Unlocking the Power of Video on Psychology Today
The first time I set up my Psychology Today profile, I thought I was doing everything right. I picked the headshot, wrote my paragraphs, and hit publish. Then I waited.
And waited.
What I saw instead was a sea of therapist listings that all looked the same. Smiling faces. Polished bios. But nothing that actually showed clients what it would feel like to sit across from me.
If you’ve felt that same frustration, you’re not alone.
Here’s the thing: Psychology Today has quietly added a video feed, and it changes everything. These are short, 15-second clips that now appear right in the directory. Think TikTok or Instagram Reels, but with one simple purpose: helping potential clients feel your presence before they ever reach out.
And almost no one is using it yet. Which means you have a huge opportunity to stand out.
Why Video on Psychology Today Matters
From one therapist to another, here’s why this update is such a big deal:
You show up twice — in the regular directory and in the video feed
You face less competition — because most therapists haven’t posted a video yet
You create a connection — clients get to hear your voice and feel your warmth
Without video, you risk blending in. With video, you let clients sense who you are and whether you feel like a good fit.
My First Attempts at Therapist Videos
I’ll be honest, my first recordings made me cringe. I worried I looked stiff, I thought I rambled, and I was sure clients would scroll right past.
But here’s what I learned: clients don’t need you to be perfect. They just need you to be real. Even an awkward, imperfect video gives them more connection than another headshot ever will.
Three Scripts to Make it Simple
If you’re not sure what to say, here are three 15-second scripts you can adapt:
Who You Help
“Hi, my name is [Name]. I help [population]. My goal is to create a space where you feel [emotion], so together we can [outcome].”Why You Do This Work
“I became a therapist because [personal reason]. In my work, I focus on [population/approach]. I’d love to meet you and see if we’re a good fit.”First Invitation
“Starting therapy can feel overwhelming. I’m [Name], a therapist who works with [population]. If you’re ready to [goal], I’d be honored to walk alongside you.”
Short. Simple. Human. That’s all it takes.
Therapist Video Tips That Actually Work
Here’s what I remind my coaching clients:
Keep it to 15 seconds
Aim for connection, not perfection
Record a few takes, then post the one that feels most natural
Don’t wait for perfect; post the version you have
Refresh it later if you want to
When you frame your video as an invitation, clients see it as a gift.
Building a Practice That Fits Your Life
Your practice should fit your life, not the other way around. Adding a short video to your Psychology Today profile is a small step that can make a big difference.
So here’s my challenge: record one 15-second clip this week. Use one of the scripts above, keep it simple, and post it. Notice how much lighter it feels to let clients see the real you.
And if you want more guidance, I put together a 40-page Psychology Today Guide with everything I learned from six months of research. You can grab it here.
You don’t have to do this perfectly. You just have to start. Your clients are out there, looking for someone like you. Let them see you.
I’m cheering you on every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Psychology Today video feature?
The Psychology Today video feature allows therapists to add a short introductory video to their directory profile. It gives prospective clients an opportunity to hear your voice, see your personality, and get an early sense of what it might feel like to work with you.
How long should a Psychology Today therapist video be?
Psychology Today profile videos are designed to be approximately 15 seconds long. Focus on one clear message rather than trying to explain your entire approach. Introduce yourself, identify who you help, and offer a simple invitation to connect.
What should I say in my Psychology Today video?
Start with your name and the type of clients you support. You can briefly mention a common challenge your ideal client may be experiencing, describe how you help, and end with a warm invitation to contact you. Speak directly to the client rather than listing credentials or clinical terminology.
Do I need professional equipment to record my therapist profile video?
No. A smartphone, natural light, a quiet room, and a clean background are usually enough to create a clear and welcoming video. Good audio and an authentic delivery matter more than expensive equipment. Your goal is to feel approachable, not to audition for a Netflix documentary.
Can a video help my Psychology Today profile stand out?
A video can make your profile feel more personal and memorable. It also gives potential clients more information than a headshot and written bio alone. While a video cannot guarantee more inquiries, it may help the right clients decide whether your communication style and presence feel like a good fit.
What should therapists avoid in a Psychology Today video?
Avoid rushing through too much information, reading a long script, using complicated clinical language, or making the video entirely about your qualifications. Keep the focus on the prospective client and the support they are seeking. A short, clear, and human message will usually feel more inviting.
How often should I update my Psychology Today video?
Review your video whenever your niche, services, availability, or ideal client changes. You can also replace it when the recording no longer reflects how you currently communicate or present your practice. The video does not need constant updates, but it should accurately represent the experience clients can expect from you.
