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

Robyn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory of how you established your own practice.

My journey to opening my own practice wasn’t a straight line. For years, I found myself wishing agencies offered more — more flexibility, more support, or just different kinds of care. But honestly, all I really wanted was to be fully present with the kids I was working with. I didn’t love the idea of handling all the administrative tasks, so I assumed private practice wasn’t for me.

But over time, that deep desire to give my clients the kind of support they truly deserved became impossible to ignore. I realized I needed to create a space that aligned with my values — not just for my clients, but for the clinicians I worked alongside.

That’s what led to the creation of Calming Communities. We’ve intentionally built a practice that removes barriers to care — like using billing specialists for both in-network and out-of-network clients to simplify the process. We lead with authenticity, prioritize self-awareness and self-advocacy, and we don’t stay neutral. We’re actively affirming, inclusive, and committed to honoring each client’s identity and inherent worth.

Starting my own practice turned out to be the most meaningful way to serve in the way I always wanted.

Robyn, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Calming Communities is a therapy practice dedicated to supporting kids, teens, and families in a meaningful, affirming way. Our approach is rooted in neuroscience and centered on the power of relationships, authenticity, and skill-building as key tools for growth and healing.

We are proudly neuro-affirming, gender-affirming, and culturally-affirming — creating a space where every individual feels truly welcome, seen, and valued. At the heart of our work is a deep belief in meeting each client exactly where they are, and walking alongside them with compassion, curiosity, and respect.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

I believe the most important quality in a successful therapist is a genuine passion for helping people grow into the fullest, most authentic version of themselves. And that last word — themselves — is key.

Too often, therapy is driven by checklists, standardized goals, or outdated definitions of “progress,” many of which are rooted in cultural, gender, or neurotypical biases. But truly impactful therapy isn’t about fitting someone into a mold — it’s about helping each person discover who they are, embrace their identity, and recognize their own value.

A great therapist creates space for curiosity, self-exploration, and empowerment — not conformity.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

One of the hardest business lessons I’ve learned is this: you can’t take everyone with you. As someone who values relationships deeply, it was tough to realize that not every person I admire or care about is meant to be part of the business journey.

When you try to bring everyone along — even with the best intentions — it can lead to misalignment in vision, confusion around roles, and sometimes even strained relationships. I’ve learned that it’s not just about finding great therapists; it’s about finding great therapists who share your mission and values.

Building a strong, healthy team means being intentional. The people who come with you need to not only love the work — they need to believe in the why behind how you do it. That alignment is what creates something truly powerful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.calmingcommunities.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calmingcommunities/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CalmingCommunities
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/Calming-Communities
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/robynrausch8