Episode 204: From Therapy to Coaching: New Impact and Identity [featuring Priyanka Rao]
In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Priyanka Rao talk about her journey from clinical work into the world of coaching, viral social media growth, and the permission to let your path evolve—especially as a late-diagnosed ADHDer.
Her authenticity, humor, and vulnerability about pivoting careers offers valuable insight for clinicians, entrepreneurs, and anyone feeling pressure to “stick to the plan.”
Here are 3 key takeaways:
- Prioritize Authenticity Over Perfection: Showing up as your real self is what builds trust and genuine connection—whether you’re creating content, leading a group, or sitting one-on-one with a client.
- Embrace the Pivot (without shame): It’s okay—and healthy—to follow what excites you, even if it means leaving behind something you once worked hard for. Letting go of “shoulds” and honoring your energy isn’t a failure; it’s necessary growth.
- Impact Can Look Different: Transitioning to new modalities or scaling back can create a ripple effect—from helping more people at once to empowering others through your story. Your reach and impact aren’t limited to direct client hours.
Whether you’re managing a private practice, exploring entrepreneurship, or redefining your role entirely, give yourself the grace to evolve. Your journey doesn’t need to be linear or “by the book”—especially if leaning into your strengths and interests allows you to thrive and serve others more fully.
More about Priyanka:
Dr. Priyanka Rao—also known as Pri—is a Licensed Psychologist, executive coach, and founder of Asha Mental Health and Asha Coaching & Consulting. She specializes in adult ADHD and autism assessments and supports late-diagnosed professionals and entrepreneurs in building lives that work with their brains, not against them. A late-diagnosed ADHDer herself, she brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to everything she does.
- Instagram: instagram.com/ashacoach
- TikTok: tiktok.com/@ashacoach
- Website: asha-coaching.com/divergenttable
Use code ATPP20 for 20% off of your first 3 months of the "Divergent Table" membership
–––––––––––––––––––––
🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Neurodivergent Entrepreneur Podcast
🎙️Spotify: https://ndpod.org/Spotify
🎙️Apple: https://ndpod.org/Apple-Podcast
🎙️ YouTube: https://ndpod.org/YouTube
🧠 Neurodivergent Entrepreneur Freebie Vault: https://ndpod.org/Freebie-Vault
🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community
–––––––––––––––––––––
Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad!
Thanks to The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode.
The Receptionist for iPad is a HIPAA-ready digital check-in system that eliminates the need to walk back and forth from your office to the waiting room to see if your next appointment has arrived. Clients or patients can check in for their appointments, and you'll be immediately notified by text, email, or your preferred channel. Break free from interruptions and make the most of your time, because it is valuable. Start a free 14-day trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link to get your first month free if you decide to sign up.
Free Gifts for Our Listeners
Get a practical podcasting workbook for therapists considering starting a podcast, created by Patrick Casale, host of the podcasts All Things Private Practice and Divergent Conversations.
You'll get a practical structure for therapists who want to start a podcast but don’t want to rush, perform, or build something they can’t sustain.
Grab your free copy of the Podcasting Workbook: https://ndpod.org/Free-Podcasting-Workbook
✨ Move Beyond Private Practice As A Neurodivergent Entrepreneur
Move Beyond Private Practice As A Neurodivergent Entrepreneur is a FREE 5-part mini-course designed for therapists who want sustainable financial independence beyond one-on-one work.
Access your free mini-course here: https://ndpod.org/Neurodivergent-Entrepreneur
