40. Messaging Before Marketing: Why Therapists Struggle With Referrals (And What To Do First)

If your practice has ever felt quiet, you know the spiral. You start tweaking your website, Googling “SEO for therapists,” or posting more on Instagram — but still, no new referrals. And when you do get engagement, it’s mostly from other therapists, not the parents, teachers, or clients you actually want to reach.

This is where most therapists get stuck. We think marketing is about doing more. But the truth is: your message has to land first.

In this episode of The Freedom Therapist Podcast, I’m sharing why so many private practice therapists struggle with referrals (even when they’re posting, even when they’re showing up) — and the exact first step to take instead.

You’ll hear:

• Why word-of-mouth referrals eventually dry up, and what to do before panic sets in
• The difference between “therapist language” and the real words parents and clients actually use
• My formula for writing content that actually connects and converts into referrals
• The 3 simple questions to ask yourself before you write anything — website copy, an Instagram caption, even a blog post
• How to make your words feel like a safe space for the people you most want to work with

If you’ve ever stared at your screen thinking, I don’t even know what to say anymore or felt BIG imposter syndrome vibes around content or copy this episode will help you find words that finally connect — and bring in the right referrals.

I’d love to hear what landed for you — come find me over on Instagram @miapoko and share your reflections.

And if this episode supported you, leaving a review truly helps more therapists find this space — and reminds others that they’re not alone in navigating the wildness of this work.