For many entrepreneurs and small businesses, social media can be an absolute game-changer! All it takes is one viral post and a business can suddenly take off.
At Like A Voss Social Media, we’re highlighting local businesses and entrepreneurs who are killing the online game. This week’s spotlight is on Amanda Hammond, Co-Owner of Hammond Psychotherapy Services!
Hammond Psychotherapy Services is a therapy practice designed for real people who want to make change. We use real language, are relatable, and do more than just listen. Our goal is to help you figure your shit out, because after all, isn’t that what we all want?
Our CEO Mandi interviewed Amanda about her secret to success in business and in life. We also got some awesome insights into what they think makes social media such an effective tool in business. This is an extra special one, because Amanda is actually Mandi’s therapist – how cool is that? Obviously they ALWAYS talk about Mandi, so it was really nice for Mandi to be able to learn a bit more about Amanda’s career path and what it’s like working as a therapist.
A Little Bit About Being an Entrepreneur
1: How long have you been in business?
I opened my own private practice in 2018 and my husband joined shortly after. We’ve both been in the mental health and addictions field for a ridiculously long time – surprising given how terribly young we still are! (Okay fine, I’ve been working in the field since 2003, Darrell since the mid 90s.)
2: What made you decide to start your own therapy business?
I worked in a community mental health agency, and wow, did I ever love it. LOVED IT. And then some changes happened in its management and it just didn’t feel as effective or helpful to clients – as it could have been. I realized, gulp, maybe I could do it on my own.
3: What do you love most about being an entrepreneur?
If I said making my own hours and being my own boss, I’d be lying. All entrepreneurs work too much, give too much and love it (for the most part!) I like owning something unique. Being responsible, being able to make decisions to give a sliding scale to someone going through chemo or a pandemic, reduce barriers, be real AF with no ulterior motive or mandate.
4: What is the hardest thing you have had to overcome as a female entrepreneur? Something you did not foresee when you decided to start Hammond Psychotherapy Services?
Hmmm…this is a tough one. The idea that even though I am in control – I am not in control. And saying no to people who reach out looking for services. I have always hated not being able to say yes to everyone. I set hard lines for myself because I need them, and I need to respect them, my time and my capacity – and I practice what I preach. I can’t justify telling you to set boundaries or to say no if I were to be saying yes to everything, everyone, not taking care of myself and getting burned out. Ugh. The ever challenging work-life balance!
5: What is one thing about working as a therapist that people would be surprised to learn? (Yes, I know, confidentiality – I’m talking more about myth busting here.)
That we are and can be REAL PEOPLE! The time of the couch with the dude in a cardigan is so over. We have real personalities, use our own experiences, can offer counsel, may be informal, (gasp – comfortable even), have facial expressions and can lovingly challenge and simultaneously support you – continues to be a difficult concept for some. Therapists are not magicians, nor untouchable people. We are like everyone else.
And Now Onto The Social Media Questions!
6: Do you have a favorite social media platform? Why?
Instagram! I love to connect with people – I am a Taurus so I like pretty things and have ADHD so something quick and pretty is even better!
7: What made you decide to start using social media as a way to promote your business?
This may be a bit backwards, but I don’t use social media to promote my business per se, I use it to promote a message. We can’t see all the clients who come to us, and social media is a great way to get out thoughts, tips and tidbits in a broad sweeping way instead of just to the peeps who have their butts in our chairs. Keeping in mind that what we share is only a portion of our experience and is in no way therapy!
8: How has social media impacted your business? Would you say that it’s an effective marketing tool?
Absolutely it is! We have a lot of people who say they saw us on Instagram or Facebook – a friend shared something we posted and they saw it or they just came across us. This is why it’s important to share things you see online that may be helpful or inspiring – if not for you, perhaps for someone else!
9: What advice would you give to other businesses and entrepreneurs who want to use social media as a way to connect with customers?
Be Authentic! B E authentic! (imagine me cheerleading while I say that – Bring It On is a top 10 movie for me.) The whole idea of ‘highlight reels’ and bullshit like that just doesn’t hit anymore – people want to see the real things, the real you, the real person, and real business. We all want an idea of what we are signing up for before we “buy in”. We want to find our kindred spirits, our people, and to align with them – not to feel crappy about ourselves.
A Little More About Amanda
Not sure if I talk in first person or not? LOL
I was always intrigued by people, told I was a good listener and was well-rounded. I related to people on a level that felt oddly deep and yet natural and comfortable. So – it always felt like being a therapist was literally my soul’s work. My priority as a therapist is to break down the stigma of therapy, mental health and to truly support women by helping women realize their own worth and value (which is exponential!). I am the biggest cheerleader and challenger one could have – and I only do it in a way that I think would be helpful for you – because it is what I would want for myself.
Connect with Amanda
Website
Facebook
Instagram
[Social media is not a substitute for medical or mental health care, albeit it may make you feel better.
We do not provide therapy over our social media channels, DMs or emails, nor can we ensure the confidentiality of such.
Therefore, information provided here should not be considered a substitute for a therapeutic experience. Some of the stuff we talk about in our social media channels may resonate with you and encourage you to reach out for therapy, which is awesome!
If you are in crisis, please contact our local (to us) crisis line at 1.866.616.6005 or present to your nearest emergency room.]
Know A Voss Boss?
Do you know a Voss Boss who loves social media as much as we do? Contact us today – we’d love to tell her story!
