The Ultra-Overused Therapist Website Phrases (And What to Say Instead) – Part 1 of 2

Website Copy

Apr 3

If you've spent more than five minutes on a therapist’s website, you’ve probably encountered some of the same old, overused phrases. While they might sound warm and professional, they often miss the mark when it comes to connecting with potential clients. Overused phrases can make your website feel distant, unoriginal, and forgettable—exactly the opposite of what you want.

In this first part of a three-part blog series, we’re diving into twelve common therapist website phrases that are ripe for replacement. By swapping them for more authentic, engaging alternatives, you’ll help your website stand out, resonate with clients, and create a stronger connection. Stay tuned for parts two and three, where we’ll tackle even more ways to elevate your website copy and make it truly reflect you.

12 Overused Phrases and What to Say Instead

1. “Make space for” / “Hold space for”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
Therapists use these phrases to convey empathy and the creation of a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and understood. The goal is to reassure clients that they are welcome and won’t be judged.

Why it doesn’t work:
While well-intentioned, the phrase “hold space” has become so overused that it feels empty. To clients, it sounds vague and impersonal, and it doesn't evoke the feeling of safety therapists are aiming for.

Instead, try:

“Let’s talk through it—no judgment, no pressure.”
"This space is yours—spill the tea or vent it out."
“There’s room for whatever you’re feeling right now.”
"No filters required—bring your full self."

2. “Embark on a journey”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
Therapists may use “embark on a journey” to suggest that therapy is a process of growth and change, one that takes time and involves self-discovery.

Why it doesn’t work:
The phrase is too vague. Clients need to understand that therapy isn’t about a simple path from point A to point B—it’s a process of introspection, struggle, and progress, and “embark on a journey” doesn’t capture that.

Instead, try:

“Let’s figure this out together.”
"Let’s work through what’s holding you back and get you feeling better."
“Let’s just dig into this and see what comes up.”
“This is just the beginning, but we’ll take it at a pace that feels right for you.”
“You don’t need to have it all planned out—let’s just start.”
“Let’s tackle this one part at a time and see what feels best for you.”

3. “Self-care”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
Therapists often use the term “self-care” to suggest the importance of taking time for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The goal is to empower clients to prioritize themselves.

Why it doesn’t work:
The term “self-care” has become a catch-all, watered-down phrase. It can range from bubble baths to therapy sessions and doesn’t address the deeper aspects of care that therapy involves. Clients need actionable steps rather than a buzzword.

Instead, try:

“Let’s find ways to make your life feel lighter.”
“Less burnout, more breathing room.”
“It’s about finding what actually helps you recharge—no Pinterest boards needed.”
“Let’s make sure you’re not running on empty all the time.”
“We’ll figure out how to get you feeling more you again, not just ‘getting by.’”
“It’s time to stop pretending you’re fine and actually start feeling good.”
“Let’s turn down the hustle and figure out what makes you feel human again.”
“Care that actually helps (not just ‘treat yourself’ memes).”

4. “You’re not alone”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
This phrase is meant to be comforting and reassuring. It’s intended to let clients know that what they’re experiencing is common and that support is available. At one time, this statement may have carried real emotional weight—offering a sense of relief to those who felt isolated in their struggles.

Why it doesn’t work:
Over time, “You’re not alone” has been used so frequently (and so broadly) that it has lost its impact. It’s become more of a placeholder phrase than an actual expression of connection. Because it lacks specificity, it doesn’t land with clients in the way it was originally intended to. When people are struggling, they don’t just want to be told they’re not alone—they want to feel it.

Instead, try:

“Whew. You and me both.”
“Trust me—you’re in good company.”
“Every [new parent, overachiever, anxious soul] I work with has been there.”
“I get it—you’re definitely not the only one going through this.”
“This is way more common than you think.”
“Been there, felt that.”
“I hear this from clients all the time, you’re definitely not alone in this.”
“You’re not the only one asking, ‘Is this normal?’—it totally is.”
“If I had a dollar for every time someone said that... You’re not alone, promise.”

5. “Sit in discomfort”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
Therapists use this phrase to communicate that growth often involves discomfort and that clients will need to face difficult emotions as part of their healing process. It’s meant to set realistic expectations—acknowledging that therapy isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it.

Why it doesn’t work:
While discomfort is part of therapy, “sit in discomfort” sounds harsh and uninviting. It suggests that therapy is just about enduring pain rather than moving through it with support. And when you consider where this phrase is showing up—on a website, where potential clients are still deciding whether to reach out—it might be sending the wrong message. Do you really want to lead with something that feels intimidating when your goal is to encourage them to take that first step? Instead of focusing on the discomfort itself, website copy should highlight the benefits of therapy and how clients will be supported through the tough moments.

Instead, try:

“Growth feels weird before it feels good.”
“We’ll ease into the tough stuff—like taking baby steps into cold water, but soon it won’t feel so shocking.”
“It might feel a little uncomfortable, but that’s how change happens.”
“Growth’s kinda messy, but we’re in it together.”
“It’s gonna feel weird for a minute, but that’s just part of the process.”
“Don’t worry, the tough stuff doesn’t last forever.”
“It might be uncomfortable now, but that’s where the good stuff happens.”
“Therapy isn’t about avoiding hard things—it’s about making them feel less impossible.”
“‘Sit in discomfort?’ How about we just… ease into it instead?”

6. “Get Started”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
This is a common call-to-action phrase used to prompt potential clients to take the first step in reaching out or scheduling a session.

Why it doesn’t work:
While functional, it’s uninspired and doesn’t build any excitement or motivation. It’s generic and doesn’t capture the essence of the unique service you offer.

Instead, try:

“Let’s Work Together.”
“Reach out when you’re ready.”
“Ready to chat? Let’s make it happen.”
“Tell me what’s on your mind—let’s get this conversation going.”
“Hit me up when you’re ready to dive in.”
“Click here to take the first step toward feeling better.”
“Fill out the form and let’s see how we can work together.”
“Got questions? I’ve got answers—let’s connect!”

7. “Learn More”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
The goal of this phrase is to encourage potential clients to explore more about the therapist’s services, helping them decide if therapy is the right fit.

Why it doesn’t work:
“Learn more” is vague and doesn’t give the potential client a sense of what they’re actually learning about. It’s too impersonal and doesn’t spark curiosity.

Instead, try:

“See how I can help.”
“Check out what working together looks like.”
“Here’s what therapy with me actually feels like.”
“Want the details? Here’s everything you need to know.”
“Curious? Let’s dive into the specifics.”
“Ready to dig deeper? Here’s what’s next.”
“See how this works and what it means for you.”
“Find out how I can help you get where you want to be.”
“Explore what we can accomplish together—click here.”

8. “I’ve got you covered”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
Therapists use this to convey assurance that they are fully equipped to support their clients and that they are in capable hands.

Why it doesn’t work:
The phrase feels overly salesy. It doesn't convey the personalized and collaborative nature of therapy.

Instead, try:

“I can help with that.”
“We’ll sort this out together.”
“This is what I do, and I love helping people with [problem].”
“If this is what you’re struggling with, you’re exactly the kind of client I work with.”
"Whatever comes up, we’ll work through it as a team."
“I’ve helped so many [overthinkers/burnt-out professionals/people-pleasers] just like you, and I’d love to help you too.”
"I’m here to help you navigate all of it, no shortcuts."
"We’ll figure this out, one piece at a time."
"Got [challenge]? I’m ready to dive in and help."

9. “You don’t have to do this alone”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
The goal is to reassure clients that they won’t have to face their struggles by themselves, emphasizing the therapeutic partnership.

Why it doesn’t work:
Clients have seen it everywhere—from therapy websites to self-help books to social media posts—which makes it feel like a canned, impersonal reassurance rather than a genuine, heartfelt statement. Additionally, the phrase implies support, but it doesn’t create a strong emotional connection or a call to action. It tells the client they won’t be alone, but it doesn’t inspire confidence in the therapist as the right person to help them. The best website copy should make clients feel like they’ve found someone who truly understands them—not just someone who’s repeating a comforting line.

Instead, try:

“This doesn’t have to be a solo project.”
“Let’s tackle this together.”
“No need to white-knuckle your way through this.”
“Therapy is a team effort—I’m here to help you make it through.”
“If going solo hasn’t worked, let’s try something different—together.”
“You don’t have to carry this on your own. We’ve got this as a team.”
“If you’re feeling stuck, I’ll be right here helping you find your way.”
“Together, we’ll figure out what’s been holding you back.”

10. “Every step of the way”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
This phrase is meant to communicate that the therapist will be there to guide and support the client throughout their process. However, "Every step of the way" is a phrase that therapists often include because they feel like they have to, not because it adds anything meaningful. Clients are already assuming that if they start therapy with you, you'll be there to support them. Instead of just stating that you’ll be present, show them how you help and what makes your support unique.

Why it doesn’t work:
Clients are already assuming that if they start therapy with you, you'll be there to support them. It’s vague and doesn’t specify what “every step” entails. It sounds like something any therapist could say, which doesn’t help the client feel truly seen.

In many cases, you don’t need to say this at all—especially if your overall website copy already conveys warmth, support, and guidance. Instead of just stating that you’ll be present, show them how you help and what makes your support unique.

Instead, try:

“I’ll be here to help you make sense of it all.”
“Whatever’s next, you won’t be figuring it out alone.”
“We’ll do this together.”
"Therapy isn’t forever, but the tools you gain here will be."
“Through the ups, the downs, and everything in between—I’m with you.”
“No matter what, I’ll be by your side as you move forward, and when you’re ready, you’ll have all the tools to handle it yourself.”
“From start to finish, I’ve got your back.”
“Whatever the path looks like, we’re walking it together.”
“You don’t have to navigate this alone—I’m here for all of it, and one day soon, you’ll be confident handling it without me.”

11. “You’re in the right place”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
This phrase is meant to reassure clients that they’ve found the right therapist and that they’re in a safe, supportive environment.

Why it doesn’t work:
It doesn’t give the client any real information about why this is the right place for them. It’s a nice thought, but it lacks substance.

Instead, try:

“If this sounds like you, you’re exactly where you need to be.”
“I work with [your ideal client], so you’re not alone in this.”
“Welcome. You’re not the only one who feels this way.”
“If this resonates with you, you’ve come to the right spot.”
“I work with people just like you.”
“Sounds like you’ve found your therapist.”
“If you’re feeling this, then you’ve found someone who understands.”

12. “Take the next step”

What the therapist is trying to accomplish:
This phrase is used as a call to action (CTA), encouraging potential clients to reach out, book a consultation, or start therapy. It signals that there’s a clear next step to working together.

Why it doesn’t work:
The issue isn’t that you’re prompting action—it’s that this phrase is forgettable. “Take the next step” is vague, impersonal, and overused. It sounds like something you’d hear in a corporate training seminar, not a warm and engaging therapy practice.

Think about it: if someone is on your website, they’re probably already thinking about therapy. They don’t need a generic nudge—they need a moment of connection that reassures them you’re the right therapist for them. This is a chance to infuse personality, build trust, and make the process feel inviting (rather than clinical or transactional).

Instead, try:

"Therapy: Now 100% more effective than just overthinking it alone. Let’s talk."
"Ready to stop Googling your feelings? Let’s do this together."
“Let’s take the pressure off—here’s what working together looks like.”
“Ready when you are. Here’s how we can start.”
"Therapy isn’t about being ‘ready’—it’s about showing up. Let’s start."
“Here’s how to get unstuck.”
"No pressure, no commitment—just a conversation to see if we’re a good fit."
“Ready to feel more at ease and in control? Let’s schedule that first appointment.”
“Looking for lasting change? Reach out, and we’ll make it happen.”
“If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels, let’s start building the path forward.”
“Looking for clarity and support? Let’s talk about how I can help.”
"You’ve been thinking about this for a reason. Let’s take the first step together."
“If you’re ready for a personalized approach to healing, here’s how we can begin.”

Let’s Make Your Website Copy More Engaging

If your website is full of these overused phrases, don’t worry—most therapist websites are! The good news? A few small tweaks can make your copy sound more like you and help clients feel a real connection.

Try this quick website copy check:

Read your homepage out loud. Does it sound like something you’d actually say to a client?
Swap at least 3 vague or overused phrases for more natural, specific wording.
Make sure your call-to-action feels welcoming instead of generic.

And if you need more help? Every website template in my shop comes with a Copywriting Guide to help you write personality-packed, client-connecting copy.

Check out the Template Shop here!

Your website should sound like you. Let’s make sure it does.