379: Why I'm Pausing My Private Practice

Written By Melvin VargheseMelvin Varghese PhD

Celebrating 10 Years of Selling the Couch: Thank You for Being Part of the Journey

This year marks 10 years since I started the Selling the Couch podcast. I’m also celebrating the start of 2025, and I want to thank you for being part of this journey.

When I began Selling the Couch in 2015, I was nervous. I didn’t know if anyone would listen or care about what I had to share. As an introverted psychologist, I wasn’t sure I could handle podcasting or public speaking. But with your support, we’ve reached this big milestone together.

A Hard Decision

This episode is special because I’m sharing something personal: I’ve decided to pause my private practice journey. A lot has changed in my life, and this decision hasn’t been easy.

Here are three big reasons why:

1. Family Changes

My wife, Susan, went back to working in the office. This means I’ve taken on more parenting responsibilities. Our daughter, Chloe, is at an age where I want to be fully present for her, and that’s really important to me.

2. Helping My Parents

My parents are getting older, and I’ve realized how much I want to be there for them. During a recent visit, I saw how much they’ve aged, and it made me think about how I can support them better.

3. Leading at Church

I’m leading a small group at our church. It’s been a rewarding experience, but it’s also another responsibility I’ve taken on. Balancing everything has been tough.

Listening to My Body

Running Selling the Couch and a private practice at the same time has been too much for me. I’ve struggled with anxiety and trouble sleeping. These were signs from my body that I needed to slow down.

I’ve also been thinking a lot about what’s really important to me. I’ve set a financial goal that lets me live comfortably and make an impact. I’ve also learned to say no to things that don’t align with my values.

Looking Ahead

One of my big dreams is to use Selling the Couch to help others. I’m excited to share that I’m starting a scholarship fund to support girls rescued from the commercial sex trade. This idea comes from my childhood experiences in India, and it’s a cause close to my heart.

Thank You

Reaching 10 years wouldn’t have been possible without you. Thank you for listening, for encouraging me, and for being part of this community.

Success isn’t about big numbers or awards. For me, it’s about living in a way that matches my values and making a difference in the world.

I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I’m so glad to have you on this journey with me.

Alma and Selling The Couch sponsorship

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Melvin varghese phd

Psychologist and Founder @ Selling The Couch 

Melvin Varghese, PhD is a licensed psychologist in Philadelphia, PA.  In 2015, Dr. Varghese founded Selling The Couch, a podcast to help therapists move from clinical to online income. 

On the podcast, he interviews successful practitioners about how they've built their practices, social media/marketing experts, and shares lessons as he uses our clinical skills to create an online business powered by podcasting + online courses.

The podcast is one of the top Career podcasts in Apple Podcasts, has been downloaded over 1.8 million times, and is heard in over 125 countries. Mel is a successful course creator with 240+ students and $300k+ in course sales.

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