We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Margaret Rocca a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Margaret , appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about how you went about setting up your own practice and if you have any advice for professionals who might be considering starting their own?

I was working in a for profit Substance Abuse Treatment Center, the job was challenging and there was potential to do a lot of amazing work. I did not feel like I was getting the support I needed in the position and I was struggling with burn out. Embarking on the journey of establishing my own practice was both exhilarating and daunting. It began with a deep-seated desire to create a space where I could offer personalized, holistic mental health care tailored to the needs of my clients, and not dictated by the limitations of insurance.

The initial steps involved extensive research and planning. From there, I developed a comprehensive business plan outlining my vision, mission, and strategies for growth. One of the main challenges I encountered was navigating the administrative and logistical aspects of setting up a practice, building a client base from scratch required dedication, perseverance, and effective marketing strategies. These things were not covered in my graduate education.

Looking back, I would emphasize the importance of networking and building relationships within the community early on. Seek out relationships with others who are happy to help you build your dream.

Margaret , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My journey into the mental health industry and ultimately to becoming a licensed mental health counselor began with an undergraduate internship in community mental health. I was immediately drawn to the idea of supporting others on a journey to managing mental health challenges while striving to improve their lives. From there, I embarked on a path of continuous learning and growth.

In my private practice, I specialize in preventative mental healthcare. Whether it’s regular weekly sessions or a single intensive, my goal is always the same: to provide a safe environment for individuals to lay out their mental clutter and seek support before a crisis hits.

What sets me apart from others in my field is my unique approach to mental healthcare. I believe in preventative treatment and strive to provide skills for handling challenges before they occur.

I’m incredibly proud of the practice I’ve built on this philosophy of preventative mental healthcare. It’s a testament to the reduction of stigma surrounding therapy, and the prioritization of mental healthcare in the full picture of wellness.

Above all, I want potential clients/followers/fans to know that checking in on your mental health should be a priority, therapy can be as normal as going to the dentist for a cleaning, and mental healthcare is a foundational part of wellness. Whether it’s to learn skills before an issue arises, or process stresses as they come, I’m here to support your mental health with quality care.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the most significant lessons I had to unlearn was the reliance on insurance-based practices, including the necessity of utilization reviews and authorizations. Initially, I was trained to and operated within the constraints of insurance requirements, focusing on meeting their criteria rather than tailoring treatment plans to my clients’ unique needs.

As I gained more experience and insight into the therapeutic process, I realized that this approach often limited the effectiveness of therapy. Clients weren’t receiving the personalized care and attention they deserved because their treatment was dictated by insurance protocols rather than their individual circumstances.

This realization drove my decision in private practice to prioritize true client centered care and decline to participate in insurance based therapy.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been twofold: networking with professionals in the field and prioritizing authenticity in the therapy room.

Networking with other professionals has been invaluable in expanding my client base. By forging connections with colleagues, I’ve been able to receive referrals and recommendations, allowing me to reach individuals who may benefit from my services. Collaborating with other professionals also provides opportunities for learning and growth, enriching my practice and enhancing the quality of care I provide to my clients.

Equally important has been my commitment to authenticity in the therapy room. I firmly believe that genuine connection and rapport are essential for effective therapy. Clients need to feel seen, heard, and understood, and that can only happen when therapists show up as their authentic selves. By being transparent, empathetic, and nonjudgmental, I create a safe space where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Authenticity also extends to how I present myself outside of the therapy room. Whether it’s through social media, professional events, or community engagements, I strive to be genuine and relatable in all my interactions. This authentic not only attracts potential clients but also fosters trust and credibility, ultimately contributing to the growth of my clientele.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.continuitycounseling.com
• Instagram: @continuitycounseling
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/AKk1URemXCXrvLKs/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Nick Brodeur