Springbank Psychology Grows Team, Revenue Streams, and Improves Efficiency with AWE Programming
● Grew practice from 1 to 20 team members in 3 years
● Achieved first million-dollar year in revenue
● Expanding from individual psychology services to group offerings
● Improved strategic decision-making and workplace culture with ongoing growth and participation in leadership
“My experience in Bold Leadership* was transformational. I remember finishing the first session with my head just spinning with excitement. I felt immensely validated that I was in the right place to learn the skills I needed to enhance my business.”
- Dr. Lindsay Booker, PhD, Registered Psychologist and Owner of Springbank Psychology
(*note Bold Leadership has been renamed Digital Edge)
Meet Dr. Lindsay Booker
Dr. Lindsay Booker is a Registered Psychologist with a PhD in School Psychology from the University of Nebraska. With over a decade of experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice, Springbank Psychology.
Dr. Booker is known for her warm and approachable demeanor, making her clients feel at ease from the moment they walk through her door. Specializing in a range of mental health concerns from anxiety to ADHD, Dr. Booker's dedication to her clients is unwavering. She’s committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those she serves, driven by her passion for mental health and her deep connection to the community.
When Dr. Lindsay Booker founded Springbank Psychology in 2020, she hit the ground running. The practice grew quickly from the get-go to meet the escalating demand for mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Confronted with the dual challenges of managing rapid business expansion and maintaining high-quality care, Dr. Booker sought the support of Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE). Through AWE’s programming, she received powerful strategic support, leadership development guidance, and digital transformation advisory. Together, these solutions had a profound impact on the growth and sustainability of Springbank Psychology.
Offering Support in Uncertain Times
Springbank Psychology started during a time when the need for mental health services was more pressing than ever—in 2020, amidst the early, chaotic days of the pandemic. Initially a solo practice, the business quickly grew to meet demand, soon including a diverse team of 20 members offering a range of mental health services across various specialties and age groups.
Despite seeing early success, owner Dr. Lindsay Booker knew that to grow strategically and sustainably, she needed expert support.
Navigating Business Growth While Learning Strategy
Dr. Booker faced several daunting tasks on her business journey: managing growth while maintaining high-quality clinical services, providing effective leadership to a much larger team than she started out with, and balancing her roles as a clinician and business owner. She was also grappling with imposter syndrome and a lack of confidence in her abilities as a business manager.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I think we would grow the way we did,” Dr. Booker says.
She recognized the gaps in her knowledge, particularly in areas critical to sustaining and scaling a business in the competitive mental health services field. Dr. Booker was at a crossroads; she knew that clinical expertise alone couldn’t get her past these hurdles, and that it was time to seek external support.
“One of our goals was to provide services across the lifespan and in as many specialties as we could. We wanted to be able to answer the phone and say yes to patients. I realized that I would have to shift from full-time clinician to business owner,” Dr. Booker says.
Finding a Network of Entrepreneurs to Lean On
Her husband was actually the person who brought Alberta Women Entrepreneurs to Dr. Booker’s attention in 2022. She was particularly drawn to the newly launched Strategic Edge program, which seemed like a perfect fit for her challenges and goals.
“I was looking for an organization that offered genuine support and authentic engagement, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach,” Dr. Booker says.
AWE's personalized mentorship and tailored program content assured Dr. Booker that she’d receive guidance that was both relevant and actionable. The opportunity to connect with a network of like-minded women entrepreneurs through the program was also a significant draw.
“I wanted a chance to share experiences, challenges, and solutions with a supportive and collaborative community,” Dr. Booker says.
She also liked the fact that AWE's programs address not only the technical aspects of running a business, but the personal growth and development of the entrepreneur. This holistic approach was key in Dr. Booker's selection, as it mirrored her belief in the importance of personal well-being for business success. So, she decided to participate in the inaugural Strategic Edge program. She later also participated in the Bold Leadership program (now renamed Digital Edge).
Leadership Development as a Catalyst for Growth
A pivotal driver of Springbank Psychology's growth was Dr. Booker's commitment to her own leadership development. Through AWE's programs, she enhanced her skills in strategic decision-making, delegation (to free up her time for visionary leadership), and fostering a positive organizational culture. She also learned more about the business side of running a psychology practice.
Through the Strategic Edge program, Dr. Booker gained a greater understanding of operations, especially in the areas of financial management and planning. This has given her the ability to make more informed decisions that support the financial sustainability of the organization.
“When I started, I didn't even know how to ask for the help I needed. After the programs, I not only gained knowledge and confidence, but I now have a network of coaches and other women entrepreneurs to rely on,” Dr. Booker says.
As she worked through her second program with AWE, Bold Leadership (now renamed Digital Edge), Dr. Booker honed her leadership skills further. Now, she steers her team with confidence, inspiring a shared vision for the future of Springbank Psychology.
“Beyond the networks, Springbank Psychology has run its first million dollar year. It’s so meaningful to see effects at all levels of the business,” Dr. Booker says.
Greater Confidence Inspires Change
Armed with new insights and confidence, Dr. Booker led Springbank Psychology in expanding its range of mental health services in 2022 and 2023. After hiring her 20th team member in 2024, she’s excited to continue to expand services. The practice has now introduced group therapy sessions and specialized services for different age groups, thereby broadening its impact on the community.
Engaging with AWE's community also bolstered Dr. Booker's confidence as a business leader. The programs provided invaluable networking opportunities, connecting her with other women entrepreneurs who offered support and shared insights about their own journeys.
“The experience was invaluable,” Dr. Booker says. “Finding support, but also a network of women who are supportive and driven has been amazing.”
What’s Next for Springbank Psychology?
Looking ahead, Dr. Booker sees one thing on the horizon: stability. At least for now. The journey with AWE has prepared her to face future challenges with confidence, equipped with a supportive network and a solid foundation in business management.
Looking for strategic support and digital advisory as you navigate your business journey? Explore AWE’s Digital Edge program.