Selling the Couch

Melvin Varghese, PhD
  • 4.9 (330)
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Selling the Couch

With 1.81 million+ downloads, Selling the Couch is an Apple Top Career podcast for current and future mental health private practitioners who think differently. Psychologist Melvin Varghese interviews successful therapists in private practice about how they built their businesses as well as top entrepreneurs, business/marketing, and social media experts.* You'll learn how therapists get referrals, grow their practices, work through fears, find their enough, and stop "trading time for income." Melvin also shares the lessons as he grows his impact + income beyond the therapy room (podcasting, YouTube, writing, online courses, masterminds, investing, etc) and the tips and tools he uses to grow STC from a single-person business to the CEO of a 6-figure business.* Featured in Psychology Today, Good Therapy, and Psych Central ****Get show notes and even more good stuff at sellingthecouch.com/stcpodcast*

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    386: Why I Don’t Want To Be Social Media Famous

    I’ve thought a lot about this topic and want to share more about it today. You might wonder why I don’t want to become social media famous since being active in thought leadership and content creation seems to require a certain degree of social media involvement. People “hang out” on social media platforms, but my impact on the world is not dependent on being a social media influencer. Let’s explore this topic! You’ll Learn: Fame is more accessible than ever today.The path I’ve chosen values peace, depth, and privacy over chasing online recognition.Three key reasons why I don’t seek social media fame (and powerful reflection questions for you to consider):The illusion of fame as a solution to personal insecuritiesThe lesson: If you aren’t grounded before you attract attention, more attention will only amplify your struggles.The emotional toll of public exposureThe lesson: When you have a platform, you aren’t simply sharing content, but you are influencing people’s emotions, choices, and mental health. The erosion of personal privacyThe lesson: Privacy is precious, and I want to build a business that supports my life, not one that makes me feel like I’m on display. My thoughts here are influenced by an impactful 2007 blog post by Tim Ferriss. You can check it out here.  Resources: Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit. If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Mentioned in this episode: STC Elite STC Elite, our mastermind for therapists creating their first online courses, is open for enrollment. If you've been thinking about creating an online course and have been a fan of the STC podcast and are looking to launch your online course in a community of other therapists, you can check out the mastermind over at sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Or you can download our free online course starter kit. It's a seven-day email course that will help validate your course idea that's over at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

    22 min

  2. FEB 13

    385: 7 Daily Habits That Changed My Relationship With My Podcast (And Made It Sustainable)

    If you've ever thought about starting a podcast but felt overwhelmed by the idea of keeping it up long-term, this episode is for you! Whether you're still dreaming of launching or you've already started and are feeling burnout, I'm here to share the habits that have completely transformed my approach to podcasting. Podcasting can be an incredibly powerful tool to extend your reach and grow your impact beyond the therapy room, but without a sustainable strategy, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. In today’s episode, I'll walk you through the 7 simple yet impactful habits that have changed my relationship with podcasting and made this endeavor sustainable for the long haul. Get ready to hear how you can implement these practices into your own podcasting journey and finally create a process that works for YOU! You’ll Learn:  7 habits that have changed everything for me:Design for longevity, not growth.Learn how I structure my podcast schedule around the life I want.Capture ideas daily.I use a private Slack channel to keep podcast ideas and give me a pipeline of new content.Follow a repeatable episode outline.Establish a framework for solo and guest episodes, and use solo episodes to invite people to your products and services.Batch record on off-months.I record January and February episodes in November and December and keep 3-6 episodes “in the bank” to create a buffer and flexibility.Warm up my voice and energy before recording.There are simple habits (tea, deep breathing, diction exercises, etc.) that work to help me treat my podcast like a speaking engagement.Promote my own offers first, and not just sponsors.Research shows that podcasters are the most trusted media personalities, and inviting people in through dynamic ads is a game changer. (Check out Captivate and the discount available for STC listeners.)Engage with listeners on a regular basis.Ask listeners what topics they want you to cover. Podcasting is not a one-way street! Resources: Try our FREE Podcasting Workshop to learn more. Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit. If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Mentioned in this episode: STC Elite STC Elite, our mastermind for therapists creating their first online courses, is open for enrollment. If you've been thinking about creating an online course and have been a fan of the STC podcast and are looking to launch your online course in a community of other therapists, you can check out the mastermind over at sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Or you can download our free online course starter kit. It's a seven-day email course that will help validate your course idea that's over at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

    24 min

  3. FEB 6

    384: Should I Hire An Intake Coordinator For My Private Practice?

    Today’s session highlights important questions to ask for solo or group practices about hiring an intake coordinator. Is this a smart move for your practice? Let’s dive into this topic and discuss barometers by which to measure and consider if an intake coordinator makes sense for your practice right now. Our Featured Guest Uriah Guilford Uriah Guilford is a group practice owner based in northern California. He also owns Productive Therapist, which provides virtual assistants and intake coordinators for therapy practices. Uriah has been a group practice owner since 2015 and has a lot of wisdom to share about the journey to hire and train an intake coordinator. We cover all the bases on this topic, including if hiring an intake coordinator makes sense for your practice and the most common responsibilities of an intake coordinator that can help you reclaim valuable hours in your day. We also cover data privacy, how an intake coordinator should handle this, and the top mistakes clinicians make in hiring for this role. We wrap up with the metrics in determining when an intake coordinator is a great fit for your practice.  Productive Therapist You’ll Learn: The purpose and role of an intake coordinatorTrends in intake processes—what works best?Too many options confuse and overwhelm people looking for therapy.Is it time for me to hire an intake coordinator? How do I know? (Take Uriah’s quiz to find out!)How an intake coordinator can help you grow your practiceUriah’s opinion on the importance of an intake coordinator: “Your Intake Coordinator is the MVP of your practice.”Understanding when to delegate to your intake coordinatorUriah’s journey of letting go and transitioning responsibilities to his intake coordinatorTop responsibilities of an intake coordinatorConsiderations about data privacy for your practice and your intake coordinatorSolutions when your intake coordinator is sick or away on vacationUriah’s advice on hiring (and retaining) intake coordinators for growing practicesTop mistakes therapists make in hiring an intake coordinatorImportant considerations in training an intake coordinatorSolid metrics to determine if an intake coordinator is right for youUriah’s course, The Intake Coordinator Starter Pack: Find the course here and use the discount code “STC” for 25% off! Resources: Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit. If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Mentioned in this episode: STC Elite STC Elite, our mastermind for therapists creating their first online courses, is open for enrollment. If you've been thinking about creating an online course and have been a fan of the STC podcast and are looking to launch your online course in a...

    39 min

  4. JAN 30

    383: 5 Signs You're Ready To Launch Your Online Course

    If you’ve ever thought about creating an online course or made preparations to launch a course, today’s show should bring you clarity and inspiration. We are discussing five indicators that you are ready to launch that course you’ve considered. Join us to learn more! You’ll Learn: My online course journey and how it all began for meThe biggest lessons I learned from my multiple fears of getting startedAre you ready to launch your online course? Here are five signs to help you say YES!You are looking for a scalable impact. (Do you have a bigger vision?)You have mastered a specific skill or have become a known expert in a particular niche.You have a passion for teaching.You are open to learning new skills.You are willing to validate your idea. My belief: “Every therapist has an online course inside them.” Our free email course can help you become a course creator! Find it here. Resources: Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit. If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Mentioned in this episode: STC Elite STC Elite, our mastermind for therapists creating their first online courses, is open for enrollment. If you've been thinking about creating an online course and have been a fan of the STC podcast and are looking to launch your online course in a community of other therapists, you can check out the mastermind over at sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Or you can download our free online course starter kit. It's a seven-day email course that will help validate your course idea that's over at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

    17 min

  5. JAN 23

    382: Uncomfortable Truths About Private Practice Finances

    Private practice is often seen as the golden goose that brings everything clinicians hope for. However, there are many nuances to consider, as well as factors that can add significant stress to your life. This stress can lead to overwhelm, burnout, and questions about why you chose this route in the first place. Join us for today’s conversation! Our Featured GuestJames Childress James Childress is a CPA whose practice primarily focuses on working with therapists, giving him a unique perspective on today’s topic. In this episode, we cover the top three uncomfortable aspects of private practice that can lead to imbalance and big problems. James shares insights that help us better understand business ownership, financial stability, and the seasonal nature of private practice. James' Website You’ll Learn:Common factors that lead clinicians into private practice and entrepreneurshipKey considerations before launching into private practiceThe importance of trusting your gut and paying attention to the data Uncomfortable Truths About Private Practice Finances:There is a size of private practice that is inherently unstable. (This is a normal phase to pass through.)Assessing your supervisor/admin load is critical to maintaining balance.Therapists often strive to succeed in every area and “want it all.” Additional Insights:The need for balanced growth and attracting more people into the fieldEnsuring the external environment aligns with the internal environmentAchieving product-market fit for long-term sustainability Resources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! here! Want to launch your online course? Check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit. If you’re a seasoned therapist transitioning from clinical work to online course income, join our mastermind group! We meet to build, grow, and scale online courses. Learn more here. Mentioned in this episode: STC Elite STC Elite, our mastermind for therapists creating their first online courses, is open for enrollment. If you've been thinking about creating an online course and have been a fan of the STC podcast and are looking to launch your online course in a community of other therapists, you can check out the mastermind over at sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Or you can download our free online course starter kit. It's a seven-day email course that will help validate your course idea that's over at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

    47 min

  6. JAN 16

    381: 5 Lessons from 2 Years on LinkedIn

    If you’ve been thinking about posting more on LinkedIn or if you’re curious about how to best use this social media platform, today’s show is for you. It took me a long time to understand the purpose of LinkedIn and how it can be beneficial in connecting me to the right followers. Join me for an honest look at my experience and the biggest lessons learned. You’ll Learn: 5 lessons learned over the last 2 years on LinkedIn:The magic is in the DMs.Focusing on thoughtful relationships is better than chasing followers.LinkedIn’s search tool is amazingly helpful for making connections.The algorithm will always change.Don’t chase trends, but focus on consistency and diversified content.Experiment on LinkedIn, but don’t overthink the metrics.Watch out for growth gurus.Be wary of those who over-promise and under-deliver.I’m more interested in posting things that will help a young therapist like I used to be.Followers are less relevant than you think.It’s about the right people—not ALL people.Try creator mode and curate your network intentionally.The daily posting game is a slow burn.I’ve learned to pace myself in posting.I would rather focus on slower growth in followers and have consistency and sustainability.Connect with me on LinkedIn! Resources: Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit. If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Mentioned in this episode: STC Elite STC Elite, our mastermind for therapists creating their first online courses, is open for enrollment. If you've been thinking about creating an online course and have been a fan of the STC podcast and are looking to launch your online course in a community of other therapists, you can check out the mastermind over at sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Or you can download our free online course starter kit. It's a seven-day email course that will help validate your course idea that's over at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

    27 min

  7. JAN 9

    380: Why Are Therapists Burning Out Of Private Practice?

    Today’s topic will resonate with many of us in private practice as we focus on burnout. Therapists are faced with many questions around how they want to conduct their businesses and structure their lives—and no one wants to face the reality of burnout. Let’s take a closer look with today’s guest. Our Featured Guest Dr. Jennifer Blanchette is a licensed psychologist, podcaster, speaker, career coach, and business consultant. She helps therapists get unstuck in their careers and lives. In this episode, Dr. Jen discusses the hazards of our profession, how it’s changing, and the emphasis on certain markers around revenue and numbers. Jen gives a sense of why we can't talk about burnout very often, along with telltale signs she noticed in her personal experience with burnout. We also discuss the strange juxtaposition of finding freedom in private practice but taking on more administrative roles, experiencing isolation, and bearing the heavy emotional toll. We close with honest insights about tuning into our bodies and learning to listen. Jen gives practical advice for any therapist who could be teetering on the edge of burnout.  Website (and The Therapist Burnout Podcast) You’ll Learn: Burnout—why we are afraid to talk about itUnexpected isolation and the need to find communityPrivate practice offers freedom, right??Learning to listen to your bodyFactoring your body into major decisions in life and giving yourself space for restJen’s private practice experience during the COVID-19 pandemicManaging our resources, energy, and our ability to giveTelltale signs of burnout for JenIt’s okay to ask for help!Looking at all aspects of private practice and the actual costsJen’s perspective on burnout today and what therapists need to look forBurnout prevention vs. burnout recoveryJen’s advice to therapists who are teetering on the edge of burnout Resources: Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit. If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Mentioned in this episode: STC Elite STC Elite, our mastermind for therapists creating their first online courses, is open for enrollment. If you've been thinking about creating an online course and have been a fan of the STC podcast and are looking to launch your online course in a community of other therapists, you can check out the mastermind over at sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Or you can download our free online course starter kit. It's a seven-day email course that will help validate your course idea that's over at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

    43 min

  8. JAN 2

    379: Why I'm Pausing My Private Practice

    This is the first episode of 2025, which marks the ten-year milestone for the STC podcast! It’s incredible that, despite my fears and uncertainties, this podcast began as a small dream of mine to use our skill sets beyond the therapy room and learn to build successful businesses. I’ve loved documenting my journey of transitioning from psychologist to online creator, podcaster, and public speaker, and I’m eternally grateful to you, each listener. It is a humbling experience that’s given me way more encouragement in return than I could have ever imagined. This episode is an honest look at my decision in 2024 to return to private practice, which I detailed in a podcast episode and on social media posts. I’m being extremely vulnerable in explaining why I’ve decided to pause my private practice journey for now. It’s tough for any people pleaser like myself to realize that others may be disappointed in my decision, so I want to explain. Join me for this solo episode as I lay out the details.  You’ll Learn: The reality is that we don’t build a business in a vacuum, and external factors are always in play.Three significant life events impacting my decision:Susan’s job changes mean more home responsibilities for me.Aging parents–and their need for more consistent careMore church responsibilities in leading a small groupA look at my typical daily scheduleMy commitment to viewing parenting as a privilege–and what that looks like for me as a dadMy simple insights about the totality of life and my next steps:Income is only one part of success.My brain is not wired for the mental load of running two businesses.I’m hitting my “enough” number with STC revenue.Caregiving for our parents is on the horizon, and I have the most flexibility in our family to do this.I’m realizing how I can best leverage what we’ve built with STC to bring the maximum benefit to our field and the world.My big dreams to do good and effect meaningful change to help more people Resources: Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit. If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Mentioned in this episode: STC Elite STC Elite, our mastermind for therapists creating their first online courses, is open for enrollment. If you've been thinking about creating an online course and have been a fan of the STC podcast and are looking to launch your online course in a community of other therapists, you can check out the mastermind over at sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Or you can download our free online course starter kit. It's a seven-day email course that will help validate your course idea that's over at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

    45 min
See All (302)

4.9
out of 5
330 Ratings

About

With 1.81 million+ downloads, Selling the Couch is an Apple Top Career podcast for current and future mental health private practitioners who think differently. Psychologist Melvin Varghese interviews successful therapists in private practice about how they built their businesses as well as top entrepreneurs, business/marketing, and social media experts.* You'll learn how therapists get referrals, grow their practices, work through fears, find their enough, and stop "trading time for income." Melvin also shares the lessons as he grows his impact + income beyond the therapy room (podcasting, YouTube, writing, online courses, masterminds, investing, etc) and the tips and tools he uses to grow STC from a single-person business to the CEO of a 6-figure business.* Featured in Psychology Today, Good Therapy, and Psych Central ****Get show notes and even more good stuff at sellingthecouch.com/stcpodcast*

Information

  • Creator
    Melvin Varghese, PhD
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2025
  • Episodes
    302
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Selling The Couch LLC
  • Show Website
    Selling the Couch

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