If you’ve ever found yourself feeling exhausted, under-appreciated, and wondering if private practice is really worth it, this episode is for you.

In this replay of one of our classics, I’m going back to one of the very first conversations we ever had on the podcast: what an Ideal Practice actually is, and why giving yourself permission to do things your way changes everything.

We’ll talk about how most of us slide into a “default” practice that fits everyone but us—and what it looks like to turn that around with a few honest, clarifying questions.

Yeah. This is going to help you. :))

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why developing your practice “by default” leaves you tired, resentful, and broke—and how to transition to something way better..
2. The core mindset shift behind an Ideal Practice: you have both the freedom and the responsibility to design it. (You may like this and you may not, lol.)
3. Five clarifying questions that help you get clear on who you serve, the kind of work that lights you up, and how you actually want to work. (So many choices. I know!)
4. Real-life examples of healers who changed their schedules, adapted their services, and even learned to set better money boundaries so their practices just FIT them better.
5. A simple reflection exercise you can do this week to celebrate what’s already working — and begin changing what isn’t.

And you’ll hear some of my favorite truths from this early episode, like:

• “We own it all, y’all.” 😉
• “Do things your way. That doesn’t make you a bad person. It makes you happy.” (Am I right???!)
• The five most important words you will say in your business…. And more.

All of this so that you can start designing a practice that pays an honorable rate, reflects the good you do in the world, and actually feels like it was built for you.

If this episode stirs something up for you, set aside 30 minutes this week, grab a notebook, and walk yourself through the five clarifying questions I share. Notice what already feels ideal—and what absolutely doesn’t. Then choose one small change you’re willing to make next.

When you do, I’d love to hear about it. Tag me on social or send me a quick note and tell me what you’re changing in your practice next.

~Wendy

P.S. If you love this episode, would you give us a 5 star review? Just scroll to the bottom of the show page in Apple Podcasts where you’ll see the reviews that are already there, and find “Write a Review” in a tiny link underneath. Thank you!!!

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SPECIAL OFFER

Heading into the holidays brings up allll kinds of mixed emotions, worries and joys for our clients, and for ourselves. What better time to practice focusing on abundance, and learn how to attract better income, better energy, and better flow in your private practice?

Check out Mind Over Money, my sweet mini-course that may be just what you need right now. And use the Promo Code “Ideal50” at check out to get over half off, too. BOOM!

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Seasons change — and so does the rhythm of our work.

In today’s short “Behind the Mic” reflection, I want to tell you a little about why things on the Ideal Practice podcast might sound a little different for a while — and what’s coming next.

Over the next few months, I’ll be alternating between short reflections and replays of some of my favorite episodes that are packed with value. This new rhythm gives me space to create something I’m really excited about — the self-paced, DIY version of my live course, Evolve. Whoooeeeee….!

Ever wish you had a roadmap to help establish a solid foundation and grow your practice at your own pace — without adding more to your already full plate? This will be for you.

So tune in today for a quick, heartfelt update about honoring your own seasons, working with intention, and our evolution as practice owners.

Sometimes the most generous thing we can do is to create space for what’s next.

That’s what I’m doing here.

This week’s message is brief, but important.

And hey! Why don’t you shoot me a note and let me know what you think about my plans. Am I on the right track here? :)

I think I am. 😎

In the meantime, I’d love to know — what kind of “seasonal shift” are you in right now? Send me a DM on Facebook or an email and tell me. 💬

And have a great week!

~Wendy

P.S. If you’re craving a slower, more intentional way to grow your practice, stay with me through this new season — and get ready for Evolve, coming February 2026.

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MENTIONED: My Interview with Joe Sanok, Host, Practice of the Practice Podcast in Episode #170.

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HAVE YOU HEARD?

You can get my popular min-course on how to transform your money mindset from one of lack, to one of abundance - and just in time for the holidays. Use the promo code "Ideal50" at check out and save $50 - over half the usual fee. Look at that! You're already attracting more abundance! Check out Mind Over Money right here; www.WendyPittsReeves.com/mind .

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Hey everyone! You’re in for a treat and a half today! 😍

On the podcast this week, I sat down with the one and only Joe Sanok, popular founder of Practice of the Practice and host of one of the most successful, longest-running podcasts in our field. Joe helps therapists build a private practice that they absolutely love … one that makes money, serves people deeply, AND doesn’t burn you out in the process.

Heading into this interview, I was eager to hear his backstory, and he did not disappoint. :)

In this episode, Joe shared how he stumbled into private practice almost by accident, and the journey that his career took to bring him all the way to where he is today … guiding and inspiring the next generation of therapists.

We're not just talking tactics and strategies here, y’all (though we cover plenty of those). We're digging into the personal evolution that happens when you grow a business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The 3P Process Joe uses to validate every new idea he has (and how it helped him turn a $500 course idea into a $20,000 done-for-you service!).
• Why you should never think of your business as your baby (and the surprising reframe that changes how you show up as an owner).
• Why there are probably 10 different ways you can serve a single client… (This was such a creative way to grow your practice AND serve at a deeper level. I loved it!!)
• The simple pricing rule to use when raising your rates. (Spoiler alert: might make your stomach flip! 😉)

Whether you're just starting out, growing a group practice, or wondering what's next, there's something here for you. Joe is one of the most respected leaders and teachers in the private practice world, and this interview shows why.

So give this a listen. And maybe - just maybe - start dreaming a little bigger about what your practice could become. 🤩

Lots of love,

~Wendy

P.S. What was your #1 takeaway from this conversation? Send me a DM on Facebook or an email at Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com and tell me. And if you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave us a 5 star review too. Thanks!

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TODAY’S GUEST: JOE SANOK

Joe Sanok launched Practice of the Practice in 2012, first as a blog, and later as a podcast, so he could talk about what he was learning about business, marketing, and private practice. In the years since, he's sold his very successful group practice, became an author, a keynote and TEDx speaker, a business consultant, and podcaster. His show, The Practice of the Practice Podcast, is the #1 podcast for therapists and one of the top podcasts in the world.

He's been featured in multiple outlets and is the author of Thursday is the New Friday. Joe has been named a top therapist resource for his podcast, blogging, and consultant services. Check out his signature program: The Practice Academy.

His Website: https://practiceofthepractice.com/

His Podcast: https://practiceofthepractice.com/listen-to-the-podcast/

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Okay, let’s talk about this, folks.

I know a lot of us break out in hives at the mere thought of marketing. 😜

And yet - some of the most talented healers I know sit with open appointment slots while people who need their help are scrolling Psychology Today, completely lost.

It's heartbreaking on both sides. 💔

But we can fix that. :)

So today, I’ve found someone who can help. Aaron Price is quite the therapy evangelist, who’s cracked the code on this whole thing. He helps therapists bridge the gap between "I know I can help…" and "but how do the right people actually find me?".

And now, he even has a unique tool that he designed and developed himself, Therapy Profile Pro, that I loved learning about.

I know how to write a smart profile, and have helped countless therapists do exactly that. And even with that, I found this conversation to be incredibly helpful.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The simple math formula that will change how you think about marketing. (This is easy - and eye opening.)
• The TWO questions we should all be asking when we consult with a new client (… and why the second question can give you SO much insight into your ideal clients).
• Aaron’s three-paragraph Psychology Today formula that actually works to attract better clients (and how not to waste precious real estate on your profile).
• The specific Psychology Today optimization hacks that some therapists miss completely (and how to use those for your advantage).

This episode really was filled with actionable tips you can implement today. And Aaron was kind enough to offer a discount code for Ideal Practice listeners who want to take advantage of his software.

I am not an affiliate, y’all. I just liked what he had to share, and I think what he has to offer is probably worth a look.

So grab a cup of coffee and give this one a listen.

Because when you learn to market authentically and strategically, you're not just filling your caseload – you're making it easier for the people who need your unique gifts to actually find you.

#win/win 😎

~Wendy

P.S. I know you'll love this. So, have you left a review for us yet over on Apple Podcasts or Spotify? Hint hint….

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TODAY’S GUEST: AARON PRICE

Aaron Price is a marketing expert and software engineer who specializes in building marketing tools for private practice therapists. As the founder of Therapy Profile Pro, Aaron has helped over 1,000 therapists enhance their Psychology Today profiles, refine their professional focus, and attract more of their ideal clients authentically and ethically.

Learn more here: https://www.therapyprofilepro.com/

Before founding Therapy Profile Pro, Aaron led marketing for multiple education and climate tech companies. He has also been attending therapy himself for the past few years—a journey he describes as life-changing.

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Ever feel like you're screaming into a void when it comes to marketing your practice? 😵

If so, you're going to love what I have for you today, because I'm talking with the brilliant Marina Gee about something that could completely transform how you connect with your ideal clients: authentic storytelling.

And that might even mean telling YOUR story.

(Even though we’re often taught specifically not to do that…)

Marina is a digital marketing strategist who runs an agency specifically focused on helping healthcare professionals and private practice owners. She's passionate about helping heart-centered practitioners (like you!) cut through all the digital noise and build genuine trust with the people who need your services most.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The most effective way to build trust with your audience on social media (spoiler: it doesn’t involve dancing on TikTok!).
• Why your education and credentials matter WAY less than you imagine to potential clients (and what you should be sharing with them instead).
• The two most revealing (and valuable) questions you should be asking every new client.
• The three types of personal stories every practice owner can share (and why they don’t need to be as personal as you think).

I have to tell you: this conversation completely shifted how I think about sharing personal experiences with clients.

Because here's the thing … Your credentials matter, but your story is what makes people say, "This is the person I want to work with".

So give this one a listen. Because your people are out there looking for exactly what you offer.

Let's help them find you.

~Wendy

P.S. “Okay Wendy - you’ve got me thinking…“

If that’s what you find yourself saying as you listen, would you please share a little love with a 5 star review and a few words over on Apple Podcasts or Spotify?

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TODAY’S GUEST: MARINA GEE

Marina Gee is a dynamic marketing strategist, entrepreneur, and creative visionary dedicated to empowering brands through storytelling and purposeful strategy. As the founder of MG Media Creative, she blends innovation with intuition to elevate health, wellness, and private practice businesses.

Marina’s voice has been featured on leading podcasts like ‘The Soul of Business' and ‘Pastor Plus' and in publications including ‘Bold Journey Magazine’ and ‘Canvas Rebel’. Bilingual in Spanish and English, she’s passionate about authentic connection, global impact, and building heart-led businesses. Marina’s mission is simple: help others show up, stand out, and succeed with clarity and confidence.

Her Website: www.mgmediacreative.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mgmediacreative1

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/mg-media-creative

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mgmediacreativeagency

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Hey there everyone,

Have you ever hired someone to handle your insurance billing, only to have it turn into a total mess? Maybe even a nightmare? 😵‍💫

If so, you're not alone in that!

Today, I’ve shared with you the unvarnished truth about my own experience with insurance billing companies. Because over the course of 20+ years in private practice, I switched billing providers seven different times.

Yes... Seven. Times.

It was quite the journey.

Not gonna lie. 😒

But here's the thing.

There are times when hiring a billing company is EXACTLY the right thing for you to do. And handled well, it can bring you peace of mind, better cash flow, and even more business.

But handled poorly, it can cost you. A lot.

Today, I thought it might help if I told you some of the mistakes I made - and lessons I learned - so that you can get this right from the start!

In this episode, you'll hear:

• The one type of billing company that never worked out well for me (and the one that finally did).
• The most important rule when it comes to letting other people handle your money.
• Exactly what questions to ask when vetting a billing company (and exactly WHO to ask for reviews).
• My go-to resources if you need help with your billing (or - if you want to handle it yourself 🤓)

So give this a listen.

Because after going through 7 of these companies and countless headaches, I've learned a thing or two that might just save you years of frustration.

To your success,

~Wendy

P.S. While you’re here, can I ask a favor?

If you enjoyed this episode, please take 2 minutes to share a 5 star review and maybe a few words over on Apple Podcasts. Your support means more than you can imagine, and helps us get discovered by others who could use this kind of help. Thank you! 🙏

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MENTIONED:

Episode 57: Take Your Practice on the Road with Kym Tolson

Course: Bill Like A Boss

Episode 165: What If Insurance Billing Wasn’t So Hard? A Helpful Conversation with Jeremy Zug

Podcast: The Claim Game

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COACHING: Need a Quick Start Consult?

Got a problem in your practice that you can’t solve? Have an idea you want to try but don't know where to start? A Quick Start Consult gives you access to high quality coaching without the expense of a full blown coaching commitment. I'm serious about your success - so we don't just talk about your business. We work on it - together. Click here for details.

QUICK START CONSULT: https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/consult

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

Buckle up, y’all, because we’re getting into one of the most critical (and most avoided!) topics in private practice ownership … paying yourself an actual salary.

I'm talking with the brilliant Carla Titus, a fractional CFO who helps mental health group practices and healthcare providers get financially healthy. Carla works with everyone from solo practitioners to seven-figure practices, and she’s the kind of person who speaks truth to us in a way that we need to hear it. :)

Because here's the thing …

You're not running a charity. You're running a business.

And CEOs don't work for free – so why should you?

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What’s really going on when you don’t pay yourself a salary. (Hint: it’s not because you don’t have the cash.)
• When debt could be a GOOD thing. 🤔
• The concept of "owner's equity" that will completely flip the way you think about starting a business (or even putting money into your practice).
• Key characteristics that ALL successful business owners have in common.

Carla also coined my new favorite phrase: "financial treatment plan."

That's exactly what we need, isn't it? The same intentional, systematic approach we use with our clients, but applied to our money. We get that language!

When you stop treating your practice like volunteer work and start paying yourself what you're worth, everything changes, my friend.

You show up differently. You serve better. And you actually enjoy running the business you worked so hard to build.

Give her a listen.

~Wendy

P.S. Carla was a high-energy, straight-talking, positive-thinking, downright inspiring guest. If you thought so too, would you mind giving her (and us!) a 5 star rating over on Apple? Thank you!

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TODAY’S GUEST: CARLA TITUS

Carla Titus is a finance expert with over 17 years of combined corporate financial planning, analysis, strategy, and online business experience. She provides fractional CFO services and financial consulting to business owners looking to grow their business profitably.

Carla is the owner of ‘Wealth & Worth Within’. Her mission is to empower business owners to achieve financial clarity and peace of mind, so that they can get back to what they enjoy.

Her Website: https://www.wealthworthwithin.com/

Her Podcast: CEO Financial Clarity Corner

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MENTIONED:

Full Focus Planner by Michael Hyatt

On Carla’s Podcast: Breaking the Cash Crunch Cycle: How to Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck in Your Business

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com

I’m so excited about today’s conversation, guys, which is a weird thing to say about … insurance. 😵‍💫

Today’s guest, Jeremy Zug from Practice Solutions, lives and breathes mental health billing (yes, that's a thing!). And he doesn't sugarcoat it.

Mental health billing IS harder than medical billing.

Insurance companies DO play games with us. That little voice in your head telling you this stuff is complicated and frustrating? You're absolutely right. But here's what Jeremy knows that most of us don't - there's a better way to play this game.

In this episode, Jeremy walks us through his unique approach that completely flips the traditional billing process on its head. (I so wish I'd known this 20 years ago!)

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why you should do payment posting BEFORE submitting a claim (this one tip alone could save you thousands).
• The red flags that mean it's time to walk away from an insurance contract.
• What to negotiate in your contracts beyond just payment rates.
• The six must-haves when choosing a billing service (... 7 if you include my own!).

Listen, I know many of you would rather have a root canal than deal with insurance billing. I get it. I've been there, got the scars to prove it. 😬

But avoiding this stuff doesn't make it go away. It just costs you money and creates problems in your therapeutic relationships.

So let’s learn how to do this better - for our clients’ sake, and our own.

Give this a listen.

~Wendy

P.S. Even if you don’t or can’t accept insurance in your practice, you may still find this an eye opening conversation. Would love to hear from you if you do!

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TODAY’S GUEST: JEREMY ZUG

Jeremy Zug is a nationally recognized leader in healthcare operations and financial optimization for mental and behavioral health professionals. An expert in insurance billing and revenue cycle management, his career drives financial health and operational excellence for these professionals.

In 2017, Jeremy co-founded Practice Solutions with his wife, Kathryn. This expanded medical billing company offers billing services, professional support, and educational resources to thousands of mental and behavioral healthcare providers for optimal revenue cycle management. Their combined knowledge, stemming from private practice experiences in college, underpins the company's success in supporting financial well-being.

His Website: Practice Solutions

His Podcast: The Claim Game

_______________

COACHING: Need a Quick Start Consult?

Got a problem in your practice that you can’t solve? Have an idea you want to try but don't know where to start? A Quick Start Consult gives you access to high quality coaching without the expense of a full blown coaching commitment. I'm serious about your success - so we don't just talk about your business. We work on it - together. Click below for details.

QUICK START CONSULT https://www.wendypittsreeves.com/consult

Support the show

Wendy Pitts Reeves, LCSW
Host, Ideal Practice
Private Practice Coach and Mentor

www.WendyPittsReeves.com
Wendy@WendyPittsReeves.com