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Episode Summary:

What happens when your grad school internship feels more like a security risk than clinical training? When “supervision” means 4am drug screens, and leadership thinks deli platters are a solution to burnout?

In this raw, unfiltered episode, therapist, TEDx speaker, and retreat leader Patrick Casale shares the chaos, dysfunction, and disillusionment that shaped his early years in mental health—and how he turned that burnout into a thriving, neurodivergent-affirming business.

From methadone clinics and crisis units to international retreats and coaching programs, Patrick’s story is a middle finger to the people who said, “You’ll be back in 30 days.”

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Burnout Isn’t Your Fault—It’s a System Problem
If you’re exhausted, unmotivated, or questioning your place in this field—you’re not the problem. Burnout is a predictable result of toxic, under-resourced systems.

2. You Don’t Have to Suffer to Be a “Real Therapist”
You can be ethical, effective, and successful without sacrificing your mental health. Staying stuck in harmful jobs isn’t a badge of honor.

3. There Is a Better Way to Do This Work
Whether it's building a values-led practice, leading with transparency, or putting your needs first—there’s no one right way to be a therapist.

About Patrick Casale:

Patrick Casale, MA, LCMHC, is an AuDHD therapist, business coach, TEDx speaker, and retreat planner. He’s the founder of All Things Private Practice LLC, co-host of the Divergent Conversations podcast, and host of the All Things Private Practice podcast.

He’s helped thousands of therapists build authentic businesses without abandoning their values. Patrick is known for his signature phrase: “Doubt Yourself. Do It Anyway™.”

He lives in Asheville, NC with his wife Ariel and their two dogs, Hudson and Hazel. He loves Lord of the Rings, Anthony Bourdain, Ted Lasso, cold brew, and craft beer.

Website: allthingspractice.com
Instagram: @patrick.casale | @allthingsprivatepractice

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🎯 Keywords:

therapist burnout, toxic internships, community mental health, EMDR, private practice coach, neurodivergent therapist, supervision trauma, private practice startup, business coaching for therapists, values-led therapy, therapist podcast, group practice leadership, therapist retention, therapy culture change

This podcast includes personal opinions and experiences shared by guests and anonymous contributors. All identifying details may be changed to protect confidentiality. These stories are intended for educational and storytelling purposes and are not meant to defame, accuse, or harm any person or organization. Any resemblance to real persons or entities is purely coincidental.