SEO Tips Archives - Page 13 of 21 - Simplified SEO Consulting

How Current Social Movements Can Help SEO

SEO Improvements and Current Social Movements

As a social worker, I take a lot of pride in being involved in current social movements. It’s a huge value for me. That’s the main reason I decided to pursue social work compared to being a clinical psychologist or licensed counselor. Psychotherapy alone can do enough about mental health when people are battling oppression. Consider a scenario where your client walks into your office and they want help with their depression. But the reason they’re feeling depressed is because they are unable to pay their rent after having been discriminated against. The inability to pay rent is directly related to their depression. There is only so many mindfulness techniques a therapist can do before realizing this is a systematic thing.

A recent US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health which says that “Poverty in childhood and among adults can cause poor mental health through social stresses, stigma and trauma. Equally, mental health problems can lead to impoverishment through loss of employment or underemployment, or fragmentation of social relationships.”

Social Justice as an Ethical Principle

Pride flags. This image could depict a social movement for mental health professionals to write about. 65201

Not only is this a personal value of mine, it’s also a requirement of the National Association of Social Workers for our social work professionals. This is mentioned in the Code of Ethics under Ethical Principles. “Social workers pursue social change, particularly with and on behalf of vulnerable and oppressed individuals and groups of people. Social workers’ social change efforts are focused primarily on issues of poverty, unemployment, discrimination, and other forms of social injustice. These activities seek to promote sensitivity to and knowledge about oppression and cultural and ethnic diversity. Social workers strive to ensure access to needed information, services, and resources; equality of opportunity; and meaningful participation in decision making for all people.”

Even if you’re not a social worker, as a mental health professional, it’s important to be competent in current social movements. Let me state here that, yes, being competent and writing about social movements is good for SEO. But it’s also good to be competent just as a general functioning member in society.

Additionally, using your professional privilege to talk about social movements is important. Mental health professionals usually have some sort of platform with their practice. With this platform, promoting social movements could convince others who are on the fence about taking action.

Okay, so how does this relate to SEO?

Social Movements can help with Inspiration for Blogs

Firstly, content is king. Having blogs, updated ones, is really important to SEO. When the amount of content on your site increases, so does Google’s trust in your site. Google is a smart cookie, they only give props to a site if they’re competent enough to deserve it. Not only this, but if a social movement is causing stress to one of your patients, you can relate a blog back to a service you provide. This is done many times in relation to an anxiety and stress page.

Having those hyperlinks adds lots of SEO and tells Google, again, that you know your stuff! If you’re feeling passionate about a certain topic, such as a social movement, write about it! Like I’ve said, writing is good, yes. What is more specific in helping SEO is when you’re writing about current events. This shows Google that your site is updated and competent, and you know your stuff! Using current events for inspiration for blog-writing is one great way to boost SEO.

Talking about Social Movements Helps Humanize Yourself to your Clients

Secondly, taking a stance on a certain topic can help you humanize yourself to your clients. Many of our therapists worry that their clients see them as having their lives all figured out. Let me assure you, mental health professionals still have their own battles, even when they’re guiding you with yours. It is good to let your potential clients know that you are a regular person and you keep up with movements that are happening in the world. Let them know that you, too, go home and watch the news, and you’re not actually all that different from the clients you meet with. It’ll most likely allow your clients to feel more comfortable opening up to you, if that rapport hasn’t yet been established.

Writing about Current Social Movements Can Help You Attract Your Ideal Client

Lastly, writing about a current social movement can help attract your ideal client. When you write about things that are important to you, you’re getting calls from people who also find them important. More than likely, your ideal client is feeling some way about a social movement, too. So, talk about it! These are things that affect their mental health exponentially, just like it does yours. Scheduling with clients that are similar in values with you can lead to a really productive therapeutic relationship.

Let’s Bring it all Together

Current social movements can help SEO in many ways. First, social movements can help you find inspiration to write blogs. Next, taking a stance on social movements can humanize you to your clients. Lastly, writing about current social movements helps attract your ideal client and benefits the therapeutic relationship! BOOM. Write about social movements for your next blog, you won’t regret it.

Begin Improving your SEO at Simplified SEO Consulting

If you’re ready to start improving your SEO, our mental health SEO specialists can help. We would love to help you start climbing the rankings on Google. Once this happens, you can start getting you calls from your ideal clients. This is the ultimate goal we have for you! Let’s get started:

Schedule a free consultation.
Get connected with a member of our SEO Specialist Team!
Begin climbing Google rankings and meeting your ideal clients!

Other Services at Simplified SEO Consulting

If writing content isn’t your thing, Simplified has multiple other services to provide! We offer Done For You SEO Services for professionals who are willing to let our SEO specialists take care of their SEO. We offer SEO training for professionals who are wanting to take care of their own SEO with a little help, and many DIY online courses.

About The Author

Jewel is currently part of our team as a Mental Health Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting. She helps private practice owners find their ideal client by optimizing their websites and providing direct support to clients. Jewel loves the gratification when she sees a therapist’s data increasing and their phones buzzing. As a person who puts a lot of value into mental health , she loves knowing that Simplified’s services help therapists and patients find each other to improve mental health in the world. Jewel is currently in her Master’s in Social Work program at the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare. She also interns every week at a Kansas City psychiatric hospital. When she has the time, she loves to read, volunteer, spend time with friends, and travel.

March 17, 2022/0 Comments/by Jewel Fivecoat

Why & How to Earn Backlinks as an SLP in Private Practice

Did you know that one of the most effective ways to improve your search engine rankings is to earn backlinks to your site? In fact, building backlinks is arguably one of the top 2 or 3 things you should do when optimizing your website for search engines long term. Having legitimate backlinks will help you rank higher in search engines, which means more traffic and clients for your practice. In this article, we will explore what backlinks are, why they are important for your website’s SEO, and how you can go about earning them for your private practice website.

What are Backlinks?

Simply put, backlinks are links from other websites that point to your website. These links act as “votes” for your site, telling search engines that other websites find your content valuable and relevant. The more high-quality backlinks you have, the more likely search engines are to view your website as an authority in your field, which can improve your rankings in search results.

Why Backlinks are Important for Your Private Practice Website

Backlinks are an important factor in determining your website’s authority and relevance to search engines. In fact, they’re arguably one of the top few most important things you can do to improve SEO. I think they’re particularly critical to have when you’re looking at doing a website redesign or making significant changes on your site.

When a search engine sees that other websites are linking to your content, it assumes that your website must be providing valuable information. This is why websites with a large number of high-quality backlinks tend to rank higher in search results than websites with few or no backlinks.

In addition to improving your search engine rankings, backlinks can also drive traffic to your website. When people see links to your site on other websites, they may click through to your site to learn more about your services. This can help you attract new clients and grow your private practice.

Guest Blogging

Guest blogging is a great way to earn backlinks while also getting your expertise out there. This is where you write a blog post for someone else’s website, and they include a link to your website in the post. It’s a win-win situation, as they get to publish great content, and you get a backlink.

To start, look for websites in your niche that accept guest posts. Research and brainstorm post ideas that align with your expertise and the website’s audience. Make sure your bio includes a call to action and a link to your website. Then reach out to the website owner and pitch your blog post idea. Remember that most sites have guidelines for guest blogging, so make sure to follow them. You can read more tips for guest blogging here.

I will add here that often “cold emailing” doesn’t work so well. Most people don’t want to post a blog post for someone they know nothing about. So consider starting with reaching out to other SLPs you know in private practice. Or agencies in your area that typically service children who would benefit from your services. Or mental health professionals who work with stressed-out caregivers. Maybe a physical therapist that you frequently refer to. Just think of who in your network has an audience that would benefit from your expertise. Once you have built up a few relationships, it will be much easier to get those backlinks.

Lastly, if you’re one of our clients we highly encourage you to post on our closed Facebook group that you’re willing to write a guest blog and offer a few topics you could easily write on. Remember, you don’t want to offer multiple other websites the exact same blog post. However, you could offer a similar topic that is tailored to their audience.

Resource Lists

Another way to earn backlinks is by getting added to resource lists. A resource list is a page on a website that lists out helpful resources for a specific topic. For example, a website that focuses on speech disorders may have a resource list for SLPs in private practice. To get on this list, you need to reach out to the website owner and ask if they will include your website as a resource. Make sure your website will be a valuable resource for their audience.

I’ll add here that often the same types of websites you offer a guest blog post to may also have a resource list you could be added to. However, I recommend casting an even wider net when asking to be added to resource lists. Think school resource lists, physician resource lists, hospital resource lists, etc.

Being a Media Source

Being a media source means that reporters or journalists can reach out to you for quotes or information for their stories. This can be a great way to not only earn backlinks but also to establish yourself and your practice as an authority in your field.

One way you can start increasing your reach in this area is creating a media page on your website that includes a bio, headshot, some topics you have particular expertise to talk in and contact information. Then start building relationships with reporters and journalists in your industry. Follow them on social media, engage with their content, and eventually, reach out to them to let them know that you’re open to being a source. I’ve also been known when there’s a media story related to one of my expertise to reach out to a reporter I know writes those types of stories and offer up a story or to provide my expertise. That one works out less often, but at least once I got an incredible backlink from it.

HARO Inquiries

One of my personal favorite ways to get great, high quality backlinks is responding to Help a Reporter Out (HARO) inquiries. HARO is a service that connects reporters with sources. You sign up to receive 3 emails a day full of different media inquiries from all sorts of topics. You can then respond directly to the reporter’s inquiry and if they pick your response you could get featured in the article and earn that sweet, sweet backlink.

Press Releases

Press releases are a great way to get backlinks, as well as generate some media coverage for your business. Writing and distributing press releases can help you reach your target audience and increase brand awareness. When writing a press release, make sure it is newsworthy, follow the correct format, and include relevant keywords. Then use a service to distribute it to the right outlets for maximum exposure.

Writing Amazing Content People Want to Link to

One of the easiest ways to earn backlinks is by creating valuable and shareable content that people want to link to. This can include blog posts, infographics, videos, and other media that is helpful, informative, and shareable. When creating content, make sure it’s unique, well-researched, and offers something of value. Then use social media and outreach to promote your content to your audience and potential linkers.

Directories

Directories are a great way to get backlinks and improve your Local SEO. This includes listing your website on local directories, like Yelp or Google My Business, as well as industry-specific directories, like the ASHA directory. Many list management services (like ours) can help with this, and optimizing your listings can help you rank higher in search engines.

Participate in online communities

Join online communities related to your field and participate in discussions. When you provide helpful advice and insights, people are more likely to link to your website as a source of valuable information. This also helps to build relationships, which can lead to more backlinks.

Create and share infographics

Infographics are a great way to present complex information in a visually appealing format. When you create and share infographics, people are more likely to link to them and share them on social media.

You are an expert at what you do and have so much information the general public doesn’t understand about communication. If you can break down one of those things into an easy to understand infographic that can be really valuable information people want to link to! You have extensive knowledge of various speech and language disorders, treatments, and techniques. Creating an infographic that visually represents this information could be a powerful tool for earning backlinks to your website. For example, you could create an infographic that breaks down the components of a stutter, including potential causes, common characteristics, and evidence-based treatment strategies. You could also create an infographic that outlines the various stages of language development in children, complete with age-appropriate milestones and red flags for potential delays or disorders.

By creating visually appealing and informative infographics that relate to your field (especially to your niche or favorite population to work with), you have the potential to attract links from other websites that are looking to share valuable resources with their readers. Just make sure you condense the graphics before putting them on your website. This can help you build authority and increase visibility in search engine results pages. Additionally, infographics have the potential to go viral on social media, which can further increase the number of backlinks and referral traffic to your website.

A word of caution: Great backlinks are earned, not bought

Never use any link-building tactics that violate Google’s Webmaster Guidelines. This includes buying backlinks, link farms, article spinning, and participating in any other sketchy practices. As you start to rank better, you’ll likely start to get emails that your SEO is horrible. As odd as it sounds, this could be a sign you’re getting closer to your goal of improving SEO and ranking higher in search engine results pages.

Some of those cold emails will offer to sell you backlinks. Maybe they’ll even say that you can buy backlinks with at least a specific “domain authority.” Know that domain authority isn’t a metric used by Google. It’s an algorithm created by Moz to measure link popularity. It’s not a reliable gauge of quality and can, in fact, be gamed.

Furthermore, know that buying backlinks specifically violates Google’s Webmaster Guidelines and can result in your website being penalized or even de-indexed. If you’re ever in doubt about the source of a link, do some research before accepting it!

Link Building Can Sound Intimidating at First, but IS Possible

By following ethical SEO tactics and honing your skills in content creation, you can build a solid foundation for improving the SEO of your private practice website. With the right strategy, it is possible to earn backlinks that will help you rank higher in search engine results pages, drive more traffic to your website, and improve visibility for potential clients. Good luck!

Earning backlinks as an SLP in private practice isn’t rocket science, but it does take effort and strategy. I’ve shared lots of specific strategies here. It’s normal if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed reading the whole list. I recommend starting with one link-building strategy at a time. Remember that it’s not just about getting backlinks, though. It’s about creating valuable content for your audience and becoming a trustworthy source in your industry. By doing this, you’ll not only earn backlinks, but you’ll also attract more traffic and clients to your private practice.

Professional Support for SEO for Speech Therapists in Private Practice

If you’re still feeling overwhelmed by the idea of improving SEO on your own, my team is here to help. At Simplified SEO Consulting, we specialize in supporting helping professionals such as speech therapists in private practice with their SEO and digital marketing strategies. We offer a wide range of SEO services for speech therapists including a DIY online SEO course specifically for backlinks and another one step by step guide going over many other components of SEO. Yet, our most popular service is our “done for you” program where we work really closely with practice owners but do the bulk of the work. You give us some info about your niche and we’ll take it from there!

If you want to learn more about how Simplified SEO Consulting can help you improve your SEO and get more clients, contact us today. We’d love to discuss how we can support you and your private practice!

About the Author

As an experienced private practice owner and SEO specialist, Jessica Tappana has been providing expert guidance to private practice owners for over five years. Her belief that helping professionals do their best work when they have a steady stream of the clients they work the best with led her to found Simplified SEO Consulting, where she leads a team of talented professionals specializing in SEO for healthcare providers. With a private psychotherapy practice of her own and years of experience working with mental health therapists, Jessica has honed her skills in driving traffic and boosting online visibility.

Now, she is excited to extend her expertise to SLPs in private practice, offering customized SEO services to help them reach new clients and grow their businesses. With her extensive knowledge of SEO, Jessica enjoys creating insightful content and delivering valuable tips to empower speech therapists to take control of their online presence. Keep an eye out for more helpful insights from Simplified SEO Consulting!

March 13, 2022/0 Comments/by Jessica

SEO Basics, SEO Tips

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.

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?

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.

If given the option while downloading an image choose a medium size (px | 1600 x 1066).
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

Photo of a person taking a pill 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 New York City.
Photo of a happy young black woman 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 Austin or to anyone throughout Texas through online counseling.
A person talking in an office representing talking to a therapist or other mental health professional 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
2 to 3 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 After Affair | Denali, AK 99755
Smiling Teen | Teen Counseling | Adolescent Therapy | Kapalua, HI 96761
Diverse Group | Group Therapy for Addiction | Addiction Counseling | 85054 | 85357
Prescription Bottles | Psychiatric Medication Management | Psychiatrist | 94809 | 95013

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 :

Make an appointment with our Consult Team
Take a look at our motivated team of SEO Specialists.
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!

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.

March 8, 2022/1 Comment/by Winnie Youger-Rash

SEO Basics, SEO Tips

Using Inclusive SEO Keywords

Happy people wearing gay pride flags celebrating the improvement of SEO keywords You 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 Consulting Now 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!

Book a Consult Call with our Client Success Specialist or Consult Team
Find out about our awesome team of SEO Specialists.
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.

March 3, 2022/0 Comments/by Mason Aid

Business Tips, SEO Tips

Impact of PSYPACT & SEO (Part 2)

Impact of PsyPACT and Your SEO Strategy

Now that you have a better understanding of the basics of PsyPACT, it’s important to understand how to optimize for the newly added states. It’s important to know that we recommend optimizing for one or two states over a six-month period of time. Some areas in the US are easier to rank for depending on therapist saturation and niche. The goal here is to help you better understand the impact of PsyPACT and the strategy behind SEO optimization.

Figure out what few states you want to get referrals from

Choose some states that you would like to optimize for. Be realistic with your goals as we cannot get you immediately on the first page of Google and it does take time. Consider starting with some of the easier states to rank for such as Ohio or Maryland. Then, consider picking some harder-to-rank areas such as Colorado, Illinois, and Texas. We typically recommend working on getting ranking for 1-2 states at a time to make steady SEO progress. Gradually, ranking for new areas will become easier once Google trusts you a bit more. But you may need to really throw a lot of SEO juice at the first few states you try to rank for to really help Google understand that you’re relevant in more than one area.

You also want to give some thoughts to the areas within a state that you want to rank for. There is some strategy for trying to rank in the biggest cities within the state, although those may be more competitive to rank in. Other times, therapists may want to target specific parts of the state where more of their ideal clients may life. For example, a practice specializing in maternal mental health may choose to focus on the more “family friendly” areas of the state. Once you’ve identified a couple specific parts of the state, you can refer to those areas of the state on your pages about offering online services in that state, create that area’s own landing page (not everyone does this, but it can be helpful in those most competitive areas) and/or refer casually to those areas in blog posts.

PsyPACT makes SEO a little more competitive/complicated

Know that while there is a capacity to rank in the 29 other states, with psyPACT it would take a significant amount of SEO overtime to get rankings. Therefore, it is a much better strategy to invest your time/money/energy into working on states where you know your ideal people will be. For example, if you’re trying to rank for professionals who work in the tech industry, consider where in the US these people would be. Or if you are private pay, how would you draw in your ideal people.

Do Some Geographical Keyword Research

Figure out what you want to get referrals for and then find keywords that are relevant to your search. Such as “online therapist in Georgia”. Always add a location and remember that counseling versus therapy may be different in various states. So, when talking about what services you offer in one state you may talk about “therapy” and “couples therapy” whereas in another state you may focus on “online counseling” and “marriage counseling.” So, when your targeting each individual state, figure out what the highest search volume is for keywords related to your niche in that particular state and go from there. Check out our free keyword research guide for support.

Create Individual Location Pages for PsyPACT States

Just like when you optimize for service pages, you must optimize for specific locations. One of the best ways to do this is to create individual location pages. We recommend creating a specific page of your website for each PsyPACT state you’d like to target. For example, if you decide to focus on Georgia you’d create a specific page about how you offer online therapy in Georgia. Then, create a domain slug such as online-therapy-Georgia. You can follow the same general outline as other online therapy pages you’ve written, but somewhat rewrite it on each page to be relevant to that location. So, in the example of targeting Georgia, you’d make references to Savannah and Atlanta and perhaps other parts of the state. You may even choose photos of locations in that state so you can easily reference locations in that state in your photo file names & alt text.

Maybe even consider landing pages for specific cities or areas

As referenced above, in some cases we’ve even had clients create landing pages for specific areas within a state. So, if targeting Colorado they might choose not to only have an “Online Therapy in Colorado” page but also a “Online therapy in Denver” page and an “Online Therapy in Colorado Springs” type page. Obviously, this is an even bigger time and money investment. However, it is an option we’ve seen be helpful for some people.

On each of these location pages, you can link to services certain specialists offer, sliding scale options, or references to landmarks in various cities so you can show up easier. For more information, refer to our blog on multiple locations for support.

Do not Repeat Copy, it must be Unique

Although creating several location pages may seem repetitive it’s important to know that it will hurt your SEO if you repeat content on each page. Each PsyPACT state you’d like to rank in needs to have it’s own page with truly unique content. In fact, if you’d like to rank in some of the most competitive PsyPACT states you may want to create pages specific to individual cities. But again, unique content. So, Make sure you restructure the pages so they do not read to Google as duplicate content.

Invest in SEO

After setting up your pages and laying down the groundwork for Psycpact, next to it’s important to have these pages well optimized. You don’t have to list all locations on your drop-down, but what you can do is make sure that have the pages are live, linked, and available so you can show up for various search terms. Perhaps having locations landing page and all the locations on the website linked to hidden pages will suffice. If you need more support about SEO for therapists, refer to our Comprehensive Guide to SEO for therapists here.

The Future and Impact of PsyPACT for Psychologists

PsyPACT is still in the process of adding states to their pact. However, it can have great benefits on the accessibility of healthcare for individuals. PysPACT allows licensed psychologists to practice telepsychology and/or conduct temporary in-person, face-to-face practice
across state lines without having to become licensed in additional PSYPACT states. This is a huge benefit for individuals looking for specialists and those who are unable to find a psychologist that they click with. The benefit about this that goes along with our codes and values as a profession means that this permits psychologists to provide services to populations currently underserved or geographically
isolated. Additionally, as individuals have been recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for more mental health services has become evident. Therefore, this standardizes time allowances for temporary practice regulations in PSYPACT states

If you are unsure about the impact of PsyPACT, here is a recap

Increases client/patient access to care
Certifies that psychologists have met acceptable standards
of practice
Offers a higher degree of consumer protection across the state
lines
Facilitates continuity of care when client/patient relocates,
travels, etc.
Promotes cooperation between PSYPACT states in the
areas of licensure and regulation

The impact of PsyPact and Support

We have specialists who understand the strategy behind this opportunity. While we will not guarantee you being on the first page of Google for every state, we can work through a just as beneficial strategy to get more people to click on your site and convert to clients. If this sounds like what you’re looking for, let’s work together. Our specialists would be thrilled to help you grow and reach out to people in need of accessible support. If you haven’t read part one to this, check out the impact of PsyPACT part 1.

Learn the Impact of PsyPACT and SEO Interact With US!

Are you a psychologist wanting to understand the strategy of psyPACT and SEO? We can help! Our skilled and passionate team of SEO specialists is here to make sure your SEO journey is tailored to your brand and identity. Simplified SEO Consulting would be excited to help you on your SEO journey. To get started with our service follow these simple steps:

Schedule a consult with our Client Success Specialist or Consult Team
Learn more about our wonderful team of SEO Specialists.
Start connecting better when you learn more about SEO for therapists

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 (about 3 months) of intensive SEO for therapists who want to learn with a guide. Additionally, we are offering a limited-time SEO Mastermind group if you want a great training opportunity for a steal, this is for you. For those looking for a more specialized package, we also offer an SEO strategy package. To get started, schedule a consultation with our Client Success Specialist today!

About the Author:

As an SEO specialist at Simplified, Jasmine is an SEO services consultant and helps new clients become oriented to our services. If you are ready to begin SEO services, then get in touch and schedule your free consultation today!

Jasmine Jaquess is currently working towards her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University. Currently, she is seeing clients in practice as part of her practicum. She serves as the Client Success Specialist in new client consultations with Simplified SEO Consulting. Plus she is one of our Mental Health SEO Specialists. She specializes in platforms such as Squarespace and Wix. If you’re ready to see how Simplified can serve you, schedule your next consultation. As our Client Success Specialist, see how Jasmine can support your business needs!

March 1, 2022/0 Comments/by Jasmine Jaquess

SEO Tips

EAT as a Ranking Factor

The world of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is confusing and certainly overwhelming when you first start out. And just like any other field, we use a ton of acronyms and short-hand terms. One of the common acronyms we use in discussing SEO is EAT. This stands for expertise, authority, and trust.

What is EAT?

Expertise, authority (or authoritativeness), and trust (or trustworthiness) are used as ranking factors for Google. However, there’s not really a true measure or “score” for EAT. This is more of a guideline for aspects we’d like to build in terms of the way Google views your site. And while each of the aspects of EAT are important for Google, they are even more important when evaluating user experience. So yes, we are trying to show Google that you have expertise, authority, and are trustworthy on a subject. But even more than that, we are trying to show the actual human beings reading your content the same.

Expertise

The first aspect of EAT is expertise. Your website should show that you are an expert in your respective field. So, our clients’ sites should show that they are experts in the mental health field, as well as an expert in whatever services they provide. This is where having a niche can help.

If you’ve been on a call with any of our SEO specialists, you know that we want to know exactly what kind of client you’re looking for. This is so that we can help you tailor your website content and strategy to show expertise for that specific demographic. If you can show your ideal clients that you are, in fact, an expert on the struggles they’re facing and services they need, they will be more likely to spend time on your site. And hopefully, they’ll turn into clients for your practice.

Authority or Authoritativeness

The next factor of EAT is your site’s authoritativeness. This refers to the credibility of the knowledge you share on your site. Have you heard us talk about backlinks yet? Backlinks are an essential part of building your site’s authoritativeness. Imagine if you went to a website about a health condition you were recently diagnosed with, and nobody was linking to the site and the site was not linking to any other sites. This would be cause for concern, right? You want to know that the information you’re gaining is accurate and backed up by others in the field. Gaining authority for your therapy practice’s website is quite the same.

Now, website users will not be able to easily see your site’s backlinks. This is more important for Google. If you have spammy backlinks, like from a porn site or other sort of scam site, it’s likely Google will question your site’s authority. On the other hand, if you don’t have any links on your site going to other sites, Google and readers will question your authority. A website owner who has authority on a subject will not mind referring out to other authoritative sites.

Trust or Trustworthiness

The last aspect of EAT is trust or trustworthiness. Essentially, Google wants to have a sound “conscious” when it shows searchers your website. So, your website should have accurate information about your services and the locations in which you provide those. Having an up-to-date Google My Business account and routinely responding to reviews left there can increase Google’s trust in your site. Having new and accurate content on your site can be another impactful tool to increase Google’s trust.

EAT Overview

The three aspects of EAT, expertise, authority, and trust, should be used as a guideline for creating timely, truthful, and helpful content. It should be noted that new or relatively young websites typically take longer to achieve these factors with Google. And older sites should be revamped and cleaned up to have the most relevant and applicable content. Again, EAT is not something that can actually be measured but should be kept in mind when thinking about the user’s experience when surfing your site. You can learn more about EAT as an aspect of SEO by listening to a podcast one of our team members, Danica, spoke on recently!

Are you a private practice owner in need of SEO help?

We’ve got you! Simplified was started by a private practice owner just like yourself. So know that we’ll take care of your site and your rankings. With the help of our skilled SEO specialists, your website can bring in the clients you’d truly love to work with. While SEO is so impactful, it does take time and energy. Learn more about our packages

Book a free 30-minute consultation call.
Get connected with an SEO specialist.
Begin moving up in Google’s rankings and meet your practice’s goals!

SEO Services at Simplified SEO Consulting

When you work with Simplified, you have a few different options for boosting your Google rankings. These include our Done For You packages, Done With You training program, and even DIY online courses. Speak with one of our team members to discuss the best fit for your practice needs.

About the Author

Olivia Bahr is a proud team member of Simplified. She has been helping private practice therapists across the nation (and even beyond) work on their websites to start working with the clients they love. Olivia helps the Simplified team with content writing, strategy sessions, page optimization, and more! Additionally, Olivia is currently a Master of Social Work student at the University of Denver working toward a concentration in Health and Wellness and a certificate in Human-Animal Environmental Interactions.

February 24, 2022/0 Comments/by Olivia Ferguson

Backlinks, SEO Tips

Finding Credible External Links for SEO

Okay, if you haven’t heard from Simplified and our Mental Health SEO Specialists, external links are greaaaat for SEO. Have we told you yet? Maybe a couple times?

The beauty behind valuable external links is that their presence makes Google trust you more. Providing references from your site to other credible sites boosts your site’s credibility, letting Google know that you know your stuff.

First off, what is an external link?

An external link has a multitude of names. We know, how confusing. External links can sometimes be referenced as outbound links, backlinks, or hyperlinks. You may also hear “internal link”, we’ll get to that.

Let’s clarify.

An external link is a hyperlink that forwards the user to a different page.

So, if you have an external link to Webster Dictionary for a definition of some sort, once a user clicks that external link, they will be redirected to the Webster Dictionary page.

A couple things about external links:

Internal links are also valuable for SEO. An internal link is when you are referencing another page on your own site. Whenever you use an internal link, you’re telling Google that you are competent in multiple things!
External links can be placed in text, or within images! Most likely, you will want to stick an external link into the standard text.
Simplified recommends that you have an external link pop up in a new tab. We recommend this because it leaves more time for the potential client to stay on your site.

Like I said before, external links are good for SEO. BUT, we want to make sure these links are credible. If they’re not credible, Google’s trust in your site will go down. It’s like a research paper, but for your site! How exciting.

When you’re considering credibility, consider these things:

1. Check the sources!

Does the site you’re linking to have it’s own research process? Does it reference a different research process? Are there any articles or studies or authors listed?

2. Double check the domain of the website

Domains say a lot about a site. In summary, .com, .net, .org, .gov, .edu are primarily credible domains. Secondly, io, .biz, .cn, .surf, are primarily not credible domains. Double check any information coming from these sites.

3. Screening Process for Submissions

Sometimes, websites have submissions available for tweaking information on the site. This is not inherently bad, but keep a look out on who is able to create submissions, and how many times. What does the screening process look like for them? Wikipedia is one of these tricky sites, allowing multiple submissions with a lack of screening. Sometimes, well-meaning users introduce inaccuracies. Double check any information coming from a site like this.

4. Search for information to back up what you’ve found

Verify a site’s legitimacy by comparing it to other sites. If you find a source that contradicts your original source, you may want to further investigate!

Great! If you’ve vetted your external link through this process, get that external link on your page for some SEO juice!

About the Author

Jewel is currently part of the Simplified team as a Mental Health Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting. She helps private practice owners find their ideal client by optimizing their websites and providing direct support to clients. Jewel loves the gratification when she sees a therapist’s data increasing and their phones buzzing. As a person who values mental health amongst other things, she loves knowing that Simplified’s services help therapists and patients find each other to improve mental health in the world.

Jewel is currently in her Master’s in Social Work program at the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare. She also interns every week at a Kansas City psychiatric hospital. When she has the time, she loves to read, volunteer, spend time with friends, and travel.

February 22, 2022/0 Comments/by Jewel Fivecoat

SEO Basics, SEO Tips

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 SEO

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:

Schedule a consultation here!
Meet with one of our dedicated SEO Specialists.
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.

February 20, 2022/0 Comments/by Danica Wolf

Content, SEO Basics, SEO Tips, Training

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.

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.

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.

February 8, 2022/0 Comments/by Mason Aid

Local SEO, SEO Tips

Demystifying Local SEO for Lawyers: A Comprehensive Guide

In today’s digital landscape, the online visibility of law firms, especially personal injury attorneys, is paramount. Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the key to enhancing a law firm’s digital presence within a specific geographic area. This comprehensive guide will explore the intricacies of local SEO, its significance for law firms, and how it can revolutionize your practice’s online visibility and credibility. Let’s dive into SEO for personal injury lawyers.

Understanding Local SEO in Digital Marketing

Think of local SEO as a digital roadmap for your law firm. In the vast terrain of the internet, it’s the compass that ensures your potential clients find you when they’re searching for legal services in their neighborhood.

Local SEO in digital marketing is a specialized strategy designed to optimize a business’s online presence, ensuring it ranks prominently in local search results. It involves a nuanced blend of techniques and optimizations that help businesses, including law firms, shine brightly when potential clients search for services within their geographical vicinity.

Decoding Local SEO for Lawyers

Imagine your law firm as a beacon in the night, guiding lost ships safely to the shore. That’s essentially what local SEO does for your legal practice—it ensures that individuals seeking legal services in your vicinity see your firm as a reliable lighthouse amidst the digital sea.

Local SEO for lawyers is a tailor-made approach aimed at boosting a law firm’s online visibility within its local community or service areas. It entails optimizing various facets of a law firm’s online presence to guarantee that individuals seeking legal services nearby find the firm’s website at the top of search results.

Why Local SEO Holds the Key for Law Firms

Local SEO is pivotal for law firms, and the reasons behind this assertion are compelling:

Connecting with Local Clients

In the world of law, regional expertise is your secret weapon. It’s like being a local tour guide who knows all the hidden gems in your town. Local SEO facilitates this connection by helping law firms reach clients actively seeking legal assistance nearby.

When someone in your community faces a legal challenge, they prefer a legal guide who understands the intricacies of their local area’s laws and regulations. Local SEO ensures that you’re the expert they find when they embark on their digital legal journey.

Establishing Trust and Credibility

Consistency is key when it comes to building trust. Think of your law firm as a trusted brand, like a well-known local diner. When potential clients consistently encounter your firm’s name in local search results, it fosters a sense of familiarity and reliability.

Furthermore, local SEO often involves managing and encouraging reviews on platforms such as Google My Business. These reviews act as the testimonials of the digital era, assuring potential clients that your firm is reputable and capable of handling their legal needs. This gradual buildup of trust can significantly influence their decision-making process, leading to increased inquiries and conversions.

Competing Effectively in the Local Arena

Imagine your local legal market as a bustling marketplace. There are dozens of stalls offering legal services, each trying to outshine the others. Local SEO is your way of standing out amidst the crowd, like a vibrant vendor with a unique product.

Law firms often grapple with intense competition within their local market. Local SEO provides a competitive edge by ensuring that your firm’s website captures the attention of individuals in need of legal services before others. It’s like being the magician who wows the audience with the first trick, ensuring they stay for the entire show.

Enhancing Online Reputation

Your online reputation is your digital legacy. It’s akin to the stories people tell about your firm around town. Local SEO strategies typically involve managing and encouraging reviews on platforms like Google My Business. Positive reviews from satisfied clients not only enhance your online reputation but also sway potential clients to choose your firm.

Positive online reviews act as digital word-of-mouth recommendations, much like a trusted friend telling someone which local restaurant serves the best pizza. They are more likely to trust a law firm with a history of satisfied clients.

Maximizing ROI for Your Digital Marketing Dollars

Local SEO offers an exceptional return on investment (ROI) by attracting clients actively seeking legal services. It’s like fishing in a pond teeming with hungry fish rather than casting your line into an empty ocean. These potential clients are more likely to convert into paying clients, maximizing your ROI.

Think of local SEO as the path to the treasure chest. It’s a journey that leads you to valuable leads, and the rewards keep pouring in.

The Significance of Consistent NAP Information for Personal Injury Attorneys and Law Firm Practices

Imagine you’re driving in an unfamiliar city, searching for a highly recommended restaurant. You’ve got the name and address, but the details are inconsistent—different addresses on the restaurant’s website, Google Maps, and a local directory. Frustrating, right? Now, let’s apply this scenario to the digital realm and the importance of consistent NAP information for personal injury attorneys and law firm practices.

What is NAP Information?

NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone Number. In the context of local SEO, NAP information is your digital identity. It’s the information that potential clients and search engines use to identify and contact your law firm. Accurate and consistent NAP information across various online platforms is crucial for several reasons.

Builds Trust and Credibility

Consistency is the cornerstone of trust. Just as you’d expect a business to provide accurate and consistent information, potential clients hold the same expectations for law firms. Inconsistencies in your NAP information can raise doubts about your firm’s credibility and reliability. It’s like meeting someone who keeps changing their story—it leaves you skeptical.

When individuals encounter your law firm’s information across different platforms, such as your website, Google My Business, legal directories, and social media, they expect it to match. Consistency reinforces the legitimacy and reliability of your firm in their eyes. Trust is a delicate flower; inconsistency can make it wither.

Enhances Search Engine Understanding

Search engines, like Google, strive to provide accurate and reliable information to users. To do this, they rely on cues like NAP information to understand your law firm’s identity and location. Inconsistent NAP data can confuse search engines, leading to ranking issues and decreased visibility in local search results.

Think of it as giving conflicting directions to a lost traveler. One moment, you’re telling them to go north, and the next, you’re pointing them south. The result? Confusion and frustration. Search engines aim to avoid such confusion by rewarding businesses with consistent and reliable NAP information.

Minimizes Customer Confusion

Imagine a potential client discovering your law firm’s contact information on a legal directory. Excited to learn more, they visit your website but find a different phone number listed. Now they’re puzzled. Is this the same firm? Why are there conflicting phone numbers? It’s like encountering contradictory road signs—it makes the journey confusing and uncertain.

Consistent NAP information ensures that potential clients can easily reach out to your firm without any confusion. Whether they find you on Google, social media, or a legal directory, they know they’re contacting the same reliable source for legal assistance.

Strengthens Online Reputation

Positive online reviews are the digital equivalent of word-of-mouth recommendations. They play a significant role in your law firm’s online reputation. Encouraging satisfied clients to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business is a common practice in local SEO. However, inconsistent NAP information can lead to reviews being attributed to the wrong business, diluting your online reputation.

Imagine receiving compliments for a delicious dish you didn’t prepare. It might feel nice, but it’s not helpful if you’re running a restaurant. Similarly, reviews meant for your firm should rightfully enhance your online reputation. Consistent NAP information ensures that positive reviews contribute to building your firm’s credibility and trustworthiness.

Prevents Potential Penalties

Inaccurate or inconsistent NAP information can result in search engines penalizing your law firm. These penalties can have a detrimental impact on your online visibility, causing your firm to slip in search rankings. It’s like receiving a traffic ticket for not following road signs correctly.

To avoid such penalties and maintain a strong online presence, it’s crucial to keep your NAP information consistent across all digital platforms.

NAP: The Digital Identity of Your Law Firm

Consistent NAP information is your law firm’s digital identity. It’s the contact information that potential clients and search engines rely on to find and assess your practice. Just as a solid foundation is essential for a building’s stability, consistent NAP information is vital for the stability and success of your law firm’s online presence.

By ensuring that your NAP information is accurate and consistent across all online directories, platforms, and your website, you not only build trust with potential clients but also convey to search engines that your law firm is reliable and credible. This consistency acts as a guiding beacon, leading clients to your firm and helping your practice stand out in local search results.

Does SEO Work for Law Firms in the USA?

Absolutely, SEO is remarkably effective for law firms in the USA. In the vast digital landscape, search engines are like the gatekeepers to legal services. When individuals require legal assistance, they turn to search engines to find the right attorney for their needs.

A well-executed SEO strategy significantly improves a law firm’s visibility in search results, ensuring that potential clients can easily discover and engage with the firm’s website. It’s like having a bright neon sign outside your law office, attracting passersby who need your legal expertise.

Moreover, SEO isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a versatile tool that can be customized to specific practice areas and geographic locations, making it highly effective for law firms of all sizes and specializations. By optimizing your online presence and implementing proven SEO techniques, law firms in the USA can increase their online visibility, attract quality leads, and ultimately expand their client base.

A Local SEO Checklist for Lawyers

To succeed in your local SEO strategy for your personal injury law firm, consider the following checklist as your treasure map:

Google My Business Optimization

Ensure your Google My Business listing is accurate and complete. It should include your firm’s name, address, phone number, and hours of operation. Think of it as your digital storefront—the first thing potential clients see when they search for legal services.

Local Keyword Research

Identify relevant local keywords and phrases that potential clients might use when searching for legal services in your area. These keywords are like the clues that lead you to hidden treasures.

On-Page Optimization

Optimize your website’s meta tags, headings, and content with local keywords. Provide valuable information to your audience while incorporating these keywords seamlessly. It’s like sprinkling breadcrumbs that lead search engines and potential clients to your website.

Local Citations

Ensure your law firm’s information is consistent across online directories, websites, and social media platforms. Inaccurate or inconsistent information can harm your local SEO efforts. Think of it as ensuring that your contact details are the same everywhere online.

Online Reviews

Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews on platforms like Google Business Profiles and Yelp, as appropriate and ethical for your business. Respond to reviews, whether positive or negative, professionally and promptly. Positive reviews are like golden coins—they enhance your reputation and attract more clients.

Local Link Building

Build authoritative backlinks from local sources, legal directories, and local business associations. These backlinks act as references, vouching for your firm’s credibility and expertise.

Consistent Content Creation

Regularly publish high-quality, locally-focused content on your website. Address legal topics and concerns relevant to your local audience. This content is like the stories you tell around a campfire—it keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more.

Monitor Results and Adjust Strategy

Continuously monitor your local SEO performance using tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Make data-driven adjustments to improve your results over time. It’s like having a compass that guides you in the right direction.

The Importance of an Individualized Approach to Law Firm SEO

Just like every case is unique, so is every law firm. That’s why there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to local SEO. Each firm has distinct practice areas, target audiences, and geographic focuses. Working with a trusted partner like Simplified SEO Consulting, who listens to your specific needs and tailors an individualized local SEO approach, is the key to success.

An experienced partner will understand your ideal clients, adapt to evolving search engine algorithms, and ensure that your law firm maximizes its online potential within your local community. It’s like having a legal strategy customized to the unique aspects of each case you handle.

Elevating Your Law Firm’s Digital Presence With Simplified SEO Consulting

In conclusion, local SEO isn’t just about being found; it’s about being the trusted choice for individuals seeking legal services in your area. With the right local SEO strategy, your law firm can rise above the competition, establish credibility, and connect with high-quality leads. This will result in the growth of your practice and solidify your position within your local community.

Trust Simplified SEO Consulting to navigate the complexities of digital marketing and legal services, ensuring your practice reaps the rewards of sustained success. Our team understands the intricacies of the legal landscape and the digital domain. Just as clients turn to you for legal guidance, entrust your local SEO strategy to professionals who can navigate the complex world of digital marketing, ensuring your practice flourishes and becomes synonymous with excellence in personal injury law.

In essence, local SEO is your treasure map to success in the digital age. It leads you to valuable leads, establishes your credibility, and ensures that your law firm shines brightly in your local community. With the right strategy and a trusted partner, your practice can achieve the recognition and success it deserves.

Elevate Your Personal Injury Law Firm with Local SEO!

Are you a personal injury lawyer looking to dominate your local market? Don’t miss out on potential clients! Use the power of Local SEO to boost your online presence and grow your firm. Stand out locally by ensure your law firm ranks at the top of local search results, making it easy for potential clients to find you. Ready to take your personal injury law practice to new heights? Follow these few steps!

Schedule a consultation here!
Meet with one of our great SEO Specialists.
Watch your Personal Injury Law Firm grow!

February 1, 2022/0 Comments/by Danica Wolf