Google Business Profile Basics for Therapists

A Google Business Profile is the free listing that can appear when someone searches for a therapist nearby or looks at Google Maps. For local practices, it is one of the highest-leverage, lowest-cost things you can set up. Here is how to do it well.

Claim and verify your profile

Search for your practice on Google to see if a profile already exists, then claim it, or create one. Verification proves you are the owner and unlocks editing. This step alone puts you ahead of practices with empty or outdated listings.

Choose the right category and details

Pick the most accurate primary category, such as a specific type of therapist or counselor, and fill in your details completely and honestly.

• Practice name, exactly as it appears on your site.
• Service area or address, depending on how you practice.
• Hours, phone, and a link to your website.

Handle your address with care

Many therapists work from home or value privacy. Google lets you hide your street address and show a service area instead. Use that option if a public address is not appropriate for your practice.

Keep it consistent with your site

Your name, contact details, and focus should match what is on your website. Consistency helps both Google and AI search tools trust the information, and it is a core part of local SEO.

Add what helps people decide

A short, clear description, a few professional photos, and accurate hours make your listing more useful and more credible. You do not need much, just enough to help someone feel confident reaching out.

Mind privacy with reviews

Reviews can build credibility, but in behavioral health they raise real confidentiality concerns. Never confirm or discuss whether someone is a client in a public reply. Keep any responses generic and privacy-protective.

Set up well, your profile quietly sends ready clients to your website. If you want help connecting the dots between your listing, your site, and your content, explore Scout's services or send a short project note.