Why Therapists Shouldn’t Build Their Own Website (And What to Do Instead)

Let’s talk about websites and therapists. Starting your own private practice is an exciting and terrifying adventure, kind of like adopting a goldfish that might turn into a whale. You’ve got sessions to plan, notes to write, and possibly a couch to find on Facebook Marketplace. And somewhere in that chaos, you’re thinking, I can totally build my own website. Let me stop you right there.

Building your own website is a bit like building an addition to your house. Sure, you might manage to slap together a structure that sort of holds up. But is it up to code? Does it have that polished, professional touch that says, “I’m a therapist you can trust with your deepest thoughts”—not, “I watched a 15-minute YouTube tutorial and now I’m a digital architect”?

The Problem with DIY Websites

Here’s the thing: You don’t know what you don’t know. There are so many moving parts to creating a great website, it’s like trying to herd cats on roller skates. Yes, you could save some money by doing it yourself. Yes, you could get a website online. But let’s be real—that’s only half the battle. You need a site that works for you, not just a digital placeholder.

If you’re not a web design pro, you might overlook things like:

• SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Can people actually find your website, or is it floating in the abyss of page 87 on Google search results?
• User Experience (UX): Does your site make it easy for potential clients to book a session, or is it a maze of frustration?
• Accessibility: Can someone with vision impairments navigate your site, or did you accidentally alienate a whole group of people?

These aren’t things you’ll figure out by fiddling around with a free website builder. And even if you do manage to cobble together something functional, there’s still the issue of visibility. A website without a marketing plan is like a billboard in the middle of the desert—it’s there, but no one sees it.

The Myth of Organic Traffic

Let’s burst another bubble: The days of organic web traffic solving all your problems are gone. Poof. Done. Your site might get indexed by Google, but that doesn’t mean people will stumble across it. Sure, Aunt Karen might visit after you share the link on Facebook, but will your ideal client? Probably not.

You’ll need to invest in advertising to get noticed. Google Ads, Facebook campaigns, maybe even a listing on Google Maps if you have a brick-and-mortar office. And here’s another kicker: If you’re a virtual-only practice, Google doesn’t even let you have a business listing anymore. Yep, they changed the rules.

So, while a website is an essential tool for your practice, it’s not the only tool. Think of it as your digital brochure. It gives potential clients the information they need to walk through your door, but it won’t do the heavy lifting of getting them there in the first place.

What You Should Do Instead

Here’s my advice: Delegate. You don’t have to do it all. Focus on what you’re good at—helping people heal—and let a professional handle your website. When you hire someone who knows the ins and outs of web design, you’re not just paying for a pretty page. You’re paying for:

• A site that converts visitors into clients.
• Integration with tools that make your life easier (like scheduling software).
• Compliance with all those pesky regulations you don’t have time to think about.

Plus, working with a pro means you can avoid the “guess and stress” of doing it yourself. You’ll save time, headaches, and probably a few tears.

The Budget Question

Yes, hiring a web designer will cost more upfront than DIYing. But let’s think long-term here. Your website is an investment in your practice. If done right, it will pay for itself by bringing in new clients. Set a monthly budget for your web presence, including things like advertising, hosting, and maintenance. Be consistent, even if you don’t see immediate results. Building momentum takes time, but it’s worth it.

Final Thoughts

Your website is the digital front door to your practice. Make sure it reflects the professional, compassionate therapist you are. Don’t settle for something half-baked because you thought it would save a few bucks. Remember, your time is valuable. Spend it where it matters—with your clients, not wrestling with HTML and CSS.

And hey, if you still feel like dabbling in web design, there’s always Pinterest. Just don’t expect your clients to find you there. Our favorite two places to go to find a good pro at a reasonable price is Fiverr.com or Upwork.com

The reason we are more than just an EHR is because our people have been where you are. We can guide you to the right people to get the best job done at the best savings. Contact us today to learn more.