The first thing a potential client will do is to google you, and if you have a website and a LinkedIn profile you’ll be in total control of showing them your experience and skills.
Marketing and website building probably wasn’t part of your psychology course but whether you decide to make a website yourself (not as daunting as it seems) or to pay someone to do it for you, there’s a lot of great advice available.
I’ve listed a couple of really nice videos and resources at the end.
It seems the current rate to get someone to build a basic website for you is between $4,000 and $10,000. On top of that you will need to purchase a domain name and pay a monthly fee to the website host.
As a psychologist you needn’t feel too overwhelmed when you set up your own website. All you really need are a few key pages to get started, or even a “one-pager” that contains all the essential information.
The essential information being :
You - who you are, why you do what you do, your values and a list of your credentials and training. And a nice photo of you.
Service - what you offer and the types of clients you cater to (for example teens, couples, children, assessments etc) so visitors can quickly figure out if you are a good fit for their needs.
Fees- it’s also a good idea to add information about your fees any out-of-pocket costs, and details about gap fees for Medicare or DVA so clients are clear what to expect. Being upfront helps set realistic expectations for potential clients.
Contact Info: Clearly display how to reach you and where to find your practice.
This provides a solid foundation for your website, and you can always add more content over time if you want to. It’s really helpful to look at websites that other psychologists and psychology practices have made to get some ideas.
Some psychologists like to write a blog or articles about topics they often come across to help their clients and to build credibility with potential clients, but most that I’ve seen are very straightforward and effective.
Be careful not to get caught up in perfectionism. Keeping it clear and simple is your best bet.
Please be aware that in Australia AHPRA does not allow you to include client testimonies or patient experiences in promoting your business – including on your website.
Some Resources
Here’s an introduction to the building a website with Marie Fang, an American therapist. She looks at several different website building options, researching your business name, buying a domain name and building content in this 5 minute video . How to Build a Website for Counselling Private Practice https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6WKxDwP5rw
She also has a step by step video of how to actually make a basic website on Square Space. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9Z8IhrQPpQ Easy Website Demo for Therapists Using Squarespace
If you want to go beyond the basics and get into marketing American Brent Stutzman of Brand your Practice has some great suggestions for therapists. https://brandyourpractice.com/marketing-resources/
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