How I Built a Thriving Multi-disciplinary Clinic
I started my Reflexology journey in 1995, having given up my full-time corporate career to pursue my passion for Reflexology. In the years before websites and social media I built my business through networking- attending as many local groups as I could, giving talks to WI groups, new mums groups and school charity events, and leaflet drops to local areas.
Initially I saw clients in their own home, and I rented a small room in a beauty salon. I then managed to rent a room in a local GP surgery which wasn’t ideal as the room and surroundings were very clinical. I also rented a room in an acupuncture and physiotherapy clinic which was pleasant but there was little support for the complementary therapist from the clinic owner. I managed to build my client numbers to around 25 clients per week which was as many as I wanted to see, and I really enjoyed the challenge of building a business.
One of my colleagues suggested that I should open my own clinic. Initially I was reluctant but having worked from many types of premises none of them were ideal and I knew many excellent therapists who had not succeeded in building a business due to lack of support or suitable premises to practice from. One day I passed the ideal premises which had just become available in a fantastic location. I decided to take the plunge, with only a basic business plan and a passion to succeed. The premises were an old bed and breakfast that hadn’t been used for 2 years and were cold and unloved but I could see the potential. With a small budget and a lot of love we transformed the building into a welcoming clinic with 6 treatment rooms.
I started with 5 therapists that I had worked with or knew well. We now have 25 therapists offering a wide range of natural health treatments. Since opening in 2005 we have welcomed almost 20,000 clients to the clinic. What I love most about my work is helping the therapists build a busy practice and seeing all the clients and their families who trust us to help them with their health needs. Every day is a challenge but the job satisfaction is immense.
Over the years I have made mistakes and had many successes. With my 28 years’ experience as a therapist and 18 years as a clinic owner I now offer a bespoke Coaching and Mentoring service for ambitious therapists who want to open and build a thriving multidisciplinary clinic, to pass on my knowledge and experience to other therapists who are ready to take the next step on their journey.
Tracey Turton MAR, Clinic Director, Clinical Reflexologist and Coach
