We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris McDonald and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, how do you think about risk?
In my opinion, risks are a necessary part of creating a business. If you allow yourself to stay in fear, it can paralyze you and stop you from ever taking the first step. I knew when I left the school system 10 years ago that I was taking a leap of faith. I had only worked for the school system and had no idea how I was to manage my own private practice. I was used to just showing up where I worked for and having the clients there. It was a whole new concept that I would have to put the work into getting consistent referral sources.

You have to watch your self-talk when taking a leap of faith. I decided that I was going to learn all i could about being successful in private practice and just keep going even when it was frustrating, hard or seemed hopeless. We cannot find success without putting ourselves out there. This is a lways a risk but well worth it to be able to create the life we most want and to reach our goals.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am most proud that in 10 years I have created a 6 figure group private practice and develped myself and clinical skills with Holistic Counseling. Being a Holistic Counselor/Therapist is what sets me apart from others. I treat the whole person, body,mind and spirit in the counseling process. I integrate many holistic modalities into sessions such as yoga, meditation, mindfulness, breathwork and I am certified In Brainspotting. This leads to more effective and powerful sessions for clients.

I am most proud about my ability to manage a private practice and continue to build my podcast, The Holistic Counseling Podcast each week. I am building holistic community among therapists and helping them deepen their knowledge of holistic modalities. This helps all the clients they serve which is amazing!

I got where I am today based on being willing to put in the hard work. I think my ability to network and connect with so many other clinicians and Holistic practioners in the triangle has helped me to be successful. Also, perseverance and never giving up even when I want too!

It was not easy for me, it has taken time to be successful and there are low times that I still have to work at it to keep things going. I reach out to other colleagues and friends to help me through and since building the holistic community I am feeling much more supported and less alone.

The lessons I’ve learned is even if you are doubting yourself, keep going! If you hit a road block, find your way around it. If you are unsure how to proceed, get help from someone else in your field. Reaching out for help is a coping skill and can help you overcome any challenges you face.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to a Carolina Hurricanes Hockey game. I would bring them tailgating so they could experience the fun of cooking in the parking lot and connecting with others. We always meet some fun people and its such a good time. Cheering on the home team is always a blast!
I would also bring them to Perrys steakhouse, I just went last night and had the most amazing meal. It is definitely a memorable occasion as they have so many amazing drinks and food.

I would schedule time to visit with my group of friends, maybe have a picnic at Jordan lake and Standup paddle board with them. I would also bring them to my favorite city, Wilmington and check out the beach for a few days. I would bring them to eat a bunch of seafood, relax on the beach and walk the beach.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Nicole Wallace Transformations counseling and consulting

Transformation Counseling & Consulting

Website: https://www.pathtohopecounseling.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticcounselingpodcast/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mcdonald-bb831823/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HCPodcast8

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holisticcounselingpodcast

Image Credits
https://www.richardbarlowphotography.com/

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