Episode Details

Introduction: The Power of Community in Practice Growth

In this enlightening episode of the "Wise Practice Podcast," Whitney Owens, a seasoned therapist and faith-based practice consultant, sits down with the dynamic duo, Colleen and Shaun Wenner. With Colleen boasting 29 years of marriage experience and both bringing a unique blend of wisdom and confidence, they discuss the journey of their counseling world partnership and the growth of their practice, New Heights Counseling.

The Essence of Small Groups in Practice

"Small groups... provide a platform for sharing ideas and not feeling isolated," Colleen emphasizes. These groups have become a cornerstone in the community, offering therapists a sounding board and ensuring they don't tread the challenging waters of practice alone. Shaun adds, "Once you are plugged into a group... you don't have to do it alone." This sentiment resonates with many in the field, highlighting the importance of community and shared experiences.

The Struggles of Hiring a Clinical Director

Colleen and Shaun Wenner have grappled with several challenges in their quest to hire a clinical director for their practice. They've been deliberating over the idea, with Colleen expressing that while she has a general sense of what she desires in a clinical director, she's uncertain about the full scope of what the role could encompass. They aim for an ideal candidate who can manage a full-time caseload while also overseeing supervision. Financial considerations also weigh heavily on their minds, as they want to ensure that the compensation package they offer aligns with the candidate's expectations and experience. Shaun underscores the importance of identifying the right character traits and personality for the role. Additionally, Colleen has reservations about the hiring model, debating between a W2 employee and a contractor, and the implications each might have on commitment and integration into their practice's ethos. Their past hiring efforts have often yielded candidates with limited experience, further complicating their search for the perfect fit.

Roles and Responsibilities: Behind the Scenes at New Heights Counseling

Diving deeper into the operations of New Heights Counseling, Colleen, the clinical director, shares her passion for training and ensuring therapists maintain a healthy work-life balance. On the other hand, Shaun, wearing multiple hats, manages social media, finance, and HR. Their combined efforts have seen the practice flourish, with a team of seven therapists and three administrators. "I'm pretty consumed... reading everybody's notes," Colleen admits, highlighting the demanding nature of her role.

Tips for Hiring a Clinical Director

• Start Slowly: Instead of hiring a full-time clinical director immediately, consider a phased approach.
• Look Within: Before searching externally, evaluate if anyone within the practice fits the role.
• Alignment is Key: Ensure that the clinical director's vision aligns with the practice's ethos and values.
• Trust: A clinical Director is someone you have to whole-heartedly trust

In Conclusion

This episode sheds light on the importance of community, both within a practice and in the broader therapist community. Whitney, Colleen, and Shaun provide valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of running a faith-based practice. Their experiences and tips serve as a beacon for other therapists navigating the integration of faith and psychology in their businesses. As Whitney aptly puts it, "Do what only you can do. Let somebody else do everything else." This episode is a must-listen for those looking to grow their practice while staying true to their faith-based values.

Learning Activity

• Register for -

  Listen Now