Entrepreneurship & Motherhood: The Real Costs of Starting a Business

Building a thriving private practice (or any business) doesn’t happen overnight… and you certainly can’t do it alone! Aside from a genuine passion for the business you’re starting, you’ll need lots of support to get it up and running. Support from your partner, family, and other private practice therapists who want to grow and succeed just like you. In this episode, we welcome Dr. Kathryn Esquer, a Licensed Psychologist, MBA graduate, and Founder of the Teletherapist Network, a consultation community for the next generation of therapists. Kathryn joins Kelley to shine light on the real costs of starting a private practice business, especially as a working mom, and how to find the community support you need to thrive in a private practice.

In my most recent episode of The Private Practice Pro Podcast, I sat down with licensed psychologist and founder of the Teletherapist Network, Dr. Kathryn Esquer. We talk about the real costs of starting a therapy business, especially as a working mom, and how to find the community support you need to thrive in a private practice. Kathryn’s passion is eliminating isolation and burnout among therapists. How does she do that? The key is finding a supportive community and prioritizing connection.

Starting and growing a private practice is challenging, and it’s not a quick win. It takes time, energy, money, and sacrifice—which can be hard to come by these days. That’s why Kathryn decided to start the Teletherapist Network, an exclusive consultation community for the next generation of therapists. In this community, therapists can access the support, resources, and accountability they need to thrive in their private practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start a private therapy practice?

Startup costs vary based on whether the practice is virtual or in person. Common expenses include licensing, insurance, business registration, practice management software, website development, marketing, office rent, accounting, and continuing education.

Can a therapist start a private practice while raising children?

Yes. Many therapists build successful practices while parenting, but it requires realistic expectations, reliable support, clear work hours, financial planning, and a business model that fits the family’s actual needs.

How long does it take to build a profitable private practice?

There is no fixed timeline. Growth depends on the therapist’s niche, location, fees, referral network, marketing consistency, availability, and financial preparation. Most practices grow gradually rather than becoming profitable immediately.

What support do therapist entrepreneurs need when starting a business?

Helpful support may include encouragement from family, childcare assistance, professional consultation, peer communities, accounting guidance, mentorship, and connections with other therapists who understand private practice ownership.

Why is community important for private practice therapists?

Community can reduce isolation, provide accountability, create referral opportunities, and offer practical guidance. Connecting with other therapists also gives practice owners a place to discuss challenges that friends or family may not fully understand.

How can therapist moms prevent burnout while building a practice?

Set a sustainable caseload, protect family and personal time, ask for help, automate administrative tasks, and avoid treating constant exhaustion as proof of commitment. A successful practice should support your life rather than consume it.

Dr. Kathryn Esquer is a Licensed Psychologist, MBA graduate, and founder of the Teletherapist Network, a consultation community for the next generation of therapists. She is passionate about eliminating isolation and burnout in the field of mental health. By prioritizing connection and community, the Teletherapist Network brings together forward-thinking therapists to achieve their big goals in work and life. Listen to her podcast – Am I a Bad Therapist? – at www.abadtherapist.com and follow her on Instagram @teletherapist.network and @abadtherapistpod. 

Website: www.abadtherapist.com
Instagram: @teletherapist.network @abadtherapistpod