Many therapists dream of building something bigger – more impact, more connection, maybe even a team. But how do you move from working solo to running a thriving group therapy practice without losing your values, your nerve, or your sense of purpose?
In this week’s Good Enough Counsellors podcast, I talk to Sharon May, founder of Kingsclere Counselling Service, who did exactly that. Her journey – from starting out in a one-room office to leading a team of 14 therapists – is a brilliant example of what’s possible when you lean into growth, even when it’s scary.
Sharon and I first crossed paths in 2019, when she came looking for support around growing her practice. What followed was a period of huge personal and professional growth – and in our latest podcast episode, she shares what that actually looked and felt like from the inside.
If you prefer to listen, I also have a podcast that explores this topic. You can listen below.
If you would like to subscribe to the podcast, click here.
Here are a few principles that underpin Sharon’s story (and could help you shape your own).
1. Start with a Vision
Many therapists begin private practice with a modest goal – seeing clients, staying afloat. But what if you let yourself think bigger?
Whether it’s running a team or offering services in a rural area, having a long-term vision helps you steer short-term decisions. Sharon wrote her five-year plan in a notebook – and ended up achieving those goals within three.
In the podcast, she talks about how that vision evolved as she went, and how staying flexible allowed her to grow faster than she expected.
2. Build the Right Foundations
Moving from solo work to a group practice isn’t just about logistics – it’s also about holding onto your values. Sharon knew that, ultimately, it was her name above the door. If she was building a team, it needed to reflect her ethos.
Before recruiting she asked herself some tough questions. What kind of service did she want to offer? What kind of people did she want to work with?
It was still scary to publish that first job advert. In the episode, you’ll hear how she handled those nerves – and the surprising response she got.
3. Lead with Honesty
Leading a group practice brings added responsibilities – not just to clients, but also to the therapists in the team. And just as Sharon began expanding, the pandemic hit..
She was suddenly juggling home-schooling with trying to support clients, managing conflicting views on safety, and absorbing the financial fallout of therapists unable to pay rent.
What got her through? Honest communication. Sharon didn’t pretend to have all the answers. She brought her team together, shared what she knew, and navigated uncertainty as a group.
In the episode, Sharon reflects on how this time tested her leadership – and what she learned about being a grounded, imperfect leader.
4. Trust Yourself—Even When It’s Scary
From launching a group practice to completing a Masters and now travelling globally for research, Sharon’s growth has meant taking risks. Each time, she’s come back to the same anchors: her values, her instincts, and the reminder that very few decisions are permanent.
If you’re sitting with a “should I, shouldn’t I?” question, her reflections on imposter syndrome and self-trust will really resonate.
If you’re thinking about growing your practice – or just wondering what’s possible beyond the therapy room – this episode is for you. Sharon’s story shows that it’s not about being fearless. It’s about being honest, thoughtful and willing to take the next brave step.
Want support as you grow your practice?
Sharon first approached me for support when she was working out how to take the leap from solo therapist to group practice owner. Having someone to talk things through with gave her the confidence to move forward – despite the nerves.
“It really helped me to have someone who believed in what I was building, even when I doubted it myself.” – Sharon May
If you’re ready to grow your practice but aren’t sure where to start, working with me in Therapy Growth Group will offer you the guidance, encouragement, and practical tools to help you move forward – one step at a time.
Find out more and join HERE.