Angela Ficken, LICSW, is a psychotherapist with a thriving private practice based in Boston, MA. With a specialty in treating OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety-related issues, Angela has dedicated her career to improving the mental health and wellbeing of her clients. Her extensive background includes serving as the head social worker at McLean Hospital, one of the nation’s top psychiatric hospitals affiliated with Harvard University, and working as a primary therapist for Harvard University’s student body.
Company: Progress Wellness
We are thrilled to have you join us today, welcome to ValiantCEO Magazine’s exclusive interview! Let’s start off with a little introduction. Tell our readers a bit about yourself and your company
Angela Ficken: Thank you for having me be part of your interview series. I am so happy to join you today.
Like many of today’s modern women, I juggle the roles of mother, wife, and entrepreneur, finding joy in the balance of these responsibilities. When I’m not immersed in work, I love to explore new culinary creations, spend quality time with family and friends, or simply unwind with a good tv show.
My personal journey has been marked by challenges with mental health. The support I received from therapy was instrumental in my healing process, inspiring me to pursue a career dedicated to helping others. I understand firsthand the strength it takes to overcome adversity and find purpose in guiding others through their own struggles.
If you were in an elevator with Warren Buffett, how would you describe your company, your services or products? What makes your company different from others? What is your company’s biggest strength?
Angela Ficken: As a psychotherapist specializing in OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety, my professional mission is to expand access to mental health support. I am driven by a commitment to finding innovative and engaging ways to reach individuals struggling with these challenges. Through my private practice, authored works, Etsy shop, and e-commerce platform, I strive to provide a comprehensive range of resources that empower people to build resilience and improve their overall well-being.
My approach is rooted in the belief that creativity is essential to addressing the diverse needs of our mental health community. By thinking outside the box and providing services that people really need, I aim to develop solutions that resonate with a wide audience and break down barriers to care. My ultimate goal is to create a world where mental health support is accessible, effective, and empowering for all.
Quiet quitting, The Great Resignation, is an ongoing trend causing many businesses to struggle to keep talent engaged and motivated. Most are leaving because of their boss or their company culture. 82% of people feel unheard, undervalued, and misunderstood in the workplace. In your experience, what keeps employees happy? And how are you adapting to the current shift we see?
Angela Ficken: Providing employees with autonomy, mentorship, and clear career paths creates a sense of ownership and dedication. The ability to manage one’s workload independently has been a game-changer for many, driving the increasing popularity of remote work. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this shift, demonstrating the viability of virtual work environments for countless individuals and businesses.
Since transitioning to a fully remote practice in March 2020, I’ve witnessed firsthand the benefits of this model for both myself and my clients. While I miss the in-person connection with colleagues and clients, eliminating commutes and increased flexibility have significantly enhanced productivity and work-life balance, so I can spend time with my daughter. While not suitable for everyone, virtual therapy offers a convenient and accessible option for many.
Online business keeps on surging higher than ever, B2B, B2C, online shopping, virtual meetings, remote work, Zoom medical consultations, what are your expectations for the year to come and how are you capitalizing on the tidal wave?
Angela Ficken: Since the onset of the pandemic, I’ve exclusively offered virtual therapy sessions. The convenience and accessibility this format provides have been overwhelmingly positive. By eliminating the need for commuting and allowing clients to schedule appointments around their busy lives, virtual therapy has significantly expanded access to mental health care. Clients can choose what works best, whether it’s a morning session before work, a lunch break, or an evening appointment. This model will continue to be the cornerstone of my practice for the foreseeable future.
I launched an Etsy.com/shop/worried2wellbalanced shop offering digital worksheets and workbooks to complement my virtual therapy services. These resources provide individuals with practical tools for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. By offering accessible, self-guided support, I aim to help individuals control their mental well-being.
Given the increasing reliance on digital devices, providing mental health resources in a digital format is crucial for reaching a wider audience. By meeting people where they already are—in the comfort of their own homes—I hope to make a tangible difference in their lives.
Business is all about overcoming obstacles and creating opportunities for growth. What do you see as THE real challenge right now?
Angela Ficken: Business is all about resilience, innovation, and overcoming adversity. It’s about identifying opportunities where others see challenges. However, in today’s hyper-competitive marketplace, particularly in the digital realm, the true test lies in deeply understanding the customer.
What sets your product apart today?
Why should a consumer choose you over countless alternatives?
What do you offer that’s different from the competition?
These are the fundamental questions that businesses must answer to thrive.
Uncovering the unique value proposition that resonates with your target audience is vital to business success. It requires balancing understanding customer needs, desires, and pain points while simultaneously differentiating your offering.
In your experience, what tends to be the most underestimated part of running a company? Can you share an example?
Angela Ficken: Oh my goodness—a robust support network is the cornerstone of successful endeavors. Countless times, I’ve found myself leaning on my business partner, seeking solace and guidance from my mother, or unloading frustrations onto my husband. These individuals serve as invaluable lifelines, offering unwavering support and perspective during challenging times. The entrepreneurial journey is often fraught with self-doubt and uncertainty, making it abundantly clear that navigating such turbulent waters alone is laborious and counterproductive.
Surrounding yourself with a supportive community is akin to having a safety net, providing a cushion against the inevitable setbacks and challenges. These individuals offer a fresh perspective, encouragement, and a sounding board for ideas. Their belief in your capabilities can catalyze overcoming obstacles and achieving your goals. A robust support system is not solely a luxury but a necessity for sustainability or long-term success.
On a lighter note, if you had the ability to pick any business superpower, what would it be and how would you put it into practice?
Angela Ficken: Understanding the intricate workings of algorithms feels like unlocking a hidden world of potential. As someone deeply passionate about creativity and leveraging social media as a platform, I’m often frustrated by the complexities of these digital systems. Social media is a powerful tool, but navigating its algorithms can be overwhelming. If I could understand the logic behind these algorithms, I’d be eager to experiment and optimize my content strategy. It’s like having a secret blueprint to better connect with my audience and achieve my goals.
What does “success” in 2024 mean to you? It could be on a personal or business level, please share your vision
Angela Ficken: After four years of dedicated work, I’m thrilled to announce the publication of my first book, “Chaotic to Clearheaded,” now available on Amazon. This accomplishment is a significant milestone for me.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I’ve also focused on building a stronger community. Surprisingly, even as an introvert, I’ve found joy creating a monthly Mom’s Night Out for my neighbors. Seeing these connections form has been incredibly rewarding. And this October, my husband and I will celebrate a decade of marriage—a testament to the hard work and dedication we’ve invested in our relationship.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to shift my focus to professional growth. My goal for the year’s second half is to transform my Etsy store into a go-to destination for digital therapy resources and tools. Building a successful online business will require perseverance and strategic planning, but I’m excited to take on this challenge.