What To Do When Your Client Load Dips: An Invitation to Innovation
Lately, I’m seeing a trend—therapists who are feeling fearful. And I want to say up front: this isn’t something to be judged. It’s something to be aware of, because you’re not alone. Many of us are feeling this way right now. The economy is shifting, caseloads are dipping, and uncertainty can bring on anxiety.
When that happens, I often see practice owners start to panic—making quick decisions, cutting everything, pulling back. And while yes, it’s wise to assess your finances and cut what’s truly not helping, making drastic changes can actually set you back.
It’s like with anything else in life. Jumping the gun on anything can be the difference between llife or death, success or failure, a great decision and a terrible decision.
So today, I just want to bring you some encouragement and remind you of a few key things:
Don’t Make Too Many Changes At Once
First, don’t make too many financial changes at once. Give yourself space to think clearly. It’s okay to pause a marketing stream that isn’t working, but don’t cut out the support or systems that are bringing long-term growth. Think with strategy, not fear.
When we lead with fear, we tend to learn towards the side of a bad decision vs. a good one. Taking a moment to pause and really think gives your brain time to process and take a breather in the midst of a hard or confusing moment. This may be an old saying, but I think it’s necessary in this moment: Take a chill pill!
Spend Less Time Filling Your Mind With The Worries Of The World
Second, spend less time filling your mind with the worries of the world and more time in the Word. Turn off the news. Step back from the noise. Open your Bible and remind yourself of who’s really in control. God called you to this work, and He hasn’t changed His mind.
Oftentimes, we get so wrapped up in what’s going on, whether that be on social media, or on the countless news channels that populate our devices and TV screens non-stop. Here’s a news flash: GET OFF SOCIAL MEDIA FOR A MOMENT! TAKE A STEP AWAY FROM THE NEWS!
There are always gonna be bad things happening all around the world, and the economy will shift until the end of time. But, will we allow that to cause us to take our eyes off the one who has it all in His hands?
It reminds me of the story of Peter walking on water. Whenever he kept his eyes on Jesus, everything was fine. He was able to do the impossible – walking on water, despite the laws of physics and every other rule we’re bound by in the natural world! But, we know the all too tragic turn once he turned his focus toward the storm around him. Bloop! Right in the water he went! Let’s remind ourselves of what happened in God’s word and learn from the silly mistakes in there that we’ve heard about all our lives. The Bible isn’t just a book, it’s a history book. Let’s learn from history and trust in God.
Explore New Opportunities
Last but not least, explore new opportunities—because God just might be doing something new in you and your business. Sometimes, these uncertain seasons are exactly when He stirs creativity, vision, and redirection. Maybe you’ve been feeling a nudge to write, to speak, to create a new program, or to serve a different niche of clients. Don’t ignore that. What feels like a downturn could actually be an invitation to innovate. Some of the best investments and ideas are born in hard seasons—when we’re seeking God more deeply and willing to take bold steps of obedience.
Understanding Money Mindset in Therapy Practices
Another thing I’ve noticed that I want to discuss is our relationship to money as therapists. With the shift happening in our economy, there’s an even brighter light being shown on the fact that we have an attachment to money that can be unhealthy. As clinicians, we know all about attachment and how this attachment has a huge influence on our emotions and financial decisions.
I know quite a few therapists who had traumatic experiences with money growing up, which in turn is affecting the way they run their business. Having a negative money mindset can cause stagnant practice growth, burnout, and financial instability. It can cause a downward spiral of not wanting to invest in things like marketing or other things that can grow your business. Furthermore, feeling afraid to charge what you deserve as a therapist can lead to undercharging and overworking, ultimately leading to burnout. We can’t be afraid of the topic of money. As therapists, it’s easy to forget the very tips we give to our clients on shifting on mindset in various situations. Well, guess what – we need to change our mindsets too.
We don’t want to allow money to keep being a taboo subject. After all, it’s inevitable that we talk about it in this money-driven world. Therapists often find it easier to discuss financial matters with their clients than to confront their own feelings about money. More likely than not, this avoidance tactic will only lead to more bad than good for one’s practice.
Let’s make sure that we are not letting money lead how we operate in our business, especially at this time. Things shift all the time, so it’s no surprise that a hard season would come. Trusting in God and not in our finances is key here. Mediate on His word, pray when you’re feeling fearful or confused, and remind yourself that fear is not from Him!
Remember, pruning often comes before growth. So lean in, pray through it, and don’t be afraid to dream with God again. Anything is possible with Him, so don’t let the economy to scare you into thinking anything different.
You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it all out today. But you can take the next faithful step forward.
Grow your practice today!
Navigating tough conversations with your team can be overwhelming, especially if you are unsure of what is the best route to take. This is why I offer a range of personalized business coaching services to help you make a plan, execute it and track the results. I offer 3-month and 6-month business consulting packages, Enneagram Training, and a Wise Practice Community Membership. Implement tracking methods for your practice today and reach out to Wise Practice Consulting if you need help getting started! Get in touch today to learn more.
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