Finding Private Practice Success as an Introvert
Updated Feb. 10, 2023
Tips for Introverted Therapists
When you’re introverted and naturally thrive when you’re able to spend time alone to recharge, you may feel at a disadvantage in private practice, but the truth is your success isn’t dependent on being an extrovert — you can be authentically introverted AND own a successful practice.
Ibinye, an LMFT working with Christian counseling in Murrieta, California, found success in private practice as an introvert. She worked in community mental health, during which her loved ones, co-worker, and doctor were deeply concerned about her overall well-being — so much so that she was almost forced into medical leave!
Knowing that change was necessary, Ibinye started a private practice and enrolled in Business School for Therapists for more guidance as a business owner. Now, she works full-time in practice with a clear niche, lifestyle-aligned fees, plenty of client demand, and confidence as an introvert.
Setting Your Introverted Therapist Self Up for Success
Here are three ways she did it that you can incorporate into your own life and business:
1. Recognize the Value You Provide as an Individual.
Your introversion is an aspect of your identity that’s contributed to the experiences and perspectives you developed throughout your life. All of these things allow you to provide inherent value as a mental health professional that differs from extroverted clinicians.
Not to mention that you have a thorough understanding of what it’s like to be introverted and may be able to connect more with certain clients as a result. Plus, when considering other parts of your identity, it’s possible to strengthen this connection even more. After all, clients want to work with someone who truly understands them, and you could be exactly who they need.
2. Establish Yourself Within a Supportive Community.
Everyone can benefit from having people in their lives who understand their path and want them to thrive, and this is especially the case when you’re a business owner. Regardless of the specific format — in-person, online, etc. — you’ll be at a greater advantage when you have a network of professionals building their practices alongside you and offering mutual support.
If you’re looking for a free online community where you can connect with other introverts and otherwise similar practice owners, you’re invited to join the FREE Private Practice Community! But even if you’re already a member or are looking for something else, what’s important is that you find a group of people who you can trust, grow with, and support during your journey.
3. Acknowledge That You Can Succeed as an Introvert.
Extroverts are often seen in the spotlight, which can inadvertently lead to limiting beliefs about success as an introvert, and if you’re feeling this way, it’s a MUST that you start shifting your thought patterns. Being an introvert is just one aspect of your identity, and it DOESN’T mean you can’t succeed — in fact, it can be part of the reason why you DO succeed in private practice.
Once you recognize that introversion is a strength rather than a weakness, you can leverage it to move toward your private practice goals. First, consider the benefits of being introverted — what value do you offer that’s a result of being an introvert? Then, determine how to use those strengths to build a private practice that works for you and the people whose lives you change.
Here’s a Quick Summary of How You Can Find Success as an Introvert:
Consider how your introverted nature contributes to the value you provide as an individual.
Become a member of a community where you feel genuinely supported and celebrated.
Identify the strengths you developed as an introvert and design your practice accordingly.
P.S. You’re valued as your authentic, introverted self, and there IS a community for you.
Comprehensive support and guidance from a community who recognizes your value and the need for your services is the quickest way to create a practice that allows you to maximize your potential as an introverted business owner. Learn more about Business School for Therapists, which helped clinicians like Ibinye leverage their introversion and thrive in private practice.
P.P.S. Watch (or listen) to Ibi’s journey into private practice here!
