The Grow Your Private Practice Show
I’m Jane Travis and I’m an ex counsellor that now works with other therapists to grow their private practice, hence the name of the show. I’m the author of the Grow Your Private Practice book and also run the Grow Your Private Practice membership, where counsellors can get together and learn all about marketing, with a special love of all things blogging. Okay, that’s the official stuffy 'about me' bit out of the way, because honestly, it’s so much more than that. The truth is, the thing that really drives me, is helping counsellors - counsellor...
Blogging: The Best First Step in Counselling Marketing

Walking into the gym after a long break can feel so hard.
You look around and everyone seems to know what they’re doing - toned, confident, striding on machines that look more like torture devices than exercise equipment.
Meanwhile, you’re tugging at your leggings, feeling out of place, and wondering if it would be easier to give up and buy a big box of Maltesers on the way home.
That’s exactly how marketing your private practice can feel.
You see other counsellors with slick websites, polished blogs, or big so...
Procrastination Isn’t What You Think It Is

Procrastination doesn’t mean you’re lazy; it means your energy is stuck.
In this episode, I share why getting stuck feels so frustrating (especially when you compare yourself to other counsellors who seem to be doing it all), and how you can see it in a completely different way.
You’ll discover:
Why procrastination isn’t a sign of failure or laziness (phew!)The real reasons you put off tasks in your private practiceSimple, doable steps to release that stuck energy and get moving againIf you’ve ever found yourself tidying yo...
Do Counsellors Need a Niche to Start Blogging?

You’ve probably been told:
“You need a niche before you can start blogging.”
It sounds responsible. It feels strategic.
But for many counsellors? It becomes a fancy-sounding form of procrastination.
In this episode, we’re busting one of the most persistent blogging myths out there, the idea that you can’t start sharing your voice until your niche is perfectly figured out.
If you’ve been staring at a blinking cursor, endlessly tweaking your website or bio instead of actually writing… this one’s for you.
We’ll cover:
...Counsellor Business Reset: 10 Small Tweaks That Make a Big Difference

What if your next big breakthrough in private practice isn’t a brand-new strategy, but simply making the most of what you’ve already got?
In this episode, I’m sharing 10 small-but-mighty areas to check in on. The kind of practical tweaks that can bring more ease, more focus, and yes… even more client enquiries.
Most counsellors skip this kind of business reset. They keep pushing forward, adding more to their plate and end up stuck.
But you don’t have to. With a little reflection (and some cushion-and-throw-style updates), you can refresh your pract...
Counsellors: How to Research Your Blog Post (Without Getting Stuck)

If you find yourself opening just one more tab before writing a blog post, this episode is for you.
Many counsellors fall into the research trap, thinking more information will make blogging easier. But what if that habit is actually slowing you down and watering down your voice?
In this episode, I’m sharing how counsellors should approach blog research in a simpler, more sustainable way so you can stop second-guessing and start writing with more ease and confidence.
🎧 Hit play to learn a more effective way to blog and find out if this...
How Long Should a Blog Post Be? Blogging Advice for Counsellors in Private Practice

If you’ve ever avoided hitting publish because your blog felt “too short,” you’re not alone. Many counsellors get stuck on word count, but focusing on blog length too soon can actually stop you from getting found by clients.
In this episode, I share:
The reality about blog post length for counsellorsWhy word count isn’t the most important thing when you’re starting out5 practical ways to make blogging quicker, easier, and far less overwhelmingWhether you’re new to blogging or ready to improve your private practice marketing, you’ll leave this episode wit...
A Time-Saving, Rule-Breaking Guide for Counsellors

What does giving up ironing have to do with counsellor marketing? More than you’d think!
In this episode, I talk about the invisible “shoulds” we carry, especially around marketing and how they quietly eat up your time, energy, and confidence.
We’ll look at some of the most common ones counsellors follow (often without realising), and I’ll share how to replace them with something that actually works for you.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear:
Why “being professional” doesn’t mean being blandWhat consistency can really look like for counsellors (no daily posts nee...How to Get Into Writing Flow (Even If Blogging Feels Like Pulling Teeth)

You sit down to write a blog with a helpful idea in mind…
But suddenly you’re deep-cleaning the fridge, questioning your niche, and wondering if you should just start a podcast instead.
Why is it so hard to actually start writing?
In this episode of the Grow Your Private Practice Show, we’re talking about how to get into a state of writing flow – where the words come easier, your inner critic quiets down, and blogging doesn’t feel like such a slog.
You’ll hear:
Why writing feels so hard (and...How to Write a Counselling Blog That Builds Trust (Without Sounding Like a Lecture)

You sit down to write a blog post with a warm, helpful idea in your heart… and suddenly it sounds like a CPD presentation.
Formal. Polished. Slightly robotic.
Why does “Professional Mode” take over the second you start typing?
In this episode of the Grow Your Private Practice Show, we’re talking about why so many counsellors struggle to sound like themselves when they write, and how to change that.
You’ll hear:
Why “lecture mode” happens (and why it’s not your fault)How formal writing accidentally creates distance and disconnectSi...Marketing Might Not Be Your Favourite Bit—But It IS the Important Bit

If marketing makes you want to hide under a blanket, this episode is for you.
In this refreshingly honest chat, I break down why marketing isn’t just a “nice to have” in private practice, it’s essential. But don’t worry, there’s no jargon or pushy tactics here. Just real talk about why visibility matters, how to make marketing a regular part of your week (without burning out), and the mindset shift that changes everything.
You’ll discover:
Why “if I build it, they will come” doesn’t work for therapy practicesThe surprising non-sleaz...Should Counsellors Offer Concessions? What to Consider Before You Decide

You became a counsellor to help people, but what happens when someone says they can’t afford your full fee?
Do you offer a concession? A sliding scale? Say yes and quietly resent it – or say no and feel guilty?
In this episode of the Grow Your Private Practice Show, I dive into one of the most emotionally loaded decisions counsellors face: whether or not to offer concessions in private practice.
No judgment. No one-size-fits-all answer. Just a proper, honest conversation about the messy middle ground between compassion, sustainability, and valuing your time.
Easy Content Repurposing for Counsellors, with Sally Birks

Repurposing your content is supposed to make marketing easier… but does it ever feel like more work?
You’re not alone.
In this episode, I’m joined by social media manager and Instagram expert Sally Birks, who shares how to repurpose your content in a way that feels simple, aligned, and human – not robotic or repetitive.
We talk about how to:
Turn one piece of content into several without it sounding the sameAvoid the common mindset blocks that keep therapists stuck in content overwhelmShow up consistently on Instagram without burning outMake peace with reu...The Quiet Power of Blogging for Introverted Counsellors

Ever feel like marketing is made for loud, confident people – and definitely not for introverts like you?
You’re not alone. And you don’t have to fake it or force it to get found by more clients.
In this episode, I’m talking about how blogging can be a calm, confidence-building way to market your private practice, especially if visibility makes you want to hide under a blanket.
We’ll explore how blogging:
Plays to your strengths as an introverted counsellorHelps you get found without having to be constantly ‘on’Builds trust and conn...How to Keep Your Practice Going When Life Gets Messy, with Laura from Worditude

Running a business as a counsellor is never simple, but what about when life throws you even more to carry?
In this honest conversation, I’m joined by Laura Robinson, a marketing mentor and copywriter who’s grown a thriving practice while parenting neurodivergent kids, managing chronic health challenges, and tuning out hustle-culture noise.
Laura shares her Suit Yourself First philosophy: where your business and marketing flex around you, not the other way around.
We talk about:
How to keep your therapy practice going when energy is lowWhat comfy marketing really means, and why it...What to Include on Your Counselling FAQ Page (and Why It Matters)

Feeling unsure about what to write on your FAQ page? This episode of The Grow Your Private Practice Show reveals how to make your FAQ page warm and welcoming, which helps potential counselling clients feel informed, reassured, and ready to book.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What to include (and what to leave out) on your FAQ pageHow to answer common questions with clarity and empathyMistakes counsellors often make and how to avoid themWhy your FAQ page should evolve with your practiceA free workshop + worksheet inside The Vault to help you take actionTh...
Authentic Marketing for Therapists Who’d Rather Be Themselves, with Becca Upton

Feeling stuck in the world of therapy marketing? Wondering how to stand out without feeling fake? In this episode, we sit down with Becca Upton, the no-BS therapist, to chat about how she turned her authentic voice into her biggest business asset.
Key Highlights:
How Becca went from playing it safe to fully embracing her true styleThe surprising ways swearing (yep, you read that right!) can build trust with clientsTips for counsellors to ditch the fluff and find their nicheWhy authenticity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a powerful marketing toolJoin us for...
Stop Chasing Clients: How to Get Found by Your Ideal Therapy Clients

If you’re a counsellor, you probably didn’t train to become a marketer or to feel like you’re in some sort of marketing talent show, trying to prove yourself to everyone.
The whole idea of “attracting clients” can feel… off. Like you’re tap dancing for attention, competing with other counsellors, and constantly performing.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to.
Today, I’m sharing a small but powerful mindset shift that can make marketing feel easier and more aligned with your values. No convincing, no manipulation, no performance.
A Therapist’s Guide to Creative Journaling, with Julie Kuhn

We all know journaling can be a powerful tool for reflection and healing but what if the words just won’t come? Or what if journaling feels like another task you’re “failing” at?
In this episode, I sit down with Creative Arts Counsellor, Julie Kuhn to explore a different way of journaling.. one that uses colour, movement, and playful marks instead of words.
We talk about how creative journaling can help you (and your clients) reconnect with yourself, let go of perfectionism, and process emotions in a way that feels freeing and pressure-free.
And if...
How to Make Marketing More Interesting and Enjoyable (200 Episodes In)

When I started this podcast, I wasn’t sure I’d even make it past 12 episodes.
Now? We’ve hit 200.
In this special episode, I’m sharing the honest, behind-the-scenes lessons podcasting has taught me about confidence, creativity, and growing a private practice.
Whether you’re thinking of starting something new or scared to take the next step.. this one’s for you.
Plus, I’m celebrating 200 episodes and 7 years of Grow Your Private Practice with a special anniversary offer: join the membership for just £7 for your first month.
Listen in, feel...
7 Lessons From 7 Years Helping Therapists Grow Their Private Practice

What if what’s holding you back from getting more clients isn’t your website or your pricing but your mindset, boundaries, or fear of visibility?
In this special anniversary episode, I’m sharing the 7 biggest lessons I’ve learned from 7 years of helping counsellors grow their private practices.
These are the lessons that make marketing feel simpler, more human, and way less overwhelming.. the ones that help you take action (even when it feels scary), build confidence, and start getting found by more of the right clients.
Whether you’re just starting out or fee...
The Get It Done Hour: One Simple Habit That Can Change Everything

Do you keep putting off your marketing tasks even though you really want to grow your private practice?
You’re not alone.
In this episode, I'll share a simple, low-pressure habit that’s helping therapists break the procrastination cycle and finally take consistent action: the Get It Done Hour.
It’s one hour, one task, and no faff – a gentle but powerful way to build momentum without burnout.
You’ll learn why it works, how to start your own Get It Done habit, and 10 simple marketing tasks you can tackle in your next...
How to Hear Your Inner Cheerleader (When Your Inner Critic Won’t Quit)

Does your inner critic have the mic again, saying things like “You’re not ready,” “You don’t know enough,” or “Who do you think you are?”
Yes… me too sometimes.
In this episode, we explore how to turn down the volume on THAT voice and start tuning into your inner cheerleader instead.
The one who reminds you that you’re already enough, that you’ve done hard things before, and that you can do brave things, even if you're doing them scared.
You’ll learn practical ways to reconnect with encouragement, build con...
Too Busy to Market Your Private Practice? Here’s What’s Really Holding You Back

Feeling overwhelmed with marketing your private practice? Discover the underlying reasons therapists struggle with marketing and learn actionable strategies to overcome them.
Tune in for insights that can help you attract more clients without adding to your workload to find time to market your private practice.
Spoiler: it’s often not about time at all.
If marketing feels heavy, overwhelming or just something you keep putting off, this one’s for you.
Let’s shift the story you’re telling yourself, and take back your power.
Links to follow
Jo...
How Mindfulness Can Support You in Private Practice, with Karen Lafferty

Feeling overwhelmed, running on empty, or just craving a bit of headspace?
You’ve probably recommended mindfulness to clients, but are you giving yourself that same care?
In this episode, I’m joined by counsellor and mindfulness teacher Karen Lafferty for a grounded, practical chat about how mindfulness can support you in both your work and your wellbeing.
This isn’t about clearing your mind or lighting incense. It’s about simple ways to feel more present, less frazzled, and more able to show up for yourself as well as your clients.
Whethe...
Blogging for Therapists: 4 Myths Holding You Back

Feel like blogging just isn’t working for you or that you’re not cut out for it?
In this episode, we’re busting 4 common blogging myths that hold counsellors back.
From “I can’t write” to “no one reads blogs anymore,” I’ll walk you through what’s actually true and how to blog with more confidence, clarity, and connection.
Whether you’ve dabbled in blogging or are just getting started, this episode will help you stop second-guessing yourself and start writing in a way that feels good and gets results.
Links to follow
Feel Awkward Marketing Yourself? Here’s How to Make It Easier

Let’s be honest, marketing your counselling practice can feel really uncomfortable.
Like you’re standing in the middle of a crowded room, waving your arms, and shouting, “Pick me! Pick me!”
And that just feels soooooo wrong.
But here’s the thing - you don’t have to “sell yourself” at all. There’s a small but powerful tweak that makes marketing way easier.
In this episode, I’ll walk you through:
✨ Why marketing feels so icky for counselling
✨ The simple shift that makes it feel natural
✨ How blog...
Clients Need Hope, Not Guarantees: Here’s How to Provide It

If you’ve ever held back from talking about the benefits of counselling because you’re afraid of making promises you can’t guarantee, this one’s for you.
It makes sense. You’re an ethical counsellor, and counselling isn’t a quick fix. But the problem is that potential clients need some reassurance before they take that first step.
They’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, maybe even hopeless. They want to believe counselling can help, but they’re not sure. And if your marketing is vague or filled with clinical jargon, they’ll move on.
So, if you st...
Therapists: Why Avoiding the ‘Expert’ Label Is Holding You Back

Do you find yourself cringing at the thought of calling yourself an expert?
You're not alone.
Many counsellors struggle with this, often brushing off compliments from clients with, "Oh, but you did all the work!"
But avoiding the 'E' word could be holding you back.
It impacts your confidence, makes it harder to attract clients, and ultimately affects your income.
So if you’ve been holding back from stepping into your expertise, this episode is for YOU.
Let's get you seen, valued, and fully booked.
Li...
Stories that Connect: Exploring the Art of Storytelling with Jackie Wilson

The online world is noisy, and grabbing attention can feel like an uphill battle. But there’s one timeless tool that still works just as well today as it did thousands of years ago - storytelling.
In this episode, I’m joined by seasoned storyteller and journalist Jackie Wilson to explore how storytelling can transform your marketing, helping you create deep and lasting connections with your audience.
Jackie is the founder of BrickHouse, a content creation company, and has over 30 years of experience as a journalist, writer, and media trainer across three continents. She’s spent...
How to Stop Feeling Behind & Start Making Progress

Do you ever feel like you’re falling behind in private practice? Like no matter what you do, there’s always more you should be doing?
Well, you’re not alone. But the good news is, you don’t need to do everything: you just need to focus on doing a little better than yesterday.
In this episode, I share a simple but powerful mindset shift for counsellors that will help you let go of overwhelm, take meaningful action, and finally start seeing progress.
If you’re tired of feeling stuck, this is for you!<...
How I Use (and Don’t Use) ChatGPT for Blogging: A Therapist’s Guide

AI tools like ChatGPT are everywhere but how can counsellors use them effectively for blogging without losing their unique voice?
In this episode, I break down exactly how I use (and don’t use) ChatGPT in my content creation process.
AI is a fantastic tool but it can’t replace you. Your personality, experience, and warmth are what make your blogs connect with potential clients.
So let’s talk about how to use ChatGPT the right way as a sidekick, not a substitute.
Links to follow
Join us in the Gr...
Why Adapting Your Practice Leads to Success

One of the greatest perks of running your own counselling business is that you’re the boss, which means you get to call the shots.
Whether it’s changing your niche, adjusting your hours, or exploring new ways to work, the possibilities are endless.
In this episode, I share how adapting your private practice can reignite your passion, boost your well-being, and open doors to new opportunities.
I also share the recent pivots I’ve made in my own business to lean into what I love most - helping counsellors to master blogging and wr...
Are You Getting Clients from Your Online Directory Listing?

Ever wondered why your directory listing isn’t bringing in counselling clients or if it’s even worth the investment? With fees increasing and more directories popping up, it’s easy to feel unsure about whether your listing is working for you.
In this episode, I’ll share practical tips to help you stand out, attract clients, and make your profile work harder using my 3 C’s test: Connection, Conversational, and Competent.
Plus, I’ll introduce my new 1:1 service, The Directory Revival, designed to help you turn your directory listing into a client magnet.
If your li...
How to Build a Private Practice That Works for You

Imagine building a private practice that feels as unique and authentic as you are - where you set the rules, design the schedule, and attract clients who light you up.
In this podcast(and blog), we’re diving into how to create a business that truly works for YOU, so you can start thriving on your own terms.
So if you want to build a private practice that works for YOU, let’s go!
Links to follow
Ep 181 From Blank Slate to Authentic Voice: Why Your Marketing Needs to Show Who You Ar...
Fear of making mistakes? What I Learned from My Podcast Faux Pas

Do you fear making mistakes and worry about being judged, criticised, embarrassed or shamed?
Well of course you do, no one wants that! But these fears can make your stomach churn and hold you back because despite your best efforts, mistakes happen.
I’ve had my fair share, like last week when I accidentally published the unedited podcast episode.
Let’s just say it wasn’t my finest hour.
So today, I’m sharing what happened, how I handled it, and why making mistakes in public isn’t as scary as it seems.
<...The Hidden Costs of ‘Wrong-Fit’ Clients: Protecting Your Practice and Your Energy

In this episode, we’re diving into the hidden costs of working with wrong-fit clients and how it impacts your energy, confidence, and practice growth.
I’ll share my personal experiences, the red flags to watch for, and actionable tips to attract your ideal clients instead.
If you’ve ever felt drained or doubted your skills after a session, this episode will help you identify why and show you how to create a thriving practice filled with clients you love working with.
Links to follow
Episode 177: How You Can MASSIVELY Increase Your C...
From Blank Slate to Authentic Voice: Why Your Marketing Needs to Show Who You Are, with Caz Binstead

Are you marketing your private practice but feel like something is missing? You’re not alone. Many counsellors struggle to bridge the gap between professional boundaries and showing their authentic selves.
In this episode, I sit down with Caz Binstead to explore why authenticity is essential in modern marketing and how you can move away from the outdated ‘blank slate’ model.
Together, we discuss practical ways to let your personality shine through while maintaining professionalism.
If you’ve ever wondered how to attract clients who truly resonate with you, this episode is a must-lis...
Can I Make a Living as a Therapist?

In this episode, I’m exploring whether it’s possible to make a good living as a counsellor (spoiler: YES, it is!) and sharing 8 actionable steps to help you thrive in private practice. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, these tips will give you clarity, focus, and confidence to take your business to the next level.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by marketing, struggled with mindset issues, or wondered if private practice is really sustainable, this episode is for you.
Links to follow
Blog: Why There’s No Better Tim...
5 Christmas Blog Topics Therapists Can Write (and Repurpose Every Year)

The festive season is almost on us, and while for many it's full of twinkly lights and Baileys, it can also be a tricky time for many people.
That’s why, in this episode, I’m sharing 5 Christmas blog topics you can write to help your readers navigate the challenges the season can bring.
From coping with loneliness to managing tricky family dynamics, these blog ideas will not only provide valuable support to your audience but can also boost your visibility and the best bit? You can repurpose them every single year!
So let’...
The Power of Storytelling in Your Blog

In this episode, I'm sharing how storytelling can transform your blog from informative to unforgettable.
Learn why stories create connection, build trust, and make your content more relatable.
Discover tips on using everyday experiences and examples to make your blog engaging and memorable.
Perfect for counsellors looking to connect with readers on a deeper level.
Links to follow
The training I did at The Berne Institute
Running On Empty by Jonice Webb PhD
Zoe Clements' book 'But I should be fine'
Zoe Clements...