2026 E6 - Breaking the Doom Loop: Imposter Syndrome in Physio

In this episode of The Art and Science of Physio, Jeremy Hobbs and James Schomburgk take a deep dive into imposter syndrome — a challenge they see across the full spectrum of clinical careers, from new grads to seasoned practice owners. They unpack how self-doubt quietly drives undertreatment, using real case examples to show how physios who don't feel "worth" the fee often stretch out treatment gaps, leading to poorer outcomes, more cancellations, and a self-reinforcing "doom loop" that deepens the very insecurity that caused it. James shares data from his own research on why clinicians undertreat early in their careers, and the pair make the case that treatment frequency should be a clinical decision anchored in patient outcomes — never a numbers-driven one dressed up to look clinical. They also turn the lens on practice owners, exploring how imposter syndrome can resurface in leadership as an urge to over-control, and why loosening the reins and trusting the team is often what turns performance and confidence around. Practical, honest, and grounded in real coaching conversations, this episode offers both compassion and concrete strategies for clinicians and owners working through imposter syndrome in private practice.