The Traveling Therapist Podcast Kym Tolson

In this insightful episode of The Traveling Therapist podcast, Kym sits down with Dr. Juanita Dimas, a globe-trotting therapist, to explore the intricacies of providing online therapy across the world. Juanita shares her journey of growing up internationally, obtaining licensure in various countries, and her experiences working with diverse populations.
 
Juanita delves into the complexities of becoming licensed as a psychologist in Costa Rica, highlighting the extensive paperwork and the need for degree recognition in different countries. She also notes the restrictions in some countries where only psychologists are authorized to practice therapy.
 
Kym and Juanita discuss the pros and cons of a nomadic lifestyle for therapists. They touch upon crucial aspects like residency visas, financial considerations, and the challenges of maintaining stability and support networks while on the move. They emphasize the unique needs and concerns of individuals adopting this lifestyle.
 
The conversation shifts to the challenges and benefits of being a digital nomad therapist. Building a community and understanding the legalities and complexities of practicing therapy in different jurisdictions are key topics. They stress the importance of being well-informed and prepared before embracing this lifestyle.
 
Juanita and Kym also address the practical challenges of working in various countries, such as internet and power issues, and the importance of understanding and adapting to cultural nuances in new environments.
 
This episode provides a comprehensive look into the life of a traveling therapist, offering valuable insights and advice for those considering or currently navigating this unique and rewarding professional path.
 
About Juanita Dimas:
 
Juanita Dimas, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist in California for over 20 years, and offering online psychotherapy since 2016. She can see you if you are in California or in many countries in the world via online psychotherapy.
 
She is originally from the U.S., and having lived abroad for many years as a child and an adult, 3 different countries for 11 years. She is also bilingual (Spanish) and bicultural.  
 
In addition to working with adults of all ages, Juanita specialize in working with diverse populations, including World Travelers.
 
Website:  https://drjuanitadimas.com/
 
APA Monitor:  Psychologists and the expat life.  https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/05/cover-expat-life?fbclid=IwAR0fqLgxbT37tgECOlvgZz2WIGTRSW57uJjbsfO9pk9Xl2k-rzO2nJQX_tQ
 
 
Build a thriving private practice with Alma, your private practice support system. Learn more about Alma.
 
 
Connect with me:
Instagram: @thetravelingtherapist_kym
 
The Traveling Therapist Membership:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/travelingtherapistmembership
 
Revolutionize Your Private Practice with AI Course:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/ai
 
Signup to learn more about life as Traveling Therapist:
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/l2v7c3
 
The Traveling Therapist Facebook Group: 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/onlineandtraveling/
 
Bill Like A Boss Insurance Billing Community:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/blab
 
Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple iTunes | Spotify | Google Podcast | Stitcher | Amazon |  Castbox

In this episode of The Traveling Therapist podcast, join me as I delve into the challenges and triumphs of managing a hectic schedule while hopping across time zones. From grappling with scheduling tools to unexpected hurdles in the Dominican Republic, I share my personal experiences and answer a listener questions from Jaime.  I cover practical tips for balancing work and wanderlust. Whether you're a therapist on the move or just curious about the digital nomad lifestyle, this episode is packed with insights, laughter, and real-life strategies for staying afloat in the ever-changing tides of time management.
 
Episode Highlights:
The Complexity of Scheduling Across Time Zones: Navigating the tricky waters of appointment coordination while globe-trotting.
Leveraging Technology and Support: Harnessing AI and virtual assistance for seamless schedule management.
Self-Care and Setting Boundaries: Prioritizing self-care and boundaries for a balanced work-travel lifestyle.
 
This episode not only offers valuable tips for therapists who travel but also provides a candid look into the life of a digital nomad, making it a must-listen for anyone in the field.
 
People and Products mentioned in this episode: 
 
Bill Like a Boss: https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/blab
Simple Practice: https://www.simplepractice.com/?p=7935d17d9c
Mentaya: https://mentaya.com/?referrerId=kym
The Clinical AI Club: www.clinicalaiclub.com
Your Virtual Assistant Finder Service: https://www.yourvafinder.com/


Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private parties. Learn more about Alma.
 
 
Connect with me:
Instagram: @thetravelingtherapist_kym
 
The Traveling Therapist Membership:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/travelingtherapistmembership
 
Revolutionize Your Private Practice with AI Course:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/ai
 
Signup to learn more about life as Traveling Therapist:
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/l2v7c3
 
The Traveling Therapist Facebook Group: 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/onlineandtraveling/
 
Bill Like A Boss Insurance Billing Community:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/blab
 
Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple iTunes | Spotify | Google Podcast | Stitcher | Amazon |  Castbox

Kym interviews Dr. Amber Lyda, founder of The Online Therapist Group, who recently started living in a van and traveling full-time with her husband. Amber shares how they chose an affordable van with good gas mileage so they can be spontaneous and cover long distances. She describes the systems they use for internet access, including a cell signal booster and Starlink satellite. 
 
Amber talks about how they find places to park and stay connected, using apps to locate RV parks, campgrounds, etc. She discusses the challenges of balancing work while traveling, as it can be unpredictable booking accommodations and planning around poor internet access on travel days. However, Amber says her communication with her husband has improved despite the confined space.
 
Kym and Amber compare notes on managing travel logistics like grocery shopping without a vehicle, relying on ride services, food delivery, etc. They also bond over trying to maintain routines and plans while on the road, and having to stay flexible when things come up unexpectedly.
 
Amber gives a glimpse into how she structures her work days around Paul's morning activities. She also shares where people can find her online and work with her as a coach. Kym expresses gratitude for Amber's influence and pioneering as an online therapist with multiple income streams.
 
About Amber Lyda:
Amber is a psychologist who, for YEARS, let her inner Go–getter trample all over her inner Life-Haver. 
 
She found a way to continue to do the work she LOVED without sacrificing the life she wanted. She left her agency job and started an ONLINE ONLY cash pay therapy practice. 
 
She work at home, with her dogs, and most often – in her pajama pants. She can’t enjoy this amazing new life without helping other clinicians also get to theirs. 
 
Amber coach, consult, and build courses to help therapists get clear on the life they want to have and how to get there. She help other therapists find their freedom, flexibility, and flow – whether it’s: training them to build their own online therapy practice or increasing their income while decreasing their working hours by learning to market to private pay clients or coaching them through finding their other passions and turning them into profits. She help therapists Dream Big and Live Better.
 
Connect with Amber:
Facebook Online Therapists Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/138663903332494/ 
Email: dr.amberlydainfo@gmail.com
Website: www.dramberlyda.com



At Alma we believe when therapists have the support they need, the system gets better for everyone. Learn more about Alma.
 
 
Connect with me:
Instagram: @thetravelingtherapist_kym
 
The Traveling Therapist Membership:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/travelingtherapistmembership
 
Revolutionize Your Private Practice with AI Course:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/ai
 
Signup to learn more about life as Traveling Therapist:
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/l2v7c3
 
The Traveling Therapist Facebook Group: 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/onlineandtraveling/
 
Bill Like A Boss Insurance Billing Community:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/blab
 
Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple iTunes | Spotify | Google Podcast | Stitcher | Amazon |  Castbox

In this episode of The Traveling Therapist Podcast, the guest is Addie Wieland, a digital nomad who travels full-time in an RV with her family.
 
Addie shares that they plan to sell their RV soon and transition to international travel, starting with some trips in Central America and Greece. Their goal is to spend a couple of years traveling in Southeast Asia, and eventually live on a boat.
 
She talks about pivoting her coaching business from working with female attorneys to specifically supporting digital nomads and traveling families. This aligns more closely with her own lifestyle and experiences.
 
Addie previews an upcoming webinar she's presenting and I’m co-hosting on how families can thrive while traveling full-time. She'll share tips on logistics, routines, mental wellness, finding personal time, and more.
 
Addie also discusses where people can find her on social media to connect about coaching for traveling families looking to navigate this lifestyle.
 
Check out our upcoming webinar, How to Thrive as a Digital Nomad Family & Not Lose Your Sanity, presented by Addie Wieland, Traveling Therapist Coach, will offer actionable tips to make sure everyone's needs are met—even in the coziest of spaces.



About Addie Wieland:
 
Addie Wieland is a LCSW in texas. Her expertise, training, and interest are working with young adults who feel worthless, struggle with being themselves, apologize all the time, struggle with anxiety, or feel like they have to put on this mask in order for people to accept them. A lot of times, this can be connected to past experiences. She help people work through their past so they can be at peace, accept all parts of their story, and live in the present. 
 
In June of 2019, she started Everyday Bravery Counseling while working at a college counseling center. She began seeing clients online. In August of 2019, her husband, and young daughter set off on their first RV adventure traveling through several states. Now, she travel off and on in their fifth wheel with her husband, 3-year-old daughter, and 9-month-old son, while being an online therapist. 
 
Connect with Addie: 
FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/846113827184917
IG link: https://www.instagram.com/nomadicallythriving/


Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private parties. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians that come together for education, training, and events. Learn more about Alma.
 
Connect with me:
Instagram: @thetravelingtherapist_kym
 
The Traveling Therapist Membership:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/travelingtherapistmembership
 
Revolutionize Your Private Practice with AI Course:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/ai
 
Signup to learn more about life as Traveling Therapist:
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/l2v7c3
 
The Traveling Therapist Facebook Group: 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/onlineandtraveling/
 
Bill Like A Boss Insurance Billing Community:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/blab
 
Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple iTunes | Spotify | Google Podcast | Stitcher | Amazon |  Castbox

This episode discusses practicing telehealth across multiple U.S. states. David built his practice to be mobile, working remotely from anywhere, as long as he follows local laws. The COVID pandemic opened up possibilities for how therapists can live and practice post-COVID. He left his clinic job when required to return to full-time in-person work and started his own private practice which is booming! 
 
Amazingly, (to me anyway) The Traveling Therapist Podcast was an inspiration for designing his mobile therapy practice. David plans to work from Tulum, Mexico over New Year's to gain experience practicing telehealth abroad.



About David Smith:
 
David Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist. He is also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Family Trauma Professional. He specialize in working with people and families who have experienced trauma, abuse, divorce, neurodiversity, and other complex life challenges.  
 
Much of his professional experience has been as a school-based therapist in elementary schools.
 
David is passionate about spending time in nature, especially sailing, scuba diving, and outdoor photography. He traveled to 47 of the 50 US states and 17 other countries on 4 continents. These days he spend a lot of time in Mexico and other parts of Latin America with his wife, who is also a psychotherapist, born and licensed in Peru. Both of them serve clients purely via telehealth, which makes travel much more feasible.
 
He love to write and have several books in progress – a guide for parents and teachers of children with trauma, another to help healers and caregivers deal with burnout, and just for fun, a historical novel set in 8th-century Constantinople. He is constantly learning and am usually in the middle of some new training program on an aspect of therapy and healing that I find interesting.
 
Connect with David Smith:
Website: www.thrivingfamilytherapy.com
Contact: david@thrivingfamilytherapy.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thrivingfamilytherapy
Instagram: @ThrivingFamilyTherapy
 
Build a thriving private practice with Alma, your private practice support system. Learn more about Alma.
 
Connect with me:
Instagram: @thetravelingtherapist_kym
 
The Traveling Therapist Membership:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/travelingtherapistmembership
 
Revolutionize Your Private Practice with AI Course:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/ai
 
Signup to learn more about life as Traveling Therapist:
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/l2v7c3
 
The Traveling Therapist Facebook Group: 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/onlineandtraveling/
 
Bill Like A Boss Insurance Billing Community:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/blab
 
Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple iTunes | Spotify | Google Podcast | Stitcher | Amazon |  Castbox

In this episode, Mor shares her journey from being a traditional therapist to becoming a traveling therapist, combining her passion for travel and her love for therapy. Mor started traveling internationally alone at a young age and developed a strong desire to see different countries. Originally, her background was in tech, which made it challenging to transition to therapy. Eventually, she pursued her passion and became a therapist, specializing in couples work and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
 
Mor discusses how she incorporated her tech background into her therapy career. She currently work for a tech company called Mentaya, where she serves as the head of provider experience and growth. The company offers solutions for therapists who prefer not to handle insurance directly. Therapists can refer their clients to Mentaya, which handles insurance claims, eligibility checks, and streamlines the process for therapists, allowing them to focus on therapy while ensuring accessibility for clients.
 
The episode highlights the importance of following one's passion and finding creative ways to incorporate therapy into different income streams. It also emphasizes the significance of understanding out-of-network benefits and considering alternative options for reimbursement, especially when working with insurance companies that may not be ideal.
 
Keypoints:
Pursue your passions: Follow your interests and find ways to incorporate them into your career, even if it requires a shift in direction.
Explore alternative income streams: Look for creative ways to generate income as a therapist, such as leveraging technology or offering additional services beyond one-on-one client sessions.
Understand insurance options: Gain a working understanding of out-of-network benefits and consider utilizing platforms to help streamline insurance processes, reduce logistical strain, and maintain financial sustainability.



About Mor Goldberger:

Mor Goldberger has an MFT from the Wright Institute and an MBA from Berkeley Haas. By day Mor leads Therapist Experience and Growth for Mentaya and by night she works as a couples therapist. Mor is passionate about helping therapists grow their private pay practice and create more time for themselves. 
 
You can learn more about Mor & Mentaya here


Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private parties. Learn more about Alma.
 
 
Connect with me:
Instagram: @thetravelingtherapist_kym
 
The Traveling Therapist Membership:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/travelingtherapistmembership
 
Revolutionize Your Private Practice with AI Course:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/ai
 
Signup to learn more about life as Traveling Therapist:
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/l2v7c3
 
The Traveling Therapist Facebook Group: 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/onlineandtraveling/
 
Bill Like A Boss Insurance Billing Community:
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/blab
 
Subscribe to the Podcast:
Apple iTunes | Spotify | Google Podcast | Stitcher | Amazon |  Castbox