Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karina Ramdath, Founder of Sweet Violet Counselling Inc., located in Calgary, AB, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I compassionately provide mental health and relationship therapy to people across the lifespan. I am especially proud to offer a safe space for people facing life challenges, relationship troubles, and trauma.

Tell us about yourself

I worked in public health in Canada and the UK. I noticed gaps in services, which included limiting the number of sessions people could have—ending therapy too soon sometimes led people to be hospitalised. Another gap in service was that sometimes clients had many therapists within a few months, which created frustration and distrust with the mental health service.

I wanted to offer therapy to people who needed support a little longer, which could prevent hospitalisation. I also wanted to create consistent therapeutic relationships, which allowed people to feel acknowledged and seen and prompted them to engage in new skills, gain confidence, and create positive change. As such, I started Sweet Violet Counselling Inc. in 2020 and feel motivated to continue the private practice by the people I serve.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is being able to transition to full-time practice in the Spring of 2022. I was able to do so because service users were asking for more of my time and giving feedback that I really made a difference in their lives. To be able to offer encouragement through my clinical skills is a wonderful validation that I'm supporting others to create the lasting and sustainable change they want.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is being able to say no when I need to regarding a project, an ask for the business, or even someone accessing therapy. At the same time, therapists often teach others that setting healthy boundaries is important, so I need to model that. I recognise that I need to balance what's right for the business, what's right for me, and what's right for the client.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Trust yourself. Trust your intuition, your ideas, and your passion.
  2. Take that first step. It's easier than you think and will help you find the momentum you need to take the second step because you've accomplished that first thing.
  3. Ask for help when needed. Consult with others, talk to friends and family, read books, attend training, and partner up. It's important to have support and a cheering section. It's helpful to have a sounding board or that validation that you're doing something amazing.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I love supporting people to recognise their resiliency and their strengths. Reach out to me via my email or phone number, or follow me on Instagram. In the meantime, please take care of yourselves.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.sweetvioletcounselling.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetvioletcounselling/

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.

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