We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Allie Wojcik. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Allie below.
Alright, Allie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with 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?
From a young age, I had a dream of owning my own practice. As I progressed through graduate school, that ambition only grew stronger. After spending four years at a group practice, I began to feel increasingly burnt out. I realized that I was dedicating my efforts to support a practice that was not my own, which spurred me to take the leap into entrepreneurship.Life experiences during that time reinforced the idea that life is too short to play it safe. I recognized the importance of pursuing my passion, no matter how daunting it might seem. Ultimately, I made the decision to start my own practice, and I am truly grateful that I did.
The journey involved several key steps. First, I had to find the perfect location for my office. I also had to consider whether I wanted to operate solo or hire employees. Additionally, branding and naming my practice were crucial decisions that required careful thought. Fortunately, I had the support of an investor and mentor who guided me in the right direction. One of the most significant challenges I faced was the realization that there is so much to learn—so many moving pieces that I hadn’t anticipated. It required a great deal of patience, as progress on one front often depended on the completion of another task. This process taught me the value of being patient and persistent. For anyone considering starting their own practice, my advice would be to prepare thoroughly, but don’t let fear hold you back. If you’re passionate about your field, take that leap. While there are indeed logical steps to take before launching a business, focus on achieving those smaller, actionable goals. Be prepared for moments of imposter syndrome; it will likely hit hard. However, remember to be patient with yourself, seek guidance, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. There are many experienced professionals out there who are willing to share their insights and support your journey.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
In August, I proudly opened Chasing Nine Therapy, marking a significant milestone in my professional journey. My path to this point began four years ago at a group practice, where I transitioned from intern to provisional therapist, ultimately becoming fully licensed. During my time there, I not only saw clients but also played a pivotal role in mentoring interns and supporting the practice’s administrative operations. My desire to become a therapist was inspired by my own experiences in therapy at a young age. Unfortunately, my initial experience wasn’t the most positive, which motivated me to become the therapist I needed back then. Mental health has always been a priority for me, and it is incredibly fulfilling to support individuals on their journeys toward healing and self-discovery. The connections I build with my clients are truly beautiful, and I am honored that they feel safe enough to be vulnerable in our sessions. At Chasing Nine Therapy, I primarily work with the LGBTQIA+ community, passionate women, and those who have faced significant trauma, particularly during childhood. My focus is on helping clients set boundaries, improve communication, process trauma, and build self-worth. I cherish every client I work with and find immense joy in witnessing their progress as they strive to live the lives they envision. I take great pride in what I have built at Chasing Nine Therapy, and I am equally proud of the incredible women on my team. Together, we are committed to providing a safe space for our clients and empowering them to lead the lives they desire. What I want potential clients and followers to know about me and my practice is that we are here to support and uplift. We believe in the transformative power of therapy, and we are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Building my reputation in the mental health field has been significantly influenced by the power of word-of-mouth referrals. In this industry, personal recommendations carry immense weight, and I am grateful for the trust my clients place in me to share their experiences. A cornerstone of my therapeutic approach is the emphasis on building strong relationships with my clients. I believe that rapport is the most crucial element in effective therapy. When a solid relationship is established, it allows me to explore deeper levels of vulnerability, creating a safe space for clients to open up and engage in meaningful work. I also adopt a “No BS” approach in my practice. While I prioritize reassurance and validation, I am committed to challenging my clients when necessary. For those who are seeking real change, it’s important to examine our roles in our own suffering. I guide my clients through this process with honesty and compassion, helping them navigate their challenges and empowering them to take actionable steps toward growth.Authenticity is key in my work. I strive to be as genuine as possible, whether in my therapy sessions, on social media, or through my overall demeanor. This realness resonates with clients and helps foster a sense of trust and connection.By maintaining this relational and candid approach, I have been able to build a reputation that reflects my dedication to the well-being of my clients and my commitment to facilitating meaningful change in their lives.
Any advice for managing a team?
Although I have only been managing my team since September, I have already learned some valuable lessons about fostering a positive work environment. Two key principles stand out: transparency and active listening. I believe it’s essential to be open and honest with my team, creating an atmosphere where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns. This means avoiding excuses and not letting pride interfere with communication. By showing that I value their input, I can better support their needs and enhance the team’s overall morale. I also prioritize giving my team autonomy while ensuring they know my support is readily available. This balance allows them to take ownership of their work while feeling secure in knowing they can reach out for guidance when needed. My previous role provided me with extensive experience in supporting co-workers and peers, often being the “go-to” person for their needs and concerns. I learned how to manage complaints and fears, and I carried that knowledge into my own practice. Additionally, I took note of what didn’t work in my past job, actively seeking to implement changes that would create a more positive experience for my current team. By considering the preferences and feedback of my team members, I aim to cultivate a supportive and collaborative environment that promotes high morale and productivity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chasingninetherapy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_alongcameallie
Image Credits
Marie White Photography