Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Carolyn Kagan, Founder of The Alliance Center, located in Stamford, CT, USA.

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

I’m the Founder and Executive Director of The Alliance Center, a boutique holistic maternal mental health center in Stamford, Connecticut. We provide care to new and expectant parents throughout their reproductive journeys. Our team has training in the fields of social work, psychology, midwifery, childbirth education, nutrition, naturopathy, and yoga. We offer specialized mental, emotional, social, and physical support through the distinct phases of preconception, pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting.

Tell us about yourself

I’ve worked in various aspects of the mental health field for the last 20 years, and I’m proud to be a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist who’s certified in perinatal mental health. After the birth of my first child, I was struck with the lack of support and specialized care available to new parents during the most transformative time of their lives. Due to my training and background, I tend to examine issues from a systemic perspective, and I have spent the last ten years of my career in private practice doing just that. I’ve made it my mission to become more informed and have turned that knowledge into programs, initiatives, and innovative spaces to support our perinatal community.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment to date is building a workplace culture that’s a reflection of my personal values: community, connection, integrity, trust, and love. I dreamt of The Alliance Center as a welcoming environment for our team, clients, and visitors alike, and so far, that has been achieved.

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

One of the hardest things has been learning to ask for and receive help. It’s something I often encourage my pregnant and postpartum clients to do with respect to building their support systems. No one is meant to do this work, this life, alone. Each day I’m trying to practice what I preach.

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

  1. Get clear about your personal values and take actions that are in alignment with them.
  2. Identify your unique gifts, honor them, and keep showing up as your authentic self.
  3. Surround yourself with positive, supportive, optimistic, and creative people.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.thealliancecenterct.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thealliancecenterct/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thealliancecenterct/


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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