Ever sat down to write a social media post and immediately heard that nagging voice in your head? Fear of social media raises it’s head and can quickly throw us off balance.
“Who do I think I am to post this?”
“What if people think I’m just trying to show off?”
“Do I even know enough to share this?”
If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. Many therapists struggle with self-doubt when it comes to marketing themselves online. The fear of being judged, the worry about seeming self-promotional, and the discomfort of putting yourself out there can feel overwhelming.
But there’s a simple answer to this. Remember, your social media isn’t about you. It’s about the people you’re here to help.
Let’s break down three common fears that stop therapists from posting online and how to shift your mindset so that sharing your message feels natural, not forced.
If you prefer to listen, I also have a podcast that explores this topic. You can listen below.
If you would like to subscribe to the podcast, click here.
Overcoming Your Fear of Social Media
Fear 1: “I Don’t Want to Make It All About Me”
The Problem:
Many therapists hesitate to post on social media because it feels like self-promotion. We’re trained to put the focus on the client and to avoid self-disclosure, so talking about ourselves – even in a professional context – can feel uncomfortable.
The Reframe:
Your posts aren’t about you, they’re about the people who need to hear your message. Instead of thinking of social media as “marketing yourself,” think of it as offering value and support to those who may never otherwise find help.
Try This Instead:
Before you post, imagine one person who is struggling right now. What would you say to them if they were sitting across from you?
Practical Tip: Shift the focus of your writing away from yourself:
Rather than: “I want to share this because…”
Try: “This might help you if…”
A small change in wording can make all the difference.
Fear 2: “Other People Know More Than Me”
The Problem:
It’s easy to scroll through social media and feel like everyone is more knowledgeable, experienced, or confident than you. If you’ve ever thought: “Who am I to talk about this when others are already doing it?”, you’re experiencing imposter syndrome in action.
The Reframe:
You don’t need to be the most experienced therapist in the world – you just need to be one step ahead of someone who needs your help. Your perspective matters. Your experience matters. And for the right person, you are the one they will connect with.
Try This Instead:
Instead of asking “Do I know enough?”, ask “Do I know something that could help someone today?”
Practical Tip:
Think about the clients you’ve worked with. What simple insights have made a difference for them? Those are the things to share.
Fear 3: “What If Someone Judges Me?”
The Problem:
Posting online can feel vulnerable. You’re putting yourself out there, and with that comes the possibility of criticism, disagreement, or even negative comments.
The Reframe:
The people who criticize you aren’t the people you’re here to help. The ones who matter? They’re the quiet ones, reading your posts, feeling seen, and finally realizing they’re not alone.
Try This Instead:
Instead of focusing on the one person who might disagree, think about the many people who will quietly appreciate what you’ve shared.
Practical Tip
If you ever feel discouraged, remind yourself:
- The people who need your message will appreciate it.
- The people who don’t? They’ll scroll past.
You can’t help everyone, but you can reach the right people.
Final Thoughts: Just Start Posting
Your posts don’t have to be perfect. They just have to be helpful.
If self-doubt is holding you back, shift your focus from yourself to your audience. Instead of asking, Who do I think I am to post this?, start asking:
“How can I help someone today?”
That small mindset shift can make all the difference and as you post more frequently you will grow in confidence and gradually overcome any lingering fear of social media.
Want Support in Growing Your Social Media Presence?
If posting on social media feels overwhelming, you don’t have to navigate it alone. In Therapy Growth Group, you’ll find:
- Journaling exercises to work through fears like self-disclosure and imposter syndrome
- Daily content ideas to take the guesswork out of what to post
- Step-by-step social media training to help you feel confident online
- A supportive community of therapists who are also building their social media presence
You have something valuable to share – let’s make it easier.