The digital world holds immense potential for therapists seeking to expand their reach and impact. An important part of this online presence is SEO (Search Engine Optimization), particularly for therapists with private practices. Whether they are in-person or online. Leveraging SEO effectively, with the help of SEO agencies, can significantly boost your visibility on search engines, helping potential clients find your services with ease. This, in turn, builds your credibility and trustworthiness.

For example, in the field of psychology, people often search for terms like “psychologist near me” or “online therapy.” With the right SEO strategies in place, your website can appear at the top of these search results. Thus giving you an edge over competitors and increasing the likelihood of being chosen by potential clients. This is where working with SEO agencies that understand the unique needs of therapists can be a game-changer. They will optimize your website to rank higher in search results and attract more clients. When done right, SEO for online therapy is not just an investment, but a catalyst for growth.

What Exactly is SEO for Therapists?Shows a therapist working on his seo for online therapy with the support of an SEO agency. Represents how seo for online counseling is beneficial for therapists.

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the practice of enhancing your website and its content. All with the goal to improve its visibility in search engine results. When it comes to private practice SEO, the focus is on ranking higher for relevant keywords. These are phrases or terms that potential clients use when searching for therapy services online. By optimizing your website for these keywords, you increase your chances of being found by those looking for what you offer.

But why is this important? Well, consider how many times you turn to Google when in need of a product or service. Most people do the same, including when it comes to therapy. So when potential clients search for phrases like “online counseling” or “psychologist near me,” search engines search many websites to find the most relevant results. SEO for therapists ensures that your website is one of those top-ranking results. Which is done by making you more visible and accessible to those seeking your services.

What is Local SEO and Why is it Important for Therapists?

Local SEO further amplifies this by targeting your SEO efforts to specific regions or areas. This is particularly useful for therapists who wish to serve clients in a certain city or region. For example, if you are a therapist based in Idaho, your private practice may not be relevant to someone searching for “online therapy” in Vermont. Local SEO aims to make your website more visible to those in your area, making it easier for potential clients to find you. It also helps search engines, like Google, understand the location and context of your website.

Furthermore, local SEO is really beneficial for therapists with online counseling services. As the internet allows us to connect with people from all over the world, competition can be high when it comes to ranking for general therapy terms. By focusing on local SEO and SEO for online therapy specifically, you can attract clients from a specific location. This not only makes your SEO efforts more targeted but also increases the chances of potential clients actually becoming your clients.

Challenges Therapists Face without SEO

Marketing strategies are ever-evolving, and the rise of digital marketing has changed the game for therapists. However, you went to school to become a therapist, not a marketing expert. So, many therapists, like you, may not have the time or knowledge to effectively navigate the world of SEO on their own. Yet your website and financial stability depend on it. Without SEO, therapists may face:

Lack of Visibility When It Comes to Potential Clients

With an increasing number of people turning to search engines to help them find the right therapist, not leveraging SEO can leave you invisible to potential clients. This could result in a decrease in inquiries and ultimately, a loss of clients. For example, if a potential client in your area searches for “anxiety therapist in Idaho” and your website is not optimized for this keyword, they may never come across your services.

Relying On Expensive Marketing Strategies

Without SEO or SEO for online therapy, therapists may have to rely on traditional and often costly marketing strategies. This can be strategies such as print ads, referrals from other professionals, or even word of mouth. These methods certainly have their benefits, but they may not be sustainable or effective over time. Especially if you decide to offer new services that may not be reflected in your initial marketing efforts.

These methods can be effective, but they require ongoing investments of time and money. With SEO, however, your website can work for you 24/7. It can help you reach potential clients without the need for constant investment. Additionally, investing in SEO can provide long-term and cost-effective marketing results. You can adjust your SEO strategies as your practice and services evolve, ensuring that your website always reflects the most current version of your private practice.

Losing Clients to Competitors with Strong Online Presence

When you can look for therapists with a few taps of a button, potential clients often have multiple options to choose from. If your competitors have strong SEO strategies in place, they may appear at the top of search results for relevant keywords. This increases their chances of being chosen by potential clients over you. With the growing number of therapists offering online counseling services, it’s becoming even more important to stand out among the competition.

Investing in SEO for online counseling or private practice seo can help you rank higher and establish your authority in the field. By improving your online presence, you can also build trust with potential clients but also search engines! This can lead to more conversions and ultimately, more clients for your practice.

How Investing in an SEO Agencies is Beneficial for Therapists

With all these challenges that therapists face when it comes to SEO, investing in SEO agencies can be a game-changer. They are specialized in optimizing websites for search engines and can help therapists achieve their SEO goals. Often, they also have multiple packages to choose from, making them accessible for therapists with different budgets and needs. So, here are some key benefits of investing in SEO agencies for therapists:

Expertise and Experience in SEOShows a group of SEO Specialists working on seo for online therapy. Represents how psychologist search engine optimization save you time with support.

SEO agencies are made up of SEO Specialists who have the expertise and experience to optimize therapist websites effectively. They are knowledgeable about SEO and the ever-evolving algorithms of search engines. Your SEO specialist will help to ensure that your website stays relevant and visible to potential clients. By utilizing their skills and knowledge, therapists can focus on what they do best: providing therapy to their clients.

At Simplified SEO Consulting, our SEO specialists not only are experts in SEO but also have experience working in the mental health field. We understand the unique needs of this industry, and we use that knowledge to tailor our services to help therapists succeed online. Our specialty is SEO for therapists, and our goal is to help you reach yours.

Saving the Time and Effort for Therapists

As a therapist, your time and energy are valuable resources. Ones that are better used to help your clients. By investing in SEO agencies, like Simplified, you can save yourself the time and effort it takes to navigate SEO on your own. Instead, you can focus on providing quality therapy services and growing your practice.

Your SEO specialist will be in charge of meeting with you, creating a personalized SEO strategy, and implementing it for your website. This allows you to have peace of mind knowing that your online presence is in good hands. It will also help reassure you that your keywords are being targeted, and your website is optimized for maximum visibility.

Long-Term Investment for Sustained Online Presence

Investing in an SEO agency is a long-term investment for therapists. It’s not a one-time fix but rather an ongoing process to ensure that your website remains optimized and relevant to your target audience. With consistent efforts, your website’s visibility can continue to improve over time, leading to a sustained online presence.

For example, blogging is a powerful SEO strategy that can help therapists rank higher on search engines. By creating engaging and informative blog posts, therapists can attract potential clients to their website and demonstrate their expertise in the field. An SEO agency can help you plan, create, and optimize these blog posts to ensure their effectiveness in reaching your target audience. We recommend blogging at least once a week to maintain your online presence and keep your website fresh with relevant content.

You Gain a Competitive Advantage

By investing in an SEO agency, you also gain a competitive advantage over other therapists who are not utilizing SEO. With a strong online presence and optimized website, you can stand out among your competitors and attract more clients to your practice. If your local or online competition is not utilizing SEO for online therapy or private practice SEO, you can gain even more of a competitive edge by investing in these strategies. You will rank higher on search engines, be more visible to potential clients, and ultimately gain a larger client base.

At Simplified SEO Consulting, we not only focus on optimizing your website but also on building a strong online reputation for your private practice. This includes creating content that is in your brand voice, making sure your content is relevant, and even engaging in social media marketing. Our goal is to help you build a strong and trustworthy online presence that sets you apart from other therapists in the field.

The Real Value: Cost vs ROI

As with any business investment, understanding the financial aspects is crucial. Investing in SEO agencies for therapists may seem like an added expense, but the potential returns far outweigh the cost. One way to think about it is every new client you gain through SEO is essentially increasing your return on investment. They are also a long-term source of income for your practice. Plus, with higher visibility and a competitive advantage, you have the potential to gain more high-value clients who are willing to pay for your services.

This is why considering the cost versus the ROI of SEO services is essential. While the initial investment may seem high, the long-term benefits and returns make it a worthwhile investment for your practice. Also, an SEO agency may offer different packages and options to fit your budget and needs, making it accessible for therapists at any stage of their practice. For example, at Simplified SEO Consulting, we work with therapists to help them find a package that fits their budget and goals. We believe in transparency when it comes to cost versus ROI and will work with you to achieve optimal results within your means.

Some Things to Consider:Shows a therapist thinking about the benefits of an SEO agency. Represents how psychologist search engine optimization can be supported with seo for private practices.

When you are considering the cost versus the ROI of SEO services, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the cost is not just about the monetary aspect but also the time and effort saved for therapists by SEO agencies. This allows you to focus on your clients and grow your practice while leaving the SEO work to experts. Even when deciding between packages, such as Do-It-Yourself or Done-For-You, consider the time and effort you will have to put in versus the potential returns.

Another factor to consider is that SEO supports you in the goal of acquiring new clients through an improved online presence. It is a valuable investment in the growth and success of your practice. By targeting specific keywords and optimizing your website, you can attract potential clients who are actively searching for therapy services in-person or online. This targeted approach leads to higher conversion rates and, ultimately, a greater ROI.

Remember that SEO is an Ongoing Investment into the Future of Your Practice.

As algorithms change and your practice grows, your SEO strategies will need to adapt. From targeting new keywords to updating your website, it’s an ongoing process that requires consistent effort. But the long-term benefits are worth it. By investing in SEO for therapists and SEO agencies, you are investing in the future success and sustainability of your practice.

Invest in Your Success with Simplified SEO Consulting

At Simplified SEO Consulting, we specialize in providing top-notch SEO services for therapists. Our team of SEO specialists will work with you to create a personalized strategy that targets your ideal clients and reflects your brand voice. We understand the importance of SEO in building a successful therapy practice and strive to provide the best results for our clients. This is why we have a variety of SEO packages to fit your budget and needs. Plus, we offer DIY resources for those who prefer a more hands-on approach.

Don’t let your website get lost in the sea of online therapists. Invest in SEO for online counseling, psychologist SEO, and online therapy, and watch your practice grow. Want to learn about SEO? Sign up for our SEO Course for Therapists and learn how to use the power of blogs and SEO to reach more clients and grow your practice! Or want to outsource it? Check out our SEO Consulting packages and schedule your consult today! Ready to get started?

  1. Schedule Your Consult
  2. Learn about our team
  3. Invest in your future success with Simplified SEO Consulting!

Other SEO Services At Simplified SEO Consulting

If you feel as if you know all about SEO or want to learn more about other wonderful services we offer, check out our other SEO services for therapists and online therapy providers. We offer options such as our 12-week trainingsmall group intensives, and courses. Our strategy session can be a great option if you’re just getting started and want to make sure your website is set up for success. We also provide ongoing support with our SEO maintenance packages, perfect for private practice owners who want to ensure their website’s SEO stays optimized. Or, if you’re ready to work with a passionate and skilled team, our Done for You Program is perfect for you. Whatever your SEO needs, Simplified SEO Consulting has you covered. Invest in your practice and your future success with our expert SEO services today!

About the Author:Lynsey, SEO Content Writer for Simplified SEO Consulting. Providing copywriting for therapists in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and beyond.

Meet Lynsey, the passionate SEO Content Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting, who combines her love for writing and mental health to help therapists grow their online presence. With a background in mental health and SEO, she understands the unique needs of therapists and uses her expertise to create SEO strategies that align with their brand and attract their ideal clients. Let Lynsey help you unlock the power of SEO for your therapy practice! To learn more about Lynsey and the rest of our team at Simplified SEO Consulting, visit our website today! Remember, investing in your SEO is investing in the success of your practice. Contact Simplified SEO Consulting today to get started!

In today’s digital age, the demand for online therapy services is rising. This is why having a strong online presence is essential for therapists looking to connect with potential clients. As a therapist, creating a well-designed and functional online therapy website is essential for reaching a wider audience and providing convenient, secure, and effective mental health support. In this blog from us here at Simplified SEO Consulting, we’ll explore the crucial elements of building a successful online therapy website that instills trust, engagement, and positive outcomes.

Define Your Niche and Target Audience

Before you start building your online therapy website, it’s crucial to define your niche and target audience. Consider the type of therapy you specialize in, whether it’s cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, or any other approach. Understanding your niche will help you create content and messaging that resonate with your specific audience.

Identify your target audience, including their demographics, needs, and preferences. Are you focusing on adolescents, adults, couples, or a particular demographic? Tailor your website’s content, design, and marketing strategies to cater to the unique requirements of your chosen audience.

Knowing your niche and target audience also enables you to create content that speaks directly to their needs and concerns. For instance, if you specialize in marriage counseling, you can develop blog posts or resources that address common relationship issues. This content can serve as a valuable resource for your audience, demonstrating your expertise and the practical assistance you can offer.

A group of cartoon people sitting at a desk and talking about improving their website. Learn how to create an effective online therapy website with help from our team of SEO specialists. Use these SEO tools for your business today!

Develop a User-Friendly Website Design

The design of your online therapy website plays a pivotal role in user engagement and trust-building. Your homepage is your digital front door. It should immediately convey a sense of professionalism and warmth. Use high-quality images and a concise, welcoming message to make visitors feel at ease. Consider adding an “About Me” page as an opportunity to introduce yourself and build a connection with potential clients. Share your qualifications, experience, and personal approach to therapy.

Clear Navigation

Ensure that your website has a clear and intuitive navigation structure. Visitors should easily find essential information like your services, contact details, and appointment scheduling. An organized and user-friendly layout not only enhances user experience but also helps with SEO (Search Engine Optimization), making it easier for potential clients to find your website in search results.

Mobile Responsiveness

Given the increasing use of mobile devices, it’s imperative to have a mobile-responsive design. Your website should look and function well on smartphones and tablets. Google also considers mobile-friendliness as a ranking factor, so this is essential for your website’s visibility.

Professional Branding

Use a consistent color scheme, fonts, and imagery to create a professional and cohesive brand. This branding should also reflect your practice’s values and approach to therapy. A strong and consistent brand identity not only helps with recognition but also conveys trust and reliability.

Call-to-Action (CTA) Buttons

Place clear CTA buttons for actions like scheduling an appointment, signing up for newsletters, or accessing resources. Make sure they stand out and are easily accessible. CTAs are your digital handshakes, guiding visitors toward the actions you want them to take, such as contacting you for an appointment or subscribing to your newsletter for updates and resources.

High-Quality Content

Use high-quality, well-organized content to convey your expertise and provide valuable information to your visitors. Content marketing is a powerful tool for building your online presence and credibility. Consider creating a blog where you can share articles on mental health topics, self-help tips, and insights into therapy techniques. This not only showcases your knowledge but also engages your audience and can attract organic traffic to your site. Frequently update your content to keep it fresh and engaging. Google tends to favor websites that regularly produce new, high-quality content.

In addition to these design principles, remember to optimize your website for search engines. This involves identifying and using relevant keywords in your content and meta descriptions so potential clients can find your services. Optimize your website’s metadata, including title tags and meta descriptions. Additionally, use descriptive alt text for images to improve accessibility and SEO. An SEO-friendly website helps improve your online visibility and can lead to more organic traffic, which can be particularly beneficial for your practice.

A cartoon man sits at his laptop and works on improving different aspects of his SEO. Looking to understand some helpful SEO tips for therapists? Our team of SEO specialists can help you capitalize on your online therapy website today!

Prioritize Privacy and Security

As a mental health professional, client privacy and data security should be your top priorities. Online therapy involves sensitive and personal information, so you must invest in robust security measures. Here’s how:

Secure Communication: Ensure that your website and communication channels are encrypted to protect the confidentiality of client information. Secure sockets layer (SSL) certificates are essential to encrypt the data exchanged between your website and your clients. This encryption helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information and demonstrates your commitment to safeguarding client privacy.

HIPAA Compliance: If you are in the United States, familiarize yourself with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, which set standards for the protection of sensitive health information. HIPAA compliance is critical if you are providing therapy to clients in the U.S. Online therapy platforms that claim HIPAA compliance often encrypt data, protect against unauthorized access, and implement strict access controls. Ensuring HIPAA compliance is a legal obligation and a trust-building factor for your clients.

Choose a Secure Platform: Select a reliable and secure platform or hosting provider that is committed to safeguarding your website from potential security breaches. Research hosting providers that offer robust security features, regular updates, and strong customer support. For therapy websites, a managed hosting service can be a great option as it takes care of security, updates, and performance optimization, allowing you to focus on your practice.

Privacy Policy: Create a clear and comprehensive privacy policy that outlines how you handle client data and ensures transparency. Your privacy policy should detail what information you collect, how it is used, and how it is protected. Having a transparent and comprehensive privacy policy reassures potential clients that their data will be handled with care and respect.

Building and Maintaining an Effective Online Therapy Website is an Ongoing Process

Creating an online therapy website is just the start of an ever-evolving and constant process. With that in mind, it is important to regularly update your content, monitor website performance, and stay informed about evolving best practices. Remember that a well-designed website can significantly impact your ability to connect with and assist those in need of your services. Your online presence is an extension of your therapeutic practice, and it should convey the same care and professionalism you offer in person. Whether you’re just starting your online therapy practice or looking to enhance your existing website, focusing on these core elements will help you build a strong foundation for your digital presence.

Ready to Learn how SEO can help your Online Therapy Website?

If you have started your online therapy website recently or want to figure out how to make your current online therapy website flourish reach out to us here at Simplfied SEO Consulting. The SEO services we provide can help you get the clients you want and become a more successful business. Our team of SEO specialists can assist you and your specific needs. To get to work with us follow the steps below:

  1. Reach out to schedule a free consultation.
  2. Speak with a professional SEO specialist.
  3. Start seeing your business grow.

Other Services Offered at Simplified SEO Consulting

Whether you are waiting to improve your online therapy website or consult with an SEO specialistSimplified SEO Consulting can help you. If you are interested in learning more about SEO, we offer a wide range of services to enhance your online presence. In addition to our tailored SEO services, we also provide a variety of other options to suit your needs.

These include a comprehensive 12-week training program or small-group SEO intensives designed to teach you all about SEO. If you prefer a more independent approach, our DIY online SEO courses offer a flexible learning experience to sharpen your skills at your own pace. For those with some SEO experience looking to collaborate with our experienced team members, our Done-for-You SEO Program may be the perfect fit. Whatever your level of expertise and goals, our diverse set of services can help you grow your business. Don’t wait, reach out today to begin your SEO journey.

About the Author

Mental Health SEO Specialist Christian Cevallos

Christian Cevallos is a Mental Health SEO Specialist who has a background in journalism, psychology, and digital media which gives him a unique perspective when it comes to SEO, the mental health field, and much more. Christian has a dedication to helping others whether through his previous experience or with his knowledge of social media and ever-changing trends. Beyond his expertise in the fields mentioned before, Christian approaches any work, client, or challenge with empathy and understanding, while also recognizing the importance of creating an environment where ideas and people can thrive.

I’ve been talking a lot about training and work on SEO recently, specifically SEO training for therapists, mental health professionals, birth workers, midwives, doulas, speech-language pathologists, or anyone else in a related industry. And I love SEO training. However, I know that some of you may prefer a more done-for-you process. You didn’t go to school for this. You went to school to help people and being in the weeds on the marketing might not be your jam. That’s okay. That’s why our done-for-you SEO services were created. In fact, that’s how I got my start as an SEO specialist years ago. I didn’t go to school for this. I’m a social worker. However, I did have some experience working on websites and writing compelling copy. I was also actively building my birth business at the time and knew that I could apply these concepts to my own website while helping therapists around the world find their ideal clients. Win-win, right?

Our proven proprietary on-page SEO process works exceptionally well for our ideal clients. The adjustments we make using strategic keyword research and data-driven solutions have been the key to SEO success for our therapist clients for many years. Recently, we’ve had an uptick in consultations with our alumni SEO clients who are now pivoting their business to their next-level venture. They share over and over again how SEO has been the most important, strategic marketing investment in their business to get them where they are today. Amazing. I love to hear this! Thank you for trusting us to help you grow. We are truly honored.

How Does Our On-Page SEO Process Stand The Test of Time For Therapists, Helpers, and Other Mental Health-Focused Websites?

If you’ve been in a workshop, webinar, or other SEO training with me recently, you’ve likely heard that Google and your ideal clients want the same thing. A content area expert they can trust. Google calls this E-E-A-T (Expertise, Experience, Authority, & Trust) and your ideal clients are looking for the “Know-Like-Trust” factor on your website. That’s what our proven, proprietary on-page SEO formula builds systematically over time on your website. Yes, high-quality, sustainable SEO is an investment of time, no matter how you do it. DIY SEO courses, Done-With-You SEO training, or Done-For-You SEO packages. That’s because building trust takes time. Think about it. Do your clients automatically trust you when they first sit down to talk with you? Probably not. Even the best “About Me” page on your website, active social media presence, and most authentic public persona cannot fully allow clients to feel 100% comfortable with their therapist right away.

Image of a woman wearing a green sweatshirt taking notes on paper with a pencil in front of a laptop. Begin working on your private practice SEO and learn how Done For You Services work at Simplified SEO Consulting!

As a trauma professional in my previous roles, I used to say that when I first sit down with someone after a sexual assault or intimate partner violence incident, I have not yet earned the right for them to tell me the truth. I still firmly believe this. Why should someone fully open up to me about one of the most terrible things that has happened to them? They don’t know me. And, quite frankly, it is highly likely that someone who they knew and thought they could trust just violated that trust. So, I need to earn it. Guess what, folks? Google is the same way.

It takes time, consistency, and effort for Google to build trust in your website and keep rewarding you in the rankings. There are 200+ ranking factors that go into the determination of SEO rank, and our process works strategically to address a select few of them. Through multiple core algorithm updates, our optimization stands because it is focused on building connections between quality content that converts over time.

Will Our Done-For-You SEO Services Still Require Some Work From You?

Short answer: YES. Our “Done-For-You” SEO services still require your active participation in order to get the best return on your investment.

Why do Done-For-You SEO services still require work from the therapist?

This concept was underscored again today when I met with one of our incredible alumni for an SEO checkup. Her SEO journey started with us a little over a year ago. The rankings results exceeded our expectations in not one, but two states. Her organic search traffic has steadily increased along with positive metrics tracked for Google Analytics and Google Business Profiles. Hooray, right? Well, that’s not the full picture. That is only the data we can see from our end. She was reporting that she was still getting more inquiries from her Psychology Today profile than from her website. Don’t get me wrong, she’s pleased with our work. The data is all looking very positive. And, she knows the steps she needs to take to maintain her incredible rankings. But, the ultimate marker of SEO success is an increase in calls from ideal clients.

Investigating SEO and Conversion Strategies

So, I started to investigate. First, I took a look at her Psychology Today profile. Absolutely beautiful. It has a great video humanizing her. Multiple pictures, both of her and her therapy space. The copy was personal and compelling. She centered the client in the copy and then discussed how she could help. Then, I looked at her website and identified opportunities to infuse similar wording and video strategies to increase the “Know-Like-Trust” factor on the pages we wouldn’t have optimized during her SEO work with us, like “Home” and “About”. Then, we looked at her organic search data and I noticed that search queries for niche specialty areas and clicks to those specific pages have increased. Awesome! This is exactly what we try to build. But, remember, she has now identified a conversion problem with her website. Looking at one of the pages, I quickly realized why. So, I asked “Did we write these pages for you?” She said, “Yes.”

That makes sense! Our incredible copywriting & SEO expert team did their job. To be clear, the pages worked for SEO rankings, and getting in front of the clients who are looking for her. However, for her particular set of ideal clients, especially for the niche areas she works with, these pages are unable to build that “Know-Like-Trust” factor on their own. She does not have an SEO problem. Instead, she has a conversion problem. So, I gave her some homework. I asked her to add more of her personality and voice to those pages. A video would be ideal. Adding specific wording (similar to her Psych Today profile) that we know converts her ideal clients is necessary for this 2.0 level of work on her pages. These pages need to be more compelling in order for her folks to call.

How This Helped Us Identify What Works

Image of a smiling woman wearing a gray sweater sitting on the floor using a laptop. Discover how Simplified SEO Consulting can help you as a private practice owner work on your private practice SEO.Now, I want to clarify a couple of things. No one did anything wrong. This is simply an example I’m using to illustrate why our SEO process is most successful when our clients are actively involved. This amazing therapist has trusted the process and followed our SEO advice. Including scheduling that SEO checkup about 6 months after her Done-For-You SEO journey was complete. Now that we have a clear picture of the data, we can make the necessary adjustments to turn this increased website traffic into qualified calls and inquiries.

Our copywriter did excellent work as well. Her copy worked for Google. The SEO Specialist was able to optimize in a way that built trust with Google quickly and kept the rankings high over time. When we start working with a therapist on their website’s SEO, we need a place to start. Folks come to us with varying stages and quality of content on their website. When we meet for onboarding, we get to know more about their ideal clients and how they help. Keyword research, a technical site audit, a content audit, and more are completed by our team.

The Power of Collaborative Relationships

What this conversation solidified for me was that this type of collaborative relationship is exactly what we need in order to get better SEO results, faster. Think about it. As a practitioner, your clients trust you to lead and guide them properly and appropriately. However, they still have to do the work. You can’t do all of the work for them. You bring your skills, knowledge, and expertise. But, if they aren’t able to be active participants in the process, true change is not going to happen. We’ve had multiple clients this summer tell us that the Done-For-You SEO process that they engaged with for 6, 9, or even 12 months was transformative for their business. Transformative! We’re not doing life-saving therapies. Nor, catching babies (well…most of us). We’re manipulating content and wording on websites, adding photos, and asking Google to pretty please give us credit for the work. It’s not easy work, but it’s simple and straightforward. That way, our clients can do the incredible work they do. And, yet, “transformative” has been said multiple times in a short amount of time. That tells me that we are doing far more than just some nerdy website work.

So, What do You Need to do as an Active Participant in the Done-For-You SEO process?

Again, I’m not going to tell you not to use our copywriting services. If you’ve been on a consultation with me, you know I would prefer you give us your word. At least 500 of them are on each specialty page, though I strongly prefer 800+. However, if you are going to use our copywriting services, we have a questionnaire or you can meet with our copywriter to talk through what sets you apart. If you have a social media account, YouTube channel, articles, and posts you’ve already written, we want them! We will include these in your pages. You’ll attend planning meetings where we can discuss your data and see what we need to focus on for the next month. Lastly, feedback! We absolutely love it when you offer us feedback. This is your website so any changes you want after our optimization we can absolutely discuss. If there is a reason we have changed something for SEO, we’ll let you know.

As long as you are being responsive and communicating with us each month, providing us with content and feedback, you are doing your part.

Start Your SEO Journey With Simplified SEO Consulting

If you’re ready to dive in, enroll now. You can get started on the Masterclass now in order to spend this time before our first meeting preparing your website for optimization. Simply visit our Small Group SEO Intensive enrollment page to get all of the information you need and register right away. We’d love to talk with you more about the small group SEO intensive. If you’d prefer to have private instruction from me, read about our 12-Week SEO Intensive Training Program. Or, if it all sounds like too much, let our team of amazing SEO experts do it for you. No matter what you choose, we are here for you and want the absolute best for your SEO success. If you are still on the fence about your SEO options, book your free SEO consultation to meet with a member of our team and talk about the next steps. We look forward to connecting soon! ~Danica

About the AuthorPhoto of Danica Wolf, MSW and Chief Operating Officer of Simplified SEO Consulting on a cruise ship overlooking the ocean. She is a multipassionate entrepreneur and international educator and speaker on SEO for private practice owners having spoken in Oregon, Washington, Missouri, Spain, Florida, Kansas, Illinois, and beyond.

Danica Wolf, MSW, is the Chief Operating Officer of Simplified SEO Consulting. She is also the primary trainer for SEO clients who want to learn how to boost their own website SEO. With years of experience as a professor and instructor, and almost two decades of public speaking experience, Danica loves helping to motivate and inspire learners. As a lifelong learner herself, Danica loves diving into SEO concepts and exploring strategic ways to create content creatively. Helping the helpers meet their ideal clients where they are already searching is one of her favorite ways to spend the workday! You may see Danica on Simplified’s social media, working at the Simplified table at a therapist conference, or during one of our Zoom webinars. Be sure to say hi, and ask questions about how to best meet your business goals. She’d love to meet you!

As mentioned in previous blog posts, there are many ways you can improve your site’s SEO.

A graphic showing a map for local seo rankings. Learn more about local SEO for therapists by searching for SEO for mental health professionals and local seo for doctors.Some may involve making technical changes to your site. Others may require you to change how you conduct your SEO strategy or go about creating content such as blogs. Local SEO is one avenue that can have many benefits for your practice. But, it may take some getting used to in order to get the most out of it. Today, we are going to be discussing if working to improve your Local SEO is worth the time, and offer tips on how you might be able to do so. 

But First, What Makes Local SEO Different From Your Organic Search?

There can be an overlap between the keywords you want to improve in the organic Google search results and the important terms that folks may be searching for in the areas surrounding your practice. Sometimes, this can include certain keywords like “anxiety treatment near me”, but where we look for these rankings will matter. For the organic search results, it can be difficult to tell what folks are searching for due to how Google decides to show results based on proximity, authority, trust, etc.

Due to this, it can often be more difficult to rank for “near me” and other locally focused keywords in the organic search. However, there is another place that is similar to the organic search results but serves as a more hyper-focused view of the area surrounding your practice and service areas. This place is Google Maps.

Ensuring you rank for locally focused keywords can be an important part of a long-term SEO strategy due to the more competitive nature of in-person services. While online therapy services can occur anywhere, the limited clientele in a given location can make it all the more important to ensure you can connect with those potential clients. It is great to be found by folks outside of city limits or in new locations you previously haven’t reached, but it is still vital for many brick-and-mortar practices to show up for keywords that will connect them with folks in their immediate area. 

Who Can Benefit Most From Improving Local SEO?

A graphic of a person standing facing away from a question mark. Learn how to improve local seo for therapists and other services by searching for SEO help for therapists. Anyone interested in improving their local rankings can benefit from local SEO. But, depending on the nature of your practice, it may or may not be worth the time and effort put into improving your local SEO presence. 

For practices with a physical location, working on your local SEO is a great thing to take into account. However, for practices that are online only or don’t have a physical office, this can be tricky. This is due to the rules Google has in place around listing your practice’s name, address, and phone number. Without a physical location for people to visit, it can make things much harder for Google to recognize where exactly the practice is located. Plus, what service areas they can expect to serve.

Due to issues around this, online-only practice owners may not experience as much of a return on the time spent to improve their local SEO. In most cases, it will likely be more beneficial to focus on organic rankings for different keywords related to online therapy and other services offered via telehealth. Since people can receive the same support regardless of location, it doesn’t make as much sense to try and focus on a specific area.

What If I Have A New Practice?

Improving local SEO may seem like a good idea for a newly established practice looking to get recognized in their town. But, this may be more difficult than one may think depending on your surroundings. In highly competitive areas, it may not be possible to initially break through in the rankings on a local level, especially when there are other more established businesses that may already have a strong presence.

For new practices, it can be good to gradually work on improving local SEO over time. However, it is more important to first establish your practice in the organic search results via high-quality service pages, blogs, and other engaging content.

How Can I Improve My Local SEO?

An image of a perosn lookign at an seo dashboard. Learn more about local SEO for therapists and other services. There are a number of different ways one can go about improving their local SEO. One of the first things to check is ensuring that all your practice information is accurate. This can be the easiest step for many, but ensuring that this info is updated when changes occur can be tricky. This is especially true when your practice info is present on more than one source on the internet. Another impactful step can be building high-quality backlinks over time. Doing so can help improve the authority of your site with Google, and improve the visibility of your site.

In addition to backlinks, starting list management services can also be a great way to improve the visibility of your practice. By doing so, you can ensure the correct practice info is present on a variety of credible directories. You can also keep an eye on how specific keywords are performing on a local level, and get support with responding to reviews, reviewing heatmaps, and more!

Begin List Management Services from Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team knows it can be hard to improve your local SEO. 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 SEO!

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 Services and 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 Author

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 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!

Do you know about SEO and what it stands for? Wondering what exactly it does and how it can help your website? Welcome to a quick introduction to SEO and how it can help you boost your rankings as a private practice! First, you may be wondering, what does SEO stand for? Well, SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. By utilizing SEO you can begin working on getting your website to the top of Google ensuring that people who are looking for your services find your page. 

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a digital marketing strategy aimed at helping improve a website’s visibility and ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). It involves optimizing various elements of your website. Such as content, meta descriptions, and links, to align with the algorithms used by search engines like Google. The ultimate goal of SEO is to improve your website’s organic (non-paid) traffic by ensuring that it appears prominently in relevant search queries. This process requires a combination of technical expertise, content creation, and a deep understanding of how search engines operate.

Understanding what SEO stands for is crucial. As it can directly impact your website’s online presence and overall success. SEO’s importance lies in the fact that search engines serve as the primary gateways to information on the internet. When individuals use search engines to find specific services or information, websites optimized for SEO are more likely to appear at the top of the search results. This visibility is important for attracting organic traffic, establishing credibility, and reaching a wider audience. In this blog post, we will be going over the definition of SEO, the importance of SEO, how SEO works, and some common SEO tools and resources that can be used!

Image of a man sitting at a laptop working and smiling. Learn what SEO is and how effective it can be to boost your rankings on search engines.

Definition of SEO

SEO stands for “Search Engine Optimization.” SEO is the process of optimizing a website or online content to improve its visibility and ranking in search engine results pages (SERPs). The goal is to increase organic (non-paid) traffic to the website by making it more relevant and attractive to search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo.

The primary goal of SEO is to enhance your private practice website’s visibility in search engine results. For specific keywords or phrases relevant to the website’s content or business. This increased visibility helps attract more organic traffic, improve website authority with the search engine, and drive higher levels of engagement and conversions.

The Importance of SEO

In the realm of private practice therapy, understanding the basics of SEO is paramount for a thriving online presence. SEO holds immense significance for various reasons. Firstly, it enhances the visibility of your therapy website. Given the digital era we live in, a substantial number of online journeys commence with a search engine. If your website fails to appear in search results, you’re potentially missing out on connecting with a significant portion of individuals seeking therapeutic services.

Furthermore, embracing SEO provides a competitive advantage. Your peers and competitors are likely investing in optimizing their online presence. To stay ahead, it’s crucial to ensure that your therapy website and content are finely tuned to rank well in search results. Importantly, SEO proves to be a cost-effective strategy for sustained success. While paid advertising can deliver swift results, it demands continuous financial investment. In contrast, once established, SEO can perpetually drive organic traffic without additional costs. 

Beyond the financial aspect, effective SEO contributes to building user trust. Websites that secure top positions in search results are often perceived as more trustworthy and credible by users, a vital attribute in the sensitive realm of therapy. Lastly, SEO facilitates a global reach, allowing therapists to extend their influence beyond local markets and connect with individuals seeking therapeutic support from your focused area. In essence, mastering the basics of SEO is not just a technical necessity but a strategic imperative for private practice therapists navigating the digital landscape.

Benefits and Impact of Effective SEO:

  • Increased Visibility in Search Engines: SEO helps your website rank higher in search results, making it more likely that users will find and click on your website.
  • More Organic Traffic: Higher rankings lead to more organic (non-paid) traffic, which can result in increased leads, sales, and conversions.
  • Improved User Experience: SEO often involves optimizing the structure and content of your website, making it more user-friendly and easier to navigate. This can lead to better user experiences and longer on-site engagement.
  • Higher Credibility and Trust: Websites that rank well in search results are generally seen as more credible and trustworthy. Users are more likely to trust and engage with websites that appear at the top.

Impact of SEO:

  • Traffic Increase: According to various studies, websites that rank on the first page of Google receive the majority of clicks.
  • Conversion Rates: SEO-optimized websites often have higher conversion rates.
  • Mobile Optimization: With the increasing use of mobile devices, local SEO has become crucial. 

Graphic seo optimization web concept with words reading content, research, seo, and keywords. Discover what SEO is and how it works, and how you can improve your private practice rankings!

How SEO Works

The basic principles of SEO revolve around optimizing your private practice website. As well as creating online content to improve its visibility and ranking in search engine results pages. Here are the fundamental principles:

Keywords and Keyword Research 

This involves identifying the words and phrases (keywords) that people use when searching for information related to your website or business. Keyword research helps you understand what topics are relevant to your audience and what terms they are likely to use in search queries.

On-Page Optimization

On-page SEO focuses on optimizing individual web pages to make them more search engine-friendly. This includes optimizing content, meta tags (such as title and meta description), headings, and images, and ensuring proper keyword usage. On-page optimization also involves improving the overall user experience of the webpage.

Off-Page Optimization

Off-page SEO is about activities that take place outside of your website but still influence your rankings. This includes building high-quality backlinks from other reputable websites and social media engagement. Off-page optimization helps establish your website’s authority and credibility.

Technical SEO

Technical SEO involves optimizing the technical aspects of your website to improve its crawlability and indexability by search engines. This includes optimizing site speed, mobile-friendliness, and URL structure, and ensuring proper schema markup. Technical SEO ensures that search engines can easily access and understand your website’s content.

Role of Search Engines in SEO:

Search engines like Google use complex algorithms to determine the relevance and ranking of web pages in their search results. The key role of search engines in SEO includes:

Crawling

Search engines send bots (also known as spiders or crawlers) to explore the web and discover web pages. These bots follow links from one page to another, indexing the content they find along the way.

Indexing

Search engines store and organize the information they gather during the crawling process. This creates a searchable index of web pages, making it easier to retrieve relevant results when users perform searches.

Ranking

When a user enters a search query, search engines use their algorithms to evaluate and rank web pages based on various factors, including relevance to the query, quality of content, backlinks, and more. The goal is to provide users with the most relevant and trustworthy results.

Displaying Results

Finally, search engines display a list of results on their search engine results pages (SERPs) in response to a user’s query. These results are typically ranked in order of perceived relevance.

Common SEO Terms and Concepts

For a private practice therapist delving into the basics of SEO, understanding key terms and concepts is pivotal. One fundamental aspect is SERPs or Search Engine Results Pages. These are the pages presented by search engines in response to a user’s search query, listing relevant results in the form of links and snippets. Another crucial concept is backlinks, which act as digital endorsements. These hyperlinks from one website to another serve as votes of trust and authority in the eyes of search engines. Meta descriptions, including the title tag and meta description tag, are HTML elements providing information to both search engines and visitors.

Lastly, comprehending the dynamics of crawling and indexing is vital. Crawling involves search engine bots exploring the internet, following links, and collecting data, while indexing is the process of organizing this data for quick retrieval in response to user queries. For instance, when you publish a new blog post, search engine bots crawl it to discover the content; if deemed valuable, it’s indexed and becomes eligible for display in search results. Mastering these terms lays a robust foundation for a therapist aiming to optimize their online presence effectively.

Practical Examples:

  • SERPs: If you search for “anxiety therapy” on a search engine, the results page that displays various links to websites with therapy practices that specialize in anxiety, blog posts on anxiety, and related information is a SERP.
  • Backlinks: Suppose your “Calming Anxiety” blog receives a backlink from a prominent website. This backlink indicates that the authoritative website trusts your content, and it can improve your blog’s SEO by enhancing your website’s credibility in the eyes of search engines.
  • Meta Descriptions/ Tags: When you create a new page or blog post on your website, you can optimize it by adding a title tag like “Anxiety Therapy | Little Rock, AR” and a meta description like “Do you struggle to overcome your anxiety? Discover how to manage your anxiety symptoms with the help of Anxiety Therapy in Little Rock, AR.”
  • Crawling and Indexing: When you publish a new page or new blog post on your website, search engine bots crawl your site to find and index the page or article. This allows the page or article to appear in search results when users search for information about that event, driving traffic to your website.

SEO Tools and Resources

Here are some essential SEO Tools for Beginners to use:

Google Analytics:

One free tool that helps you track website traffic is Google Analytics. It analyzes user behavior, and other valuable insights, allowing you to measure the impact of your SEO efforts.

Google Search Console:

Also free, Google Search Console provides information about your website’s performance in Google search, including indexing status, keyword performance, and technical issues.

Mangools:

Mangools is a free tool to help provide you with insights on how many searches a keyword is getting as well as the difficulty of the keyword.

Yoast SEO (WordPress Plugin):

If you’re using WordPress, Yoast SEO is a popular plugin that helps you optimize your content and pages for search engines.

SEO tools, resources, and communities can provide beginners with the necessary knowledge and tools to kickstart their SEO efforts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SEO is a pivotal digital marketing strategy focused on improving a website’s visibility and ranking on search engine results pages. Understanding the significance of SEO is vital for anyone looking to enhance their online presence. By optimizing various elements of a website, such as content, meta tags, and links, SEO aims to align with search engine algorithms and increase organic traffic. The importance of SEO lies in its ability to make a website more visible to users searching for relevant information or services. 

This visibility not only attracts organic traffic but also establishes credibility and trust among users. When online experiences often begin with a search engine, a solid grasp of SEO principles is essential. 

Book Your SEO Consultation With Simplified SEO Consulting

Join Simplified SEO Consulting to help you navigate SEO! Our expert team is dedicated to teaching you the ins and outs of SEO and helping you rank higher to attract your ideal clients through organic traffic. By working with us you will begin to understand SEO as well as implement positive SEO changes on your website! Begin your SEO journey with us by following these three easy steps:

  1. Book your SEO consultation
  2. Meet with one of our skilled SEO specialists
  3. Begin learning and practicing SEO!

Other Services Offered With Simplified SEO Consulting

Apart from assisting and guiding you on exploring and maintaining your website’s SEO, our team offers support in both Done For You SEO Services and DIY Online SEO Courses, tailored to optimize your search engine rankings and attract your ideal clients. Additionally, we present a 12-week Done With You Intensive Program for comprehensive assistance. Don’t forget to check out our blog for more invaluable tips and guides on SEO!

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

At Simplified SEO Consulting, Brianna serves as a Mental Health SEO Specialist, who enjoys optimizing client websites and engaging with them to accomplish their private practice SEO goals. Her enthusiasm lies in motivating clients to delve into their own SEO and she takes pride in imparting a clear understanding of the SEO process. Brianna’s foremost concern is to ensure that clients not only enjoy their SEO journey but also gain the confidence to independently work on their websites and witness a significant boost in rankings!

If you require additional assistance, feel free to schedule a consultation with our consulting team to explore how we can assist you.

In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, one question frequently plagues business owners and website managers: “Do I need to hire someone for SEO?” Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a crucial aspect of ensuring that your website is discoverable by search engines and, subsequently, by potential customers. The answer to whether you should do it yourself or enlist the services of an SEO specialist is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it depends on various factors. In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore how to make an informed decision about whether to go it alone with your SEO or hire an expert. 

Understanding the Basics of SEO

Before we dive into the decision-making process, it’s essential to grasp the fundamentals of SEO. At its core, SEO is the practice of optimizing your website to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs) for relevant keywords and phrases. The goal is to attract organic, non-paid traffic to your site. SEO encompasses a broad spectrum of activities, from keyword research and on-page optimization to technical SEO and link building

Additionally, content creation, user experience improvements, and staying up-to-date with search engine algorithm changes are all integral components of a successful SEO strategy. Understanding these key aspects of SEO will empower you to make informed decisions about your approach and whether you should consider seeking professional assistance in your digital marketing endeavors.

The DIY Approach

A woman researches SEO on her laptop while writing notes. Trying to understand SEO basics? Our SEO specialists can help you learn how to use SEO tools.

Opting to manage SEO on your own offers several distinct advantages. First, it’s cost-effective; many resources and tools are readily available for free or at a minimal cost. This makes it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t require a significant financial commitment.

Additionally, your in-depth knowledge of your business plays a crucial role. As a business owner, you possess an intimate understanding of your industry and target audience. This can be leveraged to select the right keywords and create content that really connects with your customers. Moreover, you retain full control over your SEO strategy. This allows you to make real-time adjustments and experiment with different approaches, providing a level of adaptability that can be invaluable in a dynamic business environment.

Lastly, diving into SEO is a learning experience that enriches your knowledge and skills, ultimately benefiting your business in the long run. Even if you later choose to hire an SEO specialist, having a grasp of the basics will enable more effective collaboration and decision-making.

The Need for Professional SEO Services

SEO is complex and multifaceted, and SEO specialists are well-versed in the intricacies of the field, including technical SEO, algorithm updates, and industry best practices. They have the expertise to navigate these areas effectively, ensuring your website ranks well in search results. Moreover, SEO is a time-consuming endeavor, diverting your attention from important business activities.

By entrusting your SEO needs to a professional or agency, you can save valuable time and resources, allowing you to focus on what you do best. These experts also develop a holistic strategy. Which they tailor to your specific goals and needs, covering on-page and off-page optimization, content creation, and continuous monitoring to ensure your website’s long-term success. They bring access to tools and resources that are often expensive, making them cost-prohibitive for businesses without dedicated SEO budgets. Finally, SEO professionals stay updated with the constantly changing search engine algorithms. These SEO specialists dedicate themselves to keeping your website competitive in the dynamic online landscape.

How to Decide: DIY vs. Hiring an SEO Specialist

When deciding whether to handle SEO on your own or hire a professional, several factors come into play. Your budget is a key consideration; if you have limited financial resources, a DIY approach is, as mentioned before, a cost-effective starting point. However, it’s essential to recognize that SEO is a long-term investment, and a professional’s expertise may produce better results.

Time is another crucial aspect. Evaluating the time you can realistically devote to SEO is important. If your plate is already full with other responsibilities, delegating SEO to a professional who can focus exclusively on it may be a more strategic choice. Additionally, the complexity of your website and your SEO objectives matter; simple sites with minimal competition might suit a DIY approach. Whereas larger, intricate websites often benefit from professional guidance. Consider your immediate vs. long-term goals; if you require quick results, a professional is likely the best path, but if you’re building a sustainable online presence for the long haul, investing in SEO expertise can also be wise. Lastly, weigh your own SEO knowledge; if you’re a beginner, start with the basics, but for advanced strategies, it’s advisable to bring in an expert.

Cartoon of a man with magnifying glasses with different charts around him. Looking to understand SEO basics? Our team of SEO specialists can help teach you about SEO tools today!

Finding the Right SEO Specialist

If you decide that hiring an SEO specialist is the best route for your business, you’ll want to take steps to ensure you find the right fit. Here are some tips for finding a qualified and reputable SEO specialist. First, review their past work to get an idea of how they operate and the results they’ve achieved for other clients. Additionally, ask for references and read online reviews from other clients to gauge their reputation and reliability.

When considering hiring an SEO specialist, it’s essential to ask about their approach. They should be able to outline a clear strategy that aligns with your business goals. Transparency is key, as a good SEO specialist will be transparent about their methods while also providing regular reports on their work and the results achieved. Don’t just focus on cost vs. value; consider the value they offer, as a higher upfront investment may pay off in the long run with better results. Lastly, communication is important; ensure there is open and effective communication between you and the SEO specialist or agency, and they should be responsive to your questions and concerns to build a successful partnership.

Begin SEO Services with an SEO Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting!

The decision of whether to do your SEO yourself or hire a professional is a vital one. It depends on your resources, goals, and how much time you have to commit to SEO. Both options have their merits, and the right choice for your business will depend on a careful evaluation of these factors. Regardless of your decision, remember that SEO is an ongoing process, and staying informed about the latest developments in the field is crucial for success. If the prospect of integrating SEO into your online presence seems overwhelming or time-consuming, our team is here to assist you. We have a team of dedicated SEO specialists ready to provide the guidance and expertise necessary for your business to thrive. Kickstart your journey with us at Simplified SEO Consulting by following the steps below: 

  1. Reach out for a free SEO consultation.
  2. Speak with an experienced SEO specialist.
  3. Start your journey to success today!

Other Services Offered at Simplified SEO Consulting

Whether you choose the DIY path or consult with an SEO specialist, Simplified SEO Consulting can help you. If you are interested in learning more about SEO, we offer a wide range of services to enhance your online presence. In addition to our tailored SEO services, we also provide a variety of other options to suit your needs.

These include a comprehensive 12-week training program or small-group SEO intensives designed to teach you all about SEO. If you prefer a more independent approach, our DIY online SEO courses offer a flexible learning experience to sharpen your skills at your own pace. For those with some SEO experience looking to collaborate with our experienced team members, our Done-for-You SEO Program may be the perfect fit. Whatever your level of expertise and goals, our diverse set of services can help you grow your business. Don’t wait, reach out today to begin your SEO journey.

About the Author

Mental Health SEO Specialist Christian Cevallos. Interested in learning more about SEO? Speak with an SEO Specialist today at Simplified SEO Consulting!

Christian Cevallos is a Mental Health SEO Specialist who has a background in journalism, psychology, and digital media which gives him a unique perspective when it comes to SEO, the mental health field, and much more. Christian has a dedication to helping others whether through his previous experience or with his knowledge of social media and ever-changing trends. Beyond his expertise in the fields mentioned before, Christian approaches any work, client, or challenge with empathy and understanding, while also recognizing the importance of creating an environment where ideas and people can thrive.

An SEO agency is a specialized company that helps improve the online presence and visibility of businesses. They do this through search engine optimization techniques. These techniques involve optimizing a website’s content, structure, and other factors to increase its ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs). SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is a strategic process to improve your private practice or law firms’s online presence. It ensures your website appears at the top of search engine results when potential clients search for relevant keywords. These can be keywords such as “private practice SEO” or “SEO for online therapy.”

For counselors, SEO is not just about appearing in search results but appearing in the right ones. Those that prospective patients are actively searching for. By utilizing keywords specific to your practice and niche, an SEO agency can help attract targeted traffic to your website and ultimately increase the number of clients for your private practice. But it’s not just about gaining leads! It’s also about converting those leads into actual clients. A good SEO agency will work with your website’s structure and call to action, making it easier for potential clients to contact you. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of SEO for therapists and how an SEO agency can help you achieve your business goals.

Understanding SEO Basics for TherapistsShows a therapist working on their private practice SEO. Represent show seo for online therapy can be supported with seo keywords for therapists.

Before diving into the specifics of how an SEO agency can help you, it’s important to understand some SEO basics. Let’s start with keywords and key phrases. These are the exact terms clients search for or even relative terms Google (and other search engines) uses to determine the relevance of your website. For example, if you’re a therapist in Arkansas, a potential client may search for “therapists in Arkansas.” In this case, “therapists” and “Arkansas” are the keywords and they should be included in your website’s content.

Another crucial aspect falls under On-Page Optimization. This process involves refining elements on your website to make it more attractive to search engines. Some examples of these are meta descriptions and title tags. These should be crafted to be compelling and keyword-rich, while the focus of your content should be on header tags, content structure, and relevance to your potential client. These elements provide cues to search engines about the hierarchy and relevance of your content. Using proper header tags (H1, H2, H3) can make it easier for search engines to understand what your website is about and improve your ranking.

Finally, we have Off-Page Optimization.

Off-Page Optimization includes strategies to enhance your website’s reputation and authority when it comes to search engine ranking. One way to achieve this is through backlinks, which are links from other websites that lead to your website. Search engines see backlinks as a vote of confidence for your website and view it as a credible source to display on their results pages.

This involves building quality backlinks. Backlinks are links from other websites to yours. They are a significant factor in how search engines rank your site. Social media signals, such as shares and likes, can also contribute to your site’s ranking. These signals can also play a significant role in Off-Page Optimization. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter (now known as X) can help drive traffic to your website. But also boost engagement and build relationships with potential clients.

The Role of an SEO Agency in Private Practice SEO

Working with an SEO agency, such as Simplified SEO Consulting, can significantly enhance your private practice’s visibility online. In today’s world, most people turn to search engines to find therapists. This is why it’s crucial that your practice appears in relevant search results. Here’s how we can support you:

Market Research and Keyword Analysis

We start by identifying and analyzing relevant keywords for your practice. For example, we target keywords that align with your niche and services, such as “counselors for anxiety” or “online therapy for depression.” Our team uses advanced tools to discover the terms potential clients use when searching for therapy services. We also conduct in-depth competitor analysis to understand what keywords your competitors are using and how to differentiate your practice from theirs.

Website Auditing and Recommendations

A part of our service is that we perform a comprehensive audit of your website from an SEO perspective. This is where we pinpoint areas where improvements can be made on your website. This includes a technical SEO assessment to ensure search engines can effectively crawl and index your site. For example, we check for broken links, duplicate content, and page load speed. We also focus on improving the user experience by making your website more accessible and easy to navigate.

Content Strategy and CreationShows a therapist writing content. Represents how private practice seo needs content to enhanceseo for online therapy.

If you are an avid Simplified blog reader, you will know we love to remind our clients and potential clients that content is king in SEO! This is why we place a strong emphasis on content strategy and creation. We work with you to develop engaging, SEO-optimized content that resonates with your target audience.

Our experienced copywriter creates content that balances information and marketing, so your website not only ranks well but also converts visitors into clients. This is done by highlighting the unique aspects of your practice while also providing valuable insights for potential clients.

Link Building and Outreach

Lastly, a service that we may offer in the future is ethical link-building practices. This involves us helping your website build relationships with reputable sites in your niche. This can be done by earning backlinks through guest posts, mentions, and collaborations. We understand the importance of using ethical techniques for link-building to ensure long-term success for your website.

By leveraging these strategies, our aim is to maximize your online visibility and attract more prospective patients to your practice. SEO for online therapy is not just about driving traffic, it’s about attracting the right traffic. Potential clients who are genuinely interested in and in need of your services.

SEO Reporting and Analytics for Therapists

SEO for online therapy is not a one-time strategy. It requires constant monitoring and adjustments to stay ahead of the competition and in front of potential clients. This is where SEO reporting and analytics come into play. These tools and techniques allow you to measure the success of your SEO efforts and make data-driven decisions. This way you can improve your private practice’s online visibility.

Tracking Keyword Rankings

An important aspect is knowing where your website ranks for specific keywords. This is crucial. Utilizing tools such as Google Analytics and other advanced SEO software, we monitor your keyword performance regularly. This reveals trends in your website’s visibility and identifies areas for improvement in your SEO strategy. By tracking keyword rankings, we can also identify which keywords are converting into actual appointments for your practice. As part of our service, we provide regular reports on your keyword rankings and offer advice on how to improve them.

Monitoring Traffic and Conversions

Additionally, traffic to your website is another important part of the equation. What visitors do once they arrive on your website is another. Engagement metrics, such as the number of pages viewed per visit, bounce rate, and time spent on your website, are critical indicators of your site’s performance. But our primary focus lies in conversion tracking. This is specifically, how many visitors book an appointment with your practice.

Through tracking and analytics, we can understand user behavior on your website better. This data helps us optimize your website to improve user experience, increase engagement, and importantly, convert more visitors into clients. Through utilizing SEO reporting and analytics, we can continuously refine your website to ensure it appeals to both search engines and potential clients.

DIY vs. Hiring an SEO Agency: Pros and Cons for Private Practice SEO

When it comes to search engine optimization for counselors and online therapy providers, there’s a common question: should you take a DIY approach or hire an SEO agency? Luckily for you, Simplified SEO Consulting supports both options as we have DIY courses and services for private practice owners, as well as full-service SEO support. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Advantages of Hiring an SEO Agency for Done-For-You ServicesShows a therapist working with an SEO agency on their private practice SEO. Represents how seo for online therapy is beneficial.

  • Expertise and industry knowledge: As an SEO agency, we have a team of professionals who specialize in search engine optimization. They are up-to-date with the latest trends, algorithms, and strategies to help your practice rank higher on search engines.
  • Time-saving and focus on core services: As a private practice owner, your time and energy are best spent focusing on providing quality therapy. By hiring an SEO agency, like us, you can leave the technical aspects of SEO to SEO specialists and have more time to focus on your core services.

What Considerations to Keep in Mind for DIY SEO

  • Time commitment and learning curve: DIY SEO requires a significant time commitment. You also will need a willingness to learn and stay updated on best practices. As a private practice owner, you may not have the luxury of time to dedicate to learning SEO. However, the benefit of learning and implementing SEO is that you can maintain your website’s SEO in the long run.
  • Initial costs vs. long-term benefits: DIY SEO may have lower upfront costs, but it requires a consistent investment of time and effort to see results. You also need to consider that if you do not have the expertise, you may make costly mistakes that can harm your website’s SEO in the long term.

Remember, the decision to utilize DIY SEO or hire an SEO agency for Done-For-You services is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on your available time, budget, and comfort level with SEO. Whichever path you choose, remember that SEO is a critical part of attracting and retaining clients for your therapy practice.

Ultimately, Make Informed Decisions for Your Practice

At Simplified SEO Consulting, our goal is to empower therapists with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their private practice’s online presence. We hope this blog has provided valuable insights into the world of SEO for therapists and online therapy providers. Whether you choose to explore DIY resources or hire an SEO agency for full-service support, we encourage you to take action based on informed choices.

Remember, your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your practice. So investing in SEO can greatly benefit your online visibility and attract more clients. Ones who are genuinely interested in and in need of your services. To take the next step towards improving your private practice’s SEO, we recommend contacting an SEO agency (like us!) for a consultation or exploring our DIY resources for private practice owners.

Consider Hiring an SEO Agency Like Simplified SEO Consulting for Your Private Practice SEO!

At Simplified SEO Consulting, we specialize in providing effective search engine optimization services for therapists and online therapy providers. We understand the unique needs of private practice owners and tailor our services to help you attract clients and grow your business. Our team of SEO specialists stays updated on best practices and works closely with you to improve your website’s online visibility. We have a variety of SEO packages to fit your budget and needs. Plus, we offer DIY resources for those who prefer a more hands-on approach.

No matter what stage you are at in your private practice journey, we have the tools and expertise to support your SEO needs. Want to learn about SEO? Sign up for our SEO Course for Therapists and learn how to use the power of blogs and SEO to reach more clients and grow your practice! Or want to outsource it? Check out our SEO Consulting packages and schedule your consult today! Ready to get started?

  1. Schedule Your Consult
  2. Learn about our team
  3. Improve your website’s SEO, attract more clients, and grow your business with Simplified SEO Consulting!

Other SEO Services At Simplified SEO Consulting

If you feel as if you are already an expert in SEO, or you want to know more about the other services we provide, check out our other SEO services for therapists and online therapy providers. We offer options such as our 12-week trainingsmall group intensives, and courses. Our strategy session can be a great option if you’re just getting started and want to make sure your website is set up for success. We also provide ongoing support with our SEO maintenance packages, perfect for private practice owners who want to ensure their website’s SEO stays optimized. Or, if you’re ready to work with a passionate and skilled team, our Done for You Program is perfect for you. Whatever your SEO needs, Simplified SEO Consulting has the resources and expertise to help you achieve your online goals.

About the Author:Lynsey, SEO Content Writer for Simplified SEO Consulting. Providing copywriting for therapists in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and beyond.

Meet Lynsey, the passionate SEO Content Specialist at Simplified SEO Consulting, who has a knack for transforming technical SEO language into engaging and informative content. With experience in both the mental health industry and SEO, Lynsey loves helping therapists and online therapy providers grow their businesses through effective SEO strategies. When she’s not writing or optimizing content, you can find her spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors, or reading a book. To learn more about Lynsey and the rest of our team at Simplified SEO Consulting, visit our website today! Remember, investing in your private practice’s SEO is an investment in your business’s growth and success. Contact Simplified SEO Consulting today to learn more about how we can help you elevate your private practice’s online presence!

You’re a diligent website owner, dedicated to providing your visitors with the best online experience. One day, you log into your Google Search Console (GSC) to ensure that everything is running smoothly. To your surprise, you spot a mysterious 404 error reported by Google for a page that, as far as you know, never existed on your website. Confusion sets in. How is it possible to have a 404 error for a page that was never there in the first place?

This scenario may seem baffling, but it’s a common issue that many website owners encounter. In this article, we’ll unravel the mystery behind Google Search Console reporting 404 errors for non-existent pages. We’ll dive into the technical intricacies of how Google detects and reports these errors, explore potential explanations for this phenomenon, and provide you with valuable insights to manage and prevent such incidents in the future.

Understanding 404 Errors

Before we delve into the enigma, let’s ensure everyone is on the same page regarding what a 404 error actually is. In the realm of the web, a 404 error, or “Not Found” error, is a standard HTTP response code indicating that the server couldn’t locate the requested webpage. In simpler terms, it’s the digital equivalent of a dead-end road sign. When a user attempts to access a page on your website that no longer exists or has been moved, the server returns this response, signaling that the page is nowhere to be found.

Google Search Console: A Brief Overview

Google Search Console, formerly known as Google Webmaster Tools, is a free web service provided by Google. It offers a collection of tools and reports that help website owners monitor and optimize their websites’ performance in Google’s search results. Essentially, it’s your backstage pass to the inner workings of Google’s search index as it pertains to your website.

Website owners and marketers use Google Search Console to gain insights into how Googlebot (Google’s web crawling bot) views their sites, identify indexing issues, analyze search traffic data, and receive important alerts and messages from Google regarding their websites’ health and performance.

The Mysterious Case: A 404 Error for a Nonexistent Page

Now, let’s address the perplexing issue at hand. You log into your Google Search Console account, expecting to see the usual metrics and reports. Instead, you’re greeted with an unexpected notification—an alert about a 404 error for a specific page on your website. The catch? This page never existed on your site, at least not intentionally. You rack your brain, trying to recall any recent website changes or updates that might explain this error. Still, you come up empty-handed.

Naturally, you’re puzzled and perhaps a bit frustrated. How can Google report a 404 error for a page that was never there in the first place? Rest assured, you’re not alone in this predicament. Many website owners have faced similar scenarios, and there are logical explanations behind these mysterious 404 error reports.

Digging Deeper: Possible Explanations

To demystify this issue, let’s explore some of the possible explanations for why Google Search Console might report a 404 error for a page that you believe never existed on your website:

1. Old Pages Stuck in Google’s Memory

Imagine your website as a big book, and Google as a tiny robot that reads every page in that book. This robot helps Google understand your website better. However, sometimes, you might have had pages on your website in the past, but you deleted or changed them. The problem is, Google’s robot still remembers those old pages and tries to find them, even though they’re no longer there. It’s like searching for a book in your library that you lent to a friend, but you forgot you lent it out.

The more official term for this is that there is a “cached version of an old page.” In other words, Google’s search index may still have cached versions of pages that you’ve since deleted or renamed. These cached versions could resurface in search results, triggering 404 errors when users attempt to access them.

Honestly, this is one of the most common reasons we see 404 errors. For example, if you have a clinician at your practice who had an “about” page and then they leave your practice. What do you do? Perhaps you delete the page. Now, Google still remembers that page exists. So, for awhile it could still show up in search results, but when someone clicks on it, they’ll get a 404 error.

For this, there’s an easy fix. It’s generally recommended that if you delete a page of your website, you immediately create a redirect so that they’ll go instead to a different page of your website. In the example of a former clinician who has left your practice, you can redirect that old page to instead go to your general “about the team page.”

2. URL Variations and Parameters: Why Is Googlebot Confused?

Okay, imagine your website’s address is like your home address. Sometimes, when you order stuff online or share your address with friends, you might add extra details, like “Apt. 3B” or “Blue House.” These extra details are like URL parameters for websites. They help track things or make special features work.

Now, think of Googlebot as a friendly explorer. It loves visiting websites to learn new things. But sometimes, it gets a little too curious. It might try to visit web addresses with those extra details (URL parameters) that you never meant for people to see. It’s like someone (in this case Google’s bots) exploring parts of your neighborhood that aren’t really meant for visitors. When Googlebot visits these secret spots, it gets confused because they weren’t supposed to be public. So, it tells you there’s an error, even though nothing’s really wrong with your main place (website).

3. Web Scrapers and Bots: The Sneaky Collectors

Now, think of web scrapers and bots like little robots on the internet. They’re like Wall-E, the cute robot who collects things in the movie. These internet robots go around gathering information from websites. They might see words on your website and decide to make up their own web addresses. But sometimes, they make mistakes, just like when you try to build a tower of blocks, and it falls down.

So, these little robots might create web addresses (URLs) that don’t really exist on your website. It’s like them trying to put together words they found on your site and making a new address. When people or other bots try to visit these made-up addresses, they can’t find anything because those pages don’t really exist. That’s when they get a 404 error message, which is like saying, “Oops, this page isn’t here.”

What Can You Do About 404 Errors for Nonexistent Pages?

If you come across this 404 error on your website, don’t panic. It’s a common issue, and you’re not alone. Here’s what you can do:

1. Check Your Website Content:

Go through your website and ensure that all your pages are up to date and relevant. If you have old pages that you no longer need, consider removing or redirecting them to the right pages.

2. Use Redirects:

To prevent users from seeing 404 errors, you can set up redirects. This means if someone tries to visit a page that doesn’t exist, they’ll automatically be taken to a relevant page. Think of it as putting up a sign in your library that directs people to the right section when they can’t find a book.

3. Regularly Update Your Sitemap:

A sitemap is like an index for your website. It tells Google where to find all your pages. Keeping your sitemap updated helps Google understand your website better and reduces the chances of 404 errors.

4. Regular Website Audits

Regular check-ups for your website are super important! It’s like going to the doctor for your site. These check-ups, called audits, help find and fix any problems like broken links or pages that got lost. But don’t worry, you don’t need fancy tools for this – your friendly website expert can do it. And guess what? If you’re working with us, our SEO packages include these check-ups! You’ll see them on your special data dashboard. It’s like having a health report for your website, making sure it’s in tip-top shape!

5. Seek Professional Help From an SEO Agency in Your Niche/Field:

If you’re not comfortable dealing with these technical aspects, consider hiring a web developer or an SEO expert. They can help you identify and fix 404 errors and ensure your website runs smoothly.

Wrapping Up: Navigating 404 Errors on Your Website

In the world of websites, even the pros sometimes get puzzled by 404 errors. It’s completely normal to find this confusing at first. But remember, as a healthcare business owner, you’re a pro at what you do, and you can master this too! So, let’s recap: 404 errors happen for various reasons, like typos or web crawlers gone wild. To fix them, keep an eye on your site, regularly check for broken links, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed. You’ve got this! Your website will be running smoothly, helping more patients find you in no time. Keep up the great work!

Professional, Support SEO Help for Private Practices

If you’re a healthcare professional running a therapy or private practice and want to boost your online visibility, Simplified SEO Consulting is here to help. Our team specializes in crafting tailor-made SEO strategies to attract your ideal clients or patients. Say goodbye to 404 errors and hello to a thriving online presence!

With our expertise in the healthcare industry and digital marketing, we’ll guide you through the complexities of SEO, making it easy to understand and implement. Our SEO packages include regular website audits, ensuring your online presence remains top-notch.

Don’t let 404 errors or technical jargon hold you back. Let’s work together to grow your practice and reach more of those who need your services. Schedule a free consultation with us today, and let’s get started on your path to online success. Your ideal clients are just a click away!

Vocabulary written on wooden blocks. SEO Services could be what your practice needs to grow! Learn more from our SEO specialists. In the vast and ever-evolving realm of digital marketing, SEO (Search Engine Optimization) stands as a great strategy for boosting online visibility. SEO encompasses a multitude of techniques and strategies so understanding its language is crucial for success in this field. In this blog post, Simplified SEO Consulting will be your guide through the jungle of SEO vocabulary. Now let’s break down key terms and concepts to empower you in your SEO journey!

The Basics of SEO Terminology

Search Engine: Online platform that allows users to search for information on the internet. These search engines are designed to index, crawl, and retrieve web pages and other types of content from websites across the internet. For example:

  • Google
  • DuckDuckGo
  • Yahoo
  • Bing

Search Engine Results Page (SERP): Refers to the page that a search engine displays to a user after they enter what they’re searching for

Keyword Research: The process of finding and analyzing terms that people use when searching for information related to your business or services

Ranking: The position at which a particular web page appears in the search engine results pages (SERPs)

Keyword: The main word you are focusing on related to your practice, law firm, or services

A search bar with Keyword Research and small icon people at desk. Keyword research is crucial to grow your personal injury law firm. Discover more keyword research & SEO techniques here.On-Page SEO Vocabulary

Title Tag: Displayed as the clickable link in search engine results pages (SERPs)

Meta Description: Brief summary of a web page or blog that appears on the SERP below the title tag

Header Tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.): Used to structure & organize the content on a webpage and indicate the hierarchy of information

H1: Essentially the title of your page

H2-H3: Subheadings to support your content

P: Text content

Content: The textual, visual, or multimedia elements that make up the information on a web page

Keyword Density: The number of times your keyword is found in your content

Internal and External Links: Content should include internal links to other relevant pages or blogs on the same website and external links to authoritative sources for additional information

Readability: Content should be easy to read and understand. Clear headings, short paragraphs, bullet points, and a logical structure improve readability

A magnifying glass hovering over Google My Business logo. There are several things that go into good SEO. Learn more from Simplified SEO Consulting.

Off-Page SEO Vocabulary

Backlink: When your website is linked to another website (directories, resource list, podcasts)

Nofollow: Hyperlink attribute that is used to tell search engines not to follow or crawl the linked webpage

Dofollow: Hyperlinks that allow search engine crawlers to follow and index the linked web page

Technical SEO Vocabulary

Crawling and Indexing: Web crawlers scan and catalog web pages. It involves analyzing the content, keywords, links, and other elements of each webpage

Page Speed: The amount of time it takes for a web page to load and become fully functional for a user when they visit a website

Mobile Optimization: Ensuring it displays and functions correctly on smaller screens (phones, tablets, etc.)

Local SEO Vocabulary

Local SEO: Anything you do to help Google better understand where your business is located or is relevant so you show up more often in local search results

A computer, magnifying glass & megaphone cartoon. Local SEO is great to build your practice. Start today! NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number): Basic business information like hours, locations, addresses, etc. that must be consistent and accurate across various online platforms, directories, and websites

Google My Business (GMB): A powerful tool for local businesses looking to enhance their online presence and improve their visibility search results near their location

SEO Metrics and Analytics Vocabulary

Organic Traffic: The position of a webpage in the unpaid, natural search results of a search engine

Click-Through Rate (CTR): Percentage of users who click on a specific link or search result in relation to the number of total users who view that link or result

Learn More SEO Vocabulary with Simplified SEO Consulting Today!

Mastering SEO vocabulary is the first step towards unlocking the full potential of your SEO journey! As you navigate through the ever-changing landscape of SEO, these essential terms and concepts will serve as your compass. Let Simplified SEO Consulting guide you towards higher rankings, increased organic traffic, and online success. Our SEO Specialists are here to work with you to reach your ideal clients. We make it easy for you!

  1. Schedule a free consultation!
  2. Learn more about our team and the packages we offer.
  3. Watch your practice thrive.

Other Services Simplified SEO Offers:

Are you ready to take the next step? Enroll in our Small Group SEO Intensive now and start preparing your website for optimization! If you’re interested in private instruction, check out our 12-Week SEO Intensive Training Program. Don’t have the time or expertise? Our team of expert SEO specialists can do it for you. Read more about our Done-For-You program

 here!

About the Author

Olivia Ferguson, Mental Health SEO Specialist

Olivia Ferguson graduated from Central Michigan University with her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. With a prior history in crime victim advocacy, this brought her great knowledge of the legal justice system and the mental health profession. Connecting those tools together, her goal is to help individuals reach their ideal clients by improving their online presence and rankings with SEO.

Understanding the issues that occur on your site is a vital part of long-term SEO success

As your practice evolves on your SEO journey, so will the structure of your site. But, growing pains are often an inescapable part of change. It’s essential to keep an eye on the errors that may occur. Site audits can show us a wealth of invaluable info about issues present on your site. But, there can be a lot of information to take in from these reports. So, today we will be breaking down the different results the site audit can show us from our Data Dashboard. We will also discuss what issues must be addressed when they arise.

A screenshot of a site audit report. Learn tips for improving SEO for online therapy and improving private practice SEO. Search for search engine optimization for counselors for support today. Classifying Your Site Audit Results

When looking at your site audit, you will be able to see the number of pages that have been reviewed, the date the most recent audit was run, and which audit tests have passed or failed. You will also notice three types of errors that form based on these failed tests. These are split up into warnings, errors, and critical errors. By clicking on an individual test, you can see what pages are affected by the issue, and provide extra info to help resolve them.

Warnings

No site is perfect, and there are bound to be things that are perceived as errors by the site audit. The most common will be the warnings that occur in different forms on the site. Warnings can involve on-page elements such as missing headings, a low word count, or excessively long titles. They can also involve more technical aspects of your site like long loading times, missing meta descriptions, and high waiting times. 

Errors

Being a step up from warnings, errors are issues that can have more of an impact on how potential visitors to your site interact with each page. This can include issues like broken resources (like images), broken links, and duplicate meta descriptions. There are some errors that are related to critical errors, but most remain in their own category. 

Critical Errors

Critical errors are the most severe type of issue that can occur on the site audit. These errors are critical because they directly affect the ability to access pages on your site. The most common critical errors we encounter are 4xx errors, which are broken links that may occur for a number of reasons like a page no longer existing on the site, requiring a sign-in, or requiring a form of authentication. Other critical errors may be 5xx errors, which prevent both search engines and people from accessing your website. However, 5xx errors are often due to issues on the server side, which isn’t anything we can really control. 

Understanding What Issues to Resolve

An image of a wooden block with a question mark. Learn tips for improving SEO for online therapy and improving private practice SEO. Search for search engine optimization for counselors for support today. While knowing the cause of each issue is invaluable, it still may not be worth the time to go through and fix every single warning, error, and critical error on the site. There are many different unique warnings and errors that may occur on your site, so we won’t be addressing every issue in this post. Each concern has a description of why the error/warning is occurring, so making use of that resource will be important when reviewing your site audit. 

In terms of warnings and errors, it may not be worth the time invested to fix all of them. For issues like a slightly slow page speed, it is worth taking into account what you will gain from fixing the error compared to how much time you are putting into solving the problem. For a vast majority of warnings, they won’t really be worth the time put into resolving the issue. However, there are errors that can occur that are worth taking the time to address. This is due to how they can impact the on-page experience and navigation of folks visiting your site. 

One of the main errors that we suggest fixing is “broken resources”.

These can be things like images, stylesheets, and scripts that are failing to load on your site. This may be due to files no longer being available on the site, or a number of other scenarios. Having broken resources can be distracting for visitors to your site and can make it seem like things aren’t up to date, thus harming the trust visitors have in your site. 

On the other hand, there are other errors that may be present on your report that seem like issues but are actually signs you are doing things correctly on your site.

One such example could be pages not being recognized as canonical. This can be seen as the main version of a page when there exist other versions of the same page. In many cases, the site audit can falsely flag alternative versions of pages as not being canonical (the original), when the “main” or “original” page is already in its rightful place. While it is nice that the site audit is thorough enough to inform us that there are other versions of a given page, it can sometimes cause false positives to occur as a result. 

So, are critical errors the only ones I need to fix? 

A close up of a person typing on a laptop while smiling. Learn tips for improving SEO for online therapy and improving private practice SEO. Search for search engine optimization for counselors for support today. In short, it’s not that simple. As a general rule, yes it will be best to fix all critical errors that occur on your site audit. But, there are also some errors that may need to be addressed like broken resources. In the end, it is worth taking your personal situation into account so you can effectively use your time to address the issues that affect your site most. 

Start Improving SEO for Psychologists with Simplified SEO Consulting

Our team is happy to offer support with growing your SEO and supporting your practice. An SEO specialist would be happy to provide support across the country. 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 Services and 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!