—if ever—arrives. What matters isn’t waiting for total confidence or perfect timing; it’s taking that first small step in the midst of your real, beautiful, complicated life. Let’s get real about what’s keeping you on the sidelines and how you can finally begin. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to Tell the Difference Between Real Constraints and Fear: You’ll learn to spot the sneaky ways fear disguises itself as “reasonable” reasons to wait, and how to recognize true logistical barriers.Why “Ready” is a Decision—Not a Feeling: We’ll unpack how to give yourself permission to move forward, even when self-doubt is loud.Action Steps for Getting Unstuck: Practical strategies, scripts, and mindset shifts to help you take the next step toward building the career (and life) you want. Episode Timestamps00:02: Opening honesty about motherhood, private practice, and why the “perfect time” myth keeps us stuck.01:45: Examining reasons women therapists delay starting—life seasons, certifications, “more research”—and uncovering what’s underneath.07:03: Why real-life barriers and fear are so hard to separate, and the consequences of endless preparation.10:31: How systems, training, and culture teach us to overprepare and internalize self-doubt.16:47: The truth about readiness: why you’ll never feel fully prepared, and why that’s not a problem.19:07: Step-by-step: How to identify real vs. “ambient” constraints and move forward—even if it’s messy.23:59: How courage (not confidence) propels you forward, and how to let go of waiting.25:29: Next steps and how to get clarity (plus, how to connect for a coaching consult). Top Takeaways on Starting a Private Practice as a Therapist Mom1. Learn to Spot Fear Disguised as LogisticsLet’s break this down: We all have legitimate seasons—babies, school transitions, financial realities—that can impact timing. But more often, the reasons we give ourselves (“I need another certification,” “It’s just not the right time”) are really masked fear. This shows up as endless prep, research, and delaying. The first step is to get radically honest about what’s truly holding you back. Example: As I shared in this episode, my own leap into private practice was tangled with fear of failure, fear of judgment, and a long list of “responsible” reasons to wait. The truth? That list kept regenerating every season until I finally decided to do it scared. 2. Ready Isn’t a Feeling—It’s a ChoiceHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY: Step 1: Write down all the reasons you’re telling yourself “not now.” Split them into two categories: Real Constraints (logistics like money, childcare, licensing) and Fear-Based Narratives (“I’m not prepared,” “What will others think?”).Step 2: For the real constraints, create a concrete plan (even a single, tiny step—like researching business bank accounts or listing names for your practice). For the fear-based reasons, give yourself permission to take action anyway.Pro tip: Remember, confidence comes from doing. Each small step quiets fear and builds momentum. 3. Don’t Fall Into the Trap of OverpreparingWe all make mistakes, but let’s save you the headache. Here’s what NOT to do: Mistake 1: Believing another certification or another podcast episode will make you “ready.” That moment never comes—you always find something else to wait for.Mistake 2: Expecting life to “calm down” before you begin. With motherhood, there is always another season around the corner.Bonus: Thinking you need to build your whole practice at once. Small, imperfect steps forward are enough. ⭐️ You don’t have to figure this out alone. Ashley Comegys specializes in helping therapist moms build private practices that allow them the time freedom, flexibility and autonomy they need in their careers. Looking for support in either starting your practice, or looking to revamp your marketing and systems? Let’s chat, book a free consultation here 🫶🏼 Join us for Therapist Mom Networking Meetup — a casual space to connect with other therapist moms, share what’s working in your practice, talk through challenges, and build real community. No pressure, no pitching — just support and connection. Register at https://www.raisedtoempower.com/networking 🩵 This episode is sponsored by Jane, the all-in-one practice management software I use and love. Book your FREE Live Demo HERE and when you're ready to sign up use code ASHLEY1MO for a 1 month grace period 📌 Follow on Instagram @Raisedtoempower 📌 Grab your FREE networking guide for therapists HERE 📌 Learn more about how I can help support you and your practice, and ways we can work together at www.raisedtoempower.com 🎙️ If you find today's episode helpful or inspiring, be sure to share it with your therapist friends, subscribe to the show, and leave your five star rating and review. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, supervision, or legal advice.

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Motherhood and private practice aren’t two separate worlds, they’re your whole world colliding every day. The Therapist Mom Podcast is your weekly reminder that you can build a practice that fits your life, not the other way around. Being a therapist and a mom isn’t about balance, it’s about building differently and refusing to play by rules that were never written for us. Hosted by Ashley Comegys, a therapist, coach, and mom of three. You’ll hear candid stories, rebellious truths, and practical strategies for designing a practice that gives you freedom, flexibility, and room to breathe. The Therapist Mom Podcast is your permission slip to build a private practice that works for your real life. Each week, you’ll get honest conversations and practical strategy around starting, growing, and running a private practice, without the hustle, guilt, or burnout. We’ll talk about boundaries, money, motherhood, and dismantling the systems that were never built for us in the first place. Because you’re not “just a mom” or “just a therapist.” You’re both, and deserve a business that recognizes and respects that. If you’re ready to build a flexible, values-aligned private practice that gives you time freedom and the autonomy you’ve been craving, you’re in the right place.

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