I searched for “How therapists can set up a Google Business Profile in Canada” and noticed that most top ranking results offered generic advice that was not specific to therapy clinics in Ontario. What stood out even more was that many of these blogs encouraged therapists to request client reviews, which is unethical and goes against provincial advertising standards.
Based on my experience working with therapy clients across Canada, I put together a list of Google Business Profile tips that can actually help clinics grow their visibility on Google while staying compliant.
Here are 9 Google Business Profile Tips For Therapy Clinics in Canada:
1. Do not ask for reviews
Therapists in Canada must follow strict provincial advertising rules. You cannot request client reviews, share success stories, or use language that implies guaranteed results. These actions can lead to disciplinary action from your regulatory college and put your professional record and practice at risk.
2. Use a physical address to book more local clients
A visible address gives your practice a real advantage on Google Maps. When you use a physical address, Google treats your clinic as a location that can serve the local community. This increases your chances of appearing in the local pack for searches like “therapist near me” or “anxiety therapist in Toronto.”
Hidden addresses often struggle to rank because a visible pin helps Google confirm your location and builds trust with people searching nearby.
3. The primary category for your therapy practice
Your primary category shapes the searches you appear in. Choose the one that reflects most of your work:
- Psychotherapist
- Counselling Service
- Mental Health Services
When the primary category is accurate, Google understands your practice better and shows you to the right people.
4. Add relevant secondary categories
Secondary categories help Google understand the specific support you provide. Stick to categories that are relevant to the services that you provide. Examples include:
- Family Counselor
- Marriage Counselor
- Child Psychologist
- Mental Health Clinic
5. Use your focus keyword in your description
Let’s say your clinic specializes in Couples Therapy(your focus keyword). Include this keyword in the first line of your description. While including your focus keyword matters, do not overlook important details such as:
- Who you support
- The concerns or life experiences you commonly work with
- The modalities or approaches you take
- What someone can expect when they start therapy with you
- Insurance accepted or not
Keep it human and keep your language consistent to maintain your brand’s authenticity.
6. Add all your therapy services
Create individual listings for services like Anxiety Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Couples Therapy, Teen Therapy, ADHD Therapy, or Depression Therapy. Add a short, supportive description under each one and include your session prices where appropriate.
This helps Google understand the full scope of your practice and makes it easier for clients to understand what you offer. You can also add links to the appropriate service pages on your website or directly to your Jane booking links to guide people to the next step.
7. Turn on the appointment link
Make your contact process easy. Link your booking button directly to Jane, Owl, SimplePractice, or your website form so clients can book in one step. A clear booking path also strengthens your overall profile score, which can support better visibility in local search.
Here’s how you can set up your appointment link with your service provider.
8. Keep your profile active so Google keeps showing it
An active profile signals to Google that your practice is open, responsive, and relevant. You do not need daily updates. Posting 3-4 times a month is enough. Your GBP updates could be about:
- New service pages
- Add new photos
- Seasonal reminders
- Availability changes
- Office hours for holidays
- Statements about care or compassion
Active profiles often appear more often in local searches because Google rewards consistent engagement. This matters more in cities where there’s high competition among other clinics.
9. Add attributes
Attributes help clients understand who you are and what your space represents. Add the ones that reflect your practice, such as:
- LGBTQ Friendly
- Women Led
- Wheelchair Accessible
Are you looking to grow your therapy practice?
T Parker Marketing has helped multiple therapy clinics in Ontario grow their therapy practice using a mix of SEO, Google ads, and GBP optimization. Are you looking for a local digital marketing agency to grow your therapy practice?
Feel free to book a consultation today.
