How I Embraced Imposter Syndrome and Transformed My Private Practice

Brain exercising with weights

When I first went off insurance panels, I thought I was making the boldest move of my career. I was finally taking control of my practice, stepping into what I thought was independence. But I set my rates so low I could barely cover my bills.

Why? Because I told myself, I want to stay affordable for everyone.

Sound familiar?

If you’re running a successful private practice but feel stuck when it comes to raising your rates or expanding your reach, you’re not alone. For many of us, imposter syndrome whispers lies that keep us playing small: You can’t charge that. Who do you think you are to grow beyond this?

But let me tell you—those lies aren’t helping you, your clients, or your practice. Let me share my story of breaking through those doubts and taking my practice to the next level. By the end of this, I hope you’ll be ready to take action toward your next step today.

The Early Days of Staying ‘Affordable for Everyone’

When I made the decision to leave insurance panels, I felt a mix of excitement and fear. What if no one wanted to pay out-of-pocket? What if I priced myself too high? What if I failed?

So, I set my rates low. Low enough that I thought no one could possibly say no. I felt good at first. I was helping people—lots of them. But over time, I realized I wasn’t just undervaluing my work. I was undervaluing myself.

Think about this: Are you charging (or insurance panels giving) what your time, energy, and expertise are truly worth? Or are you staying where you are because of guilt or fear?

The Real Cost of Undervaluing Yourself

I told myself I was staying affordable because I cared about people. But honestly, it wasn’t just about serving others—it was about avoiding my own discomfort.

I avoided the uncomfortable thought that I deserved more. I avoided the fear that raising my rates would make clients leave. I avoided stepping into my worth because it felt risky.

But there was a cost: burnout. I was overworking, under-earning, and starting to not enjoy everything I had worked so hard to build.

If this is resonating with you, I challenge you to think about this: What is staying small costing you?

How I Shifted My Mindset and Stepped Into My Worth

Breaking free from imposter syndrome wasn’t easy. It required deep soul-searching, uncomfortable growth, and a willingness to challenge my own beliefs.

Here’s what worked for me:

Reframing My Beliefs About Money: I stopped seeing my rates as a burden on clients and started seeing them as an investment in their transformation. When clients pay what your services are worth, they show up more committed.

Facing the Fear of Discomfort: Growth isn’t comfortable. I had to ask myself, What am I avoiding by staying small? And then I had to sit with the answer, as hard as it was.

Owning My Expertise: I reminded myself that I am skilled, trained, and experienced. My work has real value—and that value deserves fair compensation.

Raising My Rates (and What Happened Next)

The first time I raised my rates, I was terrified. I practiced how I would explain it to clients, anticipating their reactions. But here’s the surprising part: The clients who truly valued the work stayed. Some even said they expected this change. (Actually a few told me before I was ready that I should raise my rates).

And guess what? I started attracting new clients who were more aligned with my practice. Most don’t hesitate to pay my current rates because they saw the value in what I offered.

Now, I’m running a practice that is not only financially sustainable but also energizes me. I can serve my clients better because I’m not running on empty.

What About You?

Imposter syndrome will always try to creep in, especially when you’re ready to level up. But here’s what I’ve learned: Staying small doesn’t serve anyone. Charging what you’re worth isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for you to continue doing this work long-term.

I encourage you to think about this:

What belief is holding you back from raising your rates or taking the next step?

What would happen if you let that belief go?

What’s one small action you can take today to move closer to the practice you truly want?

Take Action Today

Here’s your challenge: Choose one step to take today toward the next level of your practice. Maybe it’s researching rates in your area, drafting an email to inform clients of a rate increase, or even journaling about your fears and beliefs around money.

Whatever it is, commit to it. Don’t wait for imposter syndrome to loosen its grip—take action and watch its hold weaken.

You deserve a practice that supports you as much as it supports your clients. The work you do changes lives, and you are worth every penny you charge.

If you’re ready to grow but feel stuck, let’s talk. I’ve been where you are, and I’m here to help.

Now, take that first step—because your next level is waiting.

Or, Other Next Steps

If you’ve been looking for a group of like-minded entrepreneurs working hard at overcoming imposter syndrome and feeling confident in who they are and what they do, I encourage you to join my Facebook group, Beyond the Imposter, at: www.facebook.com/groups/beyondtheimposter.

The first step is always the hardest, but it’s also the most powerful. Are you ready to take it?