Episode 185: FLASHBACK — Money, Burnout, and Career Transition for Mental Health Workers [featuring Angela Koivula]

In this flashback episode, I talk with Dr. Angela Koivula, psychologist and adjunct instructor at the University of Florida, about the complexities of navigating financial realities in the mental health profession and its impact on career decisions.

Key Takeaways:

1. Financial Planning & Sustainability: Many therapists face significant challenges in planning for retirement due to a lack of resources and knowledge about financial management in the mental health field. The constant need for marketing and client acquisition adds to the financial pressure, making self-care days seem like a luxury.
2. Private Practice Realities vs. Perceptions: The perceived glamour in private practice marketing often hides the tough realities. Many professionals feel conflicted between their values and the demands of running a successful practice. Angela shares her journey of shifting focus during the pandemic, finding lucrative contract work, and educating herself on financial independence to secure a more stable career path.
3. Systemic Issues & Solutions: The mental health profession is fraught with systemic issues like high student debt and low entry-level wages, making the field unsustainable for many. Angela argues for the need to re-evaluate career paths, customize work schedules for better work-life balance, and prioritize debt reduction for true financial freedom.

More about Angela:

Dr. Angela Koivula, Ph.D. (she/they) is a Licensed Psychologist with over 15 years experience in the field of mental health serving individuals, couples, and groups as well as active and retired military personnel and wellness industries. She has also served as an adjunct instructor at the University of Florida. She is a Black and Queer individual on a journey to be her most authentic self in everything she does. Her roots originate in Kansas City, MO, and is a lifelong, die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan!

• Website: Inclusivewellnessproject.com

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***This episode is an episode that All Things Private Practice is re-releasing for 2025. Please enjoy, and we'll be back with new content, resources, and guests in a couple of months.

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