Why You Should Ignore All the "Wisdom" in Facebook Groups for Private Practice Owners

Facebook groups for private practice owners can feel like a goldmine of advice, tips, and camaraderie. With thousands of therapists coming together to discuss marketing strategies, fee setting, business structures, and everything in between, it seems like an amazing resource. And, to an extent, it is.

However, these groups are often a double-edged sword. While they can provide a sense of community and spark new ideas, they can also become overwhelming, contradictory, and misleading. If you’ve ever scrolled through a group and found yourself spiraling into self-doubt, confusion, or comparison, you’re not alone.

Here’s the truth: You don’t need to listen to every piece of advice you find in these groups. In fact, filtering out much of the noise might be one of the best things you can do for your private practice.

The Problem with Facebook Group "Wisdom"

1. It’s Often Contradictory

One post says, “Lower your fees to attract more clients.” The next post says, “Raise your fees to reflect your value.” One therapist claims Instagram is the best way to market your practice, while another swears by SEO.

The advice in Facebook groups is as diverse as the therapists offering it, and for good reason: there is no one-size-fits-all answer. What works for someone else might not work for your unique practice, your niche, or your goals. Trying to follow every piece of advice can leave you more confused than when you started.

2. Context Is Often Missing

When someone shares their success story—“I raised my fees and my practice is now full!”—you rarely get the full picture. Are they in a major city with higher demand? Do they have a strong referral network? Do they specialize in a high-demand niche?

Without context, it’s easy to compare your situation to theirs and feel like you’re falling short. But every private practice is different, and what works for one therapist may not align with your market, location, or goals.

3. Advice Is Not Always Evidence-Based

Many therapists in Facebook groups mean well, but not all advice is grounded in proven strategies or business principles. Some recommendations may be anecdotal, based on personal experience, or even outdated. Blindly following advice without vetting its validity could lead to missteps in your practice.

4. It Can Trigger Comparison and Impostor Syndrome

Scrolling through posts of therapists celebrating their wins—whether it’s filling their caseload, launching a new group program, or hitting six figures—can be inspiring… or completely demoralizing. If you’re not careful, these success stories can lead to unhealthy comparison and feelings of “not being good enough.”

Remember, people tend to share their highlights, not their struggles. What you see in a Facebook group is often a curated version of reality, and it’s not the full story.

5. Information Overload Leads to Inaction

When you’re bombarded with conflicting advice, it’s easy to fall into analysis paralysis. Should you focus on SEO or social media? Should you niche down or keep your practice broad? Should you raise your rates or keep them where they are?

Instead of moving forward with clarity, you may find yourself spinning your wheels, trying to figure out which advice to follow.

What to Do Instead of Chasing Group “Wisdom”

Facebook groups aren’t inherently bad, and they can be useful if approached with intention. The key is to use them as a tool, not a rulebook. Here’s how to filter the noise and focus on what truly matters for your private practice:

1. Trust Your Own Business Goals

Before seeking advice, get clear on what you want for your practice.

• Do you want a full-time caseload, or do you prefer part-time work?

• Are you focused on a specific niche, or do you want to serve a broad audience?

• What are your financial goals, and what does “success” mean to you?

When you’re clear on your goals, you’ll be better equipped to filter out advice that doesn’t align with your vision.

2. Seek Guidance from Trusted Sources

Instead of relying on group advice, consider investing in business coaching or mentorship from someone who understands private practice ownership. A coach can help you develop a personalized strategy based on your goals, location, and niche—without the noise of conflicting opinions.

At The Connected Private Practice, we specialize in helping therapists cut through the overwhelm and build sustainable, thriving practices. Unlike a Facebook group, we offer tailored advice and step-by-step guidance that works for you.

3. Look for Evidence-Based Strategies

When considering advice from a group, ask yourself:

• Is this backed by evidence or data?

• Does this align with proven business principles?

• Is this advice specific to the person giving it, or is it a general best practice?

If something doesn’t feel grounded in logic or research, it’s okay to let it go.

4. Set Boundaries with Facebook Groups

It’s easy to fall down a rabbit hole of scrolling, especially when you’re seeking validation or answers. Instead of letting groups consume your time and energy, set boundaries:

• Limit the amount of time you spend in groups each week.

• Use groups only for specific purposes, like asking a targeted question or networking.

• Avoid using groups as a constant source of validation—trust your own instincts instead.

5. Remember That There Are No “Quick Fixes”

The best strategies for growing your private practice require time, consistency, and effort. Facebook groups can make it seem like there’s a magic formula or shortcut to success, but the truth is that sustainable growth takes work.

Trust the process, invest in learning, and focus on long-term goals rather than quick wins.

How to Use Facebook Groups Effectively

When used intentionally, Facebook groups can still be a valuable resource. Here’s how to get the most out of them:

• Ask Specific Questions: Instead of seeking broad advice, ask targeted questions like, “What platform do you use for scheduling clients?” or “How did you approach setting up your Google My Business profile?”

• Network, Don’t Compare: Use groups to connect with other therapists, share resources, or collaborate—not to measure your success against others.

• Find Inspiration, Not Rules: Treat advice as inspiration, not gospel. Take what resonates and leave the rest.

Your Private Practice, Your Rules

At the end of the day, your private practice is yours to build. While Facebook groups can provide ideas and encouragement, they are not a substitute for personalized strategy or professional guidance. The most important thing you can do is trust yourself and your vision—and seek support that aligns with your goals.

If you’re ready to move beyond the noise of Facebook groups and develop a tailored strategy for your private practice, The Connected Private Practice Business Coaching is here to help.

👉 Visit The Connected Private Practice to learn how we can support you in building a thriving, sustainable practice—on your own terms.

You don’t need to listen to everyone. You just need a clear plan, a trusted guide, and the confidence to make it happen. Let’s do this together.