Meet Becky DeGrossa, who left IBM after 20 years to become a therapist, her side business hit $2 million in revenue

There are not many people who leave the technology industry and then pursue a career in psychology. But, Becky DeGrossa made her own journey. DeGrossa had spent 20 years working at IBM before leaving the technology industry to pursue a career in psychology. All of it began as a small side business helping therapists attract clients online. Eventually, it became a company generating millions of dollars in annual revenue.

DeGrossa is the founder of CounselingWise. It is a marketing agency that helps therapists grow their practices through websites, search engine optimisation and online advertising. The business reportedly generated $2 million in revenue by June 2026, reported Business Insider.

In 2003, DeGrossa left IBM after losing interest in her corporate career. She studied computer science at California Polytechnic State University. She also worked as a consultant and managing principal during her time at the technology company.


DeGrossa had said that the most rewarding part of her job was helping employees solve problems and also guiding them through challenges. She earned a master's degree in psychology before starting work as a therapist between 2003 and 2006.

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How did the side business begin?

DeGrossa, while running her therapy practice, realised that attracting clients online required more than simply creating a website. She had to learn how Google search worked. She also wanted the business to be visible to people looking for a therapist.

Then, she went on for courses in copywriting and SEO and applied what she learned to her own website.

DeGrossa also organised small classes at her therapy office. She taught other people how to create Google Business Profiles and promote their websites.

Later, she went on and founded CounselingWise. It now offers services like website development, content writing, Google Business Profile optimisation and Google Ads management.

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How did the business generate profit?

DeGrossa devoted more time to the agency. Four years after starting her therapy practice, she decided to close it and concentrate on the marketing business full-time.

CounselingWise has generated seven-figure annual revenue since 2022. According to reports, it reached $2 million in revenue in June 2026.