The Importance of Representation in Building Your Therapy Private Practice with Dr. Justin K. Dodson

Heard Business School

Representation matters, especially in men’s mental health.

Dr. Justin K. Dodson, a licensed professional counselor based in Memphis who specializes in adult men’s mental health, knows this as well as anyone.

As the first Black male to obtain a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Memphis, he’s paving his own path as an entrepreneur.

In this conversation with host Michael Fulwiler, Dr. Dodson shares the essential steps for therapists transitioning into private practice, expanding their client base, and gearing up to grow their business.

You'll learn the challenges and rewards of starting a private practice, tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), and how to navigate the emotional landscape of setting fees and enforcing a cancellation policy.

Tune in to hear practical tips on creating a business strategy, understanding the client acquisition process, and maintaining quality over quantity.

In the conversation, they discuss:

• The significance of representation in the field of therapy, particularly for Black men, and the courage required to forge a path in an underrepresented area
• The vital role of understanding the business aspects and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) in starting and running a successful private therapy practice
• The importance of self-belief, setting clear boundaries, and focusing on quality client relationships to overcome challenges like self-doubt and setting fees

Connect with the guest:

• Visit his website: https://www.navigatingcouragecac.com/
• Dr. Dodson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsdrjkeith/?hl=en
• Dr. Dodson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-keith-dodson-ph-d-lpc-74747063/
• Dr. Dodson on X: https://twitter.com/itsdrjkeith
• Read more about Dr. Dodson’s story: https://www.joinheard.com/articles/how-dr-justin-dodson-started-a-private-practice-on-his-friends-couch

Connect with Michael and Heard:

• Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfulwiler/
• Newsletter: https://www.joinheard.com/newsletter
• Book a free consult: https://www.joinheard.com/welcome-form

Jump into the conversation:

[00:00] Introduction to Heard Business School with guest, Dr. Justin K. Dodson

[02:07] Switching from wanting to be a lawyer to a therapist

[04:21] Dr. Dodson’s experience being the first Black male to get his specific degree

[08:02] Why there isn’t a big presence of Black men in therapy

[09:39] Why Dr. Dodson switched from non-profit work to private practice

[16:11] How Dr. Dodson got his initial clients

[19:48] Moving away from the guilt mindset of setting fees

[24:56] KPIs and other things Dr. Dodson is tracking in his business

[32:19] Dealing with pressure around performance and showing up for clients

[38:01] Building a therapy practice and bringing on more therapists

[40:34] How Dr. Dodson thinks of his role now ad a therapist and entrepreneur

[43:28] Building a personal brand and utilizing social media

[49:14] Men going to therapy

[51:58] Dr. Dodson’s top takeaway from the conversation

[54:20] Closing