Alex Shink
August 17, 2023

Alison Huang, LCPC.

1. What's your practice focus and what kind of clients knock on your door ?

Grow Your Mind Psychotherapy is a trauma-informed group practice and we work with clients with trauma history, grief and loss, anxiety, OCD, general mood disorders, relationship issues, life transitions, cross-cultural issues, and anger management. We take it from a holistic approach and treat clients as a whole person as our ultimate goal is to promote their wellbeing and bring healing and peace to their life.

2. Tell us about yourself. 

After graduated from Johns Hopkins University, I became a therapist. As a therapist, I always wonder what I can do to be more helpful to my clients? I was trained with several modalities, such as CBT, mindfulness, Ericksonian Hypnosis, and Somatic Experiencing as I know there is no one-size-fits-all modality, so it’s important to be flexible and meet clients where they are. It's really rewarding to see clients leave the room with smile on their face as it motivates me to keep doing what I do!

3. Tell us the story of a patient who you are most proud of helping.

One client came to me because of bridge phobia. During the course of treatment, I integrated several modalities along with ERP to build up her tolerance for anxiety. Eventually, she gained her confidence back and she could drive over the bridge without feeling anxious. This example stands out because it reminds me of the importance of empathy. Sometimes we may think something is easy and we take it for granted, but we forget this can be difficult for some people.

4. What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a practitioner in private practice?

In the graduate program, I learned how to give a diagnosis, but I did not learn how to manage private practice. I had to learn everything from stretch, such as finding my own niche or understanding business operation. The challenging part for me is there is no roadmap to tell me how to create a successful practice, so I have to learn the ropes by myself. For example, should I join the insurance panel or do fee-for-service? There is no straight answer to it, so it depends on what works for you.

5. What are the top 3 tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a private practice today?\

Top 3 tips I would give someone getting into private practice is:


  1. Practice self-care: The advantage of having own business is you set up your own schedule, but freedom comes with responsibilities. Practicing self-care prevents you from burnout.
  2. Find a community: Having private practice can be isolated, so don’t be shy to ask for help as your colleagues are there for you!
  3. Manage your expectations: You will experience ebbs and flows of business, so don’t take it personally as it’s part of the economic cycle and the low tide will pass.

6. Where can people find you?

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