The ins and outs of listing your practice on a therapy directory can be tricky, so we've researched the pros, cons, and costs for some of the top therapy directories
Therapist directory platforms have emerged as a critical tool for professionals seeking to expand their client base. Yet, with a plethora of choices available, understanding the benefits, limitations, and costs associated with each platform is vital for making an informed decision.
The therapist directory's appeal lies in its centralization of numerous practitioners in one easily searchable location. A well-placed listing can increase visibility, build credibility and attract a more extensive client base.
However, these platforms often come with monthly or annual fees, and they put therapists in direct competition with each other, which can necessitate more investment in marketing to stand out.
Selecting the right directory depends largely on the therapist's target audience, practice specialty and budget considerations. To aid in this decision-making process, seven popular therapist directories are outlined below, complete with an overview of each company and associated listing costs.
7 Best Therapist Directories of 2023
- Best Overall: SesameCare
- Most Influence: Psychology Today
- Most Popular: BetterHelp
- Best for Networking Opportunities: Alma
- Best for Educational Resources: GoodTherapy
- Best for Social Impact: Open Path Collective
- Best for Cultural Inclusivity: InclusiveTherapists
1. SesameCare
Overview: SesameCare is not strictly a therapist directory, but a platform that connects patients to a wide range of healthcare providers, including therapists. The platform operates on a direct-pay healthcare model. There are no fees for providers to list their services, but SesameCare charges a commission on services booked through the platform. Cost: Free Pros: Unlike many other directories, Sesame does not charge therapists to list their services. This makes it a great option for those with limited marketing budgets. Because SesameCare isn't exclusive to mental health services, there is potential for therapists to access a broader range of patients who come to the site for other healthcare needs but also require therapeutic services.
Additionally, the Sesame platform operates on a direct-pay model, which simplifies the payment process by removing insurance-related fees and complications. Therapists can set their own rates, providing greater control over income, and have the flexibility to set their schedules, which can be a significant advantage for those seeking work-life balance. Sesame’s full suite of clinical tools and resources - including ePrescribe, excuse notes and more - empowers therapists to practice medicine flexibly so that they can fully focus on what matters most: patient care. Cons: While there are no costs to list services, SesameCare takes a commission on services booked through the platform. Due to the broad range of healthcare services listed, the platform also may not offer as many options for therapists to highlight their specialties or brand themselves uniquely as compared to therapy-specific directories. Site: Sesame
2. GoodTherapy
Overview: GoodTherapy is a widely recognized directory tailored specifically to therapists. It provides multiple listing options that accommodate varying budgets, starting at $29.95 per month. Aside from the directory, it also offers therapists various resources such as educational webinars and marketing tools. Cost: $29.95 per month and up Pros: GoodTherapy has established itself as a reputable platform in the therapy industry. A listing on their directory can lend credibility to therapists and attract clients who trust the GoodTherapy brand. It also offers additional resources such as continuing education courses, webinars, and access to a broad range of articles and research on various therapy topics. This can be particularly beneficial for therapists who are less experienced in marketing their services. Cons: Because GoodTherapy is a well-known directory, it attracts a large number of therapists. This can result in high competition, potentially making it harder for less-established therapists to stand out. Given the platform's extensive directory, there's a chance that individual profiles might be overlooked by potential clients unless therapists invest more in optimizing their profiles. Site: GoodTherapy
3. Psychology Today
Overview: Psychology Today is arguably one of the most visited directories due to its extensive collection of articles and resources. Listing on their directory includes a full profile and the ability to post workshops or events. Its brand recognition can give therapists additional credibility. Cost: $29.95 per month Pros: Psychology Today is one of the biggest online therapist directories, so therapists can benefit from lots of web traffic. The platform also offers a free trial for therapists who want to test out the service before committing to a monthly fee. Cons: Due to the large volume of therapists on the platform, standing out can be difficult and can require a significant amount of investment in optimizing your bio, profile or website. Site: Psychology Today
4. BetterHelp
Overview: BetterHelp is an online platform that provides direct counseling services, connecting clients to therapists virtually. It differs from a traditional directory as therapists are employed by the platform rather than simply listing their services. As such, there are no direct costs associated with being listed on BetterHelp, but therapists must meet specific eligibility requirements to join. Cost: Fees can range between $35 to $80 per week, or $140 to $320 per month Pros: BetterHelp provides therapists with a consistent stream of clients. This eliminates the need to spend time and money on marketing services to attract new clients, which can be particularly beneficial for those starting their practices. It’s an excellent platform for therapists who value flexibility and consistent client flow. Cons: On BetterHelp, therapists don't have control over the fees charged to clients. The platform sets the rates, and therapists receive a portion of the revenue, which may be lower than what they could earn in private practice. Unlike private practice, where therapists can build their personal brand, BetterHelp also does not offer much scope for individual branding - therapists are part of the broader BetterHelp brand. They also require that all therapists on the platform have at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience under their belts before they’re able to list on the platform. Site: BetterHelp
5. InclusiveTherapists
Overview: Inclusive Therapists centers its services on providing culturally sensitive care that caters to the needs of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and 2SLGBTQIA+ intersections (QTBIPOC). It's a great platform for therapists who specialize in serving marginalized communities. Membership costs $29 per month and includes a directory listing, resources for anti-oppressive practice, and networking opportunities. Cost: $29 per month Pros: The platform prides itself on fostering inclusivity, which can be a significant draw for therapists who are passionate about social justice. This focus also allows therapists to connect with clients who might not feel comfortable seeking services elsewhere. InclusiveTherapists also offers access to training and resources to further a therapist's understanding of culturally responsive care, enhancing their skills and professional development. Cons: While a focused target audience can be a strength, it can also be a drawback if a therapist is seeking a broader client base. The niche nature of InclusiveTherapists might limit the range of potential clients. Site: Inclusive Therapists
6. Open Path Collective
Overview: Open Path Collective is a non-profit organization focused on improving mental health care accessibility. It's a unique platform that connects therapists with clients who cannot afford traditional therapy rates. Therapists pledge to offer reduced-rate services to a certain number of clients, and in return, their listing is free. Cost: Free Pros: Open Path Collective's mission is to provide affordable mental health care to people who might otherwise be unable to access it. By joining, therapists can fulfill a social mission and help a community in need. Cons: Therapists who join Open Path Collective agree to charge a lower fee ($40-$70 per session) to clients who found them through the platform. Depending on a therapist's usual rates, this may not meet their income preferences. Site: Open Path Collective
7. Alma
Overview: Alma is a membership-based, community-focused platform that helps therapists manage their practices while improving their visibility to potential clients. It provides a coworking space, community support, and a directory listing. Cost: $125 per month or $1,140 per year Pros: Alma's community-based model offers therapists networking opportunities and the chance to learn from and collaborate with other professionals. This sense of community can be a strong selling point for many therapists. In select cities, Alma also offers co-working spaces for therapists. These shared spaces can provide a more professional environment for therapists who don't have a dedicated office and offer opportunities for in-person networking. Cons: Alma's membership costs $125 per month, which is higher than some other directories.Alma’s co-working spaces are also only available in select cities, so therapists outside these areas might not get the full benefit of an Alma membership. Site: Alma
Ultimately, therapist directories hold considerable potential for drawing new clients to your practice. Nevertheless, it's essential to devote necessary time and effort to enhance your directory listing, ensuring it effectively attracts paying clients and heightens your practice's visibility. Selecting directories that align with your practice's character and geographic area is vital as well.
The right therapist directory is one that aligns with a therapist's practice, professional goals and budget. Carefully consider the directory's audience, features and cost, and above all, see how many clients it brings! This helps ensure that therapists are maximizing their return on investment and effectively reaching prospective clients.
