Episode 120: Private Practice, Faith, and Financial Success with Jamal Jones

Welcome to another insightful episode of the SoulCare for Therapists podcast! In this episode, host Dawn Gabriel sits down with Jamal Jones to discuss the intricate balance of faith, therapy, and financial success. This episode is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and invaluable insights that every faith-driven therapist can benefit from. Let’s dive into the key takeaways from this enlightening conversation.

Meet Jamal Jones:

Jamal Jones, the youngest of five children, was raised in a faith-filled household in East Oakland. With a pastor for a father and a devout mother whom he affectionately calls a “virtuous mom,” Jamal’s upbringing was deeply rooted in Christian values. At 13, Jamal took ownership of his faith and set ambitious goals for his future, including earning a scholarship to college, which he achieved through his athletic prowess at Fresno State.

The Intersection of Faith and Therapy:

Jamal shares how his journey through faith and therapy intertwined, particularly highlighting his involvement with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) during college. This experience provided him with a “psychological home” away from home and reinforced his commitment to his faith and career.

Facing Financial Challenges:

Jamal candidly discusses his financial anxieties during the 2007-2008 economic crisis while working with FCA. This period of uncertainty led him to pursue a master’s degree in counseling, ultimately setting the foundation for his private practice. He emphasizes the importance of goal setting, both in personal faith and professional life, to navigate through challenging times.

Overcoming Money Mindset Barriers:

Much of the episode delves into the concept of money mindset, particularly within the Christian community. Jamal explains the two prevalent perspectives: the prosperity gospel, which often leads to unrealistic expectations, and the poverty gospel, which promotes a scarcity mindset. He advocates for a balanced approach through stewardship, where therapists view their skills and services as valuable investments.

Transforming Financial Practices:

Jamal shares practical steps he took to transform his financial practices, including hiring business coaches and joining supportive communities. These resources helped him shift from undercharging clients to implementing value-based pricing. He emphasizes the importance of therapists recognizing their worth and setting appropriate fees to prevent burnout and ensure sustainable practice.

Implementing Packages in Therapy Practice:

One innovative approach Jamal discusses is offering therapy packages instead of traditional hourly sessions. For instance, he offers an 18-session marriage counseling package valued at $10,000. This model not only enhances client commitment but also ensures a stable income stream for the therapist. By presenting therapy as a valuable investment in their well-being, clients are more likely to engage deeply and achieve better outcomes.

Final Thoughts:

Jamal’s journey underscores the critical importance of aligning faith, therapy, and financial health. By adopting a stewardship mindset and recognizing the value of their services, therapists can create thriving practices that honor their faith and provide exceptional care to their clients.

Connect with Jamal Jones:

For those interested in learning more about Jamal’s approach or seeking guidance on improving their private practice, you can visit his website at The Purpose Driven Therapist, find him on LinkedIn, or call him at (559) 242-9319. Jamal offers coaching for therapists who want to improve their mindsets on business and money, marketing, and sales.

Conclusion:

Thank you for tuning in to this SoulCare for Therapists podcast episode. We hope Jamal’s story and insights inspire you to re-evaluate your money mindset and embrace a more holistic approach to your therapy practice. Stay tuned for more episodes that empower you to care for your soul while growing your practice.

Links and Resources