Money is one of the biggest sources of stress in private practice—not because therapists don’t earn enough, but because most were never taught what to do with the income once it arrives. Between inconsistent paychecks, surprise expenses, and tax-season anxiety, even experienced clinicians can feel like their finances are running the show.

In this episode, Amber continues the “O” in the UNLOCKED Framework—Optimize Your Income—and walks listeners through practical ways to bring structure, clarity, and calm to their business finances so they can finally feel confident about money management.

Today you’ll will learn:

• How to create a simple Money Map and give every dollar direction
• Why it’s better to budget by month, not by mood
• How to plan for the Big Three: Taxes, Time Off, and Emergencies
• Ways to pay yourself like a professional with consistent owner’s pay
• How Mike Michalowicz’s Profit First system can transform a therapist’s financial habits
• How Parkinson’s Law shapes spending and how to set healthy limits
• How to use a 30/60/90 plan to think ahead instead of reacting

Recommended reading: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz — a must-read for small-business therapists.

Inspired by her upcoming book, Private Practice Unlocked: What Grad School Didn’t Teach You.

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DM Amber on Instagram @privatepracticeunlocked and let her know what you’re struggling with the most!

Let’s build the practice—and life—you deserve.