Lights, Camera, Connection: What to Say in Your Psychology Today Video

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but today, a video can be worth even more. 

If you're a therapist looking to make a memorable impression on Psychology Today, adding a video to your profile can be a game-changer. 

 “BUT ASHLEY,” I can hear you say, “I’m a therapist (that wears a cardigan and glasses 😉] not an actress!”

I know, I know…. I’m asking you to step out of your comfort zone, put yourself out there, and GET on camera! Hey, we ask our clients to get uncomfortable all the time, so let’s put our $money$ where our mouth is and Do.The.Dang.Thing. 

The reality is that a video on your psych today profile can be the difference between landing a client consult and not. Your video introduction actually appears on search results and MAY even come up even if you aren’t listed as one of the first few therapists on someone’s results. 

Why Should I Add a Video to my Psychology Today Profile? 

Humanize You and Your Practice

A video allows potential clients to put a face and voice to your profile. It humanizes your practice. It makes you more relatable and approachable. You’d want to know that you’re scheduling an appointment with a real person, right? 

Build Trust

Seeing and hearing you can instill trust in potential clients. It gives them a sense of who you are and how you communicate, making them more comfortable with the idea of reaching out. In the video, you will show off the way you conduct yourself – your tone of voice, inflections, and even your body language. 

Highlight Your Expertise

Videos provide an opportunity to showcase your expertise and passion for your work. It's a chance to convey your therapeutic approach and explain how you can help clients in a way that words alone can't quite capture.

How Do I Prepare for My Psychology Today Video?

Plan Your Content & Script

Before hitting the record button, outline what you want to say. Consider introducing yourself, discussing your specialties, and briefly explaining your therapeutic approach. Keep it concise and engaging.  Practice saying what you want to say aloud in the mirror a few times.

 *AND for a special treat, if you’re still lost, scroll to the bottom of this page for a free downloadable script!*

Dress As You Do For Sessions

Dress as you would for an in-person client session. Be YOU! If you normally wear dresses, wear a dress or if you normally wear jeans and a T-shirt, wear the same. You want people to see and feel who you are through the screen. 

Optimize Lighting

Natural light is your best friend when recording. If possible, position yourself near a window with diffused sunlight. Avoid harsh shadows on your face.

OR for an easy solution, if you want to add some good lighting, use this easy-to-use ring light. 

Use a Quality Camera and Microphone

While smartphone cameras often will do, investing in a good-quality external microphone can significantly improve audio quality.

• If you’re in the market for a good one, I recommend this one. 

• Ensure your camera is steady and captures a clear, well-framed shot.

• If you’re looking for a webcam, check out this simple, but effective one. 
  
  

Choose a Thoughtful Background

Make sure your background is tidy and uncluttered. Consider a neutral or professional backdrop, or even a bookshelf with relevant, non-distracting items. If you offer in-person sessions, use your office! People will really get a feel for what sessions are like. 

How Do I Make The Video Look Good? Simple Editing Tricks

Add Text and a Call to Action

After you film, consider adding text overlays to your video. Include a call to action (for example, "Contact me for a free consultation") or highlight your specialty niche ("Anxiety Management").

Optimize Length

Keep your video concise, ideally between 15-20 seconds. Shorter videos tend to keep your viewer’s attention better.

Don’t forget to add a video caption with keywords 

When writing your video caption, weave relevant keywords into the text. For example, if you specialize in "couples counseling, "include phrases like "expert in couples therapy" or "relationship counselor."

Be Concise and Descriptive. Your video caption is a chance to provide context. Briefly describe the video's content, your expertise, and your call to action. Make it enticing, but keep it within the 140 characters allowed. 

AND most importantly, don’t forget to SMILE!!!! 

Incorporating a well-crafted video into your Psychology Today profile can be a powerful tool for connecting with potential clients. With careful preparation, thoughtful editing, and keyword-rich captions, your video can become a compelling introduction to your therapeutic services. So, lights, camera, action – make your profile come to life and secure more client referrals! 

If you’re still on the fence, I have a special treat for you!

Download my free script for your Psychology Today profile video — where all you have to do is fill in the blanks with your info and press record. 

Easy as pie…. That’s what they say, right?!

XOXO,

Ashley