This year marks my 10th year in private practice and I've spent a lot of time reflecting on and blogging about what's contributed to the growth and longevity of my practice. As I started creating a timeline chronicling the evolution of my practice, it became clear that the growth of my private practice coincides with my online presence building efforts. I don't think it's an accident that when I began actively seeking media interviews, blogging, and building my social networks that my practice experienced tremendous growth.

2002 Started solo private practice Wasatch Family Therapy, LLC
2002 Applied to participate on health insurance panels
2002 Started speaking regularly in the community and throughout the state of UT
2004 Created one page website with photo, practice summary, and contact information
2004 Identified that my ideal clients were likely internet users
2006 Resigned from all health insurance panels
2006 Hired another therapist
2008 Hosted a local TV show for several months
2008 Joined Facebook initially as a way to connect with TV viewers
2008 Practice grew to 4 therapists
2008 Started publishing regular e-newsletter
2009 Joined Twitter
2009 Became a regular local TV Contributor on KSL TV's Studio 5 , a top women's lifestyle program
2009 Started blogging weekly on practice website and JulieHanks.com
2010 Started actively seeking local & national media interviews on mental health and relationship topics
2010 Practice grew to 8 therapists
2010 Started YouTube Channel
2011 Started blogging for Psych Central's Private Practice Toolbox
2011 Began writing for Psych Central's "Ask The Therapist"
2011 Started consulting with other private practice therapists on building a practice
2011 First National TV appearance on Discovery Health's Secretly Pregnant
2011 Interviewed on National Fox News Channel
2011 Named #1 online Influencer making a difference for depression by Dr. Oz’s Sharecare site
2011 Nominated for NASW Media Award for website
2011 Joined Pinterest and Instagram
2012 Guest blogger for Dr. Oz's Sharecare and PsychCentral World Of Psychology
2012 15 therapists in 2 clinic locations
2012 Over 25,000 social media followers
2013 Opening 3rd office location

I challenge you to outline the evolution of your practice. What patterns do you notice about your practice growth? What wisdom can you share with colleagues about what has worked for you?

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