The Therapist Mom Podcast: Launch and Grow Your Private Practice

Ashley Comegys
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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.

  1. 6D AGO

    Ep 141: Is Now a Good Time to Start a Private Practice as a Therapist?

    Should You Start a Private Practice Now? Navigating Therapy Trends, Burnout, and Big Tech in 2026This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you weigh whether now is the right time to start your own therapy private practice—even in the midst of big tech disruption, insurance headaches, and collective burnout. If you’ve been losing sleep over questions like, “Is it even possible to launch a practice in this climate?” or feeling stuck on how to confidently chart your own path outside of big box platforms, you’re exactly where you need to be. As a therapist, coach, mom, and someone who’s navigated both agency work and private practice (while juggling all the things—kids, military moves, and meltdowns), I know first-hand that clarity, community, and simple strategy can make all the difference. In this episode, I’m breaking down the realities of today’s therapy landscape with warmth and honesty—so you can make informed decisions without the pressure or the fluff. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeUnderstanding the Impact of Big Tech Platforms: Why BetterHelp, Talkspace, and other corporate-backed therapy options are everywhere—and how to think about your role (and value) in an overcrowded market.Practical Strategies for Building a Values-Driven Practice: How to prioritize your own autonomy, decide on a niche, set fees, and build relationship-based referrals in a way that fits your real life, not someone else’s playbook.Mindset Shifts to Move Past Fear and Burnout: Actionable steps (and tough truths) on choosing between employment with therapy platforms versus fully owning your unique, flexible practice—and why it’s okay to start small or change course. Episode Timestamps00:02 Introduction—acknowledging the anxiety and uncertainty in today’s world for therapists and moms considering private practice.02:15 The rise of big tech therapy platforms and what it means for new solo practitioners.06:20 Why you’re not actually “competing” with big box therapy companies (and where you DO fit into the market).10:20 How to carve your niche, get clear on your values, and create a practice that fits your life and clients’ real needs.14:50 Understanding the difference in autonomy, compensation, and control between working for a platform and building your own business.20:24 Mindset work: making big decisions from a place of clarity, not fear—and practical resources to help you start. Top Takeaways on Starting a Private Practice in 20261. Navigating Big Tech’s Impact on TherapyLet’s break this down: The therapy field is flooded with venture-backed platforms plastering ads everywhere. They dominate Google rankings—not because they’re better, but because they’re paying for visibility. While it can feel intimidating, remember: their business model is about scale and corporate profit, not personal connection. Your superpower as an individual provider? Real relationships, unique expertise, and genuine connection that clients are craving. 2. Building a Values-Driven,...

    23 min

  2. FEB 16

    Ep 140: Should Therapists Add a New State License? What Therapists Need to Consider First

    Should You Add Another State License to Your Therapy Practice? Strategic Insights for Therapist MomsThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with actionable insights to help you make confident, strategic decisions about expanding your private practice by adding another state license. If you’ve been feeling stuck, worried about inconsistent referrals, or wondering whether expanding into a new state is the right move for your business and your family, you’re in the right place. As someone who’s carried multiple state licenses (thanks to my military spouse journey), I know firsthand how tempting it can be to pursue “growth” by adding another license — especially when you’re feeling scarcity, pressure, or uncertainty about your current practice. But I also know the invisible work, unexpected costs, and cultural realities that shape whether this move actually serves you well. Today, I'm sharing everything I wish I'd known (and what I've learned through five moves and five state boards!) so you can approach this decision with clarity and confidence. It’s okay to press pause, regroup, and get clear on your reasons before jumping in. Let’s dive into the good stuff! What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeLegal & Regulatory Essentials: Why understanding each state's licensing laws (and ethical responsibilities) is critical.Marketing Strategy Reality: How to fill your practice without simply expanding geographically — and why adding a license isn’t a magic fix.Financial & Administrative Impact: The real costs (in money and time!) of holding multiple licenses, and how to weigh these against your practice goals. Episode Timestamps00:02 - Honest intro and why therapists feel pressure to add state licenses for practice growth.01:09 - Behind-the-scenes look at licensing, online therapy rules, and COVID-era flexibility.03:04 - Why I have multiple licenses (military moves, continuity of care) — and why that doesn’t mean you should.06:15 - The marketing myth: Why expanding your license isn’t the solution if you struggle with referrals.08:03 - What are state licensing compacts? How new regulatory changes could impact your decision.11:00 - Becoming a telehealth registered agent — when this might make sense instead of a full license.13:01 - Four key questions to ask yourself before adding another license: Legal, market, financial, admin.17:22 - Strategic reflection: Why, when, and how to decide if another license fits your real life and business goals. Top Takeaways on Adding Another State License1. Understand the Legal & Ethical Responsibility Before ExpandingLet’s break this down: Each state comes with its own board, regulations, CEU requirements, consent laws, and sometimes unique cultural norms. If you jump into another license without clarity, you could find yourself overwhelmed, out of compliance, or stuck with more paperwork than...

    24 min

  3. FEB 9

    Ep 139: How to Keep Therapy Clients: Setting Session Frequency and Expectations Early

    How to Set Client Session Expectations for Better Retention & Clinical OutcomesThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is all about a question I hear from so many fellow therapist moms: “How do I set up my schedule so I can actually fill my caseload and support clients in a way that’s truly therapeutic?” If you’ve noticed new clients asking for biweekly or monthly appointments—and you’re left wondering how to build momentum or retain them long-term—this episode is especially for you. As someone who’s built a private practice while raising three kids (which means I’m no stranger to chaos, time crunches, and redefining what “success” looks like), I know these early struggles in private practice are often less about your skills and more about structure and expectations. In this episode, I’ll break down my approach to setting clear and compassionate expectations around session frequency, why weekly sessions matter (especially at the start), and practical ways to set boundaries that serve both you and your clients. If you want more consistency in your schedule, stronger clinical outcomes, and less stress around rescheduling and retention, keep reading—or hit play on this week’s episode! What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy session structure matters (and isn’t a lack of compassion): How setting expectations for session frequency actually supports your clients and protects your energy. The script I use with every new client: Step-by-step guidance on what to say in the consult or intake so clients understand the value and purpose behind weekly appointments. Building a practice that’s sustainable for you: Why it’s okay (and important!) to structure your practice for predictability and work-life harmony—while still empowering client choice. Episode Timestamps00:02: Introduction—addressing the struggle of filling your caseload when clients want less frequent sessions and why strategic structure matters for new private practices.03:02: The clinician’s role—why it’s not selfish to recommend weekly appointments and how it mirrors medical recommendations.06:26: The impact of frequency—building rapport, creating safety, and why biweekly or monthly starts can mean slower progress and lower retention.12:35: Step-by-step: How I introduce and structure standing appointments, handle requests for biweekly/monthly sessions, and set boundaries for predictability in my schedule. Top Takeaways on Setting Client Session Expectations1. Don’t Leave Structure Up to the ClientLet’s break this down: While therapy is client-centered, the structure is your responsibility as a clinician. If you ask, “How often do you want to come?” most clients—understandably!—will pick the least frequent option (because therapy is hard work). Instead, come from a place of gentle authority and recommend what you know will support the client’s goals and good outcomes. Relatable story: I used to think it was more caring to let clients decide, but quickly realized everyone starts off “nervous” about therapy, and low frequency sessions meant less rapport, more cancellations, and slower progress. Once I got clear with my recommendations, everyone felt better—myself included. 2. Set the Expectation Early (Script Included!)Here’s how to start implementing this TODAY: Step 1: During your first contact (consult call or intake), say: "In my practice, we start with weekly...

    25 min

  4. FEB 2

    Ep 138: How to Use Business Cards to Get More Referrals in Private Practice

    Business Cards for Therapists: Private Practice Marketing Strategies That Actually WorkThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is all about business cards—and before you roll your eyes or think this is just another surface-level marketing chat, stay with me. If you’ve found yourself stalled at the beginning stages of setting up your private practice, wondering if business cards are truly necessary—or maybe you’ve invested in a shiny stack that just sits untouched—this episode has your name all over it. As someone who’s been building a private practice since 2015 (and made every “rookie marketing mistake” along the way), I know that it’s often those subtle, strategic tweaks—like how and when we use our business cards—that lead to meaningful referrals and real growth. In this episode, I share my own missteps (like leaving random stacks at doctor’s offices and hearing crickets) as well as the practical strategies that actually work for therapist moms who are juggling business-building with, you know, real life. Whether you’re just starting your practice, trying to build local referral relationships, or feeling awkward about “putting yourself out there” as a mom and clinician, this episode will help you reframe how you think about business cards—and give you concrete steps for making them a referral powerhouse instead of a dusty afterthought. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy Business Cards Aren’t a Marketing Strategy (But Can Be a Powerful Tool): Understand the real job of a business card and why leaving stacks at offices doesn’t lead to calls. How to Design a Business Card That Gets Referrals: Tips on what to include (and what to leave out) so your card becomes a true relationship-builder—not just another piece of paper. Using Referral-Friendly Assets for Better Networking: How to pair your business card with a helpful resource to make it easier for referral sources to send you ideal clients. Episode Timestamps[00:00:02]: Introduction to The Therapist Mom Podcast and today’s topic—Business Cards in Private Practice[00:01:55]: The real job of a business card: why it’s about relationships, not marketing[00:06:38]: What to put on your business card (and why the first line matters most)[00:12:28]: How to create referral-friendly assets and use them to build lasting networking relationships[00:18:37]: Why referrals are built on trust (not the fanciest flyer) and how to nurture those relationships long-term Top Takeaways on Therapist Business Cards & Private Practice Marketing1. Business Cards Are Relationship Reminders, Not Solo Marketing ToolsLet’s break this down: Your card isn’t a silver bullet. It’s meant to reinforce a real-world relationship, helping someone remember who you are (and how to explain you to someone else!). When I started, I’d leave cards on end tables at doctor’s offices, hoping magic would happen. Spoiler: it didn’t. If there’s no genuine relationship or context, the card won’t spark referrals. 2. Design Matters: Make It Easy To Remember You & What You DoHere’s how you can start implementing this TODAY: Step 1: Put a clear, specific statement about who you help and what...

    28 min

  5. JAN 26

    Ep 137: Using AI in Private Practice: What Therapists Need to Know About Ethics and HIPAA

    Using AI in Private Practice: What Therapists Need to Know About Ethics and HIPAA This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast gets honest about integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into your therapy practice—especially when you’re juggling the dual hats of therapist and mom. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed hearing about AI tools, struggled with fears about ethics or confidentiality, or been curious about whether new tech could actually lighten your load, this one’s for you. As a therapist, military spouse, and mom of three (with plenty of life’s unpredictability in the mix), I know firsthand how important it is to build a sustainable, values-aligned practice. In this episode, you’ll hear why it’s OK to be skeptical about AI, what ethical boundaries you should never cross, and where technology can actually add back the time you crave for your family (without compromising your clinical standards). You won’t get hype or hustle culture platitudes here—just a real, nuanced look at whether (and how) you might use AI tools in practice, how to talk to clients about it, and why it’s OK to do things your own way. Let’s normalize the messy middle, embrace flexibility, and support each other’s choices, guilt-free. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Understanding the Landscape of AI in Therapy How AI is showing up in the therapy space, what’s hype vs. reality, and why you don’t have to leap in just because everyone else is talking about it. Ethical Risks & Real-World Concerns A candid look at confidentiality, data privacy, and which questions matter most to keep your client data (and your peace of mind) safe. Productivity, Not Clinical Judgment Where AI really can help—documentation, client communication, and notes—and how to use it without sacrificing your own voice, expertise, or values. Bringing Clients Into the Conversation Simple, respectful scripts and consent procedures for talking to clients about AI—so you can stay transparent and empower client choice. Permission to Choose What Works For You Why there’s no “one right answer” for AI in therapy—and how you can opt in, opt out, or take your time to decide without judgment. Episode Timestamps [00:00:02] Introduction: The need for honest conversations about tech and motherhood in private practice[00:01:18] A professor’s surprising hot take: Don’t get left behind on AI[00:04:16] The ethical angst: Fear of AI, confidentiality, and real responsibilities[00:07:08] Not all AI is created equal: HIPAA compliance and data protection essentials[00:13:48] The difference: AI as a support for documentation, not a stand-in for you[00:16:42] Key questions to ask before choosing an AI tool[00:21:49] Scripts & client consent: How to talk about AI—even when clients have concerns Top Takeaways on Navigating AI in Private Practice 1. Not All AI Tools Are Created (or Required) Equal You don’t have to say yes or no to AI—start by getting clear on what you’re considering, the real risks, and how a tool is designed for healthcare specifically. If a tool isn’t HIPAA compliant or designed for our profession, it’s a no-go. 2. Ethics First, Guilt Not Required Prioritize confidentiality, ask the right questions about...

    27 min

  6. JAN 19

    Ep 136: Running a Therapy Practice When Your Kids Are Sick

    This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with real-life, actionable insights for therapist moms who are trying to juggle a private practice and motherhood—especially during those relentless high-illness seasons. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your practice running when daycare calls (again) or felt the guilt of canceling on clients because your child is sick, you’re not alone—and you’re absolutely in the right place. As both a therapist and a mom of three—with plenty of urgent care visits and rescheduled sessions under my belt—I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to manage everything when life throws you those inevitable curveballs. In this episode, you’re going to hear my candid story of scrambling to pick up my daughter from daycare, plus the practical systems and compassionate boundaries I’ve put in place to make my business (and motherhood) sustainable. Whether you’re new to private practice or a seasoned pro, if you need permission to build a flexible, values-aligned business that honors both your clients and your family, this conversation is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Building Flexibility Into Your Practice How to navigate unpredictable childcare and sickness without feeling like you’re failing your clients (or your kids). Communicating With Clients About Life’s Disruptions Straightforward scripts and tips for having honest but professional conversations with clients when you need to reschedule. Setting Boundaries and Managing Guilt Why you don’t have to give free sessions when you have to reschedule—and how to handle tough feelings that come up around client cancellations and boundaries. Episode Timestamps [00:00:02] Introduction—Why therapist moms need a different kind of support during sick season and what this episode will cover.[00:01:33] The reality check: private practice vs. agency life when kids are home sick.[00:05:05] A behind-the-scenes story of urgent care visits, full client days, and hard choices.[00:08:07] How to set expectations early with clients (including scripts for the intake session).[00:17:38] Handling guilt, late cancellation fees, and why you don’t owe anyone a free session.[00:23:30] Final thoughts on self-compassion, building resilient systems, and being gentle with yourself. Top Takeaways on Managing Private Practice When Your Kids Are Sick 1. Establish Flexibility From Day One Let’s break this down: Building flexibility into your private practice isn’t just for your sanity—it supports your clients, too. During your intake session, set expectations with new clients that, as a parent, you may have to reschedule on short notice. This honest approach creates understanding and trust right off the bat. For example, I often say, “I take consistency seriously, but sometimes I may need to reschedule due to my kids’ needs.” 2. Use Clear, Compassionate Communication (Without Oversharing) Here’s how you can start implementing this TODAY: Step 1: When you need to reschedule, keep your message simple: “I need to cancel/reschedule our session today because my child is sick.” No need for details or apologies—just direct, respectful communication.Step 2: Offer alternative times if

    26 min

  7. JAN 12

    Ep 135: Phone Consultation vs Self-Scheduling: What’s Best for Your Therapy Practice

    Finding the Right Intake Process for Your Private PracticeThis episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is designed for private practice therapists (and especially therapist moms) who are navigating that tricky space where your time, energy, and income all need to work together—and you want a system that actually supports you. If you're feeling overwhelmed by intake processes, wondering whether to require a phone consultation before booking new clients, or if you should just let folks book their first session directly, you’re in the right place. As someone who has built a private practice while raising kids, navigating military moves, and managing all the curveballs of motherhood, I know it takes more than good intentions to create a system that works for real life. In this episode, I’m walking you through my honest, unapologetic perspective on client intake, what’s worked (and hasn’t), and practical scripts and strategies that help you convert at a high rate—without the hustle or guilt. Let’s talk about designing an onboarding process that actually works for YOU and your ideal clients. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodePros & Cons of Letting Clients Self-Schedule: A breakdown of why self-scheduling can create low-barrier access (and when it might backfire). Why I Require a Consultation First (And My Script): How a quick phone consultation sets a healthy foundation, protects your energy, and gets your ideal clients booked. How to Evaluate and Change Your Intake Systems: A permission slip to adapt your process as your life and practice evolves—without guilt or “shoulds.” Episode Timestamps[00:34] – Common pain points of intake processes and why this episode matters to private practice therapists.[03:55] – Pros and limitations of letting clients self-schedule their first session.[07:39] – Why clients often miss key info on your website and how this affects your practice.[10:18] – The deeper value of a consultation call and how it increases client buy-in.[15:43] – How connecting on a call impacts your perceived value (and conversions!).[18:49] – My exact consultation script and how it sets you up for success.[26:15] – When to self-schedule and when to require a call (plus: giving yourself permission to evolve). Top Takeaways on Client Intake Systems for Therapists1. There’s No Perfect System—But the Right Fit MattersIt’s tempting to think there’s a “right” way, but your intake process needs to be in alignment with your current needs, energy, private-pay versus insurance, and the clients you want to work with. Example: For me, requiring a quick phone consultation lets me vet for fit, protects my energy (and time!), and helps clients feel connected right away. 2. Consultations Seriously Boost Clarity and CommitmentWhen you spend 10–15 minutes on a call: Clients feel seen and supported before they ever step into session.You can clarify all the practical details: fees, online vs in-person, weekly scheduling, what you do (and don’t) offer.span class="ql-ui"...

    31 min

  8. JAN 5

    Ep 134: How to Simplify Your Private Practice Marketing

    This episode of The Therapist Mom Podcast is packed with honest, practical insights for therapist-moms who want a private practice that fits real life (and real stress levels). If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the “shoulds” of marketing, burned out by doing too much, or simply unsure which strategies actually bring clients to your door, this episode is for you. As a therapist, coach, and fellow mom navigating both meltdowns and marketing calendars, I know firsthand that small, intentional shifts can lead to more clients (and way less stress). Let’s dig into the good stuff and give yourself permission to ditch the hustle and simplify. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeStrategy Over Survival Mode: How to stop throwing spaghetti at the wall and start picking a few aligned marketing actions that actually work for you, your energy, and your ideal clients.The Only Two Non-Negotiable Marketing Moves: Why every private practice needs a website and a strong network (and how to start even if both feel intimidating).Permission to Edit Before Adding: How to drop what isn’t working, quiet the comparison trap, and build a plan that feels sustainable (so you can have time for you, too). Episode Timestamps[00:03] Spaghetti-at-the-wall marketing: Why copying other therapists’ marketing doesn’t guarantee results[00:06] Personal story: My experience trying all the strategies—and realizing context is everything[00:14] Less is more: How to pick 3-5 focused strategies that make sense for YOUR ideal client[00:15] Identifying your client: Where are they actually looking for a therapist?[00:16] Social media: Does it really work? Who finds you vs. who sees you[00:18] Networking: Relationship-building, not cold-selling, is how you fill your practice[00:23] Why a website is non-negotiable: Your most important marketing asset[00:24] Behind the scenes of networking: How to build referral sources (no extrovert energy required)[00:27] Edit, don’t add: How to review what’s working, what’s draining, and where to focus next[00:29] Validation vs. referrals: Likes aren’t clients—how to spot what’s truly sustainable Feeling ready for practical, doable steps? Grab the free Comprehensive Connecting Networking Scripts guide from the show notes and let’s make marketing feel more like a supportive part of your practice. Let me know: What’s one marketing strategy you’re dropping, and one you’re leaning into? I’d love to hear from you on Instagram or in a review. Here’s to a year of clarity, simplicity, and more time for what matters most! 💻 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...

    33 min
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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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