Your website is often the first impression potential clients get of you. And in a profession that’s rooted in safety and connection, the photos you use matter quite a bit.
If you're a therapist building or refreshing your website, you want it to be warm and welcoming and also professional and polished.
After working with dozens of therapists, I’ve found there are five essential photos that every therapist should include on their site. These images help humanize your practice, make your services more relatable, and invite the right clients to take that next step.
This is the one you'll use everywhere—from your homepage to your Psychology Today profile. It should be current, well-lit, and most importantly, feel like you. Clients often say things like “I just want to look warm and professional,” and that’s the exact energy this photo should hold.
💡 Tip: Choose an outfit that you’d actually wear to a client session. Bonus points for a soft subtle smile.
Showing your therapy room or office is a great way to demystify the process. These images give prospective clients a peek into what their experience might feel like—soothing, private, safe.
If you're virtual-only, you can still take a photo in your home workspace or even a styled corner that reflects the vibe you bring into sessions.
💡 Tip: Make sure the space looks clean but lived-in. A mug, plant, or notebook can add warmth without clutter.
Think of these as you in your natural habitat. Maybe you’re journaling, sipping tea, or walking through a park—whatever feels natural. These kinds of images are powerful for your About page or blog posts because they communicate personality without being overly posed.
They remind people that you’re a real person—not just a name behind a screen.
💡 Tip: Think about what you want clients to feel when they see this. Calm? Grounded? Uplifted? Let that guide the pose and setting.
Obviously you can't photograph a real session but you can stage a mock session with a friend or model. Seeing you in action—listening, nodding, holding space—goes a long way toward making therapy feel less intimidating.
These photos work great on Services or FAQ pages where you’re explaining what to expect in a session.
💡 Tip: Choose an activity like taking notes or speaking to someone with open body language. Avoid anything too forced or stiff.
These are the quiet heroes of your site. Think close-ups of your hands on a notebook, a book you often recommend, your favorite therapy cards or tools. They add texture and help reinforce your personality and specialty.
They’re great for filler images on blog posts, social media, and newsletters.
💡 Tip: These shots are subtle but strategic. Use them to break up blocks of text or pair with quotes/testimonials.
You don’t need dozens of over-the-top images—just a thoughtful handful that speak to who you are, how you work, and how you make people feel.
Ready for your own brand shoot?
Now that you know the five types of photos that can elevate your website, the next step is actually creating them—and that’s where I can help.
I’ll guide you through the entire process—from planning your outfits to crafting a shot list and making sure you feel confident in front of the camera—so you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Together, we’ll create photos that feel like you and connect with the clients you're best equipped to help. Get in touch here!
Whether you are launching a new venture or updating your content, we are here for your personal branding needs.
