For Therapists - How To Create A Strong Psychology Today Profile

Your psychology today profile (or any online therapist directory) is often the first impression potential clients have of you. A well-crafted profile is clear, engaging, and speaks directly to your ideal client. You have a profile picture and three paragraphs to capture peoples’ attention and invite them to take the next step.

You can use this guide to structure your profile:

Paragraph 1: Speak to Your Ideal Client

This is your chance to grab your ideal client's attention and show them you truly understand their struggles. Start with a sentence that speaks directly to them, using simple, relatable language to describe the challenges they may face. Avoid clinical jargon—focus instead on painting a vivid picture of what they might be experiencing emotionally or in their day-to-day life.  

• Example (strong)
  “Do you find yourself feeling anxious in social situations, constantly overthinking conversations, or struggling to feel confident in your relationships? Perhaps you’re a high-achiever who looks successful on the outside but feels overwhelmed and stuck on the inside. You’re not alone, and things don’t have to stay this way.”

• Example (weak):
  "I work with clients who have generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, or adjustment disorders.”

• My first paragraph:
  Hey, I'm Nicole. I specialize in helping Millennial + Get Z women overcome anxiety, foster meaningful relationships, and become their truest, healthiest selves. If you're struggling with people pleasing, insecure attachment patterns, high-functioning anxiety, codependency, or general relationship issues, I'm here to help. I'm passionate about working with individuals who are ready to jump in and do the work, and I'm committed to helping you achieve your goals. I am also a board approved supervisor for therapists working towards LPCC licensure in the state of MN.

Paragraph 2: Describe How You Work And/Or How You Will Help Them

In the second paragraph, speak to what it’s like to work with you. Be specific about your approach and highlight what makes your style effective and unique. You can mention modalities if they’re relevant but focus on how your approach will make a difference in their life.

• Example (strong):
  "My approach blends evidence-based practices such as CBT and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy)  with a warm, collaborative process that will help you uncover the root of your challenges. Together, we’ll build practical tools to ease anxiety and develop deeper self-confidence. I’m here to help you untangle the thoughts and patterns holding you back, so you can thrive in all areas of your life."

• Example (weak):
  "I use a combination of CBT, mindfulness, and client-centered therapy to treat a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and life transitions.”

• My second paragraph:
  I work from an attachment-based lens with a mind-body approach. I believe that our earliest attachment relationships and important other relationships in life shape the way we see the world and relate to others today. I also believe in the importance of using both our minds and bodies to heal and become our healthiest, most embodied selves.

Paragraph 3: Build Empathy / Relatability and Create a Call to Action

This is where you show your humanity and invite clients to connect with you- this paragraph is just as important as your intro. Share something that makes you relatable and end with a clear and welcoming call to action.

• Example (strong):
  "As someone who has navigated my own path to healing, I know how daunting reaching out can feel. But starting therapy is one of the most empowering choices you can make for yourself. If you’re ready to feel more at peace and confident in your life, I’d love to help. Send me a message or schedule a free consultation—I can’t wait to connect with you."

• Example (weak):
  "Feel free to contact me for more information. I am accepting new clients.”

• My third paragraph:
  A little bit more about me- most clients would describe me as friendly, approachable, kind, and upbeat. I like to use humor in session and I will never shy away from the hard, uncomfortable stuff. I am trauma-informed and and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Check out my website or contact me to learn more or schedule a free meet and greet!

Additional Tips:

• Choose a warm, professional photo:  This is often the first thing that people see and what makes people decide whether or not to click on your profile. A clear, friendly image makes your profile more inviting.

• Consider making a video: Psychology Today lets you upload a video on your profile.  The research is unclear as to whether or not this leads to more traffic / leads; however, if you believe it may help people get to know you and your personality, it likely won’t hurt.  

• Use accessible language: Avoid overly clinical terms unless your ideal client would relate to them.

• Look at other profiles: Pretend you are a client looking for a new therapist.  Check out other profiles to understand what jumps out at you, what captivates you and what you find unprofessional / off putting.  

• Highlight your specialties: Be clear about the issues you’re most passionate about addressing.

• Stay client-focused: Remember, the profile is about the client, not just your qualifications.