425: A Relationship-First Approach to Getting Referrals From Churches

Could churches and other faith communities become one of your private practice's strongest referral sources?

For many therapists, networking with churches can feel intimidating—or even a little unclear. Who do you contact? What do you say? Should you offer free workshops? And how do you build these relationships without feeling like you're simply asking for referrals?

In this episode of Selling the Couch, Mel sits down with licensed therapist and group practice owner Whitney Owens to talk about a more relational approach to connecting with churches and faith communities.

Whitney shares what she's learned from growing her own practice, being married to a pastor, and helping other faith-based practice owners build sustainable businesses.

In this conversation:Why churches can be valuable referral partners for therapistsWhether this strategy works if you don't have a faith-based practiceWho to contact within a church (and why it may not be the lead pastor)Why warm relationships work better than simply dropping off marketing materialsHow to approach pastors by asking how you can support themWays to find churches and faith communities to connect with locallyEthical considerations when clients attend your own churchHow Whitney navigated dual relationships and boundariesHow church benevolence funds may help congregants access therapyWhitney's experience creating "mini EAP" relationships with churchesWhether free or low-cost workshops are worth offeringHow to think about fees, sliding scales, and discounted services without undervaluing your workWhy following up every few months is essential for building long-term referral relationships

Start With Relationships, Not ReferralsOne of the biggest themes in this conversation is simple:

People are more likely to refer to therapists they know, like, and trust.

Instead of approaching a church with, "Here's my practice—send me clients," Whitney recommends starting with curiosity.

What challenges is this church facing?

What are pastors hearing from their congregants?

Where are they feeling overwhelmed?

How could your expertise make their work a little easier?