192: Adjusting Your Private Practice in a Changing Economy (Part 2) with Julie Herres

Lately, I’ve been hearing from so many practice owners who are feeling the shift in the economy, and I want you to know—you’re not alone. Things have changed. The phones aren’t ringing like they used to, and it can feel unsettling. But this is a season that calls for flexibility, curiosity, and compassion for yourself.  

In this follow-up conversation, Julie and I shift from last week’s heavier economic outlook to something far more supportive: real-world strategies therapy practice owners can use right now to steady the ship. 

“What I'm seeing specifically is the practice owners that are really successful in adapting and again, solo to group, they are themselves adaptive. They're saying, this feels different and I'm not sure what's going on, but I'm going to go figure it out." - Julie Herres 

Sometimes that means rolling up your sleeves and stepping back in to see more clients, so your practice stays healthy. Other times it means experimenting with new marketing, reconnecting with referral sources, or gently adjusting your fees based on what your community can sustain right now. 

Adapting Your Practice in Tough Times: Marketing, Flexibility, and Smart Money Moves 

In this episode, you’ll hear about the shift we’re all feeling in the therapy world—from years of burnout and endless demand to today’s reality of fewer calls, more price sensitivity, and a need for smart adjustments. Together, we walk through mindset shifts, flexible scheduling, fee strategy, and practical marketing ideas that help you stay grounded and profitable when the numbers feel uncertain. 

(00:03:40) Shifting Focus to New Challenges 

(00:07:23) Overcoming Rock Brain Mindset 

(00:09:55) Embracing Change in Business 

(00:13:31) Adaptive Practices Drive Success 

(00:19:29) Pricing vs. Client Retention 

What matters most is staying present and using your data to guide your choices. None of this is a step backward—it’s you responding wisely to what’s actually happening. And you’re more capable and resilient than you think. You can navigate this season with steadiness and intention. 

Here are 5 key takeaways for anyone running a therapy practice (solo or group): 

1. The Pendulum Has Swung 

Over the past few years, many of us were carrying the weight of too many clients and too much demand. Now, things are quieter—and that can feel disorienting. I’m noticing that our challenge has changed, and that’s okay. It just means we’re being invited to look at our practices with fresh eyes and meet this season with intention instead of fear. 

2. Flexibility Matters More Than Ever 

Some of the boundaries we put in place to protect ourselves during busier times might need gentle revisiting right now. This isn’t about abandoning what keeps you well—it’s about allowing yourself to respond to what your practice needs in the moment. Sometimes that means taking on a few more clients or asking for more support from your team, just for a little while. It’s okay to shift. 

3. Know When You Need Quick Wins 

There will be moments when the most supportive thing you can do for yourself and your practice is bring in income quickly, like opening up your caseload if you’re in demand. And there will be other moments when slowing down to work on the business makes more sense. Both are valid. The key is noticing what’s needed right now and giving yourself permission to act on it. 

4. Curiosity And Adaptability Are Strengths 

What I’m seeing again and again is that the practice owners who are navigating this season smoothly are the ones who are staying curious. They’re trying things, tracking what works, and letting go of what doesn’t. Small experiments, gentle adjustments, and...