When potential clients search “therapist near me,” Google My Business (GMB) is often the first thing they see. Optimizing your GMB profile can dramatically increase your visibility and client inquiries.
The Importance of Google My Business for Therapists
A BrightLocal study found that 97% of consumers use local search to find services, making GMB essential for therapists.
Claim and Verify Your Profile
- Go to Google Business Profile Manager to claim your listing.
- Verification ensures your practice appears in local search results.
Optimize Your GMB Profile
- Business Name: Use your full practice name (e.g., Jane Doe Therapy Services).
- Category: Choose accurate categories like Psychotherapist, Mental Health Service, Counselor.
- Business Description: Write a concise, keyword-rich description. Example:
“Providing compassionate therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma recovery in [City].”
Add High-Quality Photos and Videos
- Include professional headshots, your office space, and a welcoming video introduction.
- Listings with photos get 42% more requests for directions (Google).
Gather Client Reviews
- Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews. 87% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations (BrightLocal).
- Respond to reviews professionally, showing engagement and care.
Use Posts to Share Updates
- Share posts about new blog articles, events, or therapy tips.
- Keep posts short (100-300 words) and include a clear CTA.
Conclusion
Google My Business is a free and powerful tool to grow your therapy practice. By optimizing your profile, you can increase visibility, engage potential clients, and build trust before they even reach out.