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How We Cater Our SEO Services to Private Practice Owners

So, why should you choose Simplified as your website’s SEO gurus? Well, I might be a little biased, but if you’re a private practice therapist, we’re the best option for you. There are a few reasons for this, and I’m so excited to tell you all about them.

Therapists Need Help with their Websites

Image of a ceramic pig wearing a graduation cap standing on notebooks. This image represents the lack of knowledge therapists get about private practice SEO in grad school. Reach out for SEO help for therapists here.When you went to graduate school for your counseling degree, they likely didn’t teach you about how to open a private practice. Your professors didn’t include content about how to open and run a business. And they surely didn’t teach you how to create a website that works for both humans AND Google. There are so many aspects to being a private practice owner that you just didn’t get the scoop on in school.

Many of the therapists we work with have flowery, beautiful websites. They use phrases like “get started on your healing journey” and “I provide a welcoming space for counseling.” This is wonderful, but it’s really just a starting point. When trying to gain therapy clients through a website, there needs to be intentional care given to all aspects of it. This includes the pretty stuff on the front end and the techy stuff on the backend.

I don’t say this to put down any of our lovely clients or the work they’ve done on their websites before coming to us. Instead, I point this out to show the need for techy experts’ help on therapist websites. And not just any techy experts, but ones who also have an understanding of human psychology, too. That’s where our SEO specialists come in.

How Simplified Helps Therapists Get Ranking

One of the first things our SEO specialists want to discuss with you is your ideal client. If you could work with any population, disorder, or specialty area, what would it be? And why? From there, we can zero in on a strategy to get those ideal clients in your door.

Digital cartoon image of a brain holding a cup of coffee and using a laptop. This image represents the struggles of therapists with private practice SEO. We can provide SEO help for counselors and therapists.Also, it’s important that you know that all of the SEO specialists at Simplified have a background in a mental health-related field. This could be a Bachelor of Psychology degree, to even a Master of Social Work degree. Additionally, we all have a passion for destigmatizing mental healthcare and bettering the services offered to those in need.

This background in mental health practice and advocacy gives our SEO specialists a unique set of skills. Based on your ideal client, we will think about the struggles they are likely facing and what they would be Googling if they were looking for therapy services. Then, we use research tools to solidify our hypotheses about clients’ search behavior. We then use this information to optimize service pages, meta descriptions, and many other elements of your site.

You Need Service Pages

Unless you’ve got a keen understanding of Google, it’s likely you don’t know about the importance of service pages. You might even be asking yourself “what’s a service page?” And that’s okay.

At Simplified, we want our clients to have service pages, or singular website pages, about one specific service they provide. For example, you may specialize in working with clients struggling with anxiety and eating disorders, and you also enjoy seeing couples. So, we would likely begin with creating service pages for anxiety treatment, eating disorder treatment, and couples therapy.

Having individual pages about each of the services you offer is great both for Google and the humans reading your website. People without a background in the mental health field don’t usually understand what therapists mean when they use abstract words to describe the benefits of therapy. Website users (and Google) want to know exactly what you are offering, where, and how they can get started. Potential clients want to know the ins and outs of your therapy style and why they should choose you. Service pages are your place to exhibit empathy and understanding for what potential clients are going through, then demonstrate that you have the ability to help.

Site Structure and Processes

Another skill an SEO specialist is particularly trained in is assessing site structure and processes. We know that therapists can make really beautiful websites. Whether it’s bright and bold colors or calming aesthetics, you’ve got the artsy part down. But when it comes to functionality? Y’all could use some help! And that’s not to look down on anyone. As I said earlier, nobody taught you this stuff in grad school!

Site Structure

The backend of websites can be a messy place. Often when clients begin working with us, they have broken links, redirect errors, default pages, or spammy backlinks. Again, this is nobody’s fault. However, our SEO specialists have the tools and skills to clean it up for you. It’s important to us that the backside of your website is functional. Google sees these errors on your site, and they can affect your Google rankings, further hindering you from showing up in potential clients’ search results.

Processes

Additionally, our SEO specialists can help you develop processes on your site. This refers to things like drop-down menus, contact forms, and Call to Action sections. At Simplified, we use a Call to Action section as an assistant to website viewers when they’re ready to contact you. Folks looking for counseling services are often overwhelmed and perhaps even distressed when they finally decide to reach out to a therapist. So, we lay it out for them. We add a bit of text, links, and detailed steps for how to begin counseling at your practice. Here’s an example.

Anxiety can steal your joy and totally exhaust you. But you don’t need to battle anxiety on your own. You can get support from an anxiety therapist in Charleston, SC right here. If you’re ready to get connected with anxiety treatment, follow the steps below.

  1. Fill out our contact form.
  2. One of our therapists will reach out to you to schedule your first appointment.
  3. Gain new skills to manage anxiety and finally find the present again.

The Call to Action section is just one of many tools an SEO specialist has to make website users’ experiences easier. And when their experience is simpler, they are more likely to take the time to get connected with you. Who wants to rummage around on a website to get in contact with a therapist when they’re already struggling? In fact, Google actually rewards websites with positive user experiences. So, there is a two-fold benefit to cleaning up the content and action steps on your site.

Our SEO Specialists Are Ready to Meet You

Image of the word "advocacy" spelled out with Scrabble cubes. This image illustrates how SEO consultants use advocacy when providing SEO help for therapists and private practice SEO.The team members at Simplified blend our backgrounds in mental health work with our techy SEO skills, creating a synergistic effect for private practice therapists’ websites. This then takes a domino effect. Our SEO work leads to more clients finding your website on Google, then getting set up for services. Then, you’ll start having a fuller caseload with the clients you really want to see. And if it’s a part of your business goals, you can even start adding clinicians to your team and grow into a group practice!

At the end of the day, our SEO specialists are advocates for improving folks’ access to mental health services. So, we are ready and excited to help you meet your business goals and spread the benefits of counseling. Ready to start optimizing your website and meeting your business goals? Follow the steps below.

  1. Schedule your free 30-minute consultation call.
  2. Meet with one of our skilled SEO specialists.
  3. Start taking care of other aspects of your private practice and let us help with your website!

Services at Simplified SEO Consulting

You may be wondering about what services we offer. For the do-it-yourself types, we have DIY Online Courses as well as SEO Training options! Our training services include a Done-With-You 12 Week program as well as a Mastermind course. And if you’re ready to have an SEO specialist take the lead, we offer Done For You optimization services.

About the Author

Olivia Bahr is an SEO specialist and content writer at Simplified SEO Consulting. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work at the University of Denver. Olivia is an advocate for social justice and increased access to mental health services. In her free time, Olivia hangs out with her dog, goes to concerts, and skis with friends.

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Ideal Clients: How does this affect SEO?

“Who is your ideal client?” an SEO specialist asks you. “What does that mean for me and my SEO?” you might ask yourself. Ideal clients are a sure way to get very good and credible SEO for your practice. This also has a heavy influence on your rankings shown in the dashboard. There are many ways ideal clients influence SEO, and more so good reasoning behind always making sure we ask that question during initial meetings.Image of a woman sitting at a desk representing the search for deal clients through simplified. | How to Build SEO for Therapists, How to rank on Google for Therapists, Is SEO Good for Therapists |

What do you mean by “ideal client”?

By ideal, we are generally referring to the client that you want to see the most. The ones that excite you and that you know you do your best work with. Although some therapists want to remain open to almost any clients and issues that might come up, knowing exactly who you want to bring through the door can make developing an effective SEO strategy easier. And let’s be honest, most mental health professionals have some populations or issues that they just do a better job working with either because they’re more passionate about those concerns, have got specialized training in those areas or have more experience working with those types of clients.

So, when you’re starting to work on your SEO, ask yourself, “Who do you want to come in the door? If I could choose the type of clients that I was to take on, what type of clients would I want to be the next 10 phone calls?”  For example some therapists will be able to relate much more to college students having recently graduated. Or young business professional counselors can relate to other young business professionals, and would prefer catering their practice towards that demographic.  Some therapists have specialized training related to maternal mental health. For  others, couples work and relationship therapy is their jam.

Our founder, Jessica, often says that therapists do their best work when they have a steady stream of the type of clients that give them the most energy. So, this concept of optimizing your website for a specific niche or population is a common conversation at Simplified SEO Consulting.  In fact, we’ve written before about the power of having a niche when working on SEO.

 

How exactly does this influence SEO & search engine rankings?

Throughout our keyword research process, knowing the specifics is all the better for SEO. Being able to see the immediate data for who is searching for what in their mental health journey is not only important for SEO, but also your practice. If couples counseling is something your practice can offer, but aren’t necessarily pushing for, keywords related to couples work might not be the first thing we focus on getting you ranking for. We’d rather optimizing for keywords that your ideal clients would be looking for.

For example, let’s say you work with a wide range of clients, but you really get excited to work with couples on the brink of divorce. In this case, someone searching for “counseling near me” may or may not be that ideal clients. But someone searching for “marriage counseling near me” or “affair recovery help” or “Is it possible to heal after an affair?” Anybody searching for those sorts of terms is simply more likely to be one of those couples you really, really get excited to work with. So, those are the terms we’ll build your SEO strategy around.

 

How do I know who MY ideal clients are? 

I think it is important to not only assess personal strengths and weaknesses of your practice, but also to capitalize on your specialties. For example, there are some practices that have services such as equestrian therapy, or massage therapy. Although the market in your given area for these treatments might not be what makes or breaks your SEO, it is important to recognize that these are services you can rank for. Having every bit of “SEO juice” is exactly what we need in order to get you your optimal return. 

Therapist talking with a client representing finding your ideal client through simplified. | How to Build SEO for Therapists, How to rank on Google for Therapists, Is SEO Good for Therapists |

Here are some examples of potential ideal clients:

  • College Students 
  • Younger Generation
  • Older Generation
  • Business Professionals
  • Women 
  • Teens 
  • Children 
  • Those struggling with Anxiety 
  • Christians  
  • Life Transitions
  • Those struggling with Depression

 

How important are location indicators?

Image of a laptop with a map, representing how important location indicators are for finding ideal clients for therapists. | How to Build SEO for Therapists, How to rank on Google for Therapists, Is SEO Good for Therapists |

One way we narrow this down, is by asking “Where do your ideal clients work, play, and live?” This is mostly because if we have your ideal clients nailed down, we now need to hone in on a specific location. If we are ranking for your demographic in an area that might not be realistic for your practice, we won’t expect to rank very well. Of course there are exceptions such as online therapy. With online therapy we can rank for the entire state that you have your license in, but in terms of in person therapy the location indicators are very important for accurate SEO. This is also generally very helpful for communication with Google. This let’s the algorithm know that your location is important to you and your practice, which ultimately helps to improve rankings.

 

Ideal Clients Overview 

Although it may be difficult to narrow down who you want to see, it is really important for SEO, as well as your practice. This can be the difference between ranking in your area successfully, or ranking in a more vague sense with less return. Here at Simplified we not only want to see you get great results, but we also want you to be bringing in people you want and have the tools to work with. It is such an honor to be able to help in this way, and it is all the more satisfying when your demographic meets great rankings. Ideal clients are a sure way to get good and credible SEO for your practice, and to bring in the people you want to see and have the tools to provide for. 

 

Private Practices: Are you in need of SEO help? 

Here at Simplified we are always happy to help you improve your rankings and site. Our SEO specialists are ready to help you get that breakthrough you need, while also bringing in the clients you want to work with. Learn more about our packages, and see if Simplified is right for you:

  1. Book a free 30-minute consultation call
  2. Get connected with an SEO specialist 
  3. Start that journey towards better rankings and an improved clientele

 

SEO Services at Simplified SEO Consulting 

At Simplified we have a few different package options available for you and your practice. This includes the Done For You (DFY)  packages, Done with You (DWY) packages, or the DIY online courses. Book a consult today and see which of our options best fits your needs.

 

About the Author 

Justin Bohannan is an SEO specialist at Simplified. He works with clients across the nation to reach the goals and boost their SEO. Justin works with the team writing content, on page optimization, and more! Justin graduated from the University of Missouri with his BA in Psychology

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Do Law Firms Need SEO? Unlocking the Power of Digital Marketing for Personal Injury Attorneys

In today’s digitally driven world, the question of whether law firms need SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is more critical than ever. As the legal landscape evolves, personal injury attorneys are realizing the immense value that effective SEO strategies bring to their online presence. In this in-depth exploration, we’ll delve into the undeniable benefits of SEO for personal injury lawyers, and shed light on how a well-crafted digital marketing strategy can propel your practice to new heights.

Does SEO Work for Law Firms?

The short answer: Yes, absolutely. SEO works for law firms, including personal injury attorneys! As potential clients increasingly turn to search engines to find legal solutions, being prominently displayed in search results can be a game-changer. SEO isn’t about mere visibility; it’s about ensuring that your law firm’s website is discoverable when potential clients are actively seeking legal assistance. From boosting website traffic to enhancing credibility, the impact of SEO is profound.

Why is Local SEO Important for Law Firms?

If you’re asking, “what is local SEO for lawyers?“, it is an important aspect in digital marketing for personal injury law firms. Especially for personal injury attorneys who often serve specific geographic areas. When someone searches for “personal injury lawyer near me,” local SEO ensures that your firm’s name appears prominently in local search results. Optimizing your Google My Business listing, local citations, and maintaining consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) information across platforms makes it easier for clients to find you when they need you most.

How Do You Create a Marketing Strategy for a Law Firm?

Creating a marketing strategy for a law firm, particularly one focused on personal injury cases, demands a strategic and individualized approach. Of course, that includes SEO elements in order to keep your website relevant and trusted with Google and other top search engines.  Here’s a roadmap:

Define Your Goals: Determine what you aim to achieve through your marketing efforts—whether it’s increasing leads, building brand awareness, or expanding your client base.

Identify Your Target Audience: Understand the demographics and preferences of your ideal clients. Tailor your content and messaging to resonate with them.

Keyword Research: Conduct thorough keyword research to identify the phrases potential clients use when searching for personal injury services. The best keywords for personal injury lawyers is crucial for reaching ideal clients.

Content Creation: Develop high-quality, informative content that addresses common legal questions and concerns. Craft blog posts, articles, and resources that showcase your expertise.

On-Page Optimization: Optimize your website’s elements, including meta tags, headings, and URLs, to align with search engine algorithms.

Google My Business on phone screen. This is just one example of SEO tools that can boost your online presence. Learn more here.Local SEO: Optimize your online presence to target clients in your geographical area through localized SEO strategies.

Link Building: Establish authoritative backlinks from reputable legal sources and related industries to enhance your credibility.

Technical SEO: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, loads quickly, and provides a seamless user experience. There are 3rd party SEO tools for personal injury lawyers that can assist in making sure everything is on track. 

Data Analysis: Regularly monitor KPIs such as organic traffic, bounce rates, and conversion rates. Adjust your strategy based on data insights.

Do Law Firms Need SEO?

Absolutely. Personal injury attorneys need SEO to thrive in today’s competitive digital landscape. A comprehensive SEO strategy ensures your website is discoverable by potential clients actively seeking legal solutions. SEO enhances your credibility, connects you with your target audience, and establishes your firm as a trusted authority in your field.

How Much Should a Law Firm Spend on Google Ads?

Investing in Google Ads can be a valuable addition to your marketing strategy, but it’s essential to balance it with a strong foundation of SEO. The budget for Google Ads varies based on factors such as the competitiveness of good SEO keywords for personal injury lawyers and the desired reach. However, once your SEO efforts start yielding results, you may find that your reliance on Google Ads can be reduced without compromising your online visibility. Quality SEO helps organically improve your search rankings, reducing the need for costly advertising.

Elevating Your Practice Through Expert SEO Services

For personal injury attorneys navigating the digital landscape, effective SEO strategies are not just beneficial; they’re essential. From enhancing online visibility to connecting with potential clients, SEO can shape the trajectory of your practice. As you venture into the realm of digital marketing, remember that partnering with expert SEO services can amplify your efforts and ensure that your personal injury practice stands out amidst the digital noise. Join us in this journey!

  1. Schedule a consultation here!
  2. Meet with one of our dedicated SEO Specialists. 
  3. Watch your personal injury law firm reach new clients & win more cases.

Other Services Simplified SEO Consulting Offers:

Simplified SEO Consulting offers a range of services to help you improve your website’s online presence. We offer Done For You SEO Services and DIY Online SEO Courses, which are customized to enhance your search engine rankings and attract your ideal clients. We also have a 12-week Done With You Intensive Program for comprehensive training. Our Content Networking service can help you boost your online presence and attract more of your ideal clients. Check out our blog for more tips and guides on SEO.

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Boost SEO: 7 Quick Things You Can Do Between Counseling Clients!

As a busy clinician, you may only have a few moments to think about marketing and SEO. So, you may be wondering if there’s anything you can do in between counseling appointments to boost your SEO and reach your ideal clients on search engines. Good news! There are several things you can do in between sessions! In this blog, I will detail 5 things you can do to boost your SEO in ten minutes or less!

7 Things You Can Do To Boost Your SEO Between Counseling Clients:

1. Add your address or identifying location information to your footer.3D illustration with the words "You are Here" on a map to help business owners reading this blog post understand the importance of using local SEO techniques.

Adding your address to the footer of your website tells Google where you’re located and helps your rankings in those places. If you have a physical address, use that. But if you’re seeing clients online or have an online-only practice then include a statement such as “serving the entire state of (name of state) including city, city, city, and city via online therapy. For example “Our therapy practice is physically located in Caldwell, ID but we see clients throughout the state of Idaho including Boise City, Miridian & Nampa for online therapy.” This helps give your SEO a small “boost” for each of those areas mentioned.  This is part of a larger SEO strategy called Local SEO but is one thing you can usually do pretty quickly.

2. Respond to source inquiries on HARO.

First of all, if you haven’t signed up for HARO (Help a Reporter Out) I highly suggest you do this. It’s a great way to get a backlink. In fact, several of our clients including our founder, Jessica have been featured in major publications like The New York Times, Bustle, Huff Post, etc.

A few things to know…

  • Sign up as a “source”
  • Choose to receive notifications for topics that pertain to counseling or your specific niche
  • when responding to an inquiry:
    • Directly answer their questions in a succinct way. Follow directions exactly-sometimes they ask for something very specific. Or if they ask for 2 tips, give them exactly 2 tips.
    • Offer to answer any follow-up questions they may have.
    • Always include the URL of your private practice and request that they give you a backlink if they choose to feature you as a source.
    • Don’t overthink your response! Too many practice owners waste 30-60 minutes writing a response, so they stop responding to HARO inquiries pretty quickly. But really, they’re usually looking for a quick response. If they want something more in-depth (i.e. if you need to spend that 30-60 minutes) they’ll generally respond to your email with more questions.

When the media use your quote, they often give you a backlink to your website.  Building backlinks is a really powerful way to improve your SEO. However, sometimes the media source may not link back to your website. Know that just them mentioning your name & practice still have some benefit.

3. Do Some Light Keyword Research.

You don’t have to spend hours doing keyword research. Just taking a few minutes here and there to check and see what terms are ranking well in your area will make optimization easier down the road.

If you’re not sure where to begin check out these blogs about keyword research:

4. Make a List of Blog Post Topic Ideas

Typewriter and notebook with "blog" written with a small fern on a teal background. SEO tips for therapists can be found on this blog from SEO experts to hire for help or get resources from at Simplified SEO Consulting for private practice SEO.

There are lots of places to look for blogging inspiration. Keeping a list of topics you want to write about makes it easier to actually blog the next time you sit down to start writing.

Reflect on your past sessions, is there a topic that comes up often? If the answer is yes, then add it to your list. Or, if you’ve recently read a good book that pertains to your counseling work, then add that to the list as well. If you’re searching for ideas one place you can look is www.answerthepublic.com. Here you can type in certain keywords you’re targeting and get a list of queries people are typing into Google. Please note, you can do up to two free searches per day. Want to read more about blog writing? Check out these articles:

5. Update Your Google My Business (GMB) Listing

Update your Google My Business listing. Look and double-check that all the information on there is correct? Have you added new information about your practice’s COVID safety policies? Have you posted a blog recently that you could share there? Could you add another picture of your office? Do you have a new therapist you can announce has joined the practice? Taking ten minutes to update your GMB profile in one of these ways can boost your SEO and give valuable information to your clients looking at your listing on Google. Want to learn more about Google My Business? check out these blogs:

6. Add Your Website to a DirectoryPaper with the words "Business Directory" on a computer keyboard with a calculator & magnifying glass

Directory websites help boost SEO in several ways. First, they help get your name, address & phone number (NAP information) out there across the web in a consistent way. Second, you generally get a backlink that is pretty high quality.

Some therapists wonder if it’s worth getting your site on a directory if you don’t actually have clients calling who found you on that directory. If it’s a free directory, our answer is an absolute yes. If you have to pay for the directory, it may or may not be “worth it.”

7. Add & Optimize a New Photo on Your Website to Boost SEO

Adding photos can be an easy distraction between clients. You might find a new photo from a stock photo website or even just take one with your phone around the office to upload.  When adding it to your website make sure you optimize it by:

  • Compress the photo before uploading it. We like to use tinypng.com for this. Unfortunately, too many large photos can slow down your site which is bad for SEO.
  • Add relevant alt text describing the photo for anyone using a screen reader.
  • Add a relevant photo file name that includes at least one relevant keyword or phrase you’re targeting on that page.

How do I get my therapy website to the top of Google?

The truth is that search engine optimization (SEO) is somewhat complex and ever-evolving. So, if you live in a competitive area, it may take time & a comprehensive SEO strategy to get your website ranking. But Google can be an amazing source of referrals for therapists, so it’s worth the investment. We recommend laying a good foundation with on-page SEO, a regular blogging strategy and organically building backlinks to your website.

In other words, the tips we’ve shared here will help, but may not get you to the top on their own unless you live in an area that really isn’t very competitive.

Every Little Bit of Optimizing Helps Boost SEOKeyboard with a highlighted key reading "helpful tips" to show that this blog post offers tips for therapists, counsellors and psychiatrists trying to quickly optimize their website by doing a little between client sessions.

Doing your own SEO is a large time commitment. But doing a little bit of work every day (or as often as possible) will have great long-term effects on your SEO. Google responds well to websites that are consistently making changes and improvements to better their user experience. So, doing these tips will increase your chances of ranking better in your area.

These are small steps, but they are meaningful. And over time these little steps add up. If you find you enjoy these little things and want to dive more deeply into optimizing your own site, check out our DIY courses or schedule a consultation so we can talk about our other SEO training options!

On the other hand, if you start doing these little things and discover that you really just don’t have any desire to work on your SEO even in these short bursts, we can help. Simplified SEO Consulting offers comprehensive done-for-you SEO services and is skilled at helping our clients create an SEO strategy that will meet the needs of their private practice so they can get in front of their ideal client and grow their business.

The Value of Getting Your Counseling/Therapy Website to the Top of Google

Our team at Simplified SEO Consulting cares deeply about helping you get in front of the right therapy clients. As a therapist myself, I know that most of us have a specific type of client with whom we do our absolute best work. For me, that’s working with people who have extreme anxiety (think panic disorder) or who have developed PTSD after a sexual assault and are motivated to get their life back. I’m at my best when I’m sitting with those clients.

As I gave thought to this early in my practice, that’s who I started targeting for SEO. Over time as my SEO improved, I was able to get enough new clients calling that I could be picky and only work with those clients who I’m excited to show up and work with each week.  I believe you and (if you’re a group practice owner) your clinicians deserve that too. I believe you’ll do your best work when it’s those ideal clients who call you.

So, I started Simplified SEO Consulting. And I brought on people who are a lot smarter than me about the technical stuff, but who also all have some sort of background in mental health (typically a degree in psychology or social work with some related experience) so they “get” the importance of us getting your site ranking for the right things.

Minimalist photo of a notebook that says "SEO" with a couple other business tools including an alarm clock, a phone, classes and a cup. Representing how our team helps you get to the top of Google by simplifying the SEO process.

How Simplified SEO Consulting Can Help

From the start, I’ve wanted Simplified SEO Consulting to make getting to the top of Google an easier journey for other clinicians than it was for me. So, we offer you a range of options.  For some busy practice owners, it’s easier just to outsource their SEO. So, we have a solid “Done for You” option where a team of SEO specialists with complementary strengths works together to optimize your website for you while maintaining regular communication with you to ensure their work really represents the work you do.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have simple DIY SEO courses for therapists who are really bootstrapping things and have a lot more time than money at the moment. And in between, we have small group SEO group training or a 12 week 1:1 SEO Intensive where you’re still learning to optimize your own site but have more support from our team implementing these techniques on your own website.

Whatever level of support you want/need right now, we’re here to help. Even if you don’t have a single penny to spend on SEO, use these tips I wrote above, our free 7-day email series, and other blogs on our website to get started. Because while there are a lot of wonderful marketing options out there for therapists these days, this is a great one if you have the right resources to help you along the way.

 

Photo of Jessica Tappana, a therapist, private practice owner & SEO professionalAbout the Author

Jessica Tappana is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with an active caseload of her own, a group practice owner, and an SEO guru for mental health professionals. She taught herself SEO the hard way while growing her group practice. That practice now has 10 clinicians who get to each see their ideal clients because they usually have 10-25 more calls per week than they have openings in the practice.  She founded Simplified SEO Consulting to help other practice owners get to that same place.

Jessica has a team of amazing SEO professionals at Simplified SEO Consulting who now do much of the day-to-day work. This allows Jessica to spend time almost daily reading about the latest SEO trends, practice using new techniques or tools, teaching her team more about the integration between SEO & running a practice, and helping problem solve websites that just aren’t responding to our work the way we’d like.

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The Hidden SEO Power of Photos

In a previous post, it has been described how to use Alt text as an SEO strategy. I want to dive deeper into the secret power of using photos for SEO. The secret power of the alt text and photo titles is that it is mostly hidden. Headings, links, CTA/OS sections, and meta descriptions are all SEO strategies that are going to be seen by most, if not all, people that google and look at your website. While the alt text will be used for a screen reader it is not something that every person is going to read through. However, it will have some weight when trying to get a boost from SEO. 

What information is beneficial when optimizing photos?

So how can you use the hidden tool to further your SEO? With therapy keywords and locations! If you have read any of our blogs then you have most likely read about the importance of keywords and locations in all areas of SEO optimization. Using them in photo optimization is a little different though.

Image of a flow chart with SEO in the middle and other aspects of SEO surrounding it. Have you found yourself wondering where to put words on a counseling website? One answer is to use them with your photos. Contact us today to see how we provide seo help for therapists.

Therapy Keywords

First, let’s look at the starting point for SEO: keywords. You will most likely come across some keywords that you are not a fan of or do not fit the voice on your site. However, they might be keywords that your ideal clients utilize. Furthermore, these unfavorable keywords might help your SEO due to easy ranking power or high search volume. Take the keyword “counselor” for example. Maybe you have a strong preference for the term “therapist”. However, “counselor” might be easier to rank for or has a higher search volume in your area.

There is a way to help stay true to your voice without losing out on the SEO benefit of using “counselor”. It would still be important to utilize ‘counselor’ within the text of the page and in other SEO strategies whenever possible. However, the alt text and photo title will allow you to utilize it a lot more and thus leading to a higher ranking in google.

Locations For Potential Clients

Secondly, let’s look at locations that you want to target. It is common practice as an SEO specialist for therapists that I try to pinpoint specific locations by utilizing zip codes. At Simplified SEO Consulting during our Done-For-You program, our clients are asked to choose 6 to 9 zip codes they want to target. On a single page or blog post, you are not going to be able to include all of these zip codes in the text. Additionally, there will most likely be locations that you might want to include but do not want to focus on. In general, these types of locations include:

  • Specific communities within your city 
  • Specific neighborhoods that have a local well known name such as talking about Ballard in Seattle
  • Metro area (such as Houston area or Portland area)
  • A general location within your state ( such as Mid Missouri or Northeast Kansas)

For the most part, using the above locations in headings and meta descriptions doesn’t work as well as using your specific city. That does not mean you have to lose out on targeting those key locations. 

What areas should you utilize when optimizing photos?

Image of a woman holding a camera as if she is taking a photo in front of a orange background. Private practice SEO can be difficult to navigate. Simplified SEO Consulting offer SEO help for therapists!

When optimizing photos for SEO there are three areas that you should focus on. Compressing photos is the first step for photo optimization. Once a photo is uploaded the alt text and the photo title (alt title) are the focus areas for google. Thus, making them the hidden tools for SEO.

Choosing and Compressing Photos for Private Practice SEO

When it comes to photos optimization starts before you even upload them. The photos you put on your website need to be in sync with the style throughout your pages. Beyond that, the images need to send the right message to your clients. As well as complementing the topic of that page or post. In a previous blog post, it is thoroughly detailed why selecting the right photos is important.

There is a step between selecting photos and uploading them to a page that is beneficial for SEO. Compressing photos is an important step for SEO which is commonly missed. Uncompressed photos affect the loading speed of your website. Having just one uncompressed photo on your site might not show a noticeable change in speed. However, as you add more photos throughout your pages potential clients and google will notice the effects. Wondering why page speed is important for SEO? Read more about how page speed affects private practice SEO.

Step by Step Guide to Compressing

Compressing a photo isn’t as difficult as it can sound if you are unfamiliar with the process. One tool that we use and suggest is TinyPNG. It is a simple to use and effective image compressor website. Altogether compressing photos is a fairly simple two-step process.

  1. If given the option while downloading an image choose a medium size (px | 1600 x 1066).
  2. Download that image into a photo compressor online. Then redownload it.

After that the first part of optimizing your photos is complete! The additional areas for photo optimization begin after the image as been uploaded to a page.

Alt Text for Photos

At Simplified SEO Consulting we format alt text and photo titles differently. When optimizing the alt text it is important to start with a sentence describing the image. A fellow SEO specialist has previously detailed the importance of describing images in the alt text more in-depth. Following the description, the rest of the alt text can be sentences packed with keywords. Try to use two to three keywords in the alt text. Having at least one of those keywords as a long-tail keyword with a location. Using a combination of the top keywords you are trying to target on that page and the ones that fit the topic but are not utilized a lot throughout the text. Even if it will not fit with a keyword, include at least one location name. Whenever possible try to insert a zip code in as well along with the location name.

Examples of Alt Text Optimized for a Website for a Counselor, Psychologist or Psychiatrist

  • Image of 6 thumbnails representing different parts of SEO in front of a pink background. Where should I use keywords on my website as a therapist? One of many answers is with your photos! We provide detailed SEO for counselors.A person taking a pill with water. Representing someone who has come to our Midtown Manhattan psychiatry office for depression and anxiety. Our psychiatrists provide medication management for mental health concerns including PTSD, bipolar disorder, lasting depression, panic attacks, and more for people living in the New York City area.
  • A happy young woman sitting in the sun. Representing someone who has attended counseling for depression and is feeling excited about life after reducing her symptoms of depression. Our counselors provide help for depression at our office in downtown Austin or to anyone throughout Texas through online counseling.
  • A person talking in an office. Showing a man talking to a therapist or other mental health professional in Maddison, WI.
  • The word “ADHD” in colorful letters represents how the testing psychologists at our Jamestown, Rhode Island practice provide various types of psychological testing including testing for learning disabilities.

Photo Title

The photo title differs in that it doesn’t need to be in complete sentences. When working on search engine optimization for counselors I try to include the following items in the photo title:

  • 2 to 3 words summarizing the image
  • 1 long-tail keyword
  • 2 to 3 short tail keywords
  • 3 to 4 zip codes

I separate each of these components with a vertical bar ( | ) to help distinguish each keyword and zip code.

Examples of Photo File Names for Psychiatry & Counseling Websites

Here are a few examples:

  • Happy Couple | Marriage Counseling in Denali, AK | couples therapy | Marriage Counseling After Affair | Denali, AK 99755
  • Smiling Teen | Teen Counseling in Kapalua| Adolescent Therapy | Teen Therapist | Kapalua, HI 96761 | 96706 | 96720
  • Diverse Group | Group Therapy for Addiction in Phoenix | Addiction Counseling | Addiction Therapist | Phoenix, AZ 85054 | 85357
  • Prescription Bottles |Psychiatric Medication Management in southern San Jose| Psychiatrist | psychiatric care | Coyote, CA 95013 | 95037 | 95038

Final thoughts in regards to SEO for counselors

Using specific keywords and locations for photo optimization doesn’t mean you should not use them throughout the pages altogether. Photos do not replace the benefit of using keywords and locations in headings, links, meta descriptions, etc. However, they do give an added benefit especially when you don’t want those specific keywords and locations heavily used on your pages. Put the photos on your website to good use by adding alt text and photo titles. 

Want help making the most out of your photos?

Are you a therapist who loves the idea of letting the photos on your website work for you? If you are unsure of where to start or do not feel like you have the time you have options! We provide SEO help for therapists. Our team of dedicated and skilled SEO specialists who are ready to help you reach your SEO goals. At Simplified SEO Consulting it is our passion to help get your website ranking in Google through SEO. Start follow these steps :

  1. Make an appointment with our Consult Team 
  2. Take a look at our motivated team of SEO Specialists.
  3. Start learning how to build SEO for therapists.

Simplified SEO Consulting’s Other Services

There are several options for search engine optimization guidance at Simplified SEO Consulting. For those who want the most assistance and guidance, we offer Done for You SEO Service packages. If you are wanting to be more involved and learn how to do SEO for counselors yourself then one of our online courses or SEO training opportunities might be right for you. With limited time and positions look into our SEO Mastermind group which is a great training opportunity at a discount. Maybe you are looking for a more specialized package? We also offer a SEO strategy package for that. To get started, make an appointment with our Client Success Specialist today!

Image of the blogs author Winnie. As a mental health SEO specialist Winnie is ready to help you with private practice SEO. Contact us today to see what packages we offer for SEO help for therapists.About the Author:

Winnie is part of the dedicated team at Simplified SEO Consulting. She works hard as one of our Mental Health SEO Specialists. Specializing in working with our clients who have picked our Done for You package.

She has a lot of passion for providing SEO help for therapists. If you’re ready to see how Simplified can serve you, schedule your next consultation. Speak with our Client Success Specialist to discuss how Winnie can support you on your SEO journey.

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Using Inclusive SEO Keywords

Happy people wearing gay pride flags celebrating the improvement of SEO keywordsYou are a diversity focused psychiatrist or therapist and want to rank for SEO keywords. Your practice is going, but could use a boost. You’ve done some keyword research yourself, or hired someone to do it for you and well, the keywords they recommend are. . . not the terminology you would use.

“Mason, why do we use keywords that are out of date? I want to use the most up to date language to ensure I am in alignment with my ideal client. To be frank, I don’t want to offend people who might benefit from my services!”

I understand and empathize entirely. Writing copy for SEO with language that feels out of alignment is difficult. You don’t want to attract clients who aren’t ideal, but also know that you’d love to reach people who simply don’t know any better. Luckily, there is a way to navigate this to maintain your authenticity and rank for SEO without turning away clients who understand the latest terminology.

Why do we use SEO keywords that are out of date?

I know it can be confusing to try to rank for keywords that don’t seem to be in alignment with current language usage. However, many times the keywords that are up to date are much harder to rank for and/or don’t have the search volume that makes it worth optimizing for that keyword. For example, the SEO keyword “Asperger syndrome” has nearly 5 times the amount of searches as “neurodiverse” and is just as easy to rank for.

We want to get your website in front of as many of the right eyes as possible. Imagine you are a stressed out and worried parent of a kiddo who is dealing with being neurodiverse. Are you more likely to search for terms that are more commonly used, but not as inclusive as the latest language? Probably.

This doesn’t mean you use offensive language or use words inappropriately. Instead, use words which are slightly dated, but not blatantly offensive. For example, trying to rank for “neurodiverse support group in Georgia” leads to so few search results that the data simply isn’t there. However, searching for “Asperger’s support group in Georgia” leads to over 200 searches a month, and is actually easier to rank for than “neurodiverse support group in Georgia.”

Informing your clients you ARE inclusive, even if your SEO Keywords aren’t

young woman sits in her living room typing on her computer as she blogs for SEO. Learn SEO and more about copywriting from an SEO expert at Simplified SEO ConsultingNow that you understand why we sometimes want to rank for language which is dated, let’s talk about how to do that without turning away your ideal clients who might be hurt or offended by language usage. There are many ways you can use dated language while also using language which is up to date. See the three tips below to get started!

Use External Links to Explain the Out of Date Language

The easiest way to show that you are inclusive while using dated SEO keywords is to include a link to an explanation of why that word is offensive. Including a disclaimer at the top of the blog post also helps with this. It let’s your ideal clients know you are being intentional in using dated language. Let them know you would ALWAYS respect the language they use to identify with. The APA style guide has a great inclusive language dictionary which can give you good definitions to use, and is a great resource to link for to help educate both clients who are up to date on language and those who are not.

Include a disclaimer

In addition to, or in place of a link to a definition, a disclaimer at the bottom of the blog post is a great option. The only negative to this is that someone might not scroll that far, therefore I would encourage you to use both a definition link and a disclaimer at the top of the page to ensure everyone finishes the blog post (and of course clicks that call to action link and schedules their first appointment)!

Including the disclaimer on your home page or about page is a great practice to keep your site from getting too cluttered.

woman in a sweater types on a laptop representing blogging for SEO. Learn more from an seo expert and copywriter at Simplified SEO Consulting

Writing a diversity statement

Something I would encourage all of you to do is to write a diversity statement. Writing a diversity statement and including it on your about or home page goes a long way. This can be a simple paragraph which encompasses where your therapy practice stands on inclusion. It can also explain that some people simply don’t know the best language yet.

Sample diversity statement:

“At _______ we strive to be as inclusive as possible. However, we acknowledge that language is ever changing and fluid. We are all on different stages in our journey to inclusion, which means at times we might use language which isn’t as up to date. This is intentional so that those who are just beginning their journey can come along for the ride and get the support they need. Using the language our clients use is a commitment we have made as a practice. We welcome caring critique of the language we are using and desire to learn how to know better, so we can do better.”

Begin Copywriting with Inclusive SEO Keywords at Simplified SEO Consulting

Writing can be difficult, and finding time as a busy practice owner isn’t easy. As a mental health SEO Copywriter, I recommend hiring out your SEO and writing. We see tremendous results for clients across the country. I love taking the stress out of getting words onto the computer screen. Follow these three simple steps to begin copywriting with Simplified SEO Consulting today!

  1. Book a Consult Call with our Client Success Specialist or Consult Team
  2. Find out about our awesome team of SEO Specialists.
  3. Take a deep breath, knowing your SEO is handled

Other Services Offered by Simplified SEO Consulting

We offer many services in addition to copywriting at Simplified SEO Consulting. We offer Done for You SEO Service packages and SEO training courses. Our “Top of Google” course is incredibly popular with those who are just exploring the world of search engine optimization for therapists. To get started, schedule a call with our Client Success Specialist today!

 

About the Author

Photo of Mason, SEO Content Writer for Simplified SEO Consulting, holding a butterfly on his arm.Mason Aid (They/He) is a Mental Health SEO Copywriter at Simplified SEO Consulting. They love solving the puzzle of fitting the right keywords into your copy so you attract your dream clients. They have their Bachelors Degree in Sociology and a continued interest in advocating for marginalized people and mental health.

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Best SEO for Lawyers: A Comprehensive SEO Services Guide for Personal Injury Attorneys

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, where competition is fierce and attention spans are fleeting, lawyers and law firms face a unique challenge – standing out in the crowded online arena. As legal professionals, your primary focus should be on delivering exceptional legal counsel to your clients. However, to reach those clients in today’s digital age, you need a robust online presence. That’s where SEO (Search Engine Optimization) comes into play. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll navigate the intricate path to finding the best SEO for personal injury lawyers, understanding what clients truly desire, the undeniable need for SEO, and how to harness its potential effectively.

What Is the Best Form of Advertising for a Lawyer?

Picture this: You’re a talented attorney, well-versed in your field, offering exceptional legal services. However, your practice is hidden in the depths of the internet, buried beneath countless other law firms. The best place to advertise for a lawyer isn’t a flashy billboard, it’s the art of strategic digital marketing. Specifically, it’s the synergy of a well-crafted website, compelling content, and effective SEO strategies. It’s about ensuring that your expertise is not just recognized but also easily accessible to those in need.

Your Website, Your Digital Front Door

Think of your website as your digital front door. In today’s world, potential clients are more likely to enter your virtual office before they step into your physical one. It’s your first impression, and it needs to be impeccable. A clean, user-friendly website with informative content lays the foundation for trust. Clients want to see your qualifications, understand your approach, and gauge your expertise. This is where a professional SEO strategy comes into play – ensuring that your website not only exists but also shines brightly on the digital thoroughfare.

What Do Clients Want Most from Their Lawyers?

When clients seek legal representation, they’re not merely searching for a legal expert to handle their case; they’re searching for a trusted partner who can guide them through challenging times. Understanding what clients desire most from their lawyers is fundamental to providing exceptional legal services. Let’s dive deeper into these client expectations:

Expertise and Experience:

Clients want assurance that their lawyer possesses the necessary expertise and experience to handle their case effectively. They look for evidence of past success in similar cases and a deep understanding of the relevant legal nuances.

Example: You’re a personal injury attorney. A client who has suffered a severe accident wants to know that you have successfully handled cases involving similar injuries, securing substantial compensation for your clients.

Communication:

Effective communication is the cornerstone of a strong lawyer-client relationship. Clients value lawyers who communicate clearly, promptly, and consistently. They want to be kept informed about the progress of their case and have their questions answered without unnecessary delays.

Example: Consider a client facing a complex divorce proceeding. They rely on you to explain the legal process, update them on any developments, and respond promptly to their concerns, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout.

Trustworthiness:

Trust is paramount in the lawyer-client relationship. Clients need to have confidence that their lawyer has their best interests at heart. They want to work with someone who operates ethically, maintains confidentiality, and acts in their favor.

Example: Think of a criminal defense attorney. A client facing serious charges requires unwavering trust that you will vigorously defend their rights and maintain utmost confidentiality in all matters related to their case.

Empathy:

Legal matters can be emotionally taxing, especially in cases involving personal injury, family issues, or estate planning. Clients appreciate lawyers who show empathy and understanding. They want to feel heard, supported and reassured during challenging times.

Example: Imagine you specialize in estate planning, consider a client who has recently lost a loved one. They not only require legal guidance but also compassionate support during a sensitive and emotional period.

Accessibility:

Clients want lawyers who are accessible and responsive. They don’t want to feel like they’re constantly chasing their lawyer for updates or information. Accessibility ensures that clients feel valued and that their concerns are a priority.

Example: Put yourself in the shoes of a business attorney. A client facing a contractual dispute needs to know that you are readily available to address their questions, provide legal advice, and take swift action when necessary to protect their interests.

Understanding and fulfilling these client expectations not only fosters strong lawyer-client relationships but also contributes to positive reviews, referrals, and long-term client satisfaction. As lawyers, it’s essential to recognize that clients don’t just seek legal services; they seek peace of mind, guidance, and support during significant life events.

Do Law Firms Need SEO?

In a word, yes. As potential clients increasingly turn to search engines to find legal services, law firms must adapt to the changing landscape. It’s not enough to have a website; it needs to be visible, engaging, and authoritative. SEO is the catalyst that propels your online presence, making it easier for clients to discover and engage with your firm.

The Proof Is in the Numbers

Consider this: in the USA alone, there are millions of legal queries made on search engines every day. People are actively seeking legal advice, representation, and solutions. Without effective SEO, your website might as well be in the depths of the ocean, invisible to those in need.

SEO doesn’t just make you visible; it makes you relevant. It ensures that when potential clients search for keywords related to your practice areas, your website appears at the top of search results. It’s about being in the right place at the right time.

Does SEO Work for Law Firms?

Absolutely, SEO (Search Engine Optimization) works effectively for law firms, and its impact is akin to building a strong legal case for your online presence. Think of your website as your digital law office—an impressive space filled with valuable information, ready to serve potential clients. But what if this office is tucked away in a quiet corner of the internet, far from where your clients are searching? This is where SEO steps in as your digital advocate.

Imagine SEO as a legal research process. Just as lawyers meticulously gather evidence, build arguments, and present their case persuasively in court, SEO specialists meticulously optimize your online presence. They gather relevant keywords (like legal precedents) that potential clients are likely to use in their online searches. These keywords act as the building blocks of your digital case, strategically placed throughout your website to make it more discoverable.

Moreover, SEO experts ensure that your digital law office complies with all the “internet regulations” set by search engines like Google. This includes structuring your website correctly, optimizing its speed and performance, and ensuring that it’s user-friendly—much like ensuring your legal practice operates within the boundaries of the law.

Now, let’s talk about your potential clients. Just as individuals seek legal counsel for their specific needs, they also turn to search engines with precise queries. They might search for “personal injury attorney near me” or “divorce lawyer in [your city].” Without SEO, your digital law office might not even show up on their radar.

Here’s where the magic happens. SEO specialists strategically position your website among the top search results. It’s like winning a prime spot in a prestigious legal directory—the first place potential clients look. When your website consistently appears at the top, it establishes trust, credibility, and authority—just as a renowned law firm earns its reputation over time.

And much like a well-prepared legal case can influence a judge’s decision, a well-optimized website can influence potential clients. They’re more likely to choose your law firm when they see it prominently featured in their search results because it exudes credibility and expertise.

In essence, SEO works for law firms by making your digital law office highly visible and appealing to potential clients. It’s not just about being present on the internet; it’s about making a compelling case for your legal expertise. With the right SEO strategy, your law firm can attract quality leads, strengthen its online reputation, and ultimately grow its client base. Just as clients trust you to handle their legal matters, you can trust SEO to effectively represent your practice in the digital landscape.

How Is SEO Done for Attorneys? Keywords in search bar while a person types on a computer. Keywords are an important factor for personal injury SEO. Learn more SEO techniques for your law firm.

Effective SEO for attorneys is a comprehensive approach that integrates various strategies to achieve the desired results. . SEO is not a one-size-fits-all strategy; it’s a versatile tool that can be tailored to specific practice areas and geographic locations. It’s about understanding the unique needs of your law firm and crafting a strategy that aligns with your goals. Here is a breakdown of the key steps for effective law firm SEO:

Keyword Optimization:

SEO begins with thorough keyword research. It’s about identifying the specific terms and phrases potential clients use when searching for legal services. These keywords are strategically integrated into your website’s content, making it more likely to appear in relevant searches.

Content Creation:

High-quality, informative content is at the heart of effective SEO. It’s about providing value to your audience by answering their questions, addressing their concerns, and showcasing your expertise. Regularly publishing content that resonates with your target audience not only positions you as an authority but also keeps your website fresh and engaging.

Technical SEO:

The technical aspects of SEO ensure that your website is optimized for search engines. This includes improving page speed, mobile-friendliness, and site structure. A well-optimized website not only ranks higher but also provides a better user experience.

Link Building:

Backlinks are like digital referrals. A digital business card of sorts. I They signal to search engines that your website is reputable and trustworthy. Effective, ethical link-building strategies can significantly boost your SEO efforts.

Local SEO:

For law firms that serve specific geographic areas, local SEO is crucial. It involves optimizing your online presence to ensure you appear prominently in local searches. This is particularly vital for personal injury attorneys who often deal with local clients.

How Much Does an SEO Specialist Cost for Law Firm SEO?

The cost of hiring an SEO specialist for law firm SEO can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the size of your firm, the competitiveness of your practice areas, and the scope of your SEO strategy. Some SEO specialists charge a monthly retainer, while others work on a project basis. It’s essential to choose an SEO specialist or agency that offers transparency in pricing and aligns with your budget and goals. At Simplified SEO Consulting, our pricing is clear and straightforward. No surprises.

What Is the Best SEO Tool to Use for Personal Injury Attorneys?

The best SEO tool for personal injury attorneys is one that provides actionable insights, keyword research capabilities, competitor analysis, and comprehensive tracking of your SEO performance. Tools like Google Search Console, Moz, KW Finder, SEMrush, Ahrefs, Linkody, and Google Analytics are highly regarded in the SEO industry. In fact, Simplified SEO Consulting has a comprehensive Data Dashboard for our clients to support your SEO efforts.

Which 3rd Party Tools Are Best for Law Firm SEO & Why?

In the legal field, staying well-informed and having the right tools at your disposal is paramount. Just as you rely on legal databases, precedents, and research to build your case, the world of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) also benefits from specialized tools to boost your law firm’s digital presence. Three noteworthy tools that can significantly enhance your SEO efforts are KW Finder by Mangools, SEMrush, and Linkody.

KW Finder by Mangools: Unlocking Keyword Insights

Keywords are the foundation of SEO—they’re the legal arguments that make your case in the digital world. KW Finder by Mangools is like your research assistant, helping you discover the most persuasive keywords to use in your digital content. Here’s how it can benefit your law firm:

  • Keyword Research. KW Finder assists you in identifying the most relevant keywords for your legal practice. Just as you meticulously select the strongest legal precedents, this tool helps you find keywords with the highest search volume and lowest competition. For example, if you specialize in personal injury law in New York, KW Finder can suggest keywords like “New York personal injury attorney” or “NYC accident lawyer,” allowing you to tailor your content to what potential clients are searching for.
  • Competitor Analysis. In the legal world, understanding your opponents’ strategies is crucial. Similarly, KW Finder provides insights into what keywords your competitors are targeting. This allows you to refine your SEO strategy to gain a competitive edge in the digital landscape.
  • Local Keyword Tracking. Just as you need to stay updated on the latest developments in your field, KW Finder helps you monitor the performance of your chosen keywords. It tracks their rankings and provides valuable data on how well your digital content is performing in local search results. This information is invaluable for adapting your SEO strategy over time.
  • Long-Tail Keyword Suggestions. Just as you might use precise legal terminology to strengthen your case, KW Finder suggests long-tail keywords—phrases with three or more words that are highly specific to your practice area. These long-tail keywords can help you connect with potential clients looking for highly specialized legal assistance.
  • Content Ideas. KW Finder also aids in content creation. It suggests content ideas based on keyword research, helping you generate informative articles, blog posts, or guides that resonate with your target audience.

SEMrush: Your Comprehensive Legal SEO Assistant

In the complex and competitive world of law, being well-prepared and having the right resources at your disposal is crucial for success. SEMrush, a versatile and powerful SEO tool, is akin to your legal research library—a robust resource that empowers your law firm’s digital presence. Here’s how SEMrush can be your ally in navigating the digital landscape:

  • Keyword Research. Just as you meticulously gather evidence to support your legal arguments, SEMrush helps you identify the most potent keywords for your legal practice. It goes beyond mere keywords and provides invaluable insights into their search volume, difficulty, and competitive landscape. For instance, if your focus is personal injury law in California, SEMrush can suggest keywords like “California personal injury attorney” or “Los Angeles accident lawyer,” ensuring your digital content aligns with what potential clients are actively searching for.
  • Competitor Analysis. Understanding your opponents’ strategies is as vital in law as it is in SEO. SEMrush allows you to dissect your competitors’ digital tactics, revealing their top-performing keywords, backlink sources, and ad strategies. This invaluable data empowers you to refine your own SEO strategy, identify competitive advantages, and ensure your law firm stands out in the digital arena.
  • Local SEO Insights. Just as you need to stay informed about local legal nuances, SEMrush provides valuable local SEO data. It helps you monitor your local rankings, assess your online visibility, and even offers suggestions for improving your local SEO. This ensures that your law firm remains highly visible to potential clients in your area.
  • Content Creation. SEMrush is your co-counsel in content creation. It offers content topic ideas based on comprehensive keyword research, helping you craft informative articles, blog posts, or guides that resonate with your target audience. This content not only establishes your authority in your practice area but also drives organic traffic to your website.
  • Backlink Analysis. In the legal world, building a solid case requires a strong argument. In the digital realm, building high-quality backlinks is the equivalent of strengthening your online argument. SEMrush provides detailed insights into your backlink profile, helping you monitor and enhance your digital network. It even identifies potentially toxic backlinks, allowing you to disavow them and maintain a clean, authoritative online presence.
  • Reporting and Analytics. SEMrush provides comprehensive reporting and analytics, offering clear insights into the performance of your digital strategy. It helps you track your website’s organic search traffic, monitor the impact of your SEO efforts, and make data-driven decisions to continuously improve your online presence.

Linkody: Building Your Digital Legal Network

In the legal profession, building a strong professional network is essential. Similarly, in the digital realm, building a network of high-quality backlinks is crucial for SEO success. This is where Linkody comes into play—it’s like your digital networking assistant, helping you secure valuable backlinks to boost your online authority.

  • Backlink Monitoring. Just as you would keep tabs on your professional connections, Linkody monitors your backlinks. It tracks who is linking to your website and provides real-time data on the health of your backlink profile. This ensures that your digital network remains strong and credible.
  • Competitor Analysis. Just as you might study opposing counsel’s legal strategies, Linkody allows you to analyze your competitors’ backlink profiles. You can discover where they’re obtaining their backlinks and identify potential opportunities to strengthen your own network.
  • Disavow Tool. In the legal world, you might seek to disqualify evidence that’s detrimental to your case. In the digital realm, you can use Linkody’s disavow tool to disqualify toxic backlinks that could harm your website’s SEO. This ensures that your digital network remains clean and authoritative.
  • Email Alerts. Linkody sends email alerts whenever there are changes in your backlink profile. Just as you would want to be informed about developments in your cases, these alerts keep you informed about your website’s performance and any potential issues.
  • Link Building Opportunities. Linkody also identifies potential websites where you can acquire new backlinks. It streamlines the process of outreach, helping you expand your digital network strategically.

In the digital age, just as you rely on the right legal tools to represent your clients effectively, utilizing tools like KW Finder, SEMrush, and Linkody can significantly enhance your law firm’s SEO efforts. They provide valuable insights, help you stay competitive, and ensure that your digital network remains strong and trustworthy—much like your professional network in the legal world. Of course, Simplified SEO Consulting can use these tools and more for you. By incorporating these tools into your digital strategy, you can effectively build your law firm’s online authority and reach a wider audience of potential clients.

The Importance of an Individualized Approach to Law Firm SEO

It’s crucial to emphasize that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to SEO for law firms. Each practice area, location, and target audience is unique. That’s why working with a trusted SEO partner like Simplified SEO Consulting is essential. An experienced SEO partner listens to your specific needs, understands your ideal clients, and tailors an individualized SEO strategy that aligns with your goals.

Consider Simplified SEO Consulting for Law Firm SEO

The journey to finding the best SEO for lawyers is one paved with opportunity. It’s about understanding what clients desire most – expertise, communication, trustworthiness, empathy, and accessibility. It’s about recognizing the undeniable need for SEO in the digital age and understanding how it works. Also, crafting a tailored SEO strategy that integrates keyword optimization, content creation, technical SEO, link building, and local SEO to achieve your goals.

At Simplified SEO Consulting, we understand the intricacies of law firm SEO. We recognize that your practice is unique, and your SEO strategy should reflect that. Our individualized approach ensures that your firm not only stands out but thrives in the digital landscape, connecting you with clients who seek your expertise. It’s not just about SEO; it’s about your journey to success in the digital age.

Experience the Best SEO for Law Firms with Simplified SEO Consulting

If you’re a personal injury lawyer who wants to attract more clients in your area, don’t miss out on the opportunity to use Local SEO to your advantage. By ensuring that your law firm ranks high in local search results, you can stand out and make it easy for potential clients to find you. Follow these simple steps to take your personal injury law practice to the next level with best SEO techniques!

  1. Schedule a consultation here.
  2. Meet with one of our great SEO Specialists.
  3. Watch your Personal Injury Law Firm grow!
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Does SEO Work for Law Firms? Debunking Myths and Unveiling the Truth

In today’s digital landscape, the question “Does SEO work for law firms?” holds significant implications. The realm of legal services is no longer confined to word-of-mouth referrals and traditional advertising methods. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for law firms, debunk common misconceptions, and reveal the undeniable impact that a well-executed SEO strategy can have on your legal practice’s online presence.

Understanding the Basics of SEOIcon people walking on SEO letters. Allow us to help you grow your law firm by using SEO techniques. Learn more today.

SEO is more than just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental pillar of modern digital marketing. At its core, SEO involves a series of techniques and strategies aimed at enhancing a website’s visibility on search engines like Google. When someone searches for legal services, an effective SEO strategy ensures that your law firm’s website ranks prominently on the search engine results page (SERP). This visibility is crucial because it connects potential clients with the solutions they’re seeking.

Myth #1: Legal Industry Isn’t Suited for SEO

One common misconception is that the legal field is too niche for SEO to yield significant results. However, this belief overlooks the fact that legal services are frequently sought after through online searches. Clients are now accustomed to using search engines to find answers to their legal questions, making SEO an indispensable tool for law firms to meet this demand. By targeting best keywords for lawyers related to your legal specialization, you can position your firm as a relevant and accessible resource.

Myth #2: Word of Mouth Suffices, No Need for Online Visibility

While personal recommendations remain a valuable source of referrals for law firms, the modern consumer journey has expanded beyond word of mouth. Today, clients are inclined to research extensively before making decisions. This research often involves online searches to explore legal options and gather information. A robust online presence not only supplements word-of-mouth referrals but also ensures that your firm is discoverable precisely when potential clients are actively seeking legal guidance.

The Power of Informed Decision-Making

Legal matters are intricate, and clients seek confidence in their decisions. Especially for personal injury attorneys. By providing insightful and informative content on your website, you can assist potential clients in making informed choices. Publishing blog posts, articles, and resources that address common legal concerns and explain complex concepts showcases your expertise. This, in turn, builds trust, positioning your firm as a knowledgeable authority in the legal landscape.

SEO Tailored for Law Firms: What Works

Effective SEO for law firms goes beyond generic strategies. It involves tailoring your approach to align with the unique aspects of the legal industry. Local SEO is essential, as legal services are often location-specific. Optimizing your website for location-based keywords ensures that your firm appears in local searches, attracting clients within your geographical reach. Moreover, integrating long-tail keywords that reflect your legal specialization enhances the likelihood of connecting with individuals actively seeking your specific services.

Factors Influencing SEO Success for Law Firms

Several factors contribute to the success of SEO for law firms. First and foremost, high-quality content is paramount. Crafting content that educates, informs, and addresses common legal questions not only engages your audience but also demonstrates your expertise to search engines. Additionally, building authoritative backlinks from reputable legal sources and related industries validates your firm’s credibility in the eyes of both potential clients and search algorithms. Ensuring that your website is mobile-friendly and user-focused further contributes to improved SEO rankings.

What is the best form of advertisement for a lawyer?

In the realm of legal advertising, a diversified approach yields the best results. While traditional forms of advertising such as word of mouth, referrals, and networking remain essential, the digital age has introduced new avenues. Leveraging the power of the internet through online visibility, content marketing, and strategic advertising can significantly expand your law firm’s reach and attract clients who are actively seeking your expertise. 

Do law firms need SEO?

You might be asking, do law firms need SEO to thrive in today’s competitive digital landscape. As potential clients increasingly turn to search engines to find legal services, having a robust online presence is no longer optional—it’s imperative. SEO for law firms ensures that your firm’s website appears prominently when individuals search for legal solutions, thereby increasing the likelihood of engagement and conversion. It’s not just about being visible; it’s about being the trusted solution that potential clients discover when they need it most.

Unlocking SEO’s Potential for Law Firms

In conclusion, the question “Does SEO work for law firms?” is answered with a resounding yes. A well-crafted SEO strategy tailored to the legal industry’s nuances can elevate your firm’s online visibility, credibility, and engagement. By dispelling myths and embracing the power of SEO, law firms can establish a digital footprint that resonates with clients seeking reliable legal services. Whether it’s localized SEO, informative content creation, or building authoritative connections, every aspect of SEO contributes to the growth and success of your practice in the digital age.

Are you ready to watch your law firm grow?

Drive more client traffic and cases to your firm by using Simplified SEO Consulting! We’re ready to help your personal injury law firm grow by discovering the key to online success with SEO. Don’t miss out on potential clients, follow these simple steps:

  1. Schedule a consultation here!
  2. Meet with one of our dedicated SEO Specialists. 
  3. Watch your personal injury law firm grow and reach more clients.

Other Services Simplified SEO Consulting Offers:

Simplified SEO Consulting offers a range of services to help you improve your website’s online presence. We offer Done For You SEO Services and DIY Online SEO Courses, which are customized to enhance your search engine rankings and attract your ideal clients. We also have a 12-week Done With You Intensive Program for comprehensive training. Our Content Networking service can help you boost your online presence and attract more of your ideal clients. Check out our blog for more tips and guides on SEO.

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Best Practices for Using Subheadings

A graphic of hands typing on a computer and choosing subheadings for Simplified SEO Consulting. Learn more about how we offer support with SEO for therapists & how we can support private practice websites today! 65202

Today we are covering a topic you are likely already familiar with on some level if you create content for your site. That has to do with what best practices are when it comes to using headings and subheadings throughout your pages. Your initial instinct may be to highlight the most important topics of your page. But, there are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on a specific subheading. So, let’s talk about the main three you will be!

Wait, But Why Do Headings and Subheadings Matter?

Subheadings have historically been used as an important ranking factor in search engines like Google. But, as technology has advanced, so have the factors that influence rankings. In our current day, headings no longer have to include the keywords you’d like to rank for. Search engines have reached a level of sophistication that they can better understand how to identify the main focus of a page. In some ways, one may believe that subheadings have become less important over the years. But, using each level of subheading in the correct way can still go a long way in improving your rankings.

Titles & H1’s

To start off, it is worth stressing that when it comes to using H1’s, they should be saved for the main title of your page. This is because when Google’s bots and other visitors land on your webpage, you want the topic of the page to be as clear as possible. Having more than one will dilute the focus of the page, and potentially confuse readers or web crawling robots. As a result, you may have a more difficult time ranking for more specific keywords. 

Depending on your website editor, you may or may not have the ability to edit the H1’s on your site. If you don’t see any option to adjust them, you may have to contact support for your respective editor to gain more insight. However, in most cases, H1’s will exist as the main title attribute on your page. So, if you don’t see any mention of H1’s, don’t worry! They may be hiding in plain sight. 

Best Practices for H2 Subheadings 

H2 headings are likely the main headings you will use on each page. These are the main subheadings that are used to break up content throughout your site. Using H2’s helps to improve readability for readers and Google alike. In turn, this helps call attention to important topics you want potential clients to take notice of. This may include other important NAP information or vital keywords you want to rank for. Another good way to think about using these headings is as if they were chapters in a book. Each page on your site has its own story, and these help to break up the various ideas you want to explore. 

A graphic of people typing and thinking of subheadings and other content ideas for their website. Simplified SEO Consulting can offer support with improving therapist SEO. Learn more about how we support private practice websites & SEO for psychotherapists today! 65203H2’s should be descriptive, but not overly so. It is also important to mention keyword stuffing, and how cramming in as many phrases as possible can actually harm your SEO. Google is smart, and the algorithm has come to understand when people are just trying to rank without the authority to back it up. So, it is also important to remember H2’s shouldn’t be too long. Try to keep them under a sentence or two in most cases.

Using H3 Subheadings (like this one!)

Next, we have H3 headings. These are even smaller in focus, but still have an important use in breaking up content on your site. These headings are excellent opportunities to focus on sub-points that may be used to support the topics or keywords included in your H2’s. These may include bulleted lists or other related topics. They are another great tool to add structure to your pages. Yet, it should still be noted that there are no hard-set rules in place for how you should make use of these subheadings.

At the End of the Day, Headings and Subheadings Are Invaluable 

Headings have still stood the test of time. While there are many other ways to rank for keywords these days, these elements continue to be used on any website with text-based content. They help to show search engines and visitors what the focus of a page is, and can help improve rankings when paired with intentional keyword management. While headings may not be as important for keyword rankings, they still help improve readability and serve an invaluable purpose.

In addition to the three main subheadings described in this blog, there are actually more that I didn’t cover! It is possible to use smaller headings going all the way up to H8 or H9, but access to this level of focus may not be available to you depending on the website editor you’re using. Google focuses mainly on H1’s, H2’s, and H3’s, leaving the other subheading options up to your description as to how you apply them throughout your site. Website editors often offer a variety of native SEO tools. So, learning to make the most of them will go a long way in structuring your website. 

Checking Headings and the Health of your site 

Two individuals point to a computer as they discuss content on their website. Learn more about how Simplified SEO Consulting can support private practice websites by improving SEO for therapists. Learn more about improving SEO for private practices by contacting our team today! 65202One useful tool that can help you confirm your H1’s, along with any other of the subheadings mentioned, is the WAVE Accessibility Evaluation Tool. It scans the URL you want to search and tells you helpful information about the page including the different headings/subheadings included, structural elements of the page, and potential errors. Running your pages through this tool can help you better understand what Google’s bots see when viewing your page. By using this tool, you can address any issues that may affect your site, and confirm that your headings are in fact H1’s, H2’s, H3’s, or any other subheading you may find yourself using. 

Closing thoughts

Headings are a necessity for any site with content that hopes to rank well on Google. They have changed over time, but remain an important part of the structure that helps visitors find the answers they need in a timely, efficient way. Understanding this can help your site thrive and better adapt as best practices change over time.

Begin SEO Services with Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team of trained SEO specialists offers technical and on-page SEO support. We can help you better understand how to incorporate subheadings into your site. We offer both Done For You and Done With You SEO services. To start your SEO journey, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Book a free consultation
  2. Meet with an SEO specialist
  3. Start improving the structure of your site!

Other Services Offered with Simplified SEO Consulting 

Our team is happy to support you in improving the health of your site. But, this isn’t the only service we offer. Other SEO services include our DIY Online SEO Courses, Done For You SEO services, and a Done With You 12-week Intensive SEO program. Feel free to visit our blog to learn more today!

Photo of Sterling, an SEO Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting that specializes in all things technical SEO!

About the Author

Sterling Humburg-Cage graduated from the University of Missouri with a BA in Psychology in 2020. He integrates what he learned in school into his work as an SEO Specialist with Simplified SEO Consulting. Sterling prides himself on helping current clients & alumni problems solve difficult SEO issues.  He’s great at giving clients multiple options about how to approach a situation and responding quickly to client concerns.  Since he started, Sterling has met frequently with our alumni and provided them extra problem-solving support, often going the extra mile to do outside research and make sure private practice owners have everything they need to rank well on search engines long term for the keywords their ideal clients are using!

 

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Incorporating SEO keywords

Incorporating SEO keywords

You know you need to incorporate SEO keywords into your copy, but it feels so clunky and awkward. You’ve done SEO keyword research and have come up with what you want to rank for but are struggling to add those keywords in a way that flows and makes sense.

 

Copywriting for SEO doesn’t have to be difficult! I personally love the puzzle of adding keywords to my blog posts. As a mental health SEO copywriter at Simplified SEO Consulting, I have three tips for you as you work to add SEO keywords to your private practice website.

Write from the heart, use keywords later.

image of a person on a computer using SEO keywords in their copywriting

Writing with SEO in mind is important. However, if you want to reach your ideal clients for your private practice, copywriting which is authentic to you is even more important. You know your clients’ challenges and what they are facing. Pretend like you’re talking directly to someone you’re working with and write out what you want them to hear from you. Being honest and sincere is powerful.

While SEO copywriting can get people on your page, there isn’t a point unless those clicks convert to new clients. This is w

here writing from the heart comes in. Search engine optimization for psychotherapists can help you get more clients, but only if your content resonates with the people who land on your page.

Give yourself a day to reset your brain.

image of a confused brain trying to figure out which seo keywords to use

Writing from the heart is only the first step in incorporating SEO keywords naturally into your content. I find it helpful to write a blog post or webpage and then put it down for a day. Come back to it and find those places you can “sneak” in keywords. Switching up counseling and therapy for example can help you rank for both words! Your copy CAN have flow and style while still having great SEO. Sometimes you just need to get your brain out of therapist mode and into SEO mode. Think about what your ideal client might be typing into Google to find the help they are looking for. Put yourself in their shoes and remember that incorporating keywords into your copy and content is truly helping your ideal client. Perhaps they’re not ready for therapy yet, but are looking for a blog post that resonates. That is powerful!

Approach SEO keywords as a puzzle.

My personal favorite way to incorporate SEO keywords while copywriting is to approach it as a puzzle. Make it a word game where you try and fit in keywords wherever you can. When you approach it as a game and not a chore, that mindset shift makes a big difference in how frustrated you may get. I love the challenge of using as many keywords as possible, while still having the style and flow that I desire. There are so many words associated with counseling, see how many you can use! You likely enjoy word games (have you started playing Wordle yet, or is it just blowing up your Facebook feed?) so make SEO optimization simply another fun game to play!

Consider copywriting for SEO with Simplified SEO Consulting!

If you’re still struggling with incorporating keywords into your web content, it might be time to consider SEO copywriting from Simplified SEO Consulting. Our mental health SEO specialists love taking your words and optimizing them for SEO. If you don’t have the capacity to put words to a computer screen, fret not! We’ve got you covered at our SEO consulting firm specializing in SEO for therapists, psychiatrists & other mental health professionals. We love writing for mental health professionals like you.

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