If you've ever felt unsure about what SEO really is — or why your website isn't getting the traffic or clients you expected — this episode is for you.

Daniel pulls back the curtain on the most common misunderstandings therapists have about SEO and shares what's actually working in today's digital landscape.

This episode was born out of behind-the-scenes conversations with our Lead SEO Specialist — and the real, recurring questions and roadblocks we see come up with our clients.

Whether it's confusion about how SEO works, frustration over slow results, or the instinct to write your website like a clinical bio, we get it.

We've been there with so many therapists, and we wanted to create an episode that clears the air and sets the record straight.

In this conversation, Daniel unpacks the top things we wish every therapist understood about SEO — so you can stop second-guessing the process and start seeing how strategy, clarity, and patience lead to real growth.

The Key Takeaways:

• Therapists fall under the YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) category, which means Google holds your website to a higher standard. Building E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) is crucial.

• Your homepage — especially the hero section — should speak directly to your ideal client, not just talk about your practice or credentials.

• Clinical language often creates distance, unless your audience specifically needs that. Everyday, emotionally resonant language is far more effective.

• Clients are looking for connection and relief, not a resume. Show them you understand their pain and can help them feel better.

• Effective SEO isn't a guessing game — it's built on strategy, structure, and research. Following a defined plan gets results.

• SEO is not the same as running Google Ads. It's a long game, and results build over time — not overnight.

• Your site might include copy that doesn't sound exactly like you — and that's okay. We're balancing voice with visibility.

• Nothing in our SEO work is arbitrary. Every tweak and piece of content is intentional and goal-driven.

• Before you can convert visitors to clients, you have to show up in search results. Visibility comes first.

• Think of SEO as a marathon, not a sprint. Momentum builds with consistency and time.

• With the rise of AI and changing search behaviors, SEO today is more like search engineering — blending human psychology and technical strategy.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• 176. Our Top Predictions for SEO in 2025: What Therapists Need to Know

• What are YMYL websites? How does Google evaluate these?

• SEO Assessments for Private Practice

• Schedule a 15-minute Clarity Call

This Episode Is Brought To You By

Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private practices. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians who come together for education, training, and events.

Learn more about building a thriving private practice with Alma at helloalma.com/elevation.

About Daniel Fava

Daniel Fava is the owner and founder of Private Practice Elevation, a website and SEO agency focused on helping private practice owners create websites that increase their online visibility and attract more clients. Private Practice Elevation offers web design services, SEO (search engine optimization), and WordPress support to help private practice owners grow their businesses through online marketing.

Daniel lives in Atlanta, GA with his wife Liz, and two energetic boys. When he's not working he enjoys hiking by the river, watching hockey, and enjoying a dram of bourbon.