From Burnout to Breakthrough – The Transformation of a Purpose-Driven BusinessÂ
A Year of Change: The Identity Clinic’s Journey from Exhaustion to Empowered Growth
Twelve months ago, The Identity Clinic, a specialised healthcare provider dedicated to inclusive and affirming support for LGBTQI+ individuals and people with disability, stood at a major crossroads. Founded by Storm Hassett, a leading advocate in the LGBTQI+ community, the Clinic offers specialist allied health and disability services designed to foster safety, empowerment, and choice for its clients.Â
Despite its clear purpose and passion, the business faced operational and financial challenges. Revenue had plateaued at $69,000, with net profit at zero. Storm was clocking up 12-hour days, juggling clinical duties, operations, and leadership with little time for reflection or recovery. The business had heart—but it lacked systems, data, and financial clarity.Â
From this place of exhaustion came transformation—anchored by bold decisions and a renewed commitment to purpose.Â
Strategic Restructure & Team AlignmentÂ
Storm began by making courageous structural changes. Several positions were made redundant in a complete business restructure, designed to eliminate inefficiencies and ensure sustainability. One of the most impactful decisions was the creation of a Business Development Manager role, offering a competitive commission structure—a win-win for both growth and morale.Â
Equally important was aligning the team to the A-Player quadrant, ensuring every individual brought both capability and values-driven commitment to the table.Â
Impressive Financial TurnaroundÂ
With new foundations in place, the Clinic achieved a significant financial uplift:Â
- Revenue increased from $69,000 to $115,000Â
- Net profit rose from $0 to $40,000Â
Storm implemented accurate data-capturing systems using HubSpot and a custom-built KPI dashboard, enabling better decision-making and clearer insights. Financial reporting was reviewed and optimised, and outstanding superannuation liabilities were resolved. While some legacy debt remains, the Clinic is now financially stable and growth-focused.Â
Advocacy, Growth & InnovationÂ
A proud advocate within the LGBTQI+ community, Storm has long championed equity, access, and safety in healthcare. This vision came to life through a groundbreaking collaboration delivering LGBTQI+ SIL support, ensuring that LGBTQI+ individuals living with disability have inclusive and affirming options for care.Â
Other key milestones include:Â
- Expansion into Victoria, with strong resultsÂ
- NDIS registration, broadening access and service capacityÂ
- Securing a new clinical and office space (currently in progress)Â
- Onboarding an international investor through an equity partnership (in progress)Â
The Identity Clinic now employs 15 staff and positively impacts over 1,000 client lives.Â
Putting Wellbeing FirstÂ
Alongside business growth came personal realignment. From long days of overwork, Storm made a powerful commitment to self-care and mental health—reducing her working hours (figure TBD) and integrating movement, therapy, and stillness into her routine. This shift has not only enhanced her own wellbeing but has set a strong cultural example for the team.Â
Storm also established clear personal and professional goals for the next 12 months and beyond, with defined one-, three-, and five-year plans currently in development.Â
 
 Transforming The Identity Clinic wasn’t just about numbers—it was about creating a sustainable space where LGBTQI+ individuals and people with disabilities feel truly seen, supported, and empowered. By aligning our team, sharpening our focus, and prioritising wellbeing, we’ve built a business that reflects the values we live by every day.”Â
— Storm Hassett, Founder, The Identity ClinicÂ
The Road AheadÂ
Today, The Identity Clinic is not just profitable—it’s purposeful. With strong systems, an aligned team, and a visionary founder leading the way, the Clinic is positioned for values-driven, sustainable growth.Â
Storm Hassett’s journey is a testament to what happens when courageous leadership meets clear strategy—and when a business dares to transform from the inside out.Â
Visit The Identity Clinic to see the work in action and learn more about their inclusive, affirming services.Â
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