The Traveling Therapist Podcast Kym Tolson
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- Society & Culture
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Hi, I'm Kym Tolson, and I'm the traveling therapist. It's my passion to teach therapists how to navigate online private practices and multiple income streams so they can travel the world. I'm a digital nomad. With a virtual insurance based private therapy practice and a multi six figure coaching business. I'm obsessed with entrepreneurship and developing tools that can help therapists live an adventurous lifestyle. In this podcast, I will discuss my journey as a digital nomad. I'll chat with other traveling therapists and help you navigate the complexities of running an online insurance based practice. I'm so glad to have you with me on this journey.
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113. Finding Love Across Borders: Unraveling the Secrets of International Dating and Emotional Connection with Anna Linde
In this episode of the Traveling Therapist Podcast, Anna Linde, a seasoned international traveler and a sexologist, delves into the complexities of dating across borders and her profound insights into human sexuality. With a master's degree in sexology from Sweden and certifications as a sex coach and somatic sex educator, Anna's expertise offers a rich exploration of intimacy and relationships. She emphasizes the significance of understanding one's body and the embodiment of emotions like shame, fear, and guilt, which are pivotal in navigating sexual and intimate challenges. Anna's approach to therapy transcends traditional conversations, advocating for a holistic understanding of clients' experiences by connecting their emotional states to physical sensations in their bodies.
Anna's narrative extends beyond her professional endeavors, providing personal anecdotes and practical advice for those navigating the intricacies of international dating and relationships. Highlighting the importance of clarity and communication, she shares her own experience of finding a partner through a dating app designed for nomads, stressing the need to be upfront about one's desires and the lifestyle one wishes to lead. Anna also touches on cultural differences in dating norms and expectations, offering a perspective that challenges listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and desires. Her discussion underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of relationships, encouraging a continuous dialogue about needs, wants, and boundaries, whether in the context of traveling therapists or those living a nomadic lifestyle in pursuit of love and connection.
Key Points: Anna Linde's expertise as a sexologist enriches the understanding of intimacy and relationships, emphasizing the critical role of body awareness and the processing of emotions in therapy.
International dating presents unique challenges and learning opportunities, highlighting the importance of clear communication and mutual respect for differing cultural norms and personal desires.
Relationships, especially in the context of a nomadic lifestyle, require adaptability and ongoing dialogue, underscoring the importance of aligning on core values and life goals for compatibility and fulfillment.
ABOUT ANNA LINDE:
Swedish-Brazilian sexologist and Dance Movement therapist that loves to break free and outsmart the comfort zone. Traveled through Europe last year (mostly Portugal, Spain and Germany) with her sons, 13 & 10 y and their adopted dog Julia (from Spain). This year, Thailand and Asia, all together on another amazing journey.
Celebrating her finished thesis in sexology where she wrote about International Adoptees Sexual and Reproductive Health and she’s looking forward to new challenges.
Connect with Anna Linde:
Website: https://www.healingxchg.com/post/meet-anna-linde
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anna-linde-08264692
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 -
112. The Future of Therapy: AI-Driven Private Practice Innovations with Maria Szandrach of Mentalyc
In this episode of the Traveling Therapist podcast, we explore the transformative work of Maria Szandrach, a visionary entrepreneur and CEO of Mentalyc, who masterfully combines AI technology with mental health care. Maria's path from engaging in entrepreneurial activities as a child to orchestrating a worldwide, entirely remote team epitomizes the essence of innovation and the nomadic spirit in reshaping professional fields.
Mentalyc, her pioneering venture, utilizes AI to simplify the therapy note-taking process, providing therapists with an advanced tool to improve their services. With a diverse team located across different continents, Mentalyc stands as a testament to the power of diversity and flexibility, illustrating that physical distances do not hinder meaningful collaboration.
Maria's story goes beyond just technological progress; it highlights the remarkable capacity of AI to customize and enhance mental health care. By catering to the specific requirements of therapists and their clients, Mentalyc aims to render therapy sessions more productive and concentrated. The firm's dedication to security, demonstrated through its adherence to HIPAA compliance, and its commitment to developing a product that adapts to the changing needs of its users, emphasize the critical role of trust and innovation in the realm of healthcare technology. Maria Szandrach's foresight for Mentalyc serves as an inspiration for both budding entrepreneurs and therapists, showing that through passion, inventiveness, and a readiness to venture into new domains, one can significantly influence the world.
Serial entrepreneur, social impact leader, and CEO of Mentalyc, Maria Szandrach is a force to be reckoned with in the mental health tech space. Driven by a personal experience with therapy and a mission to make mental healthcare more accessible and effective, Maria has spearheaded the development of groundbreaking AI-powered solutions that are revolutionizing the industry.
Mentalyc, Maria's current brainchild, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to innovation and positive impact. This AI-powered platform automates note-taking for therapists, streamlines administrative tasks, and personalizes treatment plans, all while building a unique dataset to enhance psychotherapy. With thousands of happy clients under it’s belt,
Mentalyc is rapidly transforming the way therapy is delivered and experienced.
Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, she actively engages in thought leadership, sharing her insights at conferences and mentoring young entrepreneurs, all while advocating for ethical and responsible technology development in mental health.
Maria Szandrach is not just a successful entrepreneur; she is a visionary leader who is shaping the future of mental healthcare with compassion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of progress.
Mentalyc is offering 10% off to all Traveling Therapist Listeners enter code KYM10 when you click through.
Key Points from the Conversation:
Maria Szandrach, CEO of Mentalyc, pioneers an AI tool for therapy note-taking, boosting session efficiency and paving the way for personalized treatment insights.
Mentalyc exemplifies global team synergy as a fully remote company, leveraging time zones and diverse backgrounds to create a dynamic, around-the-clock operation.
The integration of AI in mental health, as discussed, highlights its potential in predictive analysis and enhancing therapeutic strategies, emphasizing AI's role as a support system rather than a replacement for therapists.
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 -
111. From Therapy Rooms to Global Vistas: How One Therapist Redefined Professional Boundaries Honoring Her Ancestry Along the Way with Cynthia Welsh
In this episode of the Traveling Therapist podcast, we had the pleasure of hearing from Cynthia Welsh, a therapist whose journey from traditional practice to globetrotting professional embodies the spirit of adaptation and innovation in the modern world of therapy. Cynthia's story illuminates the transformative power of technology, specifically the advent of Zoom during the pandemic, which opened up a realm of possibilities for therapists to work remotely, thus marrying their passion for travel with their professional commitments. Her narrative is a testament to the evolving landscape of therapy, where geographical boundaries are becoming increasingly irrelevant, allowing for a more flexible and enriched lifestyle without compromising the quality of care provided to clients.
Cynthia also shares insights into her personal motivations, drawing from a rich family history that spans continents, and her father's unfulfilled dreams of travel. This deeply personal element adds a layer of authenticity and passion to her professional endeavors. Her approach is not just about offering therapy from any corner of the world but also about creating a fulfilling life that honors her heritage and personal values. Through initiatives like hosting retreats for overworked women and offering specialized CEU training courses, Cynthia is broadening her impact, helping others find balance and rejuvenation, and equipping fellow professionals with the tools to navigate the demands of their vocation more effectively.
Key points from the episode include:
In her pursuit of dual citizenship, Cynthia's journey began with tracing her ancestry.
The influence of personal and family history on professional paths, illustrating how personal motivations and backgrounds can enrich professional practices and offerings.
Expanding professional services beyond traditional therapy, by hosting retreats and offering specialized training, showcasing innovative ways to serve the community and fellow professionals.
Cynthia started life as a child of immigrants who, due to financial constraints, weren't able to travel as much as they would have liked. After losing her father at a young age (he was 56, she was 23) She decidedI she needed to start seeing the world and not wait for later! Her mother started to travel to all of the places she and Cynthia’s father wanted to see. She decided she would honor him, and now them, in the same way. By living life, seeing the world, and sharing it with her family. In her adulthood she has visited over 20 countries on 3 continents. During the pandemic, with the availability of telehealth therapy, she started to figure out how to make travel and work blend together. She left her agency job where she had been a Director for over a decade and started her private practice. She traveled and worked from all over the US and abroad when traveling became possible again. In the last year, She has focused on beginning to run domestic and international retreats for "The Overworked Woman" and turning burnout to living life. She is an excellent travel planner and considers all contingencies. She is in the process of planning trainings in family therapy and mindfulness to incorporate another part of herself as a clinician and as a traveler. Finally, and with great excitement, she is working on getting her Spanish citizenship through ancestry! She is planning to move to Spain for part of the year once her children are out of college in just a few years. Then, the expat life is the full retirement plan for the future.
Alma Counseling: www.almacounseling.net
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/web -
110. Navigating Life's Surprises: A Nomad's Guide to Flexibility, Minimalism, and Professional Evolution
In this episode of The Traveling Therapist podcast, Kym shares her latest nomadic adventures and reflections, highlighting the flexibility and challenges of a digital nomad lifestyle. Recently returning from a four-month stay in the Dominican Republic, Kym expresses her appreciation for the comforts of the U.S., from the ease of grocery shopping with food allergies to the simple pleasure of driving her car to Target. Her journey underscores the importance of adaptability, especially when unexpected family health issues arise, demonstrating the nomadic life's capacity to swiftly shift plans in response to life's unpredictable nature.
Kym delves into the logistical aspects of nomadism, from managing storage units to downsizing possessions, emphasizing the learning curve involved in living a minimalist lifestyle while on the move. She candidly discusses her struggle with hoarding clothes and the process of decluttering, offering insights into the emotional and practical challenges of maintaining a pared-down life. This episode also touches on exciting developments in Kym's professional life, from launching a new podcast focused on AI in private practice to partnering with innovative companies like Al, aimed at enhancing therapists' work, even when abroad. Kym's journey is a testament to the joy and complexity of blending travel, therapy, and entrepreneurship, inviting listeners to explore the vast possibilities of a mobile lifestyle while navigating its inherent unpredictability.
Key Points:
Adapting to Unexpected Family Health Issues: Kym highlights the nomadic lifestyle's flexibility, allowing her to be present for family during critical times.
The Challenges of Long-Term Storage and Downsizing: Insights into the logistical challenges of maintaining a minimalist lifestyle while traveling, including storage unit management and decluttering.
Embracing Professional Growth and New Opportunities: Updates on Kym's ventures into AI for private practice, partnerships with companies like Owl (owlpractice.com), and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of the traditional therapy practice.
Link to:
www.clinicalaiclub.com
www.clinicalaiclub.com/podcast
https://kymtolson.kartra.com/page/blab
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 -
109. Navigating Life Transitions: How Travel Coaching Can Guide Your Next Steps with Sahara Rose De Vore
In this episode of the Traveling Therapist Podcast, Kym introduces Sahara Rose De Vore, the innovative founder of the Travel Coach Network. Unlike traditional travel agents, Sahara and her network specialize in travel coaching, leveraging travel as a powerful tool for personal growth, transformation, and healing. Through the Travel Coach Certification Program, which is the world's first ICF-accredited program in this niche, Sahara trains individuals to help clients set meaningful intentions for their trips, ensuring travel serves as a catalyst for achieving their goals and experiencing profound life changes. This unique approach to travel is designed not just for the planning and booking phase but to deeply understand the 'why' behind each journey, allowing for truly transformative experiences.
Sahara shares compelling case examples of how travel coaching has aided individuals in navigating life's challenges, such as coping with loss or standing at a crossroads in their careers. Her network includes coaches specializing in various niches, emphasizing the multifaceted benefits of travel in promoting mental, emotional, and physical wellness. The episode beautifully illustrates how travel can be a strategic and intentional tool for self-discovery, confidence-building, and overcoming personal struggles, with Sahara herself detailing her journey through 84 countries and how travel profoundly impacted her life and career direction.
Sahara Rose De Vore is a Wellness Travel Coach and the Founder and CEO of The Travel Coach Network, a global community of travel coaches. Sahara went from broke college student to traveling to 84 countries solo to trailblazing a new path in the travel industry. She believes that there is more to a travel career than just blogging and booking trips and that the travel planning process is more than just a transaction. This led her to creating the world's first and only ICF accredited certification program for travel coaches. Sahara is a published author, global speaker, TEDx speaker, and has been in over 200 media outlets for her travel and business expertise including Forbes, Travel Weekly, Conde Nast Traveler, and CNN Travel. Sahara was also named one of 2023’s Most Influential Women in Travel by TravelPulse and will be appearing on Season 8 of Project Pitch It.
Connect with Sahara:
Website: https://thetravelcoachnetwork.com/
Website: https://sahararosetravels.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sahararosethetravelcoach/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetravelcoachnetwork/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahara-rose-de-vore-4b8bb394/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaharaRoseTheTravelCoach/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theTravelCoachNetwork/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sahararosethetravelcoach
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetravelcoachnetwork
Podcast: https://anchor.fm/thetravelcoachnetwork
Free Beginner's Guide to Travel Coaching: https://thetravelcoachnetwork.mykajabi.com/main-email-series-and-workbook
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 -
108. From Engineering to Empowering: The Unconventional Journey of a Traveling Therapist with Lenora Johnson
In this episode of the Traveling Therapist Podcast, interviews Lenora Johnson. Lenora, a self-proclaimed wandering soul, traces her passion for travel back to childhood dreams and a pivotal family vacation to Niagara Falls, which opened her eyes to the marvels beyond her immediate environment. Her academic and professional path took her through various states, cementing her belief in the feasibility of practicing therapy across geographical boundaries. Lenora's story is a testament to adaptability and the pursuit of work-life harmony, highlighting her strategic adjustments to time zones and client schedules to maintain a successful practice while indulging in her love for travel.
Key Points:
Lenora Johnson's transition from a traditional to a traveling therapist, inspired by her early love for travel and a significant family trip.
Her journey through various states for education and work, leading to a nuanced understanding of practicing therapy across geographical boundaries.
Development of a therapy workbook and a documentation course, drawing from her engineering background and social work experience, to aid therapists and laypeople alike.
Planning of retreats focused on providing respite and empowerment for overwhelmed women and mothers, showcasing her commitment to community support and personal growth.
About Lenora:
Lenora has 20+ years of experience in health and human services working as a victim advocate, crisis intervention specialist and group facilitator. Lenora has 10+ years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) providing therapy, case management and care coordination. Lenora is also passionate about education is currently certified as a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, Clinical Telemental Health Provider, and Shame Informed Treatment Specialist. Lenora’s pronouns are she/her/hers. She is an African American woman and an ally for LGBTQ+. She owns and operates L.C.N. WELLNESS LLC, a private practice serving both Oregon and Washington.
Lenora was born with a wandering spirit, and it has always felt natural to travel. As early as 2nd grade Lenora was dreaming about the places she wanted to go. Lenora hit the ground running after graduating high school. She moved from MI to FL, FL to NV, NV to FL, FL to OH, OH to MI, MI to FL and FL to OR. After starting in private practice, she takes her show on the road. Lenora will spend 2-4 weeks traveling across the USA. Lenora is a global citizen who lives locally in OR.
She loves bringing her favorite things together, therapy and traveling.
Connect with Lenora:
Website: https://lcnwellness.com
IG: www.LCNWELLNESS/instagram.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
Customer Reviews
Therapists get to have thriving lives!
Kim is a consistent inspiration! Her podcast features incredible people who have found ways to be both world travelers and incredible, ethical, quality therapists. Being both of these things is my ultimate goal- and Kim and her podcast is a wonderful resource for answering all my questions about how to get there.
The topics are interesting but…
I really wanted to like this podcast, as a traveling therapist myself.
But the sound quality is terrible. The titles and summaries are clearly AI generated. The episodes are not well prepped and the host mostly just says « wow » to everything the guests say.
The host boasts in the intro about her 6 figure income, and I keep hoping she will use some of that income to get a proper microphone and recording set up.
All in all I don’t think the host is thinking a lot about the listener’s experience. She sounds like a caring person but maybe she just has too much on her plate to invest energy into this podcast. That’s too bad, because I have no doubt it could be great with a little effort.
Best tips for everyone!!
I have been listening to every episode of Kym’s podcast but this one on connectivity while working remotely or away from home is a keeper!
There are so many choices on Wi-Fi hot spots and resources but sometimes you don’t know what will work until you are in the moment. Thanks Kym for all the scenarios and what to consider when working outside my home!!!!
Saved this one for future reference!!!