Jennifer Benoit LCSW
1. What's your practice focus and what kind of clients knock on your door ?
I tend to work with moms who are high achieving , perfectionists types. The formulas that they used for success in other areas of their lives don't seem to work the same when it comes to motherhood. They tend to feel higher levels of stress, anxiety, and even sadness because they are confronted with unanticipated realities of motherhood as well as their identities.
2. Tell us about yourself.
Although I have practiced therapy across a number of settings over the course of my 15 year career, I started my private practice when I became a mother. I realized the immense challenges that mothers face without adequate support or even language to capture this unique identity-shifting phase.
3. Tell us the story of a patient who you are most proud of helping.
I am most proud of the work that I have been doing with a male client for the past two years. He is fully committed to his personal growth from a long-term perspective. Although he doesn't fit the avatar of the clients I typically serve, I am fulfilled by the work that we continue to do because of his ongoing incremental growth. His transformation is equivalent to someone who has lost 100lbs on their weight loss journey.
4. What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a practitioner in private practice?
One of the hardest things about being a practitioner in private practice is the lack of community. Specifically, providing teletherapy can be isolating and monotonous at times.
5. What are the top 3 tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a private practice today?\
The top three tips I would give anyone looking to start, run, and grow their private practice is to:
- Connect with peers in the form of a support group or consultation group (It makes a huge difference).
- Create a practice that services your needs and lifestyle (you work for yourself for a reason).
- Continue to educate yourself to evolve as a therapist.