The Social Media Mistake That's Costing You Clients
Many therapists show up consistently on social media — sharing tips, encouragement, and reflections — but miss the one type of post that actually brings enquiries.In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I share the simple reminder from my coach that helped me get new clients straight away. It’s something most therapists know deep down, but we often avoid because it feels uncomfortable: telling people clearly what we offer.You’ll learn why this “sales post” mistake is so common, how to reframe it as an act of service, and simple ways to make it a regular part of your marketing.And at the end of the episode, you'll hear about October awareness dates that you can use for creating posts that get enquiries.Takeaways:The question my coach asked that stopped me in my tracksWhy therapists often avoid posting about their servicesHow new followers see you differently from long-term onesA simple way to batch and schedule posts that bring enquiriesOctober themes and awareness days you can use for inspirationIf you’d like more support with your marketing, come and join me in Therapy Growth Group, where we’re starting the next round of my 12 Action Steps to Attract New Clients. These are simple, 15-minute weekly actions designed to help you build your practice without overwhelm.Inside the group, you’ll also get:Live weekly coaching callsA supportive therapist communityA full list of social media ideas for every day of the monthSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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How to Work Safely with Trauma Clients - with Maaike Beech
In today's episode, I’m joined by trauma therapist, supervisor, and trainer Maaike Beech. With over 18 years of experience in the field, Maaike shares her personal journey into trauma work and the vital lessons she's learned along the way - from understanding why talking about trauma doesn’t always lead to healing, to how we can create the safety clients need before any processing begins.We explore the real risks of re-traumatising clients, what makes trauma therapy different from general talking therapy, and how therapists can protect their own well-being when doing such emotionally intense work.What we cover in this episode:Why traditional talking therapy isn't always enough for traumaThe most common misconceptions therapists have about trauma workWhat to do when your clients don't seem to be improvingHow to build safety before trauma processingHow trauma lives in the nervous system - and why that mattersSelf-care strategies for trauma therapistsIf you've ever felt unsure about working with trauma - or worried you're not doing it "right - this episode is here to reassure and resource you. Maaike speaks with such compassion and her insights are grounded in both expertise and lived experience.Maaike is an experienced trauma therapist, supervisor and trainer. She runs the Beech Trauma Academy where she teaches her Therapeutic Safety and Trauma foundation diploma. Learn more HERESetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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The Myth of the Perfect Therapist with Samantha Lee
Many new counsellors worry they aren’t “sorted enough” to be a good therapist. But what if being real about your struggles is actually what helps you connect most with clients?In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I’m joined by Samantha Lee, counsellor, trainer, and creator of the Me, Myself & I inner child course. Sam shares how she moved past the myth of the perfect therapist and built a successful private practice by showing up authentically – both with clients and on social media.We talk about:Why the idea of the “perfect therapist” is a damaging myth – and how embracing your humanity makes you more relatable.How to use social media as a therapist without being boring or “too professional.” Sam explains how sharing her poetry grew her following and helped clients feel safe.Inner child work for therapists and clients – why it’s powerful, and how it helps us understand our reactions and build resilience.What private practice success really looks like. Sam explains why you don’t have to see 20+ clients a week to be a successful counsellor, and how to pace yourself without burning out.Self-care for therapists – including practical ways Sam looked after herself while managing family life, grief, and building her practice.Sam’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to be perfect to be a good therapist. By being open and authentic, you can build deeper client relationships, attract followers who resonate with you, and create a private practice that works for your life.Find Samantha HERE on Facebook, and for her course and further details, HERE on her website.If this conversation has resonated with you, please share it with another therapist or leave a review on your podcast app - it helps more therapists find Good Enough CounsellorsSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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50:03
How to Stay Motivated in Private Practice When It's Tough
When you’re building a counselling private practice, there are times when it feels hard to keep going - especially when the clients aren’t coming in as quickly as you’d hoped.In this episode, I’m sharing how to draw on your resilience so you can keep moving forward, even in challenging times.Takeaways:Why past challenges can become a source of strength in your businessHow to reconnect with the deeper reasons you became a counsellorPractical ways to keep yourself motivated when marketing feels slow to workThe role of community and support in sustaining your energy and confidenceWhether you’re just starting out or you’ve hit a quiet patch, this episode will help you find your footing again and remind you why your work matters - both to your clients and to you.Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comcounselling, practice development, challenges, resilience, motivation, support, private practiceThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
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14:51
From No Self-Belief to a Thriving Private Practice: Fi’s Story
What if you don’t believe you can be a private practice therapist? In this episode, Fi Hewkin shares her journey from doubting her abilities to building a successful therapy practice. We talk about overcoming imposter syndrome, making your profile sound like you, and why there’s room for everyone - even in a crowded market.When Fi Hewkin first considered becoming a therapist, she was convinced she couldn’t do it. Growing up being told she wasn’t academic, leaving school with three O-levels, and believing she’d never be “professional enough,” private practice felt out of reach.In this episode, she shares how, despite years of self-doubt, she slowly built her confidence - and her private practice. From that first directory profile that didn’t sound like her, to embracing her authentic self (complete with pink hair and DMs), Fi’s story is an honest and encouraging look at what it really takes to succeed.We talk about:How Fi shifted from “I can’t do this” to running a thriving practiceWhy making her profile sound like her changed everythingThe importance of authenticity in therapy marketingOvercoming the fear of charging clients and raising feesBalancing a busy client load and recognising personal limitsPractical marketing steps Fi used to get clients (and what she avoids!)How running a low-cost community project keeps her groundedIf you’ve ever thought, “I’m not good enough to make this work,” this conversation is for you.Find Fi at her website or her Facebook pageSetting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERENeed ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HEREYou can also find me here:The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook GroupJosephine Hughes on FacebookJosephine Hughes on YouTubeMy website: josephinehughes.comThe information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
Do you feel overwhelmed when you look around and see what all the other counsellors and psychotherapists are doing out there? Does it make you wonder if you'll ever be able to make your dreams of working as a therapist come true?
The truth is, while there are lots of strategies out there that can help (which I'll tell you about), the most important thing is for you to get going on your practice and your marketing. But I know how hard that can feel when you're faced with so many options, an empty diary, and all these glossy, slick, instagrammable therapists you're competing with.
So join me on the Good Enough Counsellors podcast where you'll get the support and encouragement you need to get going - and get growing - in your private practice.
Josephine Hughes is a BACP Accredited Counsellor who helps other counsellors to get clients.
UK