When you’re filled with self-doubt, the idea of running your own private practice can feel impossible. You look around at other therapists who seem so professional and confident, and wonder – who would want to come and see me?
That’s exactly how Fi Hewkin felt when she started out. She grew up being told she “wasn’t academic,” left school with three O-levels, and believed she wasn’t the “professional type.” Private practice wasn’t even on her radar.
But today, Fi runs a thriving counselling practice in Surrey, working with long-term clients and even setting up a community project to offer affordable therapy.
In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, Fi shares her honest journey from “I can’t do this” to “I’ve built a successful practice.” If you’ve ever doubted yourself, Fi’s story will show you that success isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being you.
🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here:
Believing You Can’t, But Doing It Anyway
Fi’s story is one many therapists will relate to: not feeling clever enough, professional enough, or ready enough. Despite her past experience running an IT business, she still believed she couldn’t work for herself. However, she kept taking action – even while doubting herself. This episode explores how showing up, step by step, can build belief over time.
Growing a Practice by Being Yourself
In our conversation, Fi reflects on how much changed when she stopped trying to sound like a counsellor and started sounding like herself. From the words on her directory profile to how she dresses and speaks in session, her decision to show up authentically became the key to attracting the right clients. We talk about why that shift matters so much – and why it’s often one of the hardest things to do.
When Things Drop Off (and What to Do Next)
Even with a full practice, self-doubt doesn’t vanish. Fi talks openly about the wobble when several clients ended at once, and the fear that maybe nobody else would come. It’s a reminder that private practice work is rarely linear – but that there are things you can do to get visible again. We also discuss the practical steps she takes when enquiries drop and what types of marketing work for her.
What Fi Has Built – and Why It’s Working
This episode is about more than just getting clients. It’s about building a sustainable practice that fits your life. Fi shares how she balances her caseload, gives back through low-cost counselling, and finally feels confident in her work – even if she never thought she would. Her story is both encouraging and realistic, and a reminder that there’s no one right way to grow.
If You’ve Ever Thought “I’m Not Good Enough”…
…this episode is for you. You’ll hear how Fi moved from doubt to confidence, from hiding her voice to owning it. And you’ll come away knowing that it is possible to build a private practice that works – without needing to get it all perfect first.
Ready to Build a Practice That Feels Like You?
If you’ve been second-guessing yourself or wondering if you’re missing a secret that everyone else knows, Fi’s story might feel familiar. One of the things she found most valuable in Therapy Growth Group was simply being told she was on the right track.
“Jo believed in me. I came out of there thinking, I can do this. This is doable.” – Fi Hewkin
Inside Therapy Growth Group, you’ll find practical support, honest feedback, and a community that helps you move forward – without needing to be perfect. If you’d like help to grow a private practice that fits who you are, come and join us.
👉 Click here to find out more and join Therapy Growth Group.