We were lucky to catch up with Christine Harrison recently and have shared our conversation below.

Christine, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

I wanted to normalize how people access mental health care. Historically, therapy practices had been very medical or hidden away in nondescript office buildings, creating an air of secrecy around seeking help. I envisioned a different approach, where mental health care is as routine and accepted as going to the dentist or visiting a physiotherapist. My goal was to create a chic, boutique-inspired space that felt welcoming and accessible to everyone. The street-front location was key, ensuring visibility and easy access. I imagined a space with a coffee bar where people could relax before their appointments, fostering a sense of community and comfort. As I started renovating our street-front location, the ideas of humor and inspiration became central themes. Our front sign, which rotates between humorous and inspirational messages, serves a dual purpose. It not only signals to passersby that mental health care is readily available but also normalizes the conversation around it. By using humor, we aim to break down the barriers of stigma, making it easier for people to seek help without feeling shame. Inspirational messages remind the community of the importance of mental well-being, reinforcing that taking care of one’s mind is just as vital as maintaining physical health.
This approach has been positively received by the community. The welcoming atmosphere and visible, inviting location have encouraged more people to consider and prioritize their mental health. By integrating elements like a coffee bar and engaging signage, we have created a space that feels less clinical and more like a safe haven. Our goal is to continue fostering an environment where mental health care is seen as a normal, essential part of life, free from the shadows of stigma and secrecy.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Starting a private practice in 2014 marked the beginning of a fulfilling journey as a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Clinical Therapist. With a background that also includes an MBA in Public Health, I have always held a dual identity as both a dedicated healthcare provider and a savvy business owner. This unique combination of skills and perspectives has allowed me to navigate the complexities of the mental health field while also ensuring that my practice operates efficiently and sustainably. In 2019, my practice evolved into a corporation, a pivotal moment that enabled us to expand our services by bringing additional clinicians into the fold. Recognizing that teamwork could amplify our impact, we began to offer a comprehensive suite of services that includes psychotherapists, nurses, social workers, dietitians, and massage therapists. This multidisciplinary approach is not only unique but also essential in addressing the multifaceted needs of our clients. Our team, composed entirely of strong and dedicated women, strives to deliver holistic mental health and wellness support, ensuring that we cater to the diverse needs of our community.
Beyond my professional practice, my passion for sports and the connection between mental and physical health led me to establish a non-profit organization for women in 2020. As a competitive athlete, I understand the critical interplay between mental resilience and physical performance. This non-profit aims to empower women through sports, providing them with the resources and support needed to excel both mentally and physically. By fostering this connection, we hope to cultivate success and well-being in every aspect of their lives.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

My longevity, reputation, and experience have undoubtedly played significant roles in my success within the field. Throughout my career, I have wholeheartedly embraced the belief that relationships are paramount. These relationships extend beyond mere professional interactions; they encompass the connection with mysself, colleagues, and those who rely on me for support and guidance. By prioritizing and nurturing these relationships, I have fostered a network of trust and mutual respect. Being present and honoring these relationships has led to numerous tangible benefits in my business. My commitment to these connections has not only garnered you awards and accolades but has also earned the respect of my peers and clients. This respect, in turn, has resulted in a steady flow of referrals, further solidifying my reputation as a reliable and trustworthy professional.
In essence, my approach underscores the importance of genuine human connections in achieving long-term success. By valuing and investing in relationships, I have created a strong foundation upon which my professional achievements are built. This philosophy serves as a testament to the power of relationships in both personal and professional spheres, demonstrating that true success is often rooted in the bonds we form and the trust we cultivate.

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

Success in the business world often hinges on a combination of strategic investments and exceptional service, and having an advertising budget alongside superior customer service is a potent formula for achieving this success. An advertising budget ensures that a company can effectively promote its products or services, reaching a wide audience and attracting potential customers. This proactive approach to marketing helps establish brand awareness and visibility, which are critical in a competitive market. By consistently investing in advertising, a company can keep its brand top-of-mind for consumers, making it more likely that they will choose its products or services over those of competitors. However, attracting customers through advertising is only part of the equation. Superior customer service is the linchpin that transforms first-time buyers into loyal patrons. When customers receive exceptional service, they are more likely to have a positive experience, which can lead to repeat business and referrals. Superior customer service involves understanding and meeting customers’ needs promptly and efficiently, addressing any issues with empathy and solutions, and going the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction. This creates a lasting impression and fosters a relationship of trust and loyalty between the customer and the brand.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.focusforwardtherapygroup.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focusforwardtherapygroup/

Image Credits
Sweetbitter Films