Social media can be a lifeline for people, somewhere they often turn when they’re feeling lonely or misunderstood. It’s somewhere people look for connection, understanding, and a sense of being seen. As a therapist, that means it can be more than just a place to promote your services. You have a unique opportunity to create community and connection when you show up online.
How does building authentic connections on social media help to attract the right clients? I’ll answer this question below, and for the practical “how-to” steps, listen to the full podcast episode here:
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Making Connections is About Giving (Not Just Numbers)
With social media, it’s easy to get sucked in to think it’s all about numbers. But community isn’t about how many followers you have. It’s about giving – offering a space where people feel understood and safe. That can happen in a single DM. It can happen in a post where two or three people engage.
When you post something that resonates, you’re giving people a moment of regulation. You’re helping them feel seen. And that moment sticks. I remember the creators I follow because they say what I need to hear, whether they’re influencers or just people who’ve shown up authentically and shared something meaningful.
Showing You’re Real Helps People Trust You
One of the most powerful things you can do on social media is to show up as a real person. When you share your growth, your challenges, and your imperfect moments, it gives others permission to believe that change is possible for them too. Authenticity builds trust. You’re not above your audience – you’re with them, part of them.
Many therapists write in their profile that they offer a safe and compassionate space. By being present and human online, you’re actually demonstrating the truth of this. You’re proving that you’re safe, that you’re compassionate and that you’re someone people can trust.
Community Works Both Ways
Community is not just about giving – it’s also about being part of something bigger and being willing to receive. This principle holds true in social media.
When you engage with others, they engage with you. Your friends, family, and existing network can all help you get seen and grow your practice.
Yes, there’s often a “cringe factor” in asking friends and family to support your business – but remember, you’re doing something brave. You’re creating a small business. You’re putting positivity into a space that desperately needs it.
When you ask people to like, share, or follow, you’re not being pushy. You’re offering them the chance to support something that helps others.
You’re Not Broadcasting, You’re Building Relationships
The magic of social media happens when it becomes a two-way street. Commenting on other people’s posts, responding to comments on yours, sending a quick thank-you DM to a new follower – these small acts build relationships. Every interaction is an opportunity to nurture your community, and that engagement often extends your reach.
It also transforms your relationship with social media itself – from posting being a “chore” to posting bringing social connection and making a contribution to other’s wellbeing.
Want the “How-To” on Building Community Online?
In my latest podcast episode, I’m diving into the practical strategies for creating community on social media – the small, doable actions that will help you grow your presence without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’d like the full step-by-step on how to build connection, overcome the cringe factor, and use community to get more eyes on your posts, make sure you listen in.
And if you want to go even deeper, Therapy Growth Group is where we take these ideas and put them into action. Inside, you’ll find a supportive community of therapists, practical training, and real-time feedback to help you show up confidently.
Listen to the full episode, and if you’re ready to work alongside other therapists building their practice, join Therapy Growth Group.