We recently connected with Natalie Wong and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalie , thanks for joining us today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.

Starting my own practice was an exciting and challenging journey, filled with a number of key steps that helped me build the foundation for the business. The initial phases were focused on establishing the right logistics and infrastructure: securing the appropriate business licenses, implementing efficient processes, selecting the right software, and figuring out how to get the word out with effective marketing. Each of these steps was essential, but one of the most challenging tasks I faced was finding the right location for my practice.

The Seattle area is highly saturated with chiropractic practices, so standing out in such a competitive market was no small feat. I had to strike the right balance between choosing a niche that resonated with me and would set my practice apart, without limiting my potential client base too much. After much thought, I decided to focus on pregnancy and pediatric care. This decision came from both a personal connection—having a deep interest in these areas—and from the realization that I didn’t feel fully trained in them, which pushed me to seek additional education outside of my formal schooling. It was a challenge to grow in this space, but it ultimately made me a more well-rounded practitioner.

Looking back, one major lesson I learned was the importance of branding. When I first launched, I was eager to get things up and running as quickly as possible. I had a long to-do list and was under the impression that branding could always be refined later. As a result, I opted to outsource my logo and branding to get something functional but not necessarily reflective of the practice’s core message. While it sufficed at the time, I soon realized that I didn’t feel 100% aligned with it. About six months in, I took the time to rebrand and create a logo that truly reflected the values I wanted my practice to convey. This process, while time-consuming, was essential for building confidence in my identity and the future of my practice.

My advice to young professionals considering starting their own practice is simple: take the leap and take the risk. While it requires a lot of hard work and upfront effort, the personal fulfillment and satisfaction that comes from building something that is entirely your own is unmatched. Yes, there will be challenges, and it might seem overwhelming at times, but the rewards of making your vision a reality are worth it. Don’t shy away from learning as you go, seeking additional training when needed, and never underestimate the power of thoughtful branding. The journey may be demanding, but it offers invaluable growth and the opportunity to truly shape your future.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I was introduced to chiropractic care at a young age, and my personal experiences with it have shaped my path into the industry. Growing up, I navigated challenges such as sports injuries, car accidents, and post-surgery rehabilitation. Throughout these experiences, I witnessed firsthand the remarkable benefits of chiropractic care in promoting healing and providing relief. This inspired me to pursue a career where I could help others experience the same positive outcomes and empower them to take control of their health and well-being.

What truly sets my clinic apart is the combination of gentle spinal adjustments and soft tissue techniques. I’ve found that these methods complement each other, offering longer-lasting relief and promoting overall wellness. I dedicate 15 to 30 minutes to each follow-up visit, ensuring that each patient receives the individualized attention they deserve. This allows me to tailor my approach to meet the specific needs of every person who walks through the door. I also embrace a holistic philosophy in my practice, understanding that sometimes an integrated approach is necessary for optimal care. If I feel that a patient would benefit from collaborating with another healthcare provider, I am always open to making referrals or working alongside other practitioners.

Chiropractic care, in my approach, goes far beyond the popping and cracking sounds often highlighted in social media clips. It’s about creating an individualized treatment plan that addresses the root causes of pain and discomfort, enhancing mobility, and improving quality of life. Whether it’s relieving chronic pain, supporting a healthy pregnancy, or promoting your child’s well-being, my goal is to provide compassionate, thoughtful care in a nurturing environment.

Above all, I am most proud of building a clinic where every patient feels seen, heard, and cared for. I want potential clients and followers to know that my practice is rooted in the belief that healthcare should be personalized, accessible, and compassionate. My clinic is here to provide the type of care that goes beyond just symptoms – it’s about fostering long-term health and wellness for every individual.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

I’ve experimented with various strategies to grow my clientele, such as leveraging social media, investing in SEO, networking with other practitioners, and participating in relevant online communities like Facebook groups. While these methods have certainly brought value and helped raise awareness, the most effective strategy has been word-of-mouth referrals. There’s something powerful about organic growth that happens when patients are genuinely satisfied with the care they receive. They share their positive experiences, and this leads to new referrals, creating a cycle of trust and loyalty that is far more sustainable than any advertising campaign.

A pivotal moment in my growth came when I shifted my mindset. At first, I was fixated on the number of patients walking through the door, believing that the key to success was simply growing my patient base. However, over time, I realized that the real measure of success wasn’t about volume—it was about sustainability. Once I understood that covering my overhead costs was my baseline, I began focusing more on providing exceptional care rather than chasing numbers. This shift allowed me to prioritize the quality of each patient’s experience, which naturally led to organic growth. By dedicating myself to providing personalized, high-quality care, my patients not only felt heard and supported but were also motivated to recommend my practice to others.

Ultimately, the most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been focusing on the quality of care I provide, rather than obsessing over the quantity of patients I see. By consistently offering exceptional service, staying open to collaboration, and fostering a genuine connection with my patients, I’ve been able to build a thriving practice that reflects my values and creates long-term, meaningful relationships.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My journey as a chiropractor has been shaped by the tension between my deep desire to help others and the realities of working within systems that didn’t always align with my values. I spent several years working as an associate in three different clinics, each presenting its own set of challenges. While I had the opportunity to work with great people and treat patients, I often felt frustrated by the way business priorities, like revenue generation, seemed to overshadow patient care. This disconnect between my ideals and the work environment led to a growing sense of dissatisfaction.

There came a point when I had to confront a difficult reality: I could either continue down this path, sacrificing my principles in order to fit into a system that wasn’t designed for me, or I could take a leap of faith and build something that truly reflected my vision for patient care. The decision wasn’t easy, and I remember feeling torn. It wasn’t just about walking away from a job; it was about stepping into the unknown, where I’d need to carve out a space where empathy and ethical treatment were at the heart of everything I did. Ultimately, I chose to start my own practice, trusting that it would be the right decision in the long run.

Starting from scratch brought its own set of challenges—navigating the complexities of business management, creating effective marketing strategies, figuring out billing systems, and ensuring that my practice ran smoothly. I leaned on my resourcefulness and determination to figure things out, even when I didn’t have all the answers right away. There were moments of doubt, times when I questioned if I was on the right track. But each small victory, from setting up systems to seeing my first patient walk through the door, reinforced that I was on the right path.

Now that my practice is up and running, I’m proud to have built an environment that allows me to provide care that truly aligns with my values. Every day, I get to focus on the things that matter most—building relationships with my patients, offering personalized care, and maintaining a holistic approach to health. I’ve learned that resilience is about more than just pushing through obstacles; it’s about being true to what you believe in and having the courage to create something that reflects those beliefs.

Looking back, I realize that this journey was not just about starting a business—it was about reclaiming my purpose and crafting a practice that allows me to help people in a way that is meaningful to both them and me. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I am excited for the future of my practice and the people I get to serve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.alignworkschiropractic.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnataliewongdc/?igsh=YnpkNHRvenN4YnZ0&utm_source=qr
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-wong-dc-ms-30294a23a/
• Other: https://alignworkschiropractic.janeapp.com/