Photos matter more than we would like to admit. What should your photo on Psychology Today or your website look like?
On Psychology Today or other sites, the very first impression that a potential client will get is from your photo. If your photo is inviting and welcoming, the client is more likely to reach out to you.
Your potential clients aren’t looking for a therapist that is thin or young or has a full head of hair. They want to see someone that looks engaging and professional. When they see your picture, we want them to think, I can see myself talking to this person.
As a therapist, you may be encouraging your clients to get in touch with their core values. As a therapist marketing your practice, your picture should be working to encourage potential clients to reach out to you.
Here are some practical suggestions that will result in more clients contacting you from your website, from your PsychologyToday profile, or from your GoodTherapy profile.
What should my profile photo capture?
Your face! In photographer’s parlance, a headshot. We don’t need to get the whole office or the view from your office window. We need you! Show your whole face.
Look at the camera! Now is not the time to strike a thoughtful philosopher’s pose of gazing into the distance.
Your profile photo should be inviting
Think of something warm and pleasant, something that will make you appear approachable, friendly and warm.
A severe professional look will be off-putting to potential clients. Remember, your goal is to invite clients to call or fill out the contact form. You don’t want to be intimidating.
Good lighting will help your profile photo be inviting. Take your picture outside or use a good flash.
Do I need a color photo?
Yes. Color photos work better than black and white. More calls will come in from color photos.
What should be in the background? What colors should I wear?
Make sure you have a neutral background. Don’t photograph yourself standing in front of artwork or a fish tank! We want the potential client viewing your profile photo to connect with you!
Don’t use wedding photos, or photos of yourself in a particular geographic location. Don’t take a shot with your spouse and crop out your partner. We can tell! Especially avoid photos that won’t inspire trust – such as a photo with a bar or casino in the background – or photos that highlight your travels to exotic locales. People want a therapist who is solid, reliable and available (as well as warm and friendly!).
Wear a shirt or blouse that lights up your face. Medium to light blue generally works well for all skin tones. Avoid wearing dark colors, and avoid wearing white or grey. Black may be “in” but pass on black for your profile photo.
Should I wear my glasses?
Glasses can cause distortion or glare in the photo, and may inhibit the client from connecting with you on the profile photo. If you insist on wearing glasses, a professional photographer is especially effective.
What should I do next?
Feel free to contact TherapyEverywere and ask for feedback on your website or profile on PsychologyToday.com, GoodTherapy.com, PsychologyEverywhere.com or another directory. We would love to help! Just call, or fill out the contact form and click Send.
If you want more information on improving your PsychologyToday.com, GoodTherapy.com profile, click here.