Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Saba Lurie, Founder of Take Root Therapy, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.

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

I am the owner and founder of Take Root Therapy, a supportive, evidence-based, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and culturally sensitive psychotherapy practice in Los Angeles. We work with a broad range of clients, including individuals and couples struggling with their relationships, the world around them, and their feelings.

Tell us about yourself

I spent many years working at non-profit mental health organizations, doing work that I loved but within systems that were challenging for me and didn't seem to work for our clients. I was eager to create a figurative and literal space where I could support my clients as best as possible on my terms. I started my business as a solo practice but quickly saw that I could have a greater reach with a group practice. As someone who has seen multiple therapists throughout my life, I know how transformative therapy can be. I also know that a therapist has the potential to cause great harm. I hoped to create a space where I could connect clients who reached out to a therapist I felt confident would be a good fit: compassionate, competent, and caring. I also was eager to support other clinicians in doing their work, to create a space where their place of work also prioritized their needs and mental health. Take Root Therapy is the culmination of this dream. I work with a team of skilled clinicians and an incredible, supportive care coordinator to provide effective psychotherapy at a larger scale and to respectfully and thoughtfully provide client-centered resources when we are not the right fit.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

We recently had an afternoon where I stepped into the waiting room to greet a client, right when two of the therapists on my team were stepping into the waiting room to greet their clients. I looked at the beautiful space we have curated and the therapists I know to provide outstanding care and support to their clients. I felt so proud of what we have created together. I love knowing that each person who reaches out to us will be treated with respect and consideration, even if we aren't able to accommodate them or aren't the right fit. And I love the level of care that goes into each element of Take Root Therapy, from the rugs in our offices to the welcome emails to how we greet someone reaching out for help.

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

I find that it can be challenging to know when and how to ask for help. Sometimes it can feel like I am carrying all of the elements of the business, as I am the final decision maker, and I oversee our marketing, office maintenance, client care, etc. Remembering to access support has been key to our growth and sustainability, but that doesn't mean that it comes naturally to me. I have employed a few business coaches, am in my own therapy, and will also collaborate with my team to make decisions for the business. It's so important to know that I am not alone.

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

  1. Ask yourself why you want to start a business. What excites you about it? What is your dream? Having clarity about your vision can offer a place to set your sights when it seems you are lost at sea. The waters will get choppy, and you will likely lose your way sometimes, but reminding yourself of your why can help keep you afloat and offer you direction.
  2. Take care of yourself in the process of building your business. It can be easy to prioritize the business over all else, but that is just not sustainable. Take breaks, ask for help, rest, and seek enjoyment. Your business will likely take whatever you offer, so set limits that allow you to care for yourself too.
  3. Remember that growth doesn't happen at all once, and sometimes you won't see the fruits of your labors until much later, but that doesn't mean that your efforts aren't worthwhile. Patience, consistency, and perseverance will serve you well. If you've ever planted a seed, placed it where it gets enough sunlight, and watered it, you know that something was happening beneath the surface before you saw the first sprout. The same will likely be true for different elements of your business.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.losangelesmftherapist.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeroottherapy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeroottherapy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/takeroottherapy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saba-harouni-lurie-a203b370/

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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