Abundant Practice Podcast Summary Episode #640: Should I Have A Blog
Release Date: April 19, 2025
Host: Allison Puryear

Introduction

In Episode #640 of the Abundant Practice Podcast, host Allison Puryear addresses a common question among therapists: "Should I have a blog?" This episode delves into the benefits of maintaining a blog for a private practice, providing actionable insights and practical steps for therapists considering this avenue. Allison not only explores the strategic advantages of blogging but also offers guidance on overcoming common obstacles related to time and content creation.

The Importance of Blogging for Therapists

Boosting Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Allison emphasizes that the primary reason for maintaining a blog is to enhance Search Engine Optimization (SEO). She explains that a well-maintained blog can significantly increase a website's visibility on search engines like Google.

"SEO and blogging is like peanut butter and jelly, just goes together."
— Allison Puryear [04:36]

By consistently publishing valuable content, therapists can improve their website's ranking, making it easier for potential clients to find them when searching for relevant keywords related to therapy services.

Showcasing Approach and Values

A blog serves as a platform for therapists to showcase their unique approach and values. Allison points out that through blog posts, therapists can communicate their methods, specialties, and personal philosophies, helping potential clients understand what sets them apart.

"Your blog is your chance to show potential clients who you are and what you stand for."
— Allison Puryear [06:15]

This transparency fosters trust and attracts clients who resonate with the therapist’s approach, ensuring a better client-therapist match.

Attracting Ideal Clients

Allison discusses how blogging can help attract ideal clients. By providing insightful and targeted content, therapists can draw in individuals who are specifically seeking the services and expertise they offer.

"You are looking for your ideal clients, not just anybody who walks through the door."
— Allison Puryear [08:30]

This selective attraction ensures that therapists build a client base that aligns with their practice goals and personal preferences.

Overcoming Common Hesitations

Time Investment Concerns

Many therapists hesitate to start a blog due to concerns about the time required. Allison reassures listeners by breaking down the blogging process into manageable steps, making it less daunting.

"Let's break down the process into like little bite sized bits of information."
— Allison Puryear [09:10]

Uncertainty About Content Creation

For those unsure about what to write, Allison suggests maintaining a list of topics derived from client interactions and common questions. This approach ensures that the content is relevant and valuable.

"Think about what your clients ask you over and over, what they say over and over."
— Allison Puryear [11:45]

Practical Steps to Start Blogging

1. Create a List of Topics

Allison advises therapists to compile a list of blog topics based on recurring themes in their practice. This pre-planned list simplifies the writing process and ensures consistency in content production.

2. Ensure Content is Valuable

Each blog post should offer real value to readers. Allison stresses the importance of providing actionable insights, answering common questions, and offering tips that can help potential clients.

"Every single post you publish should provide real value to your ideal niched clients."
— Allison Puryear [12:30]

3. Write Conversationally

To make the blog relatable, Allison recommends writing in a conversational tone rather than an academic one. This approach helps in building a connection with readers, making the content more engaging.

"Write how you would talk to your therapy clients in session."
— Allison Puryear [14:20]

4. Maintain Consistency

Consistency is key to successful blogging. Allison suggests determining a manageable posting schedule—at least once a month—and adhering to it. She also recommends batching writing tasks to streamline the process.

"The important thing is just to be super consistent."
— Allison Puryear [16:05]

5. Avoid Overthinking

Allison encourages therapists not to strive for perfection in their blog posts. She emphasizes the importance of progress over perfection, suggesting that getting started is more crucial than flawless execution.

"Your blog does not have to be a masterpiece."
— Allison Puryear [17:50]

6. Embrace Vulnerability

Publishing personal insights can feel vulnerable, but Allison reassures listeners that this vulnerability can lead to greater trust and connection with potential clients.

"You have to get comfortable with the fact that you are putting yourself out there."
— Allison Puryear [19:25]

7. Utilize AI Wisely

While Allison acknowledges the usefulness of AI in editing and expanding content, she cautions against over-reliance. She recommends using AI tools to enhance posts but stresses the importance of personal editing to maintain authenticity.

"You can use AI to help edit or to bulk up your posts... Please edit it because we can all tell when we're reading AI."
— Allison Puryear [20:40]

Enhancing Blogs with Multimedia

To further engage readers, Allison suggests incorporating video content into blogs. This can help build a deeper connection by allowing potential clients to see and hear the therapist, adding a personal touch to the written content.

"Video allows potential clients to see you, to hear your voice, to get a much deeper understanding of who you are."
— Allison Puryear [21:30]

Additional Resources and Support

Allison highlights various resources available to therapists looking to start or enhance their blogging efforts:

• Abundance Party Membership Program: Step-by-step guidance on building a thriving practice.
• Free Worksheets and Checklists: Available at AbundancePracticeBuilding.com for brainstorming blog topics and other practice-building tools.
• YouTube Channel: Access to the entire Ask Allison library for more insights and support.

Conclusion

In this episode, Allison Puryear effectively outlines the substantial benefits of maintaining a blog for private practice therapists. From enhancing SEO and attracting ideal clients to showcasing personal values and building trust, blogging emerges as a powerful tool for practice growth. Allison’s practical advice and encouraging words make the prospect of starting a blog accessible, even for those who may feel time-constrained or unsure about content creation. By following her structured approach, therapists can leverage blogging to create a more visible, engaging, and successful practice.

For more support and resources, listeners are encouraged to visit AbundancePracticeBuilding.com and consider joining the Abundance Party membership program.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "SEO and blogging is like peanut butter and jelly, just goes together."
  — Allison Puryear [04:36]

• "Your blog is your chance to show potential clients who you are and what you stand for."
  — Allison Puryear [06:15]

• "You are looking for your ideal clients, not just anybody who walks through the door."
  — Allison Puryear [08:30]

• "Let's break down the process into like little bite sized bits of information."
  — Allison Puryear [09:10]

• "Think about what your clients ask you over and over, what they say over and over."
  — Allison Puryear [11:45]

• "Every single post you publish should provide real value to your ideal niched clients."
  — Allison Puryear [12:30]

• "Write how you would talk to your therapy clients in session."
  — Allison Puryear [14:20]

• "The important thing is just to be super consistent."
  — Allison Puryear [16:05]

• "Your blog does not have to be a masterpiece."
  — Allison Puryear [17:50]

• "You have to get comfortable with the fact that you are putting yourself out there."
  — Allison Puryear [19:25]

• "You can use AI to help edit or to bulk up your posts... Please edit it because we can all tell when we're reading AI."
  — Allison Puryear [20:40]

• "Video allows potential clients to see you, to hear your voice, to get a much deeper understanding of who you are."
  — Allison Puryear [21:30]

Resources Mentioned:

• Abundance Party Membership Program: www.abundanceparty.com
• Free Worksheets and Checklists: www.abundancepracticebuilding.com
• TherapyNotes Sponsorship: Use code abundant@therapynotes.com for two months free therapynotes.com
• Contact for Support: help@abundancepracticebuilding.com

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and actionable steps presented by Allison Puryear in Episode #640 of the Abundant Practice Podcast, providing valuable information for therapists contemplating the integration of a blog into their private practice strategy.