Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Fabius Santos, Owner of Optimal Psychiatry & Wellness, located in Perry Hall, MD, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is Optimal Psychiatry and Wellness, and we focus on providing psychiatric medication management and psychotherapy. We see clients from the ages of 6 and up virtually via telehealth and in person!
Tell us about yourself
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and will finish my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in February 2023. I was a sponge when I worked my first job out of grad school. I wanted to become stronger clinically and learn the business side of things. I saw how all the different mental health specialties interacted. I watched the front desk staff, what they did, and how the therapists and psychiatrists worked together.
Most importantly, I saw how my boss presented himself and how he interacted with the team. I took all of what I learned and started a private practice on a whim, and so far, it has been an incredible ride. What motivates me now is building an approach that incorporates medications, therapy, holistic supplementation, exercise, yoga, and nutrition to optimize mental health.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is being able to give back to the community I grew up in. I grew up in Perry Hall, and it felt great to open up a mental health practice in a society that needed it. It's been a fun journey watching the practice grow from nothing to an established private practice in Maryland.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing is time management. You are permanently attached to your phone to answer calls, messages, and emails. It feels at times like you don't get a break, but the truth is this is what I signed up for. I wouldn't have it any other way.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My top 3 tips are:
- You have to take risks for what you want.
- They always say that there is no perfect time to do anything.
- You just have to take the plunge and go through the process.
I have made many mistakes since starting a business, but I have learned from each one. Rome wasn't built in a week, don't expect your business to grow immediately.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.optimal-psychiatry.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimalPsychiatry/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabius-santos-65212898/
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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