TherapySites vs. Custom Websites: What’s Best for Your Practice?
Your website is your own little corner of the internet to represent yourself and your business. Think of it as a space to showcase what sets you apart from the rest - to give people a reason to choose you over all the other options. That’s why you need more than just a cookie-cutter website.
Many therapists turn to services like TherapySites because they promise quick and easy setup, only to find that they fall short of delivering a site that truly reflects who they are. Let’s explore why a personalized website can make all the difference and what to consider when building one.
The Problem with One-Size-Fits-All Websites like TherapySites
Subscription services like TherapySites may seem appealing at first glance. They offer affordable monthly rates and the convenience of pre-made templates, making it quick and easy to get your practice online. However, what you gain in speed and simplicity, you often lose in authenticity and effectiveness.
TherapySites relies on a handful of very outdated templates, lacking modern aesthetics and customization options. This equates to a website that looks just like every other therapist’s. Imagine walking into a waiting room with identical chairs, artwork, and lighting as the last five offices you visited. Would you feel a connection to the space? Probably not — and your website visitors feel the same when they land on a generic site.
Why Personalization Matters
A well-designed therapy website is about more than aesthetics. It should be a reflection of your unique approach, helping potential clients get a sense of who you are before they even reach out. Personal touches — from the language you use to the colors and imagery that represent your practice — can make a world of difference in building trust and recognition.
Beyond that, personalization is essential for SEO (search engine optimization). Many subscription services claim to offer built-in SEO, but the reality is that these blanket strategies don’t account for your location or specialties. Without a tailored SEO strategy, your website is unlikely to show up in search results when potential clients are looking for help in your area.
Ownership and Control: Don’t Rent Your Online Presence
Another hidden downside to these subscription services is ownership. With TherapySites (and many others like them), you don’t actually own your website or your domain name. You’re essentially renting them. If you ever decide to leave the platform, you risk losing your content, domain, and the online presence you worked so hard to build. And on top of that, I’ve had clients tell me that they’ve experienced difficulties with customer service being unresponsive or unhelpful.
Build a Website That Works for You (and Your Clients)
So, what’s the solution? Investing in a custom-built website allows you to create an online space that truly reflects your practice. From the wording on your homepage to the way your services are presented, every element can be tailored to your unique voice and client needs. Plus, with proper SEO strategies in place, your website will be far more likely to show up in search results, helping the right clients find you.
If you’re ready to move beyond cookie-cutter solutions and build a website that feels as personal and compassionate as the care you provide, I’d love to help. Let’s work together to create a space that connects with your ideal clients and grows alongside your practice. Learn more about my most popular custom website package.
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Written by Tabitha Stevenson, Squarespace Web Designer & Founder of Mindful Design Solutions
I’m passionate about helping therapists, health & wellness professionals, creatives, and community-based businesses stand out online with modern and engaging websites. You can learn more about me here.
