Alex Shink
June 28, 2023

Andrea Battiola, Ed.S., LPC, LMHC.

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

My associates and I love working with clients who are exploring relationship and sexual issues, whether they are partnered or not. Our practice makes sure to create a safe, open space where our clients can work through areas of life that are often deemed taboo. From building communication skills, problem-solving, or exploring life transitions to building more satisfying sexual experiences, overcoming sexual trauma, or having more sex, we're ready to explore it all.

2. Tell us about yourself. 

I decided I wanted to be a sex therapist when I was in high school, though at the time I thought I made it up as a career. Now, over 10 years in, I am continuously motivated by seeing my clients evolve and create the life they're craving. Often my clients have never talked about sex with anyone, including their partners. To watch them overcome that discomfort and evolve in remarkable ways in their romantic and sexual worlds is incredibly rewarding.

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

I'm certainly proud of helping all my clients. The clients who have felt shame, discomfort, and embarrassment to the point that even reaching out to a sex therapist was a monumental step, is especially rewarding. Imagine, holding onto such a pain and discomfort, that society tells you not to talk about. Then, having the immense courage and strength to reach out and ask for help. That's incredible. I love being the safe space these people land.

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

I'd say the constant need to prioritize my own self-care. If I'm not caring for myself -- eating, sleeping, regulating my stress, caring for my relationships, exploring my own challenges in trusted spaces -- showing up wholeheartedly and with a clear mind is tough. I have to continuously safeguard time in my calendar to "refill my cup."

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

Here are my three tips: 


  1. Find a mentor - someone who has gone through it before and can encourage your growth.
  2. If possible, don't take insurance. Instead, offer super-bills for clients to seek reimbursement with their out-of-network insurance benefits. (I realize this certainly depends on your market and preferences.)
  3. Invest in your SEO (search engine optimization) - being on top of a google search for "therapist near me" is more valuable than so many other marketing strategies.

6. Where can people find you?

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