How Therapists Retire: Planning, Ethics, and Letting Go of the Work You Love – An Interview with Lynn Grodzki, LCSW and Margaret Wehrenberg, PsyD

The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy

How Therapists Retire: Planning, Ethics, and Letting Go of the Work You Love – An Interview with Lynn Grodzki, LCSW and Margaret Wehrenberg, PsyD

Curt and Katie talk with Lynn Grodzki and Margaret Wehrenberg about how therapists can plan for retirement with intention and integrity. They explore the emotional, ethical, and practical considerations of closing a practice, navigating readiness, and redefining identity after a lifetime of therapeutic work.

About Our Guests Lynn Grodzki, LCSW-C, MCC is a pioneer in private practice development and the author of six influential books on therapy and coaching.
Margaret Wehrenberg, Psy.D. is an internationally recognized expert on anxiety and depression and the author of 13 books, including The 10 Best-Ever Anxiety Management Techniques.
Together, they offer a rare blend of clinical experience, practical strategies, and heartfelt compassion.

Key Takeaways for Therapists

• Retirement is one of the most consequential transitions in a therapist’s professional life.

• Lynn and Margaret’s Readiness for Retirement Model helps therapists plan across four stages: pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, and action.

• Planning early supports ethical closure and a smoother emotional process for both therapist and client.

• Common barriers include guilt, grief, and identity shifts—as well as lack of business or financial planning.

• Creating a professional will and protecting intellectual property are essential parts of ending well.

• Therapists can honor their legacy by recognizing the lasting impact of their work and embracing new opportunities in retirement.

For more information and full show notes

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Voice Over by DW McCann
Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano