Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Christine Railsback, Owner of Safe Harbour Counseling LLC., located in Columbus, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am in the business of helping people as a mental health therapist. My group practice accommodates people of all ages with different kinds of mental health issues. We do specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. We work with individuals, families, and couples of all races, gender, and sexual orientation.
Tell us about yourself
I have finally found my purpose in life; however, it took me a while to make my dream come true. At 44, after decades in the corporate world, I realized that I was not living to my full potential each day. After all, if you’re going to work 40+ hours a week for most of your life, shouldn’t you love what you do? So, I went on a mission to find out what excited me. I did some soul searching on what I am passionate about, what fulfills me, and how I can make a difference in this world.
I came up with helping people. So, I went back to school at the University of Dayton and graduated with my master's in Education with an emphasis in Counseling in 2015. I had several jobs that gave me the knowledge to become an integrative therapist, which means that I pick from several different interventions to help the client swim with their current. I started my business in September 2021 because I wanted to make more of a difference with my personal stamp. I also want to mentor other therapists to be the best they can be, which is why I am growing a group practice.
My passion is to help as many people as I can navigate life’s twists and turns. I look at life, figure out all the moving pieces and parts, and put them back together like a jigsaw puzzle. I enjoy teaching others and believe that the more people I help, the better off the world will become.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is following through on my dreams, no matter the obstacles that are/were in my way. In one year, I have reached my first-year goals of acquiring two therapists, growing my social media, and turning out a profit.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, it is learning how to balance the administrative aspect while being a therapist. I must admit that I am still adjusting to this, but I am getting better. I am learning how to organize in a way that will help me gain more time to grow my business to my vision. The cool part is I love both aspects of my business, so it truly doesn't seem like work to me.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- No matter how confident you feel, you will be put to the test. Trust yourself and your vision. Walk through your fears and your anxiety. It does become easier.
- Have a support system. If it wasn't for my husband, family, and friends, I might have backed out due to the emotional, physical and financial stress.
- Understand the time commitment of what it takes to run a business and do your trade. I thought I had this in the bag; however, I was fooled. It took me a while to adjust, but once I did, it became easier.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I am one of the lucky ones that have found my purpose and passion. Don't stop until you find yours. If you need help, find a therapist that you can connect with. YOU ARE WORTH THE FIGHT.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://safeharbourcounselingcolumbus.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/safeharbourcounselingllc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safeharbourcounselingllc/
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.