Marketing Your Therapists
Nov 13, 2023
Welcome to the latest episode of "Scaling Therapy Practice," the go-to podcast for therapists and counselors who aspire to expand their businesses while staying true to their core values. Hosted by the insightful James Marland, MBA, this episode dives deep into the art of marketing for group practices. With a panel of seasoned professionals, we uncover the strategies that can help your practice not only survive but thrive in today's competitive landscape. So, whether you're just starting out or you're looking to refine your approach, join us as we explore key insights that will empower your practice's growth.
The Importance of SEO and Regional Marketing for Therapy Practices
In the digital age, visibility is key, and SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the beacon that guides potential clients to your practice. Lisa's dedication to SEO is a testament to its importance. As Steve Bisson humorously laments, "Gonna haunt me with the SEO stuff," we're reminded that while SEO can be daunting, it's a crucial element of modern marketing. James Marland's investment in an SEO program underscores this point, though he admits, "I haven't done much with it... it's a grind." This honest reflection captures the effort required in SEO endeavors but also hints at the potential rewards for those willing to commit.
Evolving Marketing Strategies in Group Practice
Transitioning from a solo practice to a group requires a significant shift in marketing strategy. Dawn Gabriel's journey from solo practitioner to a group practice owner illustrates this evolution. "It needs to be ongoing and it needs to be consistent," she advises, highlighting the need for a dynamic and persistent marketing approach. Alison Pidgeon echoes this sentiment, noting the shift from "coordinating a bunch of freelancers" to having a "full-time marketing person." This progression showcases the scalability of marketing efforts and the importance of adapting strategies as your practice grows.
Budgeting and Branding for Success
Marketing needs to be a line item on the budget for the Scaling Therapy Practice. The numbers vary from practice to practice. Alison Pidgeon provides a golden nugget of wisdom when she reveals that her practice spends "about 1% of our budget on marketing." This figure is a guiding light for practice owners, demonstrating the need to invest in marketing while also being mindful of the budget. Furthermore, Steve Bisson emphasizes the significance of branding, stating, "The consistency through the messages when you're marketing your... practice... is key to moving forward."
Tips for Marketing Your Therapists:
- Embrace SEO: "Is it really worth it to spend money on SEO? Yes, every single time," Alison Pidgeon asserts. Investing in SEO is not just recommended; it's essential for any practice looking to make its mark.
- Know Your Region: "If you're not on Psychology Today, might as well not exist," Steve Bisson remarks about the Northeast market. Understanding the platforms that resonate in your region can make or break your practice's visibility.
- Consistent Messaging: "That branding process to make sure it represents you and represents everyone else... is key," advises Steve Bisson. Ensure that your brand's message is clear, consistent, and representative of your practice's values and the services offered by your therapists.
- Mindset Shift: "It's not just your practice, it's... the team and it becomes a group," Dawn Gabriel reflects on the transition to a group practice. Shifting your mindset from 'I' to 'we' is crucial in marketing a collective rather than an individual.
- Invest Wisely: Allocate a specific percentage of your budget to marketing and stick to it. This disciplined approach ensures that your marketing efforts are sustainable and effective.
- Community Engagement: "We spend money sponsoring community events," shares Alison Pidgeon. Engaging with your local community can build brand awareness and establish your practice as a trusted entity.
- Delegate and Expand: "When you start going to the group practice... you start thinking, well, who is the best person to do this?" James Marland suggests. Delegating tasks to the right people allows you to focus on scaling your practice.
In conclusion, this episode of "Scaling Therapy Practice" serves as a rich resource for therapy practice owners seeking to navigate the complex world of marketing. By embracing SEO, understanding regional marketing nuances, maintaining consistent branding, shifting your mindset, investing wisely, engaging with the community, and delegating effectively, you can set your practice on a path to success. Remember, the journey of scaling your practice is a marathon, not a sprint, and with these strategies in hand, you're well-equipped for the long run.
Episode Download
Marketing Your Therapists Workbook
Links and Resources
- Connect with Alsion Pidgeon - [email protected]
- Move Forward Counseling Services Web Page
Connect with our Hosts
- Lisa Mustard - The Therapy Show with Lisa Mustard
- Steve Bisson - Finding Your Way Through Therapy
- Dawn Gabriel - Soul Care for Therapists
- James Marland - Course Creation Studio
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