Finding Balance: Building a Therapy Practice and Community

I haven't written for my website recently – I've been deep in building TNC, our mental health and therapy community interest company. It's been an incredible journey, and like most ventures worth pursuing, it's brought its share of excitement, frustration, and valuable lessons.

The Entrepreneur's Paradox: Even Therapists Need Balance

One of the biggest revelations? How easily we can lose our equilibrium, even those of us trained to help others find theirs. Building something new is inherently destabilising – full of highs and lows that mirror life itself. Whether you're going solo or building with colleagues and community, the challenge remains: maintaining perspective amid the chaos.

The Power of People

What consistently anchors me is the network of relationships I've cultivated. From the passionate therapists who form TNC's Compassion Collective to my fellow directors and the broader Woodville Community, these connections provide both professional support and personal grounding.

Relationships – whether working partnerships, community ties, family bonds, or friendships – are rarely static. They ebb and flow, some more dramatically than others. The key is remaining open to learning and growth, even when you're not ready for new connections. Everything happens at its own pace, and that's perfectly okay.

Choosing Your Therapist: Trust Your Instincts

This principle of pacing and intuition extends directly to therapeutic relationships. When I meet potential new clients, I always emphasise: this is about finding the right fit for you.

Trust your gut. Ask yourself: Could I sit in a room with this person for an hour? If they offer a free consultation, take it. Come prepared with questions. How do they show up with you? Do you feel at ease? Will they challenge you gently rather than rushing to solutions without truly listening?

Understanding Therapy Options and Investment

I understand therapy can feel like a significant financial commitment. My rates – £65 for face-to-face sessions and £55 for online – reflect the average for a BACP registered integrative therapist. While some specialists (like EMDR practitioners) may charge upward of £100, I believe quality therapy should be accessible.

But what do these terms actually mean, and do they matter?

Integrative therapy means drawing from various therapeutic modalities based on what serves you best. This might involve exploring past trauma, examining relationship patterns, or focusing on immediate concerns. The approach adapts to your needs rather than forcing you into a one-size-fits-all framework.

The Research is Clear: Relationship Matters Most

Regardless of therapeutic approach or practitioner, research consistently demonstrates that the therapeutic relationship itself is the strongest predictor of positive outcomes. This makes your choice of therapist crucial.

Be wary of practitioners who don't offer consultation opportunities or who charge for initial meetings. While therapists certainly need to earn a living, 15-20 minutes should provide sufficient time to gauge compatibility without financial pressure.

Flexible Therapy for Real Lives

I work with clients across the spectrum of need and commitment. Some benefit from short-term work – perhaps 4-5 sessions over several months. Others require longer-term weekly support. Many return for periodic check-ins after 4, 5, or 6 months.

For newcomers to therapy or new clients, I typically recommend weekly sessions initially. This frequency allows us to establish rapport and helps you determine whether I'm the right fit for your journey.

The Bottom Line

Whether you're building a business, seeking therapy, or simply navigating life's complexities, the same principles apply: trust your instincts, invest in relationships, and remain open to growth at your own pace. Balance isn't a destination – it's an ongoing practice, one that benefits from the right support system.

If you're considering therapy, take your time choosing. Ask questions. Trust your gut. The right therapeutic relationship can be transformative, but only when it truly fits.