The State of Therapy: Big Business, Burnout, and Reinventing Private Practice
Starting a Counseling Practice Success Stories is kicking off a brand-new twist! In this special new series, hosts Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer are introducing their very first “State of the Union” episode. Each month, they’ll step away from the usual success story interviews to bring you real-time, behind-the-scenes conversations about what’s happening in the world of mental health care and how it impacts private practice owners like you.
In this episode, Kelly and Miranda dive headfirst into the chaotic, ever-evolving mental health landscape. They unpack major industry headlines like Rula’s partnership with Amazon Health and the inner workings of tech giants like BetterHelp and break down what these shifts mean for therapists across the country.
You’ll hear an unfiltered conversation about the mounting pressures facing clinicians today: confusing contracts, burnout from online therapy, the realities of marketing yourself, and the tough question of whether corporate platforms or insurance panels are really the best path forward.
Kelly and Miranda also share grounded advice on recognizing your value as a therapist, building a place for yourself in your community, and making business and employment decisions with clarity and confidence.
This episode is packed with truth bombs, practical tips, and encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed by today’s mental health care chaos. Whether you’re weighing private pay vs. insurance, considering joining an online platform, or just looking for a clearer path forward, you’ll walk away feeling informed, empowered, and ready for what’s next.
So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and join Kelly and Miranda for a much-needed, honest check-in on the state of mental health care and what it means for YOUR practice.
What We’re Unpacking:
The rise of big tech and corporate involvement in mental health (Amazon, Rula, BetterHelp)
Pros and cons of working with online therapy platforms vs. independent private practice
Corporate models’ impact on therapist autonomy, pay, and client care quality
Venture capital funding and the trend toward industry consolidation
Burnout, exploitation, and ethical issues in large mental health organizations
The unique value and sustainability of small private practice
Legal concerns: 1099 contracting, labor disputes, and unionization challenges
Future predictions for volatility and change in the mental health landscape
Encouragement for therapists to reflect on their contracts and career choices
Feeling fired up after this episode?
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Want to dig even deeper?
We’ve got free resources and trainings to help you stay grounded and grow your practice, no matter what the industry throws your way.
