How to Choose the Right Online Directories for Your Therapy Practice
Online directories can be a great way to attract new clients to your therapy practice—but only if you choose the right ones. With so many directories out there (and most of them costing money), it’s important to be thoughtful about where you list yourself. This guide will help you figure out which directories are worth your time and money and how to get the most out of them.
Let’s dive in!
Step 1: How to Choose the Right Directory
Not all directories are created equal. Some are fantastic for therapists, while others might not bring in the clients you’re looking for. Here’s how to choose wisely:
1. Know What You Want
Before signing up for a directory, think about your goals. Are you trying to:
Get more visibility online?
Attract clients in your area?
Find clients who need your specific specialties?
Knowing your goals will help you decide if a directory is the right fit.
How Your Goals Guide Your Directory Choices
Once you know your main goal, use it as a filter to evaluate directories. For example:
1. If Your Goal is to Attract More Clients:
Look for directories that actively connect therapists with potential clients. These directories should:
Have strong SEO (Search Engine Optimization), so people searching online for therapists in your area or specialty can easily find your profile.
Be well-known and trusted by people seeking therapy (e.g., Psychology Today or TherapyDen).
Allow detailed profiles that include clear descriptions of your services, specialties, and location, making it easy for clients to decide if you're the right fit.
💡 Example: If you’re in Seattle and specialize in anxiety, prioritize directories that rank high for search terms like “therapist for anxiety in Seattle.”
2. If Your Goal is to Attract Local Clients:
Focus on directories that highlight your geographic location. Look for platforms that:
Have filters for clients to search by city, state, or zip code.
Promote therapists with in-person or local availability.
Cater to your local audience, especially if you're in a smaller or more competitive area.
💡 Example: If your practice is in a smaller city, a directory with a local focus or one that specializes in smaller markets may be more effective than a broad national directory.
3. If Your Goal is to Highlight Specific Specialties:
Choose directories that allow you to showcase your unique skills or areas of focus. Look for directories that:
Let you list specific specialties like trauma, couples therapy, or body image.
Offer sections for your unique approach or techniques, such as EMDR or ACT.
Have categories or filters that align with your niche, so potential clients looking for your exact expertise can find you.
💡 Example: If you work with women with chronic illness, choose a directory that allows you to highlight this specialization prominently.
By connecting your goals with the features and audience of a directory, you'll avoid wasting time and money on platforms that don’t align with your practice’s needs.
2. Check Out the Features
Good directories should make it easy for potential clients to find you. Look for:
A clean, user-friendly design.
Options to add photos, videos, or links to your website.
The ability to highlight your specialties and location.
Tools that track how many people are viewing your profile.
3. Test the Waters
Before committing to a pricey annual membership, see if the directory offers a free trial or a limited free listing. Use this time to evaluate if the directory is bringing in inquiries.
Step 2: How to Set Yourself Up for Success
Once you’ve chosen a directory (or two), it’s time to make your profile shine.
1. Write a Great Bio
Use clear, simple language to explain what you do and how you help. Avoid overloading your bio with jargon or long lists of certifications. Focus on what your ideal client is looking for:
What problems do you help solve?
How will they feel after working with you?
2. Add a Friendly Photo
Clients want to feel a connection. A professional headshot where you look warm and approachable can make a big difference.
3. Keep Your Info Updated
If you move, change your fees, or update your specialties, make sure your profile reflects those changes.
Step 3: How to Monitor Your Listings
The key to getting the most out of directories is to track how they’re performing. Here’s how:
1. Track Your Inquiries
Pay attention to how clients are finding you. When someone contacts you, ask, “How did you hear about me?” This helps you figure out which directories are driving results.
2. Check Your Profile Stats
Many directories offer stats like how many people viewed your profile or clicked on your website link. These numbers can show if the directory is bringing in traffic.
3. Make Small Changes
If you’re not getting inquiries, tweak your profile. Try updating your bio, switching your photo, or emphasizing a different specialty to see if it helps.
Step 4: How to Know When to Leave a Directory
Not every directory will work for your practice, and that’s okay. Here are some signs it’s time to move on:
You’re getting very few (or zero) inquiries.
The inquiries you do get aren’t from the clients you want to work with.
The cost outweighs the benefits—if you’re spending $300 a year but only getting one client, it may not be worth it.
If a directory isn’t working, don’t hesitate to leave. Use that money to try something else, like postcards for local providers or investing in your website’s SEO.
A Simple Plan to Get Started
Pick 1-2 directories to start. Look for ones that fit your budget and help you reach your ideal clients.
Create a strong profile. Highlight your specialties, use a friendly photo, and keep your info up to date.
Track your results. Ask clients how they found you and check your stats regularly.
Review your listings annually. Keep the directories that are working, and drop the ones that aren’t.
By being thoughtful about where you list your practice and keeping an eye on your results, you can make sure you’re spending your time and money wisely.
Ready to give it a try? Start small, track your progress, and make adjustments as needed. With the right directory and a little patience, you’ll be on your way to attracting more of the clients you love working with!
