This is Allyson Clemmons. She's impressive because she's figured out a way to run private pay groups and earn $300 per hour.
Honestly I didn't think that was possible. In fact, I'm on record saying that most therapists shouldn't run therapy groups. What Allyson shows is that it is possible, if you pick the right niche.
Which is why I interviewed her for the podcast.
Here are three things I've learned from her.
First, market locally
First, market locally or at least to a specific location. Therapists often market online using tools like SEO or social media. This doesn't usually work. Allyson filled her group using a local listserv.
Practical application: We can do the same. So, for instance, if you live in Dallas then market on the Dallas counselors listserv or DFW Facebook groups.
Second, pick a niche not a diagnosis.
Second, pick a problem specific niche. In the past she'd run other groups for things such as drug addiction and anxiety. They didn't go so well. But then, instead of marketing to a diagnosis, she marketing to a specific problem: women going through a divorce. That's when her groups took off.
Practical application: Instead of running a depression group, maybe run a support group for women struggling to adjust to motherhood.
Third, answer the question, "who serves my client?"
Third, be thinking about who serves your client. Allyson's looking at expanding her groups and she's thinking of networking with divorce lawyers. It's kind of a no brainer that they would send her clients.
Practical application: After you pick your niche (not diagnosis) think about who serves them. For instance if I ran groups for women struggling with infertility I might contact OB/GYNs or fertility clinics.
And there's more...!
If any of this piqued your interest, you should check out our conversation. And, if you want more from Allyson, she also offers business coaching for therapists. You can check her out at www.allysonclemmons.com
Best,
Jordan (the Counselor),
-Fin-
If you liked this post, consider this next. I think you'll like it ;) It's about how picking a niche can help in your marketing.
Jordan Harris, Ph.D., LMFT-S, LPC-S received his Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Louisiana Monroe. He is a licensed professional counselor and a licensed marriage and family therapist in the state of Arkansas, USA. In his clinical work he enjoys working with couples. He also runs a blog on deliberate practice for therapists and counselors at Jordanthecounselor.com