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What is List Management?

In the world of SEO, there are many strategies to improve your private practice SEO.

A close up of. aperson typing on thier phone while sitting at their laptop desk. Learn how to imporve private practice seo and local seo for therapists by contacting Simplified SEO Consulting.One of these strategies that has been around for a while is known as list management. It can be an important part of improving your local seo strategy, but what does it actually mean? Today, we are going to discuss what exactly list management is, why it is important, and how it can benefit your private practice.  

What is List Management?

List management involves collecting important information about your site and ensuring it is the same info across the internet. This almost always includes elements like the name, address, and phone number of your practice. But, you can often benefit from including your hours of operation, photos of your practice if applicable, accepted forms of payment, etc.

As you can expect, collecting accurate info about your own practice may not sound like too difficult a task. However, the hard part comes in the form of making sure this information is accurate, regardless of where you see it on Google. In short, list management can help you manage the information of your practice across every directory that has your site’s info. Using a list management tool like SEMRush can help you distribute your practice data across multiple creditable citation websites. List management also involves making sure that there are no duplicate listings, or existing listings with conflicting information.

What Are Citation Sites And Directories?

When talking about list management in relation to SEO, the information gathered from your website is added to sites that contain a list of other websites based on different categories, specialties, or locations. These are directories and “citation sites” that list your business data, and have a wide range of uses. You have likely heard of some of the most popular directories such as Youtube, Postmates, Google Business Profile, Better Business Bureau, and Best Of The Web (BOTW). 

A close up of a phone with the Google Business Profile logo. Learn how to use Google Business Profile for therapists and how it can offer support with local SEO for therapists today.Some directories may be focused on specific services like Uber Eats. But, others are focused on specific geographical locations in order to help local area businesses find potential clients, like Nextdoor. There are many different kinds of directories, but you must also be mindful that not every directory is going to be beneficial for your practice. It wouldn’t make sense for a private practice to be listed on a directory like Postmates, so making sure your practice is listed on a variety of directories that are applicable to the services you offer is important. 

Why Should I Care About List Management?

List management is vital to ensure the information of your business is accurate no matter what site or directory a potential client may find it on. It plays an important role in establishing authority and a positive reputation with Google, which can influence your placement in the search rankings. Plus, many private practice owners likely don’t have the time to ensure their business information is being corrected on each directory their site is listed on. 

As a practice grows along with the number of directories it is listed on, it can become even more difficult to keep up with all the manual changes you would need to make to keep consistent NAP information. Using list management can help reduce the tedium of checking in on each directory. By using a tool like SEMRush, you can ensure that every directory your site is being listed on has the same, updated, consistent information. You can also update your business information in one place, and have it distributed to each directory on your behalf instead of updating each directory yourself.

How can list management help my practice?

While you may have been unfamiliar with what list management is before today, it can still offer support for many private practice owners. Providing accurate information about your practice will help make you more discoverable than other sites with incomplete or inconsistent information. This is why it can be helpful to ensure your practice is listed on both major, trusted directories such as Apple Maps or Facebook and smaller, location focused directories like 2FindLocal and AroundMe. Regardless of the directory, ensuring your information is accurate across all the directories your site is linked to is vital.

List Management and Local SEO

There are many different types of directories, and many can help your practice become more prominent on a local level. However, this is only applicable to practices that offer in-person services, since the service area for online only practice is often harder to pinpoint. Showing up with accurate information on directories such a Google Business Profile for therapists makes it so much easier for potential clients in your service area to find and contact your practice. Having consistent information can also help drive more traffic to your site when people see your directory listing. Plus, it can also 

Finally, it is also worth noting that not all directories are credible. You never want to pay for something that will promise you a large number of high quality backlinks. This could be seen as a black hat SEO tactic which is often seen as unethical. Worse, it could also tank your site’s authority and reputation with Google as well.

Start Improving Private Practice SEO with List Management Services from Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team understands that it can be difficult to keep up with the directories your practice is listed on, let alone start finding directories to list your site on. This is why we are happy to offer support with a list management baseline report for your practice. We are also happy to offer a variety of services to support your private practice SEO. You can start your SEO journey with Simplified SEO Consulting by following these simple steps:

  1. Apply to work with us to improve your SEO
  2. Meet with an SEO specialist 
  3. Start improving your online presence and trust with Google!

Other Services Offered with Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team knows there are many aspects of SEO that you may need help addressing to improve your private practice website. This is why we offer a variety of SEO services including our Done For You SEO Servicesand DIY Online SEO Courses. We also offer a 12-week Done With You Intensive SEO Program. Visit our blog to learn more valuable SEO info today!

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

Sterling Humburg-Cage graduated from the University of Missouri with a BA in Psychology in 2020. He has integrated 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, finding solutions to some of the more technical aspects of SEO, and responding in a timely manner to client concerns.  Since he started, Sterling has met frequently with our alumni and provided them with extra problem-solving support. He now provides additional support with a variety of local SEO services. He often goes the extra mile to do outside research. By doing so, he 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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Why Creating High-Quality Content is Important for SEO

What is High-Quality Content?

High-quality content on a website is content that is valuable, relevant, and useful to the target audience. It should be well-written, engaging, and informative, and should provide a positive user experience. Creating high-quality content that relates to your ideal client is crucial for effective SEO.

It can help attract and engage your target audience to your website. You want potential clients to stay on your website and view your content. By creating high-quality content you will be giving potential clients helpful information that they want to read. Thus they stay on your website longer. 

Some helpful characteristics to remember when it comes to high-quality content are relevance, depth, originality, and clarity. On relevance, you want to make sure the topic you are focusing on is relevant to your website as well as your intended clients. Depth helps give more credibility. You focus on providing detailed information rather than surface-level information. Always be sure your content is original. You always want to provide a new perspective as it can help bring in more viewers. Your content should be very clear, as clarity can make it easier for viewers to understand. If your content is harder to understand they will most likely leave the site.

How to Create Content That Resonates With Your Ideal Client

Start Defining Your Target AudiencePhoto of a woman writing something in a notebook at her desk. If your looking to begin attracting your ideal clients, discover how creating high quality content can help you.

Be sure to create content that relates to your ideal client. You want to create content that focuses on the clients you are wanting to see walk through your office door. This helpful high-quality content will help potential clients determine if they see an interest in your services. Or if your content is interesting to them and they want to learn more. 

Be Sure You Are Using The Right Keywords

When creating high-quality content, an important component is identifying the keywords your potential clients are searching for. By identifying and incorporating these keywords you are ensuring that your potential clients are finding you and connecting with your website. These keywords are also very helpful as they help improve your search engine rankings. As you rank higher for the keywords you are using you will begin to attract the right audience to your website. Clients will begin to find the content they are looking for and may begin to convert into your client.

Be Sure To Create A Strategy With Your Content

Creating a content strategy is helpful when creating high-quality content. It helps you stay focused on your goals and ensure that your content is relevant, valuable, and useful to your ideal clients. You want to be sure that the content in your pages and blog posts is providing valuable information and knowledge as it helps build trust and credibility with your audience, as they come to recognize your practice, services, and what you stand for. Always try and post your blog content consistently as it provides fresh updated content and keywords. These both help drive more traffic to your website and increase your online visibility.

Photo of a man using his laptop representing how creating high quality content can help improve your seo ranking and bring in your ideal clients.Be Sure You’re Optimizing Readability

Creating high-quality content can seem like a challenging project. But one crucial part of your making sure your content is high quality is readability. When readability is hard to read, potential clients and viewers might not stay on your site and read your helpful content. Always make sure that your content is easy to read and understand.

Be sure to have short paragraphs and use subheadings to break apart large sections of text. Readers may be overwhelmed when they see a large amount of content without it being broken up. Another way you can help break up text and keep your audience engaged is by adding photos or videos. Photos and videos can help display context to what your content is about. Visual aids often help keep readers on a site. Check out Hemingway, a free website you can use when making sure your content is readable.

Be Sure to Always Encourage Engagement

Your content is important. When you are finished with your subject always be sure to include a call to action (CTA). A call to action is how you will most likely have your potential clients contact you or even convert into actual clients. By including a call to action you are giving the reader a place to address their mental health struggles and contact you to help overcome their struggles. Another way to promote engagement is by leaving a space for readers to provide comments or share their thoughts on the subject is also helpful. Both of this help build a community around your content and improve its relevance to your ideal client.

Photo of a man typing on his laptop. This photo represents how high quality content can lead to a higher search engine ranking.

High-quality content can be very crucial to your website for both search engines and for finding your target audience. By producing your high-quality content you will begin to rank higher on search engine results and gain the like, know, and trust factor with search engines.

This type of content will most likely be read by those who are looking for the type of content you are writing, and possibly turning these readers into your clients. By following these steps and continually refining your content creation process, you can create high-quality content that resonates with your ideal client and helps drive traffic, engagement, and conversions.

Apply To Work With Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team at Simplified SEO Consulting wants to help you get your website ranking so you can begin interacting with your ideal clients. With our guidance and support, you will have the right clients calling your practice to get started with your services. To start your SEO journey with our Simplified team follow these three simple steps:

  1. Apply to work with us on your SEO
  2. Meet with one of our Skilled SEO Specialists
  3. Begin creating high-quality content to improve your SEO!

Other Services Offered With Simplified SEO Consulting

Looking for a different way we might be able to support you when it comes to finding your ideal client? Our team at Simplified wants to support you no matter what your SEO journey is. We offer support in both our Done For You SEO Services and DIY Online SEO Courses. Simplified SEO Consulting also offers a 12-week Done With You Intensive Program. Check out our blog for more helpful tips and guides to SEO!

About The Author:

Photo of Brianna Joplin, a mental health SEO specialist who offers SEO for therapists at Simplified SEO Consulting.

Brianna is a Mental Health SEO Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting. As an SEO Specialist, Brianna enjoys optimizing client websites and interacting with them to help them achieve their SEO goals for their website. Her main goal while working with Simplified clients is to ensure they enjoy their SEO journey as well as to help them understand how the SEO process works. She hopes to inspire clients during the SEO process as well so they can begin working on their websites too!

Looking for extra support? Schedule a consult with the consulting team to see who can help you and how.

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What are the Best Practices for Healthcare SEO?

In the digital age, healthcare practices are recognizing the immense potential of effective SEO strategies to enhance their online presence and reach a wider audience. While the field of healthcare is focused on providing quality care, it’s essential to understand that a strong online presence is crucial for connecting with potential patients. This article delves into the world of healthcare SEO, exploring its nuances and benefits for practices aiming to thrive in the competitive digital landscape.

How Healthcare Practices Can Benefit from Effective SEO

Healthcare practices, just like any other business, can greatly benefit from a well-executed SEO strategy. By optimizing their online presence, healthcare providers can connect with patients who are actively searching for their services. A robust SEO approach can lead to increased website traffic, improved visibility in search engine results, and ultimately, more patient appointments. In a field where trust and credibility are paramount, SEO helps practices build their reputation and establish themselves as reliable sources of information and care.

Understanding Healthcare SEO

Defining Healthcare SEO and Its Importance

Healthcare SEO involves employing specific strategies to enhance a medical practice’s visibility in search engine results. Unlike general SEO practices, SEO strategy for the healthcare industry focuses on tailoring strategies to the unique needs and requirements of the healthcare industry. It’s all about ensuring that when individuals search for medical information, treatments, or local healthcare providers, your practice is among the top results they see. This visibility is vital in connecting patients with the care they need and in establishing your practice as a trusted resource.

Key Differences Between Healthcare SEO and General SEO

While the core principles of SEO remain consistent across industries, there are nuances that set healthcare SEO apart. Healthcare-related searches often carry a distinct sense of urgency and concern, requiring a specialized approach to content creation and keyword optimization. Additionally, healthcare providers need to navigate strict regulations surrounding patient privacy and medical information, making compliance a critical consideration in their SEO efforts.

How SEO Fits into Healthcare Marketing Strategies

In the modern healthcare landscape, a well-rounded marketing strategy includes both traditional methods and digital techniques. SEO seamlessly integrates into this approach by ensuring that your online presence aligns with your overall brand and messaging. It’s a way to amplify your marketing efforts and extend your reach beyond traditional advertising methods. By optimizing your website and content, you’re essentially providing patients with a valuable resource that addresses their questions and concerns.

Components of an Effective Healthcare SEO Strategy

Comprehensive Keyword Research: A Foundation for Success

The heart of any successful SEO strategy starts with keyword research. For healthcare practices, this involves identifying the specific terms and phrases patients use when searching for medical information or services. By understanding these keywords, you can tailor your content to address patients’ needs directly, positioning your practice as a relevant and authoritative source.

Optimizing On-Page Content: Creating Valuable and Informative Pages

Every page on your website presents an opportunity to engage visitors and showcase your expertise. Through on-page optimization, you can create informative and user-friendly content that resonates with patients and search engines alike. This includes incorporating relevant keywords, structuring content with headings and subheadings, and ensuring that your pages load quickly and provide a seamless browsing experience.

Building High-Quality Backlinks: Establishing Authority and Trust

Backlinks, or incoming links from other reputable websites, play a crucial role in healthcare SEO. They serve as endorsements of your practice’s credibility and expertise. By cultivating relationships with other trusted healthcare sources and sharing valuable content, you can naturally attract high-quality backlinks that elevate your practice’s authority in the eyes of search engines and patients.

Analyzing the Results and Impact of Healthcare SEO Strategy on Private Practice Growth

By implementing an effective SEO strategy, the functional medicine practice experienced a notable rise in website traffic and engagement. Patients searching for functional medicine services in their area consistently found the practice among the top search results. This increased visibility translated into more appointment requests and ultimately contributed to the practice’s growth and success.

A person holds a tablet while a graphic with SEO and a graph appear. Looking to understand the most effective SEO strategy for the healthcare industry? Our specialists can teach you about healthcare SEO. Visit us today!

Avoiding Common SEO Mistakes in Healthcare

While the benefits of healthcare SEO are clear, there are also potential pitfalls that practices should steer clear of. One common mistake is keyword stuffing, which involves overloading content with keywords in an attempt to rank higher. However, this approach can lead to content that feels unnatural and unhelpful to readers. Instead, focus on creating valuable, informative content that genuinely addresses patients’ concerns.

Ensuring Accurate and Relevant Information

In the healthcare industry, accuracy is paramount. Avoid sharing medical information that isn’t substantiated or verified by reputable sources. Misleading information not only damages your practice’s reputation but also poses potential risks to patients seeking reliable guidance.

Addressing Outdated or Unwanted Pages: Best Practices

As your practice evolves, your website may accumulate outdated or irrelevant pages. It’s important to regularly review and update your content, removing pages that no longer serve a purpose. Implement proper redirects to guide visitors to relevant pages and avoid leaving broken links.

Unethical or “Black Hat” SEO Strategies

It’s important to know that quality does matter when it comes to SEO. There are many people who have made money from SEO strategies that are NOT in line with Google’s guidelines and this can hurt your overall search engine rankings. Therefore, it’s important to ask questions about the ethics of SEO techniques if you ever have questions and ask about the ethics of whatever SEO agency you hire.

Understanding Google’s Recommendations for Optimal SEO

Google, being the dominant search engine, provides guidelines and recommendations to help websites achieve optimal search engine visibility. It emphasizes the importance of creating content that genuinely benefits users and delivers relevant information. Adhering to these guidelines ensures that your practice’s online presence aligns with user intent and offers valuable insights.

Avoiding Keyword Stuffing and Unnatural Practices

Google’s SEO quality guidelines specifically discourage keyword stuffing, a practice that attempts to manipulate search rankings by overloading content with keywords. This not only results in poor-quality content but also negatively impacts user experience. Instead, focus on creating content that naturally integrates relevant keywords and provides meaningful information.

Ultimately, you’re creating content for real people. Google cares about that. Patients who visit your website care about that. Make sure it’s your top priority as well. And that brings us to our next point…

Creating User-Centric Content That Aligns with Guidelines

User-centric content aligns with Google’s emphasis on user experience. Craft informative articles, blog posts, and resources that genuinely address patients’ questions and concerns. Prioritize content quality over quantity, and ensure that your content serves as a valuable resource for those seeking healthcare information.

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) and Its Role in Healthcare

Defining SEM and Its Distinctiveness from SEO

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) encompasses various paid advertising methods that promote your practice’s online visibility. While SEO focuses on organic methods to improve search engine rankings, SEM involves paid advertisements that appear above or alongside search results. This distinction allows you to target specific keywords and demographics to reach your ideal patients.

How SEM Can Complement Your Healthcare SEO Strategy

When used strategically, SEM can complement your healthcare SEO efforts by providing immediate visibility in search results. While SEO requires time to gain traction and climb the ranks, SEM allows you to appear at the top of results almost instantly. This dual approach ensures that your practice is visible to patients whether they’re seeking immediate care or conducting thorough research.

Looking to incorporate other parts of SEM along with an effective SEO strategy? Simplified SEO Consulting has other digital marketing agencies that we refer to for other types of digital marketing including Google Adwords and Social Media ads.

Staying Up-to-Date with Search Engine Algorithm Changes

The Evolving Landscape of Search Engine Algorithms

Search engine algorithms are dynamic and subject to changes over time. Google regularly updates its algorithms to enhance search results and improve user experience. As a healthcare practice, staying informed about these updates is crucial to maintaining your online visibility and adapting your strategies accordingly.

Adapting to Algorithm Updates and Changes

Algorithm updates can impact your search engine rankings and visibility. By staying proactive and informed, you can adapt your SEO strategies to align with the latest changes. Regularly monitor industry news and Google’s official communications to ensure that your practice remains in step with algorithmic shifts.

The Role of Voice Search in Healthcare SEO

Voice search is an emerging trend that’s transforming the way patients seek healthcare information. With the rise of virtual assistants and smart devices, individuals are increasingly using voice commands to search for medical advice, symptoms, and nearby providers. As a healthcare practice, embracing this trend can give you a competitive edge in reaching patients through voice-enabled devices.

Crafting Conversational Content for Voice Search Optimization

Voice searches are often framed as conversational queries, meaning that users ask questions as if they’re having a conversation. To optimize your content for voice search, create articles and resources that answer common healthcare questions in a natural and conversational manner. Anticipate the queries patients might voice and provide concise, informative answers.

Ensuring Your Practice Website Is Ready for the Voice Search Revolution

As voice search continues to shape healthcare queries, it’s essential to ensure that your practice’s online presence is voice-search-friendly. This involves adopting a question-and-answer format in your content, integrating natural language, and focusing on concise yet comprehensive responses. By catering to voice search, you position your practice as a trusted source for patients seeking quick and accurate medical information.

The Ongoing Journey of Healthcare SEO Success

In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare marketing, SEO remains a cornerstone of success. By implementing a strategic and tailored SEO strategy for the healthcare industry, your practice can unlock its full potential in reaching patients who need your services. Whether you’re a functional medicine doctor, a chiropractor, a therapist, or any other healthcare provider, the principles of effective SEO apply.

Empowering Private Practices Through Effective SEO Strategies

As a private practice owner, you hold the power to empower your practice through effective SEO strategies. By embracing the intricacies of healthcare SEO, optimizing your online presence, and staying attuned to industry trends, you can position your practice as a reliable source of care and information. Remember that SEO is not just about rankings—it’s about forging meaningful connections with patients and guiding them on their healthcare journey.

Your Next Step: Embrace SEO to Thrive in the Digital Healthcare Landscape

The journey towards effective healthcare SEO begins with embracing the power of digital marketing. As patients increasingly turn to the internet to find healthcare solutions, optimizing your practice’s online presence becomes a necessity. By applying the principles of SEO tailored to the healthcare industry, you’re not only enhancing your practice’s visibility but also making a meaningful impact on the lives of patients in need. Don’t wait—take the first step towards optimizing your healthcare practice for success in the digital age.

Here at Simplified SEO Consulting, we began when a group psychotherapy practice owner from Missouri started offering her SEO services to other mental health professionals. As we grew, we slowly started working with clients who had other specialties such as psychiatrists and SLPs. Then, after working on SEO for functional medicine doctors at a couple of practices, we realized that more general healthcare SEO was an area we wanted to expand on outside of just mental health SEO. We’ve fine-tuned our signature SEO services to really fit the needs of healthcare private practices. And we’re here to help.

So, if you’re ready to optimize your healthcare practice for search engines, you can begin by scheduling a free Zoom consultation with one of our SEO specialists. A member of our team will take a look at your website, ask you a few questions about your goals for growing your business, and discuss which of our SEO services would make the most sense for your practice at this time.

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Trending and Upcoming SEO for Therapists: Practices to Use for Your Mental Health Business (and Why!)

1. Using Artificial Intelligence to create SEO for Therapists’ Websites

Image of a rocket with the text " Simplified SEO". If you're looking to BOOST SEO for therapists, reach out to simplified SEO consulting today!

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how people interact with online content. An algorithm in Google’s AI arsenal that is particularly noteworthy is its RankBrain. It was released several years ago and has become an integral part of Google’s search engine ranking system over the past few years. RankBrain is capable of understanding and interpreting the context behind a user’s search query. That results in more relevant search results! This means that users are more likely to find what they are looking for faster. Making it easier to navigate the web and find the information they need. Over 8.5 billion searches are conducted on Google every day, which amounts to a total of 99,000 searches every second.

That’s a lot of people asking Google the same question over and over again – “How do I get out of this infinite loop?!”

 

2. Adapting to Voice Search Technology when Creating SEO for Therapists

Image of phone showing "Google the best therapists on Mars". If your business needs a little SEO help, we can help! We excel in SEO for Therapists, coaches and all those working in mental health field!

The popularity of voice search technology has soared in recent years thanks to technology like Google Assistant, Apple Siri, and Amazon Alexa. Voice search technology is changing the way people search for information and products. It is important to use long phrases that people use in their everyday conversations to have the best results in voice searches. In fact, 55% of homes are expected to have a smart speaker by 2022.

Make sure your keywords are relevant for voice search marketing. You can find long phrases that people use in everyday conversation by looking at how they speak. Longer, more natural phrases tend to produce better results in voice searches.

Fun Fact: In 1952, the first voice recognition device was created by Bell Laboratories and they named it Audrey.

 

3. Target Mobile Versions of your Site 

Image of a person looking at a phone and a computer representing the clients and help you could get from Simplified SEO Consulting. We help with SEO for Therapists!

In today’s search engine world, Google indexes websites based on their mobile versions. That means they look at the mobile versions primarily rather than the desktop versions. Mobile traffic is currently more than 50% of all web traffic. 73% of internet users will be able to access the internet only using a mobile device by the year 2025, so this change is quite logical.

You can assess your mobile site’s effectiveness using Google’s mobile-friendly test. You can also check out the “mobile usability” report in Google Search Console. Googlebot will also not load content that requires user interaction, like clicking or swiping.

Fun Fact: In December 2022, Google is projected to have handled around 84.08% of global searches. Bing and Yahoo handled 9% and 2.55%, respectively.

SEO for Therapists & Counselors Made Simple!

To begin working with Simplified, follow these three simple steps:

  1. Book a Session with Simplified SEO Consulting
  2. Learn about SEO Consulting for Therapists
  3. Take a breath and relax, knowing your SEO is handled!

Other Services at Simplified SEO Consulting:

We can also help if you need other types of support! We offer a variety of training options to meet your needs, including a 12-week training program, small group intensives, and courses. If you are ready to start using SEO, or you are planning to move your site or redesign your site, then the strategy session may be an excellent option for you. We can also assist you with our Done for You Program if you want to work with a dedicated and skilled team of professionals.

About the Author

Being an avid supporter of therapy, in addition to being an avid learner and a technology lover in general, Amber fits right into the Simplified SEO team. She has an HR Certificate, a Bachelor’s in Psych, and is enrolled in a Master’s program in Psychology. Among her many responsibilities is her active involvement in her local nonprofit organization, The STARS Foundation, where she serves on its board, volunteers, and takes her daughter to many fine arts classes and activities. Spending time with her family is one of her greatest pleasures. She has a spouse, a daughter, three spoiled dogs, one farm cat, and a few chickens. She lived in the city before moving to Missouri (where chickens were definitely not permitted!) and feels fortunate to be able to experience many different types of lifestyles at such a young(ish) age.

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How to Write An SEO-Focused Google Business Profile Update

Your Google Business Profile (formally Google My Business) offers many ways to inform potential clients about updates to your practice, and is helpful to those that may benefit from your therapeutic services. Thankfully, creating the best Google Business Profile post is easier than you may think. But, it can still take time to highlight each important element of an effective GBP post. In this post, we are going to go through how to write an effective SEO-focused Google Business Profile update. 

Focusing Your Google Business Profile Update

Before even starting your GBP post, you need to have a clear understanding of what the post is going to be about. Google Business Profile updates only allow for a certain number of characters, so brevity is vital. Updates must be under 1,500 characters (not words), which means each post will generally have one main focus. You can first start improving SEO for private practices by highlighting specific topics related to your practice, or services your practice offers. An image of a blank Google Business Profile update. Learn how to improve private practice SEO with updates to your lisitng. We offer support with your Google Business Profile in counseling and more.

Effectively Sharing Information

Google Business Profile updates can be a great way to share information from your blog posts or service pages that can help generate more interest in the content of your site. You can take a little fact or tip from a blog post or page and describe the steps in your GBP update. You can also provide a link to the page you are referring to, and pick out a photo to help catch the viewer’s eye. Or, you may also decide to promote new services you offer and provide more information about your practice.

In addition, you can also use these updates to let folks know about upcoming events your practice may be involved in within your community. Updates that are focused on a specific location can often benefit from references to notable location indicators in the area, such as:

  • Local parks
  • Hiking trails
  • Local landmarks
  • Local structures (banks, hospitals, libraries, post offices, etc.)

It can be difficult to strike the right balance between keeping posts brief but informative. But, writing posts that are under 700 characters can be good practice for getting your point across quickly. Using lists like the one above can be an effective way to cut down on your character count, describe steps to a process, or address multiple points.

Sharing your Surroundings

Not every post may be as focused on location as others. But, working in references using keywords that are location specific can be a great way to incorporate useful local SEO info within your post. This may include keywords such as “anxiety therapist in *insert service area here*”, “trauma therapist near me”, or “eating disorder therapist in *insert service area here*”. The specific keywords will vary based on your private practice SEO goals. But, the general rules still remain the same, and the same precautions must be taken when using keywords. In particular, it can be easy to focus too much on keywords like these, and force them into the post unnaturally.

Including location references to Google Business Profile updates in a natural way can take time.

Creating posts and looking at examples of other similar updates can offer a great way to see what works, and what doesn’t. GBP updates can help Google understand where exactly your practice is located and the services you are focusing your private practice SEO efforts on. Here is an example of a Google Business Profile update that introduces a new therapist while still referencing the location, and the services they offer.

An example Google Business Profile post showing how to improve private practice SEO. Learn more about using your Google Business Profile in counseling today for support.

Choosing the right photo

In this example, it makes sense to include an image of the new clinician. However, when it comes to deciding on the best photo for your post, it is best to choose something that relates to your topic in an uplifting, or outcome-oriented way. Google has strict guidelines it requires posts to follow. Images that depict things that go against their community guidelines may cause your new post to get taken down from your listing. So, it is important to review them to get an idea of what may be seen as prohibited content. 

Addressing Google and Content Guidelines

Sometimes, Google will delete your post due to something going against their guidelines around updates. While this can be discouraging, it shouldn’t stop you from creating new posts. Google loves to see consistent upload schedules, and you can always try to reword the post to exclude the part Google may deem inappropriate. For some therapists, this may be a harder battle than others due to the nature of the services they offer. For example, a sex therapist will have to be more mindful of the language they use in order to establish context for Google to avoid having their GBP updates taken down.

In Conclusion

A message that a Google Business Profile post was taken down suggesting to review the content policy. Learn more about improving SEO for private practices through GBP updates. Simplified SEO Consulting can help address private practice SEO today!Putting each of these pieces together to create effective SEO-focused Google Business Profile updates is easier said than done. But, with time and practice, the process can be a fun and fulfilling way to make the most of updates to your practice. It is also worth stating that linking back to the specific blog or page you’re referring to is a very important part of the process! Make it as easiest as possible for people to reach your site. Doing so will go a long way in helping your practice get discovered on a local level. For most posts, you will likely want to choose the “learn more” button even though it is optional. This will allow you to include the link to the specific page on your site you want to go.

Begin Improving Private Practice SEO with Simplified SEO Consulting

Creating effective posts can take time. Our team of SEO specialists would be happy to offer support in capitalizing on each and every update. All while supporting your organic SEO presence as well. We offer a variety of services to support you and help grow your practice on a local level. You can start working with us by following these steps:

  1. Apply to work with Simplified SEO Consulting
  2. Meet with an SEO specialist.
  3. Start improving Google’s rankings and meet your practice’s goals!

Other Services Offered With Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team at Simplified SEO Consulting is happy to offer support in a number of ways. We can offer support in improving local SEO for therapists as well as DIY Online SEO Courses. We also offer Done For You SEO services, and a Done With You 12-week Intensive SEO program as well. Feel free to visit our blog to learn more today!

About the Author

Photo of Sterling, an SEO Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting that specializes in all things technical SEO!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 with extra problem-solving support. He often goes 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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How Much Should I Pay for Local SEO as a Functional Medicine Doctor?

In today’s digital age, it’s no secret that search engine optimization (SEO) plays a pivotal role in the success of businesses, including medical practices in the field of holistic medicine. As a functional medicine doctor running a private practice, you’re likely aware of the importance of having a strong online presence. However, understanding how much you should invest in local SEO services can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of options available.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of local SEO for holistic medicine practitioners and answer the burning question: “How much should I pay for local SEO?” We’ll explore the key factors that influence the cost of local SEO services, the value they bring to your practice, and why it’s crucial to view local SEO as an integral part of your overall SEO strategy. So, let’s dive in and demystify the world of local SEO pricing.

The Significance of Local SEO

Local SEO is like a puzzle piece that perfectly fits into the larger picture of your overall SEO strategy. It’s essential to recognize that local SEO doesn’t operate in isolation but is intricately connected to your broader SEO efforts. While optimizing your website for search engines is undoubtedly crucial, local SEO takes it a step further by honing in on location-specific searches. It ensures that potential patients in your area can easily find you when they’re seeking holistic healthcare services. So, think of local SEO as the neighborhood map guiding patients straight to your doorstep within the vast landscape of the digital world. It’s a vital component that complements your comprehensive SEO strategy, helping you connect with the right audience effectively.

Local SEO in the Healthcare Industry

Local SEO holds a unique significance in the healthcare industry due to its nature. Most healthcare professionals, whether they are physicians, pediatricians, speech-language pathologists, psychiatrists, chiropractors, or others, primarily serve patients within a specific geographic area. Unlike some businesses that can cater to a global audience, healthcare providers rely heavily on attracting patients from their immediate vicinity. This localized approach makes local SEO an indispensable tool for healthcare practitioners. It ensures that when someone in your community searches for healthcare services, your practice appears prominently in their search results. In essence, local SEO enables you to tap into the pool of potential patients within your neighborhood, establishing your practice as the go-to healthcare destination in your local area. It’s a strategic advantage that’s tailor-made for healthcare professionals looking to grow their practices and serve their communities effectively.

Local SEO in the Holistic Medicine Niche Specifically

When it comes to the holistic medicine niche, the importance of local SEO takes on an even more profound role. Holistic practitioners often have a unique approach to healthcare, focusing on whole-body wellness and personalized treatment plans. This approach attracts individuals who are not only seeking medical expertise but also a deeper connection with their healthcare providers.

Local SEO becomes a potent tool in this context. It allows holistic medicine practitioners to connect with individuals who share their values and are actively seeking holistic healthcare options within their local community. Whether you’re a functional medicine doctor, acupuncturist, herbalist, or any other holistic practitioner, local SEO can help you stand out in a crowded field.

People interested in holistic medicine often place a high value on trust, expertise, and a strong doctor-patient relationship. Local SEO ensures that your practice appears prominently in local search results when individuals search for holistic healthcare services. This visibility not only helps you attract more patients but also establishes trust, as potential patients see that your practice is conveniently located nearby.

Furthermore, local SEO strategies can highlight your holistic approach, emphasizing your commitment to personalized care and holistic wellness. By optimizing your online presence for local searches, you can effectively communicate your unique value proposition and connect with individuals who resonate with your holistic healthcare philosophy. In essence, local SEO in the holistic medicine niche is about bringing like-minded patients to your doorstep, fostering a deeper connection, and ultimately helping you grow your practice while staying true to your holistic principles.

Is Local SEO Expensive: The Range of Local SEO Costs

Now that we understand the significance of local SEO, let’s delve into a critical aspect of it: the range of local SEO costs. As a small business owner in the healthcare industry, you’re undoubtedly invested in growing your practice and attracting patients who align with your approach to the practice of medicine. While it’s tempting to seek out the most budget-friendly local SEO options, it’s essential to recognize that quality and expertise come at a cost. In this section, we’ll explore the various factors that influence local SEO pricing, helping you gain clarity on what to expect when investing in this crucial aspect of your online presence. So, let’s unravel the intricacies of local SEO costs and find the best approach to enhance your practice’s visibility within your community.

The Danger of Cheap SEO Services

In the world of SEO, you might come across enticing offers for cheap SEO services that promise quick results at a bargain price. While the idea of saving money is appealing, it’s essential to approach these offers with caution, especially when considering local SEO for your holistic medicine practice. Cheap SEO services often come with a significant downside – they’re usually too good to be true.

Red keys with the words scam on them. Trying to avoid scams when it comes to healthcare SEO? Our team can help you avoid those scams and teach you about local SEO for doctors. Visit us today!

List Management Services: Too Good to Be True?

One common type of low-cost SEO service is list management. These services typically charge a minimal monthly fee, often around $50, to ensure your business listings across various online directories are accurate and consistent. While this might seem like a convenient and affordable way to improve your online presence, it’s essential to recognize the limitations of list management services, especially for healthcare professionals like holistic medicine practitioners.

A couple of years ago SEO companies were marketing these so effectively that even I fell for it. Was I missing something? Could I truly get results for our clients that were just as good just by doing this? I talked to a bunch of third-party providers and they had me sold. So, we signed up for one and tested it. And I was seriously disappointed. So, we tried another. And another.

I learned an important lesson. First, list management services alone aren’t true “Local SEO.” That’s one component of SEO. Second, that alone is nowhere near enough to get you ranking well. I knew that. I was just confused by all the great salesmanship.

So, list management services or pure “Local SEO” packages aren’t bad. They’re just not effective on their own.

The Pitfalls of Cheap SEO Packages

The allure of a cheap monthly fee for SEO services can be tempting. After all, who wouldn’t want to boost their online visibility without breaking the bank? However, it’s crucial to understand the potential pitfalls of bargain-basement SEO. Many of these services lack the expertise and industry-specific knowledge needed to deliver meaningful results for healthcare professionals. When it comes to holistic medicine and the healthcare industry in general, a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work.

Bargain-basement SEO packages often aren’t doing enough to really get you results. Or, worse yet, occasionally they’re doing shady, unethical things that violate Google’s guidelines. In these more rare instances, you may temporarily get good results but then we’ve seen people end up with manual penalties or just big drops with Google’s next algorithm change. So, even if you do see some initial results they don’t last.

Unfortunately, investing in ineffective SEO services can be costly in more ways than one. Not only are you spending money on a service that doesn’t deliver the desired outcomes, but you’re also wasting valuable time that could be better spent on your patients and growing your practice. It’s frustrating to realize that the inexpensive SEO service you chose isn’t making a significant impact on your online visibility or patient acquisition.

Investing in Holistic SEO: A Smart Move

So, what’s the alternative? For holistic medicine practitioners, investing in holistic SEO is a smart move. Holistic SEO goes beyond list management and takes a comprehensive approach to boost your online presence, engage your target audience, and drive more patients to your practice. While it might come at a higher price point than cheap SEO services, the value it provides in terms of genuine results and long-term success is immeasurable.

Understanding the Value of Comprehensive SEO

Comprehensive SEO services encompass various aspects of online marketing, including optimizing your website for search engines, creating high-quality content, and implementing local SEO strategies. These services are tailored to your specific niche, ensuring that your practice stands out in a crowded digital landscape. While the initial investment may be higher, the returns in terms of increased patient inquiries and practice growth are well worth it.

The Holistic Approach: Blending Local SEO with Your Overall Strategy

Local SEO is an essential component of the larger SEO strategy for holistic medicine practitioners. It’s not just about managing business listings; it’s about creating a holistic approach that aligns with your practice’s goals and values. By blending local SEO with your overall strategy, you ensure that your online presence accurately represents your practice’s commitment to holistic wellness.

The Real Cost of Quality: What to Expect

When considering the cost of quality local SEO services for your holistic medicine practice, it’s essential to have realistic expectations. A reasonable monthly investment in comprehensive SEO can range from $750 to $2500, depending on various factors like your practice’s location, competition, and customization needs. While this might seem like a significant investment, it’s crucial to view it as an investment in the long-term success and growth of your practice. Quality local SEO is an invaluable tool for attracting patients interested in holistic medicine, and the returns it brings can far exceed the initial cost.

How much does local SEO cost per month?

The cost of local SEO services can vary significantly based on several factors. For practitioners in the healthcare industry, like holistic medicine specialists, it’s crucial to strike a balance between affordability and effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of some key factors that influence local SEO costs:

  • Scope of Services: Local SEO isn’t just about managing listings; it encompasses a range of tasks, from optimizing your Google Business Profile to on-page SEO and content creation. A comprehensive approach that addresses all these aspects tends to yield better results but may come at a higher cost.
  • Monthly vs. One-time Fee: Many local SEO agencies charge a monthly fee, which reflects ongoing efforts to maintain and improve your online presence. This aligns with the nature of SEO, as it’s an ongoing process. Be cautious of services offering one-time fees, as they may not provide the sustained effort needed for long-term success.
  • Expertise in the Healthcare Niche: When choosing an agency or specialist for local SEO, it’s vital to partner with someone who understands the unique dynamics of the healthcare industry. They should be familiar with medical SEO best practices and the specific needs of holistic medicine practitioners.
  • Location and Competition: Your practice’s location plays a role in pricing. If you’re in a highly competitive area, you may need a more comprehensive strategy, which can affect costs. Additionally, the size and competitiveness of your local market can influence pricing.
  • Customization: Tailoring your local SEO strategy to your practice’s unique needs and goals is essential. Cookie-cutter approaches may not deliver the desired results. Customization may come at a slightly higher cost, but it’s an investment in your practice’s success.

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For holistic medicine professionals, a reasonable monthly investment in local SEO services can range from $750 to $2500. Remember, local SEO is just one piece of the larger SEO puzzle. To maximize your online visibility and attract patients interested in holistic medicine, it’s essential to complement local SEO with a well-branded website, high-quality content, and on-page optimization. This holistic approach ensures that your practice stands out and thrives in the digital landscape while delivering genuine value to your community.

Can I do SEO on my own?

Certainly, you can embark on the journey of SEO by yourself. Personally, I did after starting my private psychotherapy practice and I’ve had great fun looking at it. However, let’s take a closer look at what that entails so you know what to expect. The world of search engine optimization is vast and continually evolving, making it both exciting and challenging. Here’s the deal: if you decide to go solo with your SEO efforts, you’ll need to be prepared for a significant investment—of time and learning.

The Pros and Cons of Going Solo

Pros:

  • Cost-Efficiency: DIY SEO means you won’t incur the expenses associated with hiring an SEO agency. That’s money saved, right?
  • Learning Opportunity: SEO is a valuable skill that can benefit your practice in the long run. By learning the ropes, you gain a deeper understanding of how online marketing works.
  • Complete Control: I personally love having complete control over my strategy so I see this as a huge “pro,” although to be honest, I still often consult others before making significant changes.

Cons:

  • Steep Learning Curve: SEO is complex, and it takes time to grasp its intricacies. You’ll need to invest hours in learning and staying updated with the latest trends and algorithms.
  • Time-Consuming: Implementing SEO strategies can be time-intensive, and as a healthcare professional, your time is precious. Balancing SEO tasks with patient care may become challenging.
  • Trial and Error: SEO often involves a fair share of trial and error. Mistakes can be costly, and it may take a while to see results.
  • Risk of Ineffectiveness: Without specialized knowledge of healthcare SEO, there’s a risk that your efforts may not yield the desired outcomes. SEO for holistic medicine practices demands a unique approach.

The Investment of Learning

Learning SEO is like delving into a new field of medicine. It requires patience, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge. You’ll need to educate yourself on SEO principles, keyword research, content optimization, and more. Additionally, keeping up with Google’s ever-changing algorithms is a never-ending task.

While taking the DIY route is commendable, it’s vital to recognize that the learning curve can be steep, and the path to SEO success can be winding. To truly thrive in the digital landscape and attract patients interested in holistic medicine, you may want to consider seeking support from SEO experts who understand your niche and can guide you on this rewarding journey.

Is Local SEO Worth it?

Absolutely. Local SEO isn’t a mere marketing accessory; it’s an essential tool for a private practice. Here’s why it’s worth the investment:

  • Targeted Reach: Your practice serves a specific community. Local SEO ensures you appear in local search results when potential patients in your area seek holistic healthcare. This precision saves resources and attracts qualified patients.
  • Credibility: Consistent local visibility builds trust. Patients trust Google’s recommendations, making your practice a credible choice.
  • Competitive Edge: Your competitors are likely using local SEO. Stay competitive and thrive in the holistic medicine niche by being visible where patients are searching.
  • Cost-Efficiency: Local SEO offers significant ROI when used as part of a comprehensive SEO plan. It’s a modest investment for substantial, long-term practice growth.

In essence, local SEO isn’t just worth it; it’s a crucial investment that guides your practice to success in the digital age.

How do I find the best local SEO company for my private practice?

Finding the right local SEO company for your private practice can be a significant decision. Start by seeking agencies that specialize in healthcare or medical SEO, as they understand the unique needs of your industry. Look for expertise in local SEO, as well as a proven track record of helping healthcare professionals. Additionally, consider their communication skills, their ability to tailor strategies to your practice, and whether their pricing aligns with your budget. Reading client reviews and asking for referrals can also provide valuable insights. Ultimately, partnering with the right local SEO company can significantly boost your online visibility and help you reach more patients effectively. Here at Simplified SEO Consulting, our team works to help those looking to learn about SEO for functional medicine doctors or SEO for medical practices. Schedule a free Zoom consultation to begin learning about and improving your local SEO. 

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SEO, A New Perspective: How to build your site strategically as a content area expert.

SEO, times they are a-changing!

SEO, or search engine optimization, is the process of optimizing a website in order to improve its ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). When people think of traditional SEO they generally think about optimizing your pages for specific keywords. These then show up in SERPS when people search for them. This mindset leans less toward content and more toward strategic placement of keywords in headings, subheadings, and other areas of the page in order to get Google’s attention.

While this straightforward approach has worked well in the past, times are certainly changing! More and more Google is turning its focus away from standard keyword use. It’s now about looking at the content itself to determine if there is useful and helpful information being presented along with those keywords! In effect, you need to show Google and its users that YOU are a content area expert with the information you are presenting on your site. At Simplified SEO Consulting, we understand this process and our skilled team is here to help you tap into your huge professional potential. Let’s dive in!

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Become a content area expert in your field!

One developing way to improve a website’s SEO is to position your site and yourself as a content area expert.

This can be done by creating high-quality, informative content that is relevant to the target audience and using keywords that are relevant to the site’s subject matter. Additionally, it’s important to make sure the site’s technical elements, such as its structure and code, are optimized for search engines. Building backlinks and social signals also play a role in SEO.

Becoming a content area expert in a particular field or industry takes time and effort but is well worth it.

Here are a few steps you can take to establish yourself as a content area expert:

Build knowledge:

Stay up-to-date with the latest trends, news, and developments in your industry by reading relevant publications, attending conferences, and networking with other experts in your field.

Create high-quality content:

Share your knowledge and expertise through blog posts, articles, whitepapers, videos, and other types of content that provide value to your target audience.

Promote your content:

Share your content on social media, through email marketing, and by reaching out to influencers and other experts in your industry to get your content in front of more people.

Engage with your audience:

Respond to comments and questions on your blog and social media accounts and participate in online communities related to your industry.

Continuously learn and improve to maintain your status as a content area expert:

Keep updating your knowledge and skills, and use feedback from your audience to improve your content and approach.

Being a content area expert can be beneficial for your SEO in numerous ways as well. When you position yourself as an authority in your industry and create high-quality, informative content that provides value to your target audience, it can help to improve your website’s visibility and search engine rankings.

Computer screen with SEO graphics surrounding it representing the positive SEO growth that can come with being a content area expert in you field.

Here are a few ways that being a content area expert can benefit your SEO:

Increased website traffic:

By creating valuable content that is relevant to your target audience, you can attract more visitors to your website, which can help to improve your search engine rankings.

Improved engagement:

When you provide valuable information, your audience will be more likely to engage with your content by sharing it on social media, leaving comments, and linking to it from their own websites.

Established authority:

When you position yourself as an authority in your industry and consistently produce high-quality content, it can help establish your website as a trusted and respected source of information, which can improve your search engine rankings.

Better backlinks:

When other websites and authorities in your industry see that you’re a content area expert and link to your content, it can help to improve the authority and trust of your website, which can have a positive impact on your search engine rankings.

Long-term benefits of being a content area expert:

Building a reputation as a content area expert takes time but it’s a long-term strategy that can continuously benefit your SEO and online presence.

By positioning yourself as a content expert and creating high-quality content, you can improve your website’s visibility and search engine rankings, which can ultimately drive more traffic and leads to your site.

Laptop with graphs surrounding it demonstrating the upward trajectory of SEO statistics when you become a content area expert in SEO.

General guidelines for optimizing your content as a content area expert.

Lastly, here are some general guidelines for optimizing your content in the most effective way. Optimizing your content for SEO involves several steps, and these include:

Keyword research:

Identify the keywords that are relevant to your content and that your target audience is searching for. Use these keywords in the title, headings, and body of your content.

On-page optimization:

Use proper formatting, such as headings, lists, and images, to make your content easy to read and scan. Use alt text to describe images and videos.

Meta tags:

Add meta tags such as the title and meta description tags to your content, which summarize the content for search engines and help them understand the context.

Quality content:

Create high-quality, informative, and engaging content that provides value to your target audience. The more valuable and informative your content is, the more likely it is to be shared, linked to, and rank well in search results.

Interlinking:

Link to other relevant pages on your website within your content. This will help to improve the user experience and also help search engines understand the structure of your site.

Backlinks:

Reach out to other websites and ask them to link to your content. The more high-quality backlinks you have pointing to your site, the more likely it is to rank well in search results.

Social sharing:

Encourage your readers to share your content on social media. Which can help increase its visibility and drive more traffic to your site.

Closing thoughts about SEO content area experts.

By following the steps listed here you can help search engines understand the context and more importantly, the value of your content and improve its chances of ranking well in search results and demonstrating to not only Google but also potential clients that YOU are an expert in your field!

Become a Content Area Expert with Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team works closely with therapists nationwide to optimize their SEO based on analytical metrics! If you have been searching for an SEO company that understands analytics and its real-world applications, you’re in the right place. Our wonderful team of mental health SEO specialists at Simplified SEO Consulting would love to talk strategy with you and help you get connected with the best service for you. To get started with our service follow these simple steps:

  1. Apply to Start SEO Services
  2. Learn more about our talented team of mental health SEO Specialists
  3. Start learning SEO for Mental Health Professionals!

Other Services offered by Simplified SEO Consulting

Simplified SEO consulting offers a wide range of services that can help you begin working with your people. We offer Done for You SEO Service packages, online courses, and SEO training opportunities. Our most popular course includes our “Top of Google” online course, and we have 12 weeks of intensive SEO for those who want to learn with a guide. For those looking for a more specialized package, we also offer an SEO strategy package. To get started, fill out our application to start SEO services today!

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About Mary, the Author of this SEO Article!

Mary is one of the members of our dedicated and knowledgeable SEO Specialists here at Simplified SEO Consulting. She brings with her certification in Google Analytics (Google Analytics IQ Certification). And she also understands the importance of analytics and their application. She loves staying up to date on all things analytical in order to bring clients the most informed service possible.

If you are ready to start your analytical SEO journey with us, fill out our application to start SEO services with us now. Mary and the rest of our team are ready to support you!

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What is Page Speed and How Can it Affect Your SEO?

What is Page Speed?

Can you think of a time that you’ve searched for something online and clicked on a website where the content on the page loaded slowly? Or maybe you clicked on a website that loaded immediately. Page speed is known as the time it takes for your website to upload content on a specific page. When a user clicks on your website from the search results page they expect a page to load fairly quickly. If the page is taking it’s time to load the user will more than likely return to the previous search results page and find a site that will load faster. Our goal with SEO is to ensure that users stay on your website, so when page speed is slow or lagging, users are less likely to stay.

Page speed will always be one important factor when it comes to users navigating your site easier. If users continually leave your website page due to slow uploading of content, you’re not going to have many users that will stick around and read your helpful content. 

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How Page Speed Affects Your SEO

When a user accesses your website to visit a certain page that has appeared in their search results, they expect the page to load at a fast rate. If your page isn’t loading properly the user will more than likely return to the search results page and find another link for another website that will load faster. 

This can affect your SEO as having a slow page speed also creates a higher bounce rate. The bounce rate happens when a user lands on a specific page but returns back to the search engine results page without doing anything on your site. When a page is too slow this is where the user will want to return to the search results to find what they are looking for.

Another way the slow speed can affect your SEO is when your pages are being crawled by search engines. Having a slow page speed will have search engines crawl less of your pages. This can impact the way you index your pages.

How To Improve Page Speed

A few ways you can easily improve your page speed are by compressing your photos, reducing the number of redirects on a page, and being sure to cache the pages on your site. Each of these is important to fix when it comes to your website’s performance. 

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Compressing and Optimizing Photos

When compressing and optimizing your photos you’re increasing the quality of the content on your page. Images also help with the appearance of your pages. If a photo hasn’t been compressed it will more than likely keep your page from loading as fast as it should. Compressing your photos is a super easy way to help with page speed. By using tinypng.com you can start compressing your photos more easily.

Reducing The Number of Redirects on a Page

When a page has many redirects, it can cause your page to load slowly. A redirect is typically used when a website owner needs the content from one website to be moved to another. For example, a therapist might change their practice name and have to create a whole new domain. The therapist might want to use the content from the old domain and link to it from their new domain. In this case, redirects may be necessary for your website.

Caching Your Website Pages

By caching you can ensure that the content on your website will load quickly. Caching stores data so that when using a page the server is able to access all the content quickly. When you have multiple copies of the same data, you start taking up space on your server and your website starts to slow down. By deleting the duplicate caches you are freeing up data on the server and your server begins to load the final result of the page content without going through so many steps.

How To Measure Your Page Speed

An easy way to check your page speed is to view the results with Page Speed Insights. By simply copying and pasting your URL in the box at the top of the page and analyzing the site, you can see your results for the specific page. This page is super helpful and offers insight into both Mobile and Desktop versions of your pages. The further you review, Page Speed Insights suggests to you the causes of your page lagging. It also gives suggestions to get the page to load faster. This is a helpful tool as it can quickly diagnose your page speed problems.

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Page speed can be really beneficial to your SEO. By improving your page speed you will create a better user experience to keep and maintain the users on your website. Improving the speed of your page isn’t difficult. It is something that needs to be checked on and fixed when necessary.

Learn More SEO Basics With Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team at Simplified SEO Consulting wants to help you learn the right SEO basics to help you get the right clients to view your website. With our guidance and support, you will have the right clients calling your practice. To start your SEO journey follow these three simple steps:

  1. Apply to work with us on your SEO
  2. Meet with one of our Skilled SEO Specialists
  3. Begin SEO Services for Therapists

Other Services Offered With Simplified SEO Consulting

Looking for a different way we might be able to support you? Our team at Simplified want to support you no matter what your SEO journey is. We offer support in both our Done For You SEO Services and DIY Online SEO Courses. Simplified SEO Consulting also offers a 12-week Done With You Intensive Program. Check out our blog for more helpful tips and guides to SEO!

About The Author:

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Brianna is a Mental Health SEO Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting. As an SEO Specialist, Brianna enjoys optimizing client websites and interacting with them to help them achieve their SEO goals for their website. Her main goal while working with Simplified clients is to ensure they enjoy their SEO journey as well as to help them understand how the SEO process works.

Looking for extra support? Schedule a consult with the consulting team to see who can help you and how.

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What are SEO Examples in Healthcare?

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, digital visibility has become a cornerstone for practitioners seeking to connect with patients in need. As functional medicine doctors, psychiatrists, speech-language pathologists, chiropractors, and other healthcare professionals embrace the digital landscape, the importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is undeniable. Yet, the SEO strategy for the healthcare industry can look a little different than some other businesses. While the technicalities of SEO may seem complex, understanding practical examples tailored to healthcare can shed light on its effectiveness in driving patient engagement.

The Functional Medicine Doctor’s Online Presence

In a world where patients increasingly turn to online resources for health solutions, functional medicine doctors can utilize SEO to their advantage. SEO for functional medicine doctors should include a holistic approach to SEO and include working on a number of ranking tractors. For example, by optimizing their service pages, these doctors can attract patients seeking specific treatments, such as “Gut Health Restoration” or “Hormone Balancing.” Incorporating long-tail keywords like “natural hormone balancing in NYC” empowers patients to find precise solutions for their health concerns.

Psychiatry in the Digital Sphere

With mental health awareness on the rise, psychiatrists can leverage SEO to address patients’ mental health inquiries. Crafting informative blog posts on topics like “Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times” not only offers valuable insights but also enhances search engine visibility. Utilizing schema markup for services like “Child and Adolescent Counseling” elevates search results, providing concise and informative snippets.

Simplified SEO Consulting has been working on SEO for private practice psychiatrists for years. It was a really natural evolution from working on counselor, therapist, and psychologist websites. So, we’ve fine-tuned a pretty comprehensive strategy to get psychiatrists great results. Don’t get me wrong, as psychiatrists there’s a lot more medical terminology than with the therapists we served when we started. But it’s this nice happy space between the world of psychotherapy and the wider world of healthcare SEO that we’re doing now.

The Speech Language Pathologist and Local SEO

Local SEO plays a pivotal role for speech-language pathologists aiming to connect with nearby patients. Optimizing Google My Business listings with accurate details and patient reviews ensures higher visibility in local searches. Crafting localized blog posts, such as “Effective Speech Therapy for Children in [City Name],” establishes authority within the local community and addresses the needs of potential patients.

Chiropractors and On-Page Optimization

Healthcare professionals can harness the power of on-page optimization to attract patients seeking relief from specific conditions. For example, a chiropractor can target keywords like “Sciatica Relief Through Chiropractic Care,” chiropractors can reach patients actively searching for solutions. Furthermore, strategic internal linking, such as directing readers to “The Benefits of Spinal Alignment,” enhances user experience and supports SEO efforts.

Integrating Keywords for Health Services

Tailoring SEO strategies with relevant keywords is essential. For functional medicine doctors, terms like “holistic wellness,” “natural treatments,” and “preventive healthcare” resonate with their approach. Psychiatrists can expand their reach using keyword variations like “mental health therapy,” “psychiatric counseling,” and “mind-body wellness,” connecting with a wider patient base.

Content Creation and Value

Sharing knowledge through educational blog posts establishes healthcare professionals as reliable sources of information. Topics like “Understanding Neurological Speech Disorders” provide insights into the expertise they offer. Introducing multimedia content, such as videos demonstrating chiropractic techniques or explaining psychiatric approaches, engages patients through diverse mediums.

Mobile-Friendly and User Experience

In an era dominated by smartphones, healthcare websites must be responsive and mobile-friendly. Ensuring websites adapt seamlessly to different devices enhances user experience and contributes to higher search rankings. Implementing alt text for images not only aligns with SEO accessibility guidelines but also accommodates users with visual impairments.

Analytics and Data Insights

Regularly monitoring website analytics offers healthcare professionals valuable insights into their online performance. By analyzing which pages attract the most traffic and engagement, practitioners can refine their strategies accordingly. Furthermore, assessing the effectiveness of targeted keywords helps fine-tune the overall SEO approach.

Medical Search Engine Optimization can Help a Wide Range of Medical Providers

As functional medicine doctors, psychiatrists, speech-language pathologists, chiropractors, and other healthcare providers navigate the intricate realm of healthcare marketing, the practicality of SEO becomes evident. By tailoring strategies to their respective specialties, these practitioners can elevate their digital presence, connect with patients in need, and ensure their expertise remains accessible in the vast landscape of healthcare information. SEO isn’t just about visibility—it’s about reaching those who require expert care, making it a vital tool for healthcare professionals committed to making a difference.

Search Engine Optimization with Simplified SEO Consulting

Finding the right SEO consulting provider can be daunting, as each company offers a unique approach and varying levels of expertise. Simplified SEO Consulting specializes in healthcare-specific search engine optimization strategies, offering customized solutions based on the individual needs of practitioners. By using keyword research, content creation, on-page optimization, local SEO strategies, and analytics tracking tools to monitor performance, Simplified SEO Consulting takes a holistic, ethical approach to medical search engine optimization services. With Simplified SEO Consulting, healthcare providers can reap the benefits of SEO for their business and patients alike.

To begin, find a time to join one of our SEO specialists for a complimentary Zoom consultation. During the meeting, you’ll discuss your current SEO needs and create a customized plan to help you reach more patients. With our strategic approach and comprehensive services, Simplified SEO Consulting can help your practice succeed in the digital sphere. We’re ready to help you grow your practice by helping more patients find your services & get the care they need.

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On-Page SEO for Therapists, Psychiatrists & Mental Health Providers

On page SEO is one of the most important aspects of getting a website to rank well on Google. It involves optimizing your website so that Google understands what your website is about, and ranks it higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). There are many different on page SEO techniques that you can use, but we will discuss some of the most common ones that we recommend private practice owners target in their SEO efforts in this blog post.

What is On-Page SEO?

So…let’s start with the basics. What is on-page SEO?  On-page SEO is the practice of optimizing content on your website (service pages, your home page, your blogs, etc) for search engines. I like to think of it as what you do to make it crystal clear to Google what your page is about. You’re demonstrating to Google the value your page offers to website visitors looking for information ona specific topic.

On-Page SEO as Part of Your Bigger SEO Plan

When I first started optimizing therapist websites 5.5 years ago, we were able to add a few specific service pages to a website, do a little on page SEO (even with very imperfect keyword research) and the site would start ranking well.

SEO is a bit more complicated now as more and more people in the mental health field are taking the time to create a comprehensive SEO plan. Your on page optimization should be part of a larger SEO strategy that includes keyword research, off-page optimization (link building, guest blogging, etc), local SEO (including both on and off page elements) and technical elements as well.

However, I still find that On-Page SEO is a critical piece of the puzzle. And if you do everything else but don’t do On-Page SEO, Google will come to trust your website more but won’t have a solid understanding of what your page is about. Therefore, without solid on-page SEO you’ll never rank as well as you could.

Specific On-Page Techniques Private Practice Owners Should be Using

Some on-page SEO things you may want to work on if you’re optimizing a specific page of your website:

High Quality Contentgreat content writing word cloud in a art sketchbook with a cup of coffee - business writing and content marketing concept

Great content! First and foremost, make sure you have quality content on the page that really provides valuable information to website visitors! Google likes content that is well written, relevant to the topic and comprehensive.

Title Tag & Meta Descriptions

Make sure you have a unique title tag and meta description for the page. This is what will show up in search engine results pages, which can help draw people to click on your link over someone else’s. We’ve written a lot of blog posts about this in the past including a recent one with examples of how you might write these for various pages of your site.

Headers (H1, H2 etc.)

Make strategic use of headings & subheadings. Google uses the H1, H2, etc tags to “figure out” what your page is about. Each page of your website should generally have one “H1” or title of the page. Then, the page will be divided into several H2s and possibly use some H3s.

H2s should be a short description of what’s below that. For example, on this page an H2 is “Specific On-Page SEO Techniques Private Practice Owners.” As Google would assume, the section goes on to describe specific on-page SEO techniques.

Then, you’ll notice that I am using H3s on this post to describe sub-topics. For example, this particular section has an Level 3 heading, or an H3, that reads “Headers (H1, H2 etc.).

Photo of a child on a frozen lake representing how a Canadian therapist might carefully choose a hopeful photo such as this one as part of their on page optimization plan. Carefully choosing & optimizing photos is a great on-page SEO strategy.Use Photos Strategically

Use photos to break up text and illustrate points. However, it’s important to make sure the photo file size isn’t too big as that can slow a page down. Additionally, you can get more “SEO juice” from photos if you make sure to name the photo file something relevant to the topic and include ta keyword phrase in the Alt tag for each photo.

Use Keywords

Naturally include keywords a couple of times on the page. However, make sure it’s natural and doesn’t compromise the quality of the content. I think people can get overly stressed about this. My advice is to write the page without worrying about keywords. Then, go back through the page and see if there’s a natural way to include your keywords.

Consider Readability: Is Your Page Easy to Read?

Make sure your website is easy to read. This is a huge issue we see on private practice websites. People want to fit as much information as possible into a small space. And, you really know what you are talking about. So, it’s easy to fall into the trap of using words that the average person may not understand.

When I talk about readability, some people immediately respond, “But my ideal clients are educated.” That may be true. However, YOU are the expert at mental health at the moment. So, even if they have a Ph.D, if it’s not in psychology, then they may have trouble understanding some of the words you use.

So, make sure to use language that is easy for everyone to understand and break up text with images and other visuals.

Internal Linking

If you have other relevant content on your website, link to it from the page you are working on. This is an important part of creating content that Google loves. By linking to other pages, you’re helping organize your website in a way that Google can understand. Additionally, internal Links help point people who do visit your website to other pages of your site. The more they read on your site, the more likely they are to become a client.

External Linking

This is similar to internal linking, but you will be finding other websites to link to. This will help Google understand the topic of your page and give your website “social proof” that other sites are talking about the same topic.

So, I generally recommend using one or two external links when it’s appropriate. Just make sure they are to other authoritative websites and that they open in a new window

Take On-Page SEO One Step at a Time

On-page SEO can seem overwhelming. But, the best way to tackle it is one page at a time. Just focus on making each page of your website the best it can be in terms of SEO. That way, when visitors arrive at your page, they will find helpful and relevant content that is easy to read and navigate.

This may only be one component of your SEO plan, but it’s a really important one. So, take some time to make sure key pages on your site are fully optimized. It will be worth it in the long run!

On-Page SEO Training on a Cruise This JulyPhoto of a princess cruise outside Vancouver, Canada representing the princess cruise we'll bring private practice owners on from LA to Hawaii in July. We'll focus on teaching private practice owners on-page SEO in training sessions.

Have trouble finding the time to optimize? Or maybe you find yourself feeling stuck or overwhelmed by the process. We are offering a really unique SEO training experience this July. The number one concern we’ve heard from our training clients is that they have trouble finding the time to put into practice what we teach. So…we’re looking to solve that problem. We’re asking that you set aside a little time to focus really intently on learning these techniques, applying them and receiving quick feedback from us.

Join us for a 14-day SEO training cruise leaving out of LA, visiting 4 Hawaiian Islands and a final stop in Mexico. We’ll have ten days at sea where you’ll receive lots of training. Danica and I will go more depth than we’ve ever gone before teaching you on-page SEO techniques with real time feedback and lots of 1:1 support. Then, you’ll have the added benefit of some amazing digital marketing training and support from our friend Ernesto who is a true expert on video marketing, social media and more for therapists and mental health professionals.

Can’t make it on the cruise? We’ll be sad to miss you. We do offer a variety of other SEO training opportunities including affordable DIY courses, small group intensives each semester, various webinars on specific SEO topics & an individualized 12-week training program.

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