AI SEO, Content, Marketing, SEO Basics, SEO Tips, Training, Uncategorized

GEO Is Not Replacing SEO: Why the Future of Website Optimization Needs Both

If you’ve been hearing the buzz about Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) lately, you might also have seen bold claims like “SEO is dead” or “AI is replacing Google.”

For many helping professionals, therapists, coaches, dietitians, and other service providers, statements like these can feel overwhelming. You’ve already worked hard to get your website ranking in search engines. Now there’s talk of a whole new kind of optimization? And what about all the SEO work you’ve done so far — is it suddenly irrelevant?

Here’s the truth: SEO is not dead. It’s evolving.

GEO is not a replacement for SEO. Instead, it’s the next chapter in how we help people find you online — and the most effective approach in 2025 will combine both traditional SEO and GEO strategies to help you be visible to both humans and AI.

My Perspective After Digging Into GEO

Recently, I’ve been doing a lot of research into Generative Engine Optimization, or GEO, and how it impacts traditional Search Engine Optimization (SEO). The consensus across the board is clear: both are necessary.

While some older SEO tactics aren’t as important as they used to be — such as relying solely on keywords or pushing out content purely for quantity — the foundation of traditional SEO still drives GEO success.

Here’s why:

Understanding how to write effective meta descriptions still matters.
Writing quality content that provides in-depth, concrete, and reliable information is crucial.
Maintaining a humanistic tone helps both human readers and AI models connect with your content.
Doing on-page optimization: proper page structure, heading hierarchy, and keyword placement ensures AI systems can parse your content correctly.
Optimizing images and other media improves accessibility, load speed, and search visibility.

Yes, GEO is changing how SEO functions, but it’s more of an evolution and merging of concepts than a replacement. GEO builds on the strong foundation of traditional SEO, adapting it for a world where AI plays a bigger role in how people find answers.

What Exactly Is GEO?

Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) is the practice of optimizing your content so it shows up and is cited in AI-generated answers.

Traditionally, when people search for something online, they type keywords into Google, scroll through the list of results (Search Engine Results Pages, or SERPs), and click on the link that seems most relevant. That’s where traditional SEO shines — helping your site rank higher so people click through.

But with the rise of AI-powered search tools like Google’s AI Overviews, Bing Copilot, ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity, many searches now skip the full results list. Instead, the AI generates a direct answer to the question, often pulling pieces of information from multiple websites.

GEO focuses on making sure your content is one of those sources — so when AI provides an answer, it cites (and ideally links to) your site.

GEO vs. SEO: The Key Difference

Think of it this way:

SEO: Competing for a spot on the results page to earn a click.
GEO: Competing to be part of the AI’s actual answer — visible even without a click.

With SEO, you measure success in rankings and clicks. With GEO, you measure citations, brand mentions, and visibility inside AI-generated summaries.

But here’s the kicker: AI still pulls from well-optimized, trustworthy sites — which means strong SEO is the first step toward GEO success.

Why GEO Builds on, Not Replaces, SEO

Here’s why the best results come from combining both approaches:

1. Traditional search is still huge

Billions of searches happen the “old-fashioned” way every day. Many of your potential clients still scroll through results and click links to learn more.

2. GEO depends on SEO signals

AI models tend to use high-authority, well-structured sites as sources. If your site doesn’t have those signals in place, your chances of being cited drop.

3. SEO helps both people and AI

Things like fast load speeds, mobile-friendly layouts, and clear navigation help real visitors — and also make it easier for AI to read your content.

4. GEO visibility boosts brand trust

Even if someone doesn’t click through, seeing your practice name in an AI answer builds familiarity and credibility.

How AI-Generated Answers Are Changing Search

Let’s say a potential client types:
“What is EMDR therapy and how does it help with trauma?”

Traditional search: They see a list of results, maybe your EMDR page ranks in the top five.

AI-powered search: They see a paragraph explaining EMDR, often followed by a few cited sources. If your content is clear, well-structured, and authoritative, you might be one of them, giving you visibility even without a click.

A Step-by-Step Approach to Blending GEO and SEO

You don’t have to choose between them. The best strategy in 2025 is to layer GEO tactics on top of your SEO foundation.

1: Keep SEO Fundamentals Strong

Keyword research to understand client search behavior
On-page optimization with clear titles, meta descriptions, and headings
In-depth content that thoroughly answers real questions
High-quality backlinks to signal authority
Technical health for speed, mobile performance, and navigation

2: Structure Content for AI

Use bullet points, numbered lists, and tables
Add FAQ sections with direct, concise answers
Include clear definitions for important terms
Use descriptive headings for each section

3: Implement Structured Data (Schema)

FAQPage for Q&A sections
HowTo for step-by-step guides
Article for blog posts
LocalBusiness for your practice details

4: Write for Humans in a Conversational Style

Use natural, approachable language
Anticipate follow-up questions within the same article
Explain jargon in plain terms

5: Monitor and Adapt

Test searches in AI platforms to see if your content appears
Track brand searches — increases may indicate AI visibility
Experiment with quick answers, videos, or infographics

If Someone Says “SEO Is Dead”… They are Dead Wrong

If someone approaches you, stands up, and loudly declares that SEO is dead — that it’s no longer a viable way to get your website, your practice, or your business seen online — they are sadly mistaken.

This kind of statement is often fear-mongering designed to grab attention and push people toward one narrow way of thinking. At Simplified SEO Consulting, we take a more measured approach. We do our research, test our methods, and look carefully at how both SEO and GEO work.

The reality? Both concepts are accurate in their own way, and when combined, they create a more powerful, comprehensive optimization strategy. Together, they help your website appear in traditional search results, AI-powered search answers, and beyond.

The Bottom Line: GEO + SEO = Full Optimization

Generative AI isn’t replacing SEO, it’s reshaping it. GEO is about speaking to AI while SEO is about speaking to people — and in today’s world, you need to do both.

At Simplified SEO Consulting, we help Helping Professionals navigate this evolution without the overwhelm. We keep your SEO foundation strong while integrating GEO strategies that ensure you’re seen in both traditional search results and AI-generated answers.

Because the most effective optimization strategy in 2025 isn’t about choosing humans or AI, it’s about connecting with both.

Ready to Show Up Everywhere Your Clients Are Searching?

At Simplified SEO Consulting, our Done-For-You SEO Services go beyond traditional optimization — we integrate both Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and Search Engine Optimization (SEO) so your website is ready for today’s search and tomorrow’s innovations.

We handle every step for you — from in-depth keyword research and on-page optimization to structuring your content for AI-generated answers — so you can focus on what you do best: serving your clients.

With our expert team on your side, your practice won’t just rank higher in Google search results, it will also earn visibility in AI-powered answers, helping potential clients find you faster, trust you sooner, and choose you with confidence.

Don’t get left behind in the shift toward AI-driven search. Let us make sure your online presence works seamlessly for both humans and AI.

Schedule your free consultation today and discover how our DFY services can help you stand out everywhere it matters.

Services Offered at Simplified SEO Consulting

At Simplified SEO Consulting, we provide a range of services to help helping professionals achieve their goals and grow their practices:

Done for You SEO: Comprehensive SEO services managed entirely by our team.
Do It Yourself SEO: Learn to implement SEO strategies with expert guidance.
Strategy Sessions: Personalized sessions to develop a tailored SEO plan.
Consultation Sessions: In-depth advice to optimize your online presence.
Technical SEO: Improve your website’s structure and performance.
Local SEO: Enhance visibility in specific geographic areas.
Stand-Alone Copywriting: High-quality, SEO-optimized content for your website

About the Author

Mary Walker is the owner and lead strategist at Simplified SEO Consulting, a nationally recognized agency specializing in helping therapists, coaches, and other helping professionals increase their online visibility. With years of hands-on experience in both the technical and human sides of marketing, Mary has guided countless private practices to measurable growth through ethical, results-driven SEO.

Armed with Master’s degrees in Digital Marketing and Psychology, Mary brings a unique advantage to the field — the ability to combine data-driven optimization techniques with a deep understanding of how people search, decide, and connect. She is widely regarded for her ability to translate complex SEO concepts into clear, actionable strategies that empower clients to thrive in competitive online spaces.

As a business owner herself, Mary knows the demands of balancing leadership with real life. That’s why she has built Simplified SEO Consulting around principles of collaboration, psychological safety, and mutual support, ensuring both clients and her team feel seen, valued, and set up for success.

Beyond rankings and analytics, Mary’s mission is to help helping professionals grow with confidence, clarity, and purpose — creating sustainable visibility that leads to lasting impact. When she’s not advising clients or mentoring her team, you can find her cheering on her favorite football teams, spending time with her five kids, or unwinding with crochet projects that bring a moment of calm to her busy life.

August 13, 2025/0 Comments/by Mary Walker

Uncategorized

Is Your Wellness Website SEO-Ready? A Guide for Holistic Health Professionals

You pour your energy into helping others feel their best. Whether you’re a chiropractor, functional medicine doctor, doula, or acupuncturist, your focus is on your clients’ well-being.

But here’s the thing. Is your website doing the same for you?

Having a beautiful website is great, but if no one can find it, you’re missing out on reaching people who need your care. Your ideal clients are out there searching. And SEO is what helps them land on your page instead of someone else’s.

If you’ve ever wondered what it means to have an SEO-ready wellness website, you’re in the right place. At Simplified, we’ve worked with hundreds of helping professionals to help their websites get found. And now, we’re expanding our services to support holistic health professionals like you.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes a website ready to show up and serve.

New to SEO for Holistic Health and Well-being? Start Here.

If you’re reading all this and thinking, “Okay… but I still don’t totally know what SEO is,” you’re not alone. Many of the helping professionals we work with start in the exact same place.

Let’s break it down.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is simply the process of helping your website show up when someone types a question or phrase into Google. The goal is to get your site in front of the right people, your ideal clients, at the right time.

Here’s a quick example:

Let’s say you’re a holistic chiropractor in Boulder. Someone searches “natural back pain relief in Boulder.” If your site is SEO-optimized, that person is more likely to find you at the top of the results, instead of someone two towns over or someone ranked on the 5th page.

SEO helps you:

Get found by the clients who need your services
Build credibility online
Fill your schedule without relying only on referrals or word of mouth

And no, you don’t have to learn all the technical stuff yourself. That’s what we’re here for.

Think of SEO as self-care for your business. The work you do today can keep supporting your practice for months (and even years) to come.

What Makes a Wellness Website SEO-Ready?

Now that you’ve got a handle on what SEO actually means, let’s explore how to get your site there. Here’s what it takes to be SEO-ready in a competitive wellness market.

When your ideal client opens Google and types in something like “acupuncture for migraines near me” or “chiropractor who specializes in pregnancy,” you want your name to be one of the first they see. But showing up on that first page of search results doesn’t happen by luck, it happens by building your site with intention.

Here’s what that looks like:

1. Clear, client-focused content

You probably spend a lot of time helping your clients feel seen and heard in your work. Your website should do the same. That means writing content that:

Speaks directly to your clients in a warm, welcoming voice
Explain your services in everyday language, no jargon
Answers the questions your clients are already asking

For example, instead of just listing “functional nutrition” as a service, walk people through what that means, what a first appointment might look like, and who it’s best for. This not only builds trust, but it also helps you rank for more search terms.

Pro tip: Don’t underestimate your homepage! Your first few sentences should tell people who you are, what you do, and where you’re located. Google pays attention to those details.

2. Local SEO elements

Even if you offer virtual sessions, most people still want to find someone in their area. That’s where local SEO comes in.

We make sure your site includes:
Natural mentions of your city and state in key places
A dedicated Contact page with your location, phone number, and directions
A fully optimized Google Business Profile

These details help Google understand your geographic relevance, so when someone searches for “Reiki practitioner in Austin” or “postpartum doula near me,” your website has a better chance of showing up.

3. Keyword research that works for you

SEO for holistic health and well-being isn’t just about stuffing popular keywords into your site and hoping for the best. We take time to learn about your ideal clients, your unique services, and the exact language people are using in search.

That means we:

Research what your potential clients are actually Googling
Focus on keywords that match your voice and values
Strategically use those keywords in your service pages, headers, meta descriptions, and more

You won’t sound like a robot. You’ll sound like you, just with better visibility.

4. Helpful, consistent blog content

You know how clients often ask the same few questions in sessions? That’s your blog content right there.

Blogging gives you a space to:

Answer common questions
Share your perspective
Educate your community
Support your long-term SEO strategy

Google loves consistent, relevant content, and your blog helps you show up in more searches while building trust with readers.

Not sure what to blog about? We help with that, too. It starts with asking: What are people already curious about when it comes to your work?

5. Optimized images and user-friendly design

An SEO-ready website isn’t just about words. Your images matter too. We make sure every photo:

Loads quickly
Has alt text (for accessibility and SEO)
Uses filenames that support keyword targeting

Beyond that, your site should feel intuitive. Can people find what they need? Is the navigation clear? Does your mobile site look as good as your desktop site? A site that’s beautiful and easy to use helps both your users and your SEO.

Common SEO Mistakes We See Wellness Providers Make

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just getting started with your website, it’s easy to make a few missteps that keep your ideal clients from ever finding you. Here are a few things we often see in the wellness world:

1. Only focusing on social media

Instagram is great, but it’s not where most people go when they’re in pain at 2 a.m. and searching for help. SEO ensures you’re visible in search, where most decisions actually start.

2. Ignoring local SEO

Whether you’re a doula in Austin or a functional medicine doctor in Asheville, your services are deeply local. If your website doesn’t clearly mention your location in the right ways, Google may skip over you.

3. Writing beautiful content, but not searchable

You might have a gorgeous site filled with valuable info. But if it’s not built with search engines in mind, it may never reach the people who need it most. Instead, focus on writing content that answers exact questions that people are searching.

4. Trying to DIY everything at once

We get it, you’re busy and resourceful. But SEO is one of those things that’s best tackled with strategy and consistency. Going in a million directions can slow progress and dilute results.

Ready to Get Found by More Clients? Begin SEO For Functional Medicine Doctors Today

You don’t have to figure out SEO alone. Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve what’s already there, Simplified SEO Consulting is here to help holistic health professionals like you build websites that get found and connect with the right clients. Follow the steps below to get started with one of our SEO specialists.

Schedule a FREE consultation so we can discuss your SEO goals.
Explore our blogs or podcasts for more optimization tips and tricks.
Start reaching your ideal clients who need you most with a strategic SEO plan.

Other Services We Offer for Holistic Wellness Professionals

At Simplified, we’re not just here to help your website show up—we’re here to make sure it reflects you. In addition to SEO strategy and optimization, we offer a range of services designed to meet you where you are in your business journey:

Copywriting Services

Whether you need fresh service pages, an engaging homepage, or a blog that finally says what you’ve been trying to put into words, we’ve got you. Our copywriting services write in your voice, for your people, and with SEO baked right in.

DIY Online Courses

Want to learn the SEO basics on your own time? Our DIY courses are designed to help professionals who want to understand how SEO works, without the tech overwhelm. We break it down step-by-step so you can take action with confidence.

Done-For-You Package

Looking for a hands-on partner to keep your SEO in motion? We offer monthly packages that include blog optimization, ongoing keyword research, image optimization, and data-driven adjustments, so your website keeps working for you, month after month.

Social Media Management Packages

Want your social media to connect with your SEO goals? We offer monthly content planning, post creation, and strategy that reflects your voice and supports your visibility across platforms. We’ll help you stay consistent and aligned with your website goals with our social media package.

Strategy Sessions for SEO & Social Media

Need clarity on how everything fits together? Our 1:1 strategy sessions offer deep dives into your SEO and social media presence so you can leave with an action plan that supports your goals—and actually feels doable.

Technical SEO

A healthy website is the foundation of strong SEO. Our technical SEO package can fix behind-the-scenes issues like site speed, mobile usability, crawl errors, broken links, and more to keep your site running smoothly and ranking better.

Local SEO Packages

Want to rank in your city or region? Our Local SEO services help you show up in local search results with location-optimized content, Google Business Profile support, and targeted keyword strategies to help people find you right in their neighborhood.

August 12, 2025/0 Comments/by Olivia Ferguson

Uncategorized

How to Rank on Google for Online Therapy

As a therapist offering online therapy, standing out on Google is more important than ever. The competition is high, and it can feel like a challenge to ensure your practice appears in front of potential clients who are actively searching for the services you offer. But don’t worry — ranking on Google for online therapy is possible, and it’s something you can achieve with the right strategies.

In this blog, we’re going to break down the essentials of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and how it can help you boost your online presence. We’ll explore actionable steps that can help improve your Google rankings, including how to optimize your website content and whether SEO is something you can tackle on your own, or if it’s worth investing in professional help. Whether you’re just starting out at your private practice or looking to improve your existing online presence, this guide will give you the insights you need to drive more traffic to your online therapy services and ultimately connect with more clients.

What is SEO in therapy?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the process of optimizing your website so search engines like Google can easily understand it and rank it higher in search results. For therapists offering online services, this means ensuring that your website appears when potential clients search for terms like “online therapy for anxiety” or “virtual therapy for depression.”

Ranking well for online therapy services on Google can seem like a daunting task, especially given the competition. However, the first step toward improving your search engine visibility is identifying your niche and defining your ideal client. Once you understand who you’re trying to reach, you can tailor your SEO efforts to attract those specific individuals.

Let’s begin

To start, focus on your niche—what specific problems does your ideal client face? Are you focusing on anxiety, trauma, stress management, or something else? Once you’ve identified your target audience, you can then optimize your service pages to reflect the keywords and topics most relevant to them. This means using specific terms that resonate with your ideal clients and making sure that your content answers their most common questions or concerns.

For example, if you specialize in online therapy for stress, make sure your service page clearly addresses this topic and incorporates related keywords. This helps potential clients quickly identify that your services align with their needs and increases the chances of your page ranking higher for those searches.

SEO for online therapy isn’t just about driving more traffic to your site; it’s about connecting with the right people. A well-optimized website reflects your expertise and helps build trust with potential clients. By targeting the right keywords and crafting content that speaks to your audience, you increase the likelihood of reaching the individuals who are most likely to benefit from your services.

For more information on the E-A-T score (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) and how it impacts SEO, check out this blog: EAT as a Ranking Factor

How do I appear higher on Google search?

Ranking higher on Google involves a combination of strategy, consistency, and attention to detail. Here are key steps to improve your visibility:

Keyword Optimization: Use phrases your ideal clients are searching for, like “online therapy for stress” or “anxiety counseling.” Sprinkle these strategically across your website pages, blogs, and headers.

Example: If you specialize in therapy for anxiety, use terms like “therapy for anxiety in [your city]” or “anxiety counseling for adults.” This helps Google match your site with relevant searches.

Create High-Quality Content: Regularly publish blogs or resources that address your clients’ common concerns. Google prioritizes fresh, relevant content that answers specific questions.

Example: Write blog posts like “5 Ways Online Therapy Can Help Manage Stress” or “How to Find the Right Therapist for Anxiety.” These posts will rank better because they answer common search queries from potential clients.

Technical SEO: Ensure your website is user-friendly. This means fast loading times, mobile optimization, and secure HTTPS protocols.

Example: Test your website’s load speed using tools like Google PageSpeed Insights. If your site is slow, consider optimizing image sizes, reducing unnecessary code, or using a faster hosting provider. A mobile-friendly design is crucial, especially for clients browsing from their phones.

Backlinks: Collaborate with trusted websites to link back to your site. Google sees backlinks as a vote of confidence, which can improve rankings.

Example: Partner with local directories or well-regarded mental health blogs to get a link back to your website. For example, if you’re featured in a “Best Online Therapists” list or contribute a guest post, Google will recognize that as a credible source.

Remember, SEO isn’t about tricking Google; it’s about creating a great experience for your clients and helping them find you easily.

Should I do SEO myself?

If you’re more of a hands-on person, it’s completely normal to consider doing SEO yourself. The idea of learning something new and taking control of your website’s growth can be appealing. After all, there’s a lot of free information available online, and doing it yourself might seem like the most cost-effective option.

However, while it’s possible to manage SEO on your own, it’s important to weigh the potential challenges. SEO isn’t just about adding a few keywords or writing blog posts—it’s a comprehensive strategy that involves technical fixes, continuous updates, and an in-depth understanding of search engine algorithms.

Consider these factors before deciding to tackle SEO yourself:

Time Commitment: SEO isn’t a one-and-done task. It requires ongoing attention, from monitoring performance to optimizing content regularly.
Expertise: SEO involves a variety of technical aspects, like optimizing meta tags, improving site speed, and managing backlinks, which may require specialized knowledge.
Long-Term Strategy: SEO success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about consistency, and staying up-to-date with best practices can be a full-time job.

If you enjoy learning new skills and have the time to commit, doing SEO yourself can be a rewarding challenge. But if SEO feels overwhelming or if you’d rather focus on other aspects of your business, working with an experienced SEO professional can help ensure that your site ranks effectively without the steep learning curve.

If you’d like to explore Simplified SEO’s different options for SEO support, schedule a free consultation with us! We’d be happy to help guide you through the process and help you achieve the best results for your site.

Ready to Boost Your Online Visibility? Let’s Create an SEO Strategy Tailored to Your Practice!

Whether you want to dive into SEO yourself or prefer expert guidance, Simplified SEO is here to help! Follow the steps below and create a tailored strategy that drives more traffic and connects you with the clients who need your support.

Reach out to us here to schedule a consultation.
Learn more about on-page and off-page optimization by exploring our blogs.
Find an SEO strategy that works just for you and your business goals!

Other Services Offered With Simplified SEO Consulting

Simplified SEO Consulting offers support in both Done For You SEO Services and DIY Online SEO Courses. We also offer an SEO strategy package if you’re unsure of which direction you’d like to take with SEO. If you’d like the guidance of an SEO specialist but have a good understanding of SEO, explore our new consulting package!

About the Author

Olivia graduated from Central Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work. Combining her deep understanding of social work principles with her expertise in search engine optimization, she is dedicated to empowering therapists to connect effectively with their ideal clients. Through strategic SEO techniques, Olivia enjoys helping therapists enhance their online visibility and attract clients who can benefit most from their services. Her goal is to bridge the gap between mental health expertise and digital marketing. In the end, this ensures that therapists can focus on what they do best – providing compassionate care – while reaching those in need through an effective online presence.

January 14, 2025/0 Comments/by Olivia Ferguson

Uncategorized

How Simplified’s SEO Courses Can Help with SEO Marketing for Therapists

They didn’t teach us this stuff in grad school, but we CAN learn it. Trust me SEO marketing for therapists can be learned! Many therapists throughout the United States & abroad learn to implement these techniques with this course right here! Simplified SEO Consulting has seen firsthand how powerful SEO can be in growing a group practice and solo practice. Our team wants to make this easier than ever for YOU to learn as well.

Why Learn Private Practice SEO?

When you learn SEO for your private practice, it can help you more effectively market yourself and your services. SEO (or Search Engine Optimization) can help your website rank higher on search engine results pages, leading to increased visibility and more clients. It is also cost-effective, as you can get more leads without having to spend money on expensive ads. SEO is also a long-term investment, as it builds over time with content and backlinks.

What WIll I learn in the Course?

In this course, you will learn everything you need to know to have an impactful and effective SEO strategy. Including:

Keyword Research
Meta Descriptions/Titles
Content Creation
On-Page Optimization with demos (internal/external links, photo alt text/title, subheadings/headings, readability
Building and Obtaining High-Quality Backlinks
Monitoring Results, Analyzing, and Understanding Data ( with Sterling)
Implications of the ACA Compact and PsycPact
Strategy for Multiple Locations and Online Therapy
Blogging ( with Lynsey and Danica)
Bonus Content

Who Should Learn SEO Marketing for Therapists Independently?

This SEO course is designed specifically for therapists looking to grow their private practice. Whether you are a solo clinician, a group practice, an integrated practice, working in therapy, or an adjacent field. If you are highly motivated, love to learn, and have the time, and resources to commit to learning, understanding, and implementing SEO, then this is for you. SEO is a long-term investment and this course will get you ready for SEO success.

It Starts With You.

There is no right or wrong SEO strategy. SEO is highly personalized and based on the individual’s business goals, market conditions, audience types, location, etc. That is why learning SEO as an individual is so important. SEO is a dynamic business discipline and no two SEOs will have the exact same approach. By taking this SEO course, you will be able to develop SEO strategies that are tailored to YOUR business and YOUR goals.

What Kind of Commitment Am I Looking At?

At Simplified SEO Consulting, our SEO courses are designed to be engaging and effective. For the SEO course, you will need to devote between 10-12 hours of your time over the length of the course. If you want some additional support, you can schedule paid strategy sessions throughout the course to help you stay on track, clarify your strategy, and help you better implement the material. SEO can be an overwhelming topic, but with the right guidance and support, you can learn SEO in no time.

Will It Be As Effective Hiring an SEO Company?

We believe that SEO can be as effective if you learn SEO on your own. By taking this course, you will gain an understanding of SEO principles and SEO strategy. That knowledge will allow you to make informed decisions when it comes to SEO for your private practice. SEO is an ever-evolving field. What is great thing is that for as long as you have the course you will have the most up-to-date information on SEO, as we learn new information, we update the course accordingly.

Additionally, our team uses these same techniques. We believe SEO optimization is more of an art than a science, so it’s individualized, but you are learning the same things we implement on a daily basis.

How Do I Get The Most Out of SEO Marketing for Therapists Courses?

What I recommend is to take one module at a time and begin to implement these changes you are seeing. It can be really overwhelming to see all the information at once and It’s best to understand each concept, apply it and then come back to the next module. Over time, as you understand SEO and your strategy, it won’t require so much step-by-step focus, it will become more integrated and make more sense. If you are unsure, schedule a strategy session with me! I’m here to help you every step of the way.

Signs Learning From Course is Right for You!

You are highly motivated and determined to start private practice SEO.
In fact, you have the time and resources to commit to an SEO course for therapists
You are ready to take SEO into your own hands
Maybe, you are interested in SEO as a long-term investment for growing your practice.
You genuinely enjoy learning SEO and want to stay up-to-date on the latest SEO strategies.
Perhaps, you are open to investing in SEO training and consulting.
You are a team player and willing to collaborate with SEO experts.

If this sounds like you, then the SEO course for therapists is the perfect fit! We can’t wait to help you get your SEO strategies up and running! SEO will take time and effort, but it is well worth the investment. Our SEO course for therapists will get you ready

Schedule Your Strategy Session or Start Learning Using Our Top of Search Engine SEO Course for Therapists!

If you can say “yes” to the points above, then SEO marketing for therapist courses are right for you. SEO is a powerful way to make your private practice more visible online and generate leads so you can grow your business. SEO requires commitment and consistency but with the right SEO course, you can learn SEO on your own and become an SEO expert. By investing in SEO training and consulting, you can get the most out of SEO for your private practice.

So, don’t wait any longer – sign up for our SEO Course for Therapists and start achieving SEO success! Our SEO course will provide you with the knowledge and strategies needed to get TOP of search engine positions for your practice. With SEO, you’ll be able to reach a wider audience, increase visibility and grow your private practice. So, why wait? Get SEO training and consulting for your private practice today!

In order to schedule your strategy session:

Other Services At Simplified SEO Consulting

If you’re looking for other forms of support, we can help! We offer options such as our 12-week training, small group intensives, and courses. Our strategy session can be a great option if you need support getting started with SEO or doing a site move or redesign. Or, if you’re ready to work with a passionate and skilled team, our Done for You Program may be a great following approach.

About the Author

Jasmine is the SEO Training Coordinator and offers free consultations for Simplified’s SEO Consulting on our services. Jasmine is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and recently earned her degree from Northwestern University. She works to help people with a strategy with national rankings, eating disorder specialties, trauma, sports psychology, postpartum/pregnancy/parenting, high achievers, and much more. Schedule a consult soon!

April 1, 2023/0 Comments/by Jasmine Jaquess

Uncategorized

Tips for Writing Headings and Subheadings for Speech Therapists in Private Practice

As a speech therapist in private practice, creating effective headings and subheadings for your website is crucial for attracting and retaining clients. Not only do headings and subheadings help organize your content, but they also play a key role in search engine optimization (SEO). In this article, we will discuss the best practices for writing headings and subheadings for speech therapists in private practice.

Use Short and Descriptive Headings

Your headings should clearly and concisely summarize the main topic of your page. Keep in mind that many users will skim your page, so make sure your headings stand out and capture their attention.

Essentially, a potential client or caregiver should be able to easily scan your page and know what the page is about. From there, they can choose to read the sections most relevant to them in more depth.

Use Proper Heading Structure

Use only one H1 tag per page, as this is the most important heading and should only be used for the main topic. Use H2, H3, and so on for subtopics. This creates a clear hierarchy of information for both users and search engines.

I often see private practice owners overlook this. They think the H1 style on their website settings looks nice so they use way too many H1s. In fact, I see website developers even do this sometimes. But it causes problems for some individuals using screen readers. And as an SLP, you want to be especially sensitive to communication concerns and communication devices. So, please be on the lookout for this issue.

Similarly, I’ve seen people skip H2s because they feel like they are too big. If you don’t like the look of your H2s, work with your website developer to change the settings. Getting this heading and subheading structure correct will not only help your SEO but be important for giving your clients a great experience on your website.

Incorporate Long-Tail Keywords

Using long-tail keywords in your subheadings can help improve your website’s SEO. Long-tail keywords are more specific phrases that are less competitive in search rankings, allowing you to target a more niche audience.

Read more about long tail keywords here.

Keep It Simple

Avoid using complex language in your headings and subheadings. Use simple and easy-to-understand words that your target audience will recognize and relate to.

Readability matters when it comes to SEO. Even if you have educated clients. Even if you’re describing something complex. People want to be able to read pages of your website simple.

Be Creative in Your Subheadings

While it’s important to keep your headings and subheadings descriptive and straightforward, you can still be creative with your language. Use puns, metaphors, or other language techniques to make your headings more memorable and engaging.

Use Proper Capitalization

Follow standard capitalization rules for headings and subheadings. Capitalize the first word, proper nouns, and the first letter of each word in a hyphenated phrase.

And I’ll go ahead and say it here….this one’s a huge challenge for me. So…this is a “do as I say, not as I do one.” Sorry ahead of time for all the issues you’ll now see with my capitalization!

Use Active Voice

Use active voice in your headings and subheadings to make them more engaging and effective. This helps users understand the action they should take and what benefits they will receive. If you struggle to identify active voice in your writing, I love using Hemmingway Editor to find passive voice and change it.

Optimize Website Pages for SEO

Incorporate short-tail keywords in your headings and subheadings to optimize your website for search engines. Short-tail keywords are more general phrases and are often more competitive, but can still be effective when used strategically. Many people work hard on adding great content, but forget to optimize individual website pages for SEO.

Use Subheadings to Organize Your Content

Use subheadings to break up your content into easily digestible sections. This not only makes your content more readable for users, but it also helps search engines understand the structure and hierarchy of your page.

Effective Subheadings are Important

In conclusion, effective headings and subheadings are crucial for speech therapists in private practice looking to attract and retain clients. By following these tips, you can create headings and subheadings that not only help organize your content but also improve your website’s SEO and engagement metrics. Remember to keep your language simple, use active voice, and incorporate both short and long-tail keywords strategically.

Still Overwhelmed? SEO Help for Your Private Practice Website

Looking to improve your SEO but feeling overwhelmed? Simplified SEO Consulting offers expert guidance and tailored strategies to help Speech therapists in private practice achieve their SEO goals. Our services include SEO Strategy sessions, a small group mastermind to teach you to optimize, a personalized 12 week individual SEO training program and our ever popular “done for you” SEO program if you’re looking to outsource. Contact us today and apply for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help your website rank higher and attract more clients.

September 14, 2021/0 Comments/by Jessica

Content, SEO Tips, Uncategorized

SEO & Story Brand

Do I have any other Story Brand fans out there? If you haven’t read Donald Miller’s book “Story Brand” yet, I highly encourage you to pause for a moment and go purchase it on Amazon. I’ve read through it 3 times myself, participated in a small group study where we went through it together, and created several versions of a brand script. It’s just an all-around great book for every business owner to read.

*pausing now so you can purchase the book*

Ok, hopefully, you’re continuing to read because you’ve now purchased this wonderful marketing book.

In general, Story Brand has great advice for therapists.

Now, hopefully, I’ve made it clear that I REALLY like Story Brand and I think Donald Miller’s marketing advice is generally golden. Some of my favorite things I’ve learned from Story Brand:

As a business owner, you are the guide in your marketing, not the hero. Our customers are the hero.
Keep your messaging simple. This is especially true on websites. We want a client to be able to immediately tell what service we offer when they land on our website (Donald Miller calls this the caveman test), so I often work with SEO clients on simplifying their language in their writing, adding a clear call to action button and even simplifying the navigation bar so people can easily navigate a website.
Your website should have a clear, short statement explaining what you do “above the fold” or before someone scrolls down.
A website needs clear calls to action. It shouldn’t be difficult for a client to figure out what to do next or how to get ahold of you.
Paint a clear picture of how your service will help the client. On a website, it’s important to do this through having positive, outcome-based pictures. Photos quickly convey how someone will feel after working with you.

Anyways, I could go on and on about all the things he got very right in his book.

There is one place I disagree with Donald Miller’s advice….

There’s just one place I disagree. And I know I might ruffle a couple of feathers by disagreeing with such a genius marketer. But I can’t help it….

At one point in the book (page 154 in my well loved copy), Donald Miller recommends that you delete half the content on your website. In fact, he says your website should have “very few words.”

*Gasp*

In fact, this is something I’ve heard Donald Miller repeats when he speaks and that he’s very, very critical of websites (like mine) with a large amount of content. As someone who helps therapists, psychiatrists and other mental health professionals with their SEO every single day, I disagree.

Why do I disagree?

Because if you delete half the content on your website it will be much more difficult to get your website to the top of search engines.

Google needs your website to have enough content that it can figure out what your website is about. It can’t rank you for the searches your ideal clients are doing unless it realizes that you have information bout that topic! You may have heard the phrase, “Content is King.” This is SOOO

true when it comes to SEO. I’ve told you before that Google likes lots of content.

It is well established in the world of SEO that Google ranks sites with more words higher.

Google assumes that if you have the word “divorce” on your page you know what the word means. If you have a paragraph about “divorce” on a page all about life transitions you may know a little about the topic. But if you have a whole page with lots (500+) of words? Wow, Google now assumes you’re an expert. When someone is searching for tips for getting through a divorce, Google now understands that your website has the information that person is looking for!!

So, how do we stay (mostly) true to Story Brand while also getting great SEO?

I believe it’s possible to both stay true to Story Brand and create a well-ranking website with tons of content. We use your brand script to make sure we really understand your services. Then, we sprinkle the phrases you’ve used throughout your site as we optimize.

Most importantly, we simplify your message by using your brand script when we write headings and subheadings on your page. We know nobody reads big blocks of text on a website. But they do scan the page. Therefore, the subheadings are what people are most likely to read on your page.

We use this knowledge to our advantage. Subheadings on your page absolutely need keywords in them. However, they also need to be written more carefully than anything else on your page because they are what your clients are most likely to read. So, the subheadings should be very easy to understand and clear. In other words, they should be written with your brand script in mind.

Can I still use the Storybrand wireframe and rank well on Google?

Absolutely! I’ve seen several website that use the Storybrand wireframe and just add more content. I also think it’s ok if your home page has fewer words. That is, after all, the page most people will see. I recommend people prioritize design &amp;amp; carefully chosen wording on their home page. Then, you have some carefully chosen service pages explaining that you are an “expert” on treating your ideal clients. These service pages should use Storybrand but will likely have more words on the page than Storybrand recommends.

So, don’t throw the recommended wireframe out just because you are adding more content to your site. Just know, at least on some pages, you’re likely adding more words than a Storybrand professional would recommend.

Content still needs to be quality content

Now, I don’t want you to misunderstand me here and think I’m just telling you to go add a couple thousand words of text to every page of your website. Content for content’s sake is not necessarily good. A huge part of what my staff does is help our clients strategically choose content that will both be very useful to your clients and improve your SEO. And when you’re creating content, you still want to keep in mind the principles of Storybrand.

For example, I strongly recommend blogging regularly as part of your SEO Strategy. You can write excellent, really informative blogs that provide some great tips to your ideal clients. In fact, I often assign my old blog posts as homework to clients or my client care coordinator will send out an old blog post for someone to read while they wait for their first appointment! However, I think you’ll write even better blog posts if you remember that even in those you’re setting the client up as the hero. In the blog you’re saying, “Here is a tip that will help you conquer your anxiety dragon. It’s a tool that will help you on this quest.” Not, “I’m so smart that he’s a magic technique that will solve your problems for you.”

Content is only one part of good SEO strategy

Now, just because I’m talking about how I recommend adding more content to your website than Donald Miller recommends does NOT mean I’m saying adding a bunch of content should be the focus of your SEO Strategy. First of all, content that isn’t carefully chosen isn’t helpful.

However, it’s also important to note that content is only one piece of the puzzle. You also want to address technical issues on your site, have a secure website, make sure you’re using the type of words your ideal clients might use, build lots of backlinks to your website and so much more.

So please, know that you need to add content to your website if you’re created a website that follows Storybrand closely but isn’t ranking well. But also know that just word dumping on your website won’t alone get you great SEO.

Our SEO consultants love to work with Story Brand fans!

The truth is, my favorite new trend with SEO clients is that many are sending us their brand script! This is so flipping cool. It makes our day. Or week. Or month.

If you do the hard work of reading Story Brand and creating a brand script, it helps us clearly understand your message. This helps us be more clear as we optimize your page. It informs everything from your meta descriptions to the internal links we place on your site. Most importantly, we try to incorporate elements of your brand script when we’re writing subheadings on your page. This way, your website does a better job of converting when people do a quick scan of your page!

Have your brand script ready and want to start focusing on SEO for your website?

You’ve read Story Brand, have a clear picture of how to describe your services and have even made some changes to your website. Now you’re just ready to get that website in front of more people while still maintaining a clear message. That’s where we come in!

Search Engine Optimization helps you get your website out there in front of more people. At Simplified SEO Consulting, we offer several options to help you do this. If you’re the DIY type, we have online SEO courses including a comprehensive one that takes you step by step through our favorite SEO techniques. We also have a 12 week SEO intensive if you’re looking for support and guidance to optimize your site. On the other hand, if you find your just too busy to worry about SEO yourself, our staff can optimize your site for you with our “Done for You” services. Even with this option, you’re welcome to send us your brand script and we’ll do our best to incorporate the simple messages you’ve come up with as we optimize your site.

How to start working on your SEO

We help therapists, psychiatrists, counselors other small business owners (generally in the health and wellness industry) get their websites ranking well on google. Getting started is easy!

Set up a free 30 minute Zoom appointment to talk to one of our SEO specialists about which service is the best fit for your needs.
Begin learning to do SEO yourself or working with our staff through a monthly “done for you” package.
Watch your website begin moving toward the first page of Google.

November 22, 2019/2 Comments/by Jessica

Analytics, SEO Tools, Uncategorized

Google Analytics: How to Use the Data

You have Google Analytics installed for your counseling website. In fact, you’ve even looked at Google Analytics a few times. But what do all those numbers mean? How do you actually USE any of the data? Every time you look at Google Analytics you just feel overwhelmed and to be honest a little annoyed.

You’re a therapist. You are good at connecting with people. Crunching numbers and pouring over random pieces of data on the computer just doesn’t sound appealing.

I get it. There’s a TON of data on Google Analytics. And the truth is that some of it is more helpful than other pieces of information on there.

How to Start Using Google Analytics Data

I’d love to help simplify things a bit and break down just a couple of pieces of information you can find on Google Analytics that might be helpful. Here are a few questions that Google Analytics can help you answer:

How many people are coming to your site?

A great place to start on your Google Analytics account is the top of that main page after you login. This has some great basic information. First up, the number of users is exactly what you suspect-the number of people (or devices) that have viewed your site in the given amount of time that you’ve chosen. Sessions is slightly different, because it takes into account that the same person may look at your site several times before calling, so your number of “sessions” is typically higher than users.

While there really isn’t a magic number of website visitors or sessions you want to aim for, you do want to look at this number occasionally. In general, you want to see that as you’re improving your counseling website’s search engine optimization, the number of people visiting your site is increasing.

Where are people finding your website?

You can also use Google Analytics to figure out where website users are coming from. Google Analytics shows you how many clients come to your site directly (they just typed in your web address), through clicking on your link from social media, or another referral (usually through a backlink on another site). After I post a new blog post to my social media sites I sometimes check in real quick to not just see how many people went to the blog post, but how many found it through my social media sites to help me determine if it’s really worth putting these things on my social media pages. Google Analytics can provide you this information for each day.

Additionally, Google Analytics can show small business owners where their website visitors are located. This has some value in that you want the bulk of your website visitors to be people who can actually use your services. While there are some valid reasons for people out of state (or even out of the country) to look at your website, the bulk of your visitors should probably be from the state where your practice is located.

What is Your Bounce Rate & Is that OK?

Bounce Rate refers to people who only look at one page on your site. It’s actually very common for people to only look at one page on your site. For instance, if they are searching Google for a specific issue, click the link and read one of your blog posts and then leave your site. Why? Because your post answered their question. That’s a great reason to have internal links on your site-to show them what other valuable information your site has to offer! But I’ll save that for a future post…

A big question people ask is what is a “good” bounce rate. I don’t have a super specific answer here. I’ve heard that in general it’s really hard to get a bounce rate before 40. Another site said that around 50% is average. In general, the consensus seems to be that you want to aim for below 70. But that is for websites in general. I will say that most therapist websites I’ve seen the data for are between 50-70%. I’ve seen some as low as mid 40s or as high as 80%. My best suggestion is to know what the “average” is for your website. When your website seems to be performing worse than usual, re-evaluate and make changes.

Picture of Google Analytics Top of Page. Begin SEO Consulting Services for Therapist Private Practice Owners

This is an example of some of the basic data you’ll see first when you open Google Analytics. You’ll notice that the bounce rate is right at the top.

Which Pages on my Site Need Editing?

Near the bottom of the main page you can click on “pages report.” I love this feature! It allows a small business owner to see some great information about specific pages on your website. As counseling practice owners, our home page will typically be the most visited.

The next most popular on a counseling website is generally the “Our Team” page or the owner’s “About Me” page. But there’s a LOT of great data if you click on the actual page report. Some of the things I like to check out include which of my therapists pages do people go to the most and stay on the longest? Do any of my therapist’s “about” pages have high bounce rates? If one page people stay on shorter times and tend to exit off of, I look at if we need to change the picture, add more text, personalize the page with a favorite quote, etc.

Similarly, I look at my service pages….if one has a higher exit rate or people spend less time on the page, I look at that page to see if I can make it more informative, more inviting, add more internal links directing them to other pages, etc. I see my service pages as some of the most important on our site, because they’re our way of really communicating to potential clients that we understand their specific concerns and really winning them over. Therefore, I pay closer attention to the statistics on these pages compared to others.

Don’t worry about a high bounce rate on your “contact” page or rates page. After looking at these pages, people have often found the information they need and are either going to

1) Decide they can’t afford you

2) Call your office

3) Fill out and submit the contact form to get ahold of you.

Looking for Help Using this Data to Improve Your Counseling Website SEO?

As a group psychotherapy practice owner myself, I understand the importance of having a well ranking website. One that consistently brings in new clients. I love helping other therapy practice owners. Helping them to experience the excitement of an increase in phone calls once their website is ranking well! My SEO consulting services can help your counseling practice in several different ways. One way is, I have a secret Facebook group for my SEO Consulting clients.

Practice owners who have purchased an SEO package (whether DFY or DIY) have access to this group on Facebook. This is where I do Facebook lives, share how-to videos and post random SEO tips. For almost two weeks recently I did a mini series on Google Analytics to help people learn how to use Google Analytics data to make a plan of action for improving search engine rankings. It has sparked some good conversation in the group with practice owners even sharing specific tips with one another about their unique website platforms (GoDaddy vs. Weebly vs. Square Space, etc).

If you are a group practice owner ready to really focus on getting your website found, book a free consultation to discuss how my SEO services might be able to help!

I provide SEO Consulting services to therapists and other small business owners interested in optimizing their websites for search engines. I offer monthly SEO packages where I provide work on your website for you (keyword research, adding alt text to photos, meta descriptions, headings/subheadings, etc.). Or, I offer SEO Training services where I “teach a man to fish” and teach you the skills you’ll need to keep your website ranking well for years to come! If you’re ready to get started, book a free 30 minute SEO consultation over Zoom video chat. We’ll discuss your business and which SEO services would help you reach your goals!

May 5, 2019/0 Comments/by Jessica