Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ashley McMann, Founder and CEO of Mindful Living Therapy, located in Austin, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a mental health private practice owner. My customers range from three years of age and up, struggling with a wide variety of mental health concerns. My practice works with children, adolescents, adult individuals, couples, and families.
Tell us about yourself
I started my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor in February of 2018, working for a medium-sized group practice in the suburbs of Houston. Shortly after beginning there, I was offered a management position as Director of Operations. It was throughout my managerial experience there that I grew a love for guiding and consulting with other mental health professionals and realized my desire to one day do so through my own practice. My motivation to help other clinicians grow and to see my clients progress is what keeps me going each day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment so far as a business owner has definitely been bringing on my first contract Therapist. It has definitely been a risky and scary experience, but also exciting and rewarding.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Now that I have brought on a Therapist beneath me, my fear as a business owner has grown. I thought owning a business before was hard, which, don't get me wrong, it definitely is, but when you throw contractors or employees in the mix, the pressure to succeed is instantly tripled. I feel immense pressure to show up and succeed for those depending on me for their livelihood, and that is scary at times.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My first tip would be to stop waiting for the perfect time to start because it will never be the perfect time. Do it scared and trust that through your effort, you will be rewarded. My second tip would be to consult with others as much as possible. Utilizing the experiences and knowledge of others who have launched into private practice before I have been essential in my success and has helped immensely in not feeling so alone throughout this process. Lastly, don't try to do it all at once. Building a business takes a great deal of work and isn't done in a day. Break things down into reasonable goals, and remember to be patient with yourself. Burning yourself out in the process won't get you to your end goal any quicker, so take the time to rest when needed.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Just that while this is a terrifying experience, you are more than capable and worthy of owning your dream business. Just bet on yourself this once!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.mindfullivingtherapytx.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindfullivingtherapytx
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfullivingtherapytx/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.