This week’s Therapist Search Report zoomed in on something simple and super important: domains.
A domain is the core part of a web address that takes you to your destination. For example, therapistsearchreport.com is a domain. quilltherapysolutions.com is a domain. When you type a URL into your browser, your browser looks up where that domain lives and then sends you there.
We have said this before, but it is worth repeating: It is incredibly important for therapists to have their own website. Even if you are happy where you are. Even if you are not planning any changes.
Transitions happen. And sometimes they are not by choice. Having your own website already established helps both you and your clients get back on track faster when something shifts.
Right alongside having your own website is having your own domain. It should be simple and straightforward, like yourname.com or yournametherapy.com.
You do not need an LLC. You do not need to overthink it. You just register the domain and point it to wherever your site is hosted. (Your hosting provider will walk you through this, and it is usually easier than it sounds. If you get stuck, email us.)
These days, a domain typically costs about $10 to $12 per year. You renew it annually. If you do not renew, you lose it.
Owning your domain gives you long term stability. You can change hosting providers, redesign your site, or rebuild things entirely, and your domain stays the same. Clients still find you at YourNameTherapy.com, no matter what is happening behind the scenes.
We also see some therapists relying on free subdomains from website builders (things like yourname.someplatform.com). The problem is simple: You do not own those. If you ever switch platforms, that address does not come with you. (The good news that we covered in this week's report is that most therapists are already doing this right.)
So here is the simple takeaway:
- If you do one thing for your professional online presence this year, make it this. Get your own domain.
- It is inexpensive, portable, and gives you control over your digital identity.
One day, we would love to build a practical guide to help therapists get their own website and domain up and running, step by step. If that sounds helpful, or if you have ideas you would want included, we would love to hear from you.
