5 Proven Ways to Get More Therapy Clients
Growing a private practice can feel overwhelming. You know you’re good at what you do, but getting in front of the right clients often feels like the hardest part. The good news is there are clear, practical steps you can take to make it easier for people to find you and reach out.
Here are five simple ways to get more clients as a therapist.
1. Make your PsychologyToday profile client-focused
For many therapists, Psychology Today is the first stop when a new client is searching for care. In fact, 60% of referrals happen on PsychologyToday! The challenge is that clients skim quickly. Most people only read the first few lines of a profile before deciding if they want to keep going.
Start with the client’s perspective. Instead of leading with your degrees, use language that reflects their struggles and hopes. Replace phrases like “I use CBT and mindfulness” with “I help clients feel calmer, manage stress, and regain control of their lives.” Finally, make sure your profile picture is clear, warm, and professional. A genuine smile goes a long way!
Not sure how your PT profile reads? Run it through a free audit tool like TherapyProfilePro. It shows you what’s connecting and what might be costing you referrals.
2. Strengthen your website presence
A directory listing is often the first stop, but many clients will click through to your website before reaching out. Make sure your site is welcoming, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly. Include a clear “Contact Me” button on every page.
If writing isn’t your thing, think about adding a short welcome video. A warm introduction helps potential clients feel like they’ve already met you.
3. Make it easy to take the next step
Even if a client connects with your message, hesitation often sets in if it’s not obvious how to reach you. Offer multiple options: a phone number, email, and an easy scheduling link. End your profiles and website pages with a clear invitation, like “If you’re ready to feel more supported, I’d love to hear from you today.”
4. Build trust through referrals and community
Word-of-mouth is still one of the most powerful ways to grow a practice. Let past clients know that you welcome referrals if they feel comfortable sharing your name. Consider joining therapist networks, local professional associations, or even community organizations (such as volunteering or religious groups) where you can connect with colleagues who may send clients your way.
5. Share your expertise through content
Many clients look for reassurance before reaching out. A simple blog, newsletter, or even a few posts on social media can help people see your style and perspective. Write about common client questions, like “What to expect in your first therapy session” or “How to manage anxiety during stressful times.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Start by optimizing your Psychology Today profile, improving your website, making it easy to contact you, building referral relationships, and sharing helpful content online. These five steps make you easier to find and help potential clients trust you.
Lead with client-focused language that speaks to their struggles and goals. Keep your profile short and warm, use a clear and professional photo, and make sure the first 2–3 lines hook the reader so they keep reading.
Yes! A professional, mobile-friendly website builds trust, improves local SEO, and makes it easier for potential clients to contact you. Include a “Contact Me” button on every page and a short welcome message or video.
It can be. Even a few short posts or videos can show your personality, answer common client questions, and help potential clients feel comfortable reaching out. It also improves your online visibility and can drive traffic back to your website.
Let past clients know you welcome referrals when clinically appropriate, and build relationships with other therapists and local professionals for cross-referrals. You can also join local associations or volunteer groups where natural referral opportunities arise.
Final thoughts
Getting more clients as a therapist isn’t about flashy marketing. It’s about making sure the people who need your help can find you, understand you, and feel safe reaching out. A combination of strong profiles, a welcoming website, easy contact options, trusted referrals, and simple educational content can all work together to grow your practice.
Ready to take the first step? Run a free TherapyProfilePro Psychology Today audit to see how you can improve your profile today.
