Meet Your Merchant: Linda Carlson Shaw, mental-health services

How did your business start?

Personal initiative to develop a private practice that allows me to see clients by appointment five days a week in a building that is disability accessible.

What do you sell?

Mental-health services, including management of psychotropic medications, therapy and planning/support for client wellness. I’ve been a board-certified nurse practitioner for 15 years, but I have worked exclusively in the mental-health profession for 40 years.

What positive lessons did you learn during the recession?

My private practice didn’t exist at the peak of the recession, but I have always tried to be flexible in pricing my services and to be accommodating in scheduling so that clients receive the care they need.

What strategy do you use to hire good people?

I am a sole owner/practitioner.

What is your strategy for growth in the next year?

Newsprint advertising, cultivation of referral sources and word-of-mouth by satisfied clients who know that my care is affordable, confidential, comprehensive and compassionate.

What is the best thing about running a business here?

I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner in the Roaring Fork Valley for eight years; I love the communities, my colleagues and the beauty of our natural setting. But being a part of the process of helping my clients improve the quality of their lives is undoubtedly the best thing!