Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Devin Wilder, CEO of First Talk Counselling and Wellness, located in Saskatoon, SK, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

At First Talk Counselling and Wellness, our mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals in need of counselling services. We specialize in helping people develop skills to manage their mental health and well-being, as well as improve their relationships. Our customers are individuals who are looking for a compassionate and understanding approach to counselling. We offer services for a variety of issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, substance use, and relationship difficulties. Our experienced counsellors strive to provide the highest quality of care with respect for our client’s individual experiences and beliefs. We value compassion, competence, integrity, empathy, and confidentiality in our practice.

Tell us about yourself

As CEO of First Talk Counselling and Wellness, it is my mission to advocate for self-care and self-growth while providing the highest calibre of mental health services to our community. Inspired by my experiences working in a family-focused legal practice, First Talk was developed with the goal of creating a client-centric model that is rooted in a respectful and safe environment. My goal is to empower individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings while equipping them with the tools required to live a healthier, happier lifestyle.

My interest in mental health sparked during my undergraduate studies when I chose to enroll in a psychology course on a whim. I found myself captivated by the area of clinical psychology. Over time and upon continued study, I recognized the value of counselling, particularly its personal healing and profound transformation characteristics.

Upon completing my undergraduate degree, I ventured into additional post-secondary education with the goal of becoming a lawyer. After graduating from law school and completing my articles, I joined a legal practice in Saskatoon, specializing in the area of family law. It was through my work as a lawyer that I began to recognize the need for accessible mental health services in our community. And thus, First Talk Counselling and Wellness was born.

The First Talk team is a group of highly trained, experienced, and registered mental health counsellors. Our team is committed to providing a safe, honest, and non-judgmental space for all. We offer a comprehensive range of counselling services tailored to individuals’ needs, and we strive to ensure our services are of unprecedented standard.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

To me, First Talk is more than a counselling practice. It’s a voice advocating for the complete delivery of mental health services. Reaching out for help is not a weakness or personal failure. It is a demonstration of trust, and we are dedicated to breaking stereotypes that deter and stigmatise personal care. The most impactful action one can take is having the First Talk. Whether with your friends, family, coworkers, or medical professional, the topic of mental health should be of high importance for everyone. This mindset resonates throughout our entire practice.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things about being a business owner is striking a balance between providing quality services and managing a successful business. Trying to juggle all the different aspects of running a business can be overwhelming, and it can be difficult to ensure that clients are getting the best possible care. At First Talk Counselling and Wellness, we understand the importance of finding that balance. That’s why we strive to provide high-quality counselling services while also maintaining a focus on our values of respect, competence, integrity, empathy, and confidentiality.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Invest in yourself. It’s important to take time for self-care and personal growth, so you can be your best self and have the energy and focus on running your business.
  2. Build relationships. Establishing a strong network of supportive people is key to running a successful business. Invest in relationships with clients, vendors, and colleagues to create a strong foundation for your business.
  3. Have a plan. Carefully plan out your goals and strategies for achieving them. Consider your budget and timeline, and create an action plan to stay on track. This can help you stay focused and organized and ensure that your business runs smoothly.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.firsttalk.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firsttalkcounselling
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firsttalkcounselling/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3XZfSnr

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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