315 - Therapists Need Community (Not Just CEUs) with Kathryn Esquer, The Therapy Network
“Who are we if we’re not growing, and growing is painful.” ~Kathryn Esquer
What happens when therapists stop performing growth and actually practice it together? Kathryn Esquer shares how The Therapist Network emerged from a real need for authentic connection—and why community, vulnerability, and accountability are essential for sustainable clinical work.
You know how I’m always going on about a) doing your work, and b) doing that work alongside others? It occurred to me that many therapists don’t know where to begin, especially with “everything” happening to our profession and the communities we serve.
Kathryn Esquer felt that same deep desire for peer-based connection and support. So, she built it. Today, The Therapist Network offers professionals a virtual space for genuine collaboration, collective wisdom, and feedback––the kind of inspiration and resource-sharing that chaotic Facebook groups just can’t provide.
“It really grew out of the community need. I was just the catalyst,” says Katy, a licensed clinical psychologist and executive coach who created the Therapist Network during the early days of the COVID pandemic. “I still feel today like I am a steward of the community as opposed to it being my community or a community I lead.”
I invite those who think this episode is just an ad for The Therapist Network to give the conversation a try. It's a dream of mine to be among therapists who don't shy away from doing their own work. Katy and I advance that goal by offering a “what to expect” primer for healthy group dynamics:
Why build community? Your professional growth and mental well-being depend on it! Joining something is scary as hell, but extending yourself is better than going it alone.
Practice discernment. Not all collaboration is good! If you’re questioning a group’s leadership, motives, or focus, then it’s time to find a new space.
Include elders and others. If the group doesn’t embrace a mix of backgrounds, orientations, or ages, then it’s not a true community.
Seek safety. Authenticity is easier to access when a group feels secure. A reminder that safety doesn’t mean devoid of accountability. A safe community promotes responsibility among all its members.
“The one thing that I think is the big catalyst for change is going beneath the surface-level relationships and being able to be messy, to be vulnerable, to give the hard feedback, to follow up and continue to show up,” observes Katy.
Take the time to find your people.
GUEST CONTACT & BIO
Kathryn (Katy) Esquer (she/her) is a Licensed Psychologist, executive coach, and founder of The Therapist Network, a professional community supporting mental health practitioners. She combines evidence-based practice with innovative approaches to help therapists build sustainable careers while advancing social justice in the field.
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Revolutionary Practice Summit 2026
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Join our Authentic Leaders Group!
Next cohort starts May 1, 2026.
This is a journey of self-discovery and leadership mastery, where you'll not only enhance your leadership skills but also forge meaningful connections with fellow therapists who are committed to their own growth and the betterment of the therapy field. Apply now!
Thank you to The Therapist Network for sponsoring the show!
The Therapist Network is a global community built by and for therapists. You’ll find live consult groups, an ever-growing library of workshops and courses, plus a community that really sees you. Sarah’s group, Tending to the Wounded Healer, meets every other Monday from 1–2pm CT, and it’s a space to explore the intersection of your lived experience and your clinical work.
So if you want to feel more supported and less alone, visit TheTherapist.Network—or join Sarah’s group directly at tinyurl.com/HealerConsultTTN.
UPCOMING EVENTS
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