It is important to utilize sales and marketing tactics to begin building a profitable and thriving online counseling practice! You might be thinking, "I just want to help people, I am not a marketer!" Than the answer is partnering with an established online therapy provider like BetterHelp.
If you want help in taking your practice online, get started by visiting BetterHelp's Counselor Portal and see what you can make using their earnings calculator.
Here are a few recommendations:
Your website – The starting point for everyone. Your website should be simple, clean, and easy to navigate for potential clients. A website is a direct extension of you as a professional, so it should represent who you are well.
Online Counselor Databases – A tried-and-true way to market yourself is via online counselor databases. In heavily saturated markets, these may not be as effective. However, in communities that lack therapists, you can gain an abundance of clients by advertising via these databases. Databases range in price from $25 – $49.95 per month
Social Media – Social media is a great (and often free) way to advertise your online practice. You can utilize Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to promote your business, connect with other clinicians, and build a reputation.
Interviews - A great and free way to advertise your online practice is through media interviews. Reach out to online, print, and televised news media outlets. Share about your unique online practice, your niche, and ways you are benefiting your local community.
Networking – It is still important and helpful to network with other counselors, social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists in your area and state-wide.