Should a therapist bio be written in first or third person?

Write in first person for your website and directory profiles. 'I work with...' feels warmer and more personal than 'Dr. Smith specializes in...' which creates distance. The only exception is formal institutional settings (hospital staff pages, academic profiles) where third person is the convention.

What should a therapist include in their bio?

Include these elements in order: who you help (specific populations and issues), your therapeutic approach in plain language, what working with you feels like, a brief personal note that builds human connection, your credentials and training, and how to get started. Lead with the client's experience, not your resume.

How do I write a therapist bio that attracts the right clients?

Start with your ideal client's pain point, not your credentials. Instead of 'I am a licensed therapist specializing in CBT,' try 'If anxiety is running the show, you do not have to keep white-knuckling through it.' Then describe what therapy with you looks like. Use the words your actual clients use. End with credentials and a clear next step.

What are common mistakes in therapist bios?

The most common mistakes: leading with credentials instead of who you help, using clinical jargon (evidence-based, modalities, psychoeducation), listing too many specialties (more than 5 dilutes credibility), no personal element at all, and missing a clear call-to-action. Your bio should read like a warm conversation, not a clinical report.

Should I mention my own therapy experience in my bio?

Brief, boundaried self-disclosure can build trust. Saying 'I believe in the process because I have been on both sides of the therapy room' is enough. Avoid detailed personal stories about your own mental health challenges in your public bio. Save deeper self-disclosure for when it serves a specific client in session.

How often should I update my therapist bio?

Review your bio every 6 months. Update it when you add a new specialty, complete significant training, change your ideal client focus, or when your current bio no longer reflects how you actually practice. Your Psychology Today and website bios should always match in focus, even if the length differs.

Can I use the same bio on my website and Psychology Today?

Use the same core message but adjust the length. Psychology Today truncates after about 150 words, so your first two sentences need to hook the reader. Your website bio can be 300-500 words with more personal detail. The opening and closing should match, with the website version having more depth in the middle.

What tone should a therapist bio have?

Warm but professional. Think of how you would introduce yourself at a networking event, not how you would present at a conference. Avoid being too casual (no slang or excessive exclamation points) or too formal (no 'the undersigned practitioner'). Aim for the voice you use in a first session: approachable, competent, and genuine.

Should I include my fees in my therapist bio?

Not in the bio itself, but on your website. Including fees on a dedicated fees/insurance page filters for the right clients and reduces time spent on inquiries that are not a fit. In your bio, mentioning sliding scale or insurance acceptance is appropriate if it is a key differentiator for your practice.

Therapist bio examples: 10 templates by specialty

Q: How long should a therapist bio be?

Your therapist bio should be 150-300 words for directory listings like Psychology Today, and 300-500 words for your website about page. The directory version needs to hook readers in the first two sentences since most platforms truncate after that. Your website version can be more personal and detailed since visitors have already chosen to learn more about you.

Your bio is your first session with a potential client. It should make them feel understood before they ever walk through your door. Here are 10 templates you can adapt today.

Updated February 20269 min read

Quick Answer

Start with your ideal client's experience, not your credentials. Describe the problem they are facing, what working with you feels like, and why you do this work. Then add credentials and a clear next step. Write in first person, use plain language, and keep it under 300 words for directories or 500 words for your website.

The therapist bio formula

Every effective therapist bio follows the same structure. The order matters: lead with the client, end with your credentials.

The 5-part bio formula

The hook (1-2 sentences)

Name the problem your ideal client faces. Make them feel seen. This is the most important part because directories truncate everything after it.

Your approach (2-3 sentences)

Describe what therapy with you looks like in plain language. Not "I utilize CBT and mindfulness-based interventions." Instead: "I help you notice the patterns that keep you stuck and build new ones that work."

The personal note (1-2 sentences)

A brief, boundaried personal detail that builds connection. Why you do this work. What you believe about the process. This is what makes your bio memorable.

Credentials (1-2 sentences)

License, degrees, specialized training. Keep it concise. List your most relevant credentials, not every workshop you attended.

The next step (1 sentence)

Tell them exactly what to do. "Schedule a free 15-minute consultation" or "Call me at [number]." Remove all ambiguity.

Opening lines that hook readers

Quick Answer

The best opening line names your ideal client's experience in their language. Instead of leading with your name and credentials, lead with what they are going through. 'If anxiety has you rehearsing conversations at 2am...' connects instantly. Your name can come later.

Your first sentence determines whether someone reads the rest. Here are opening line formulas that work, organized by the emotion they create.

Validation opener

"If you are reading this, you have probably been told to 'just relax' or 'think positive' one too many times."

Works because: validates frustration, signals you understand their experience

Recognition opener

"You are good at keeping it together on the outside. But the cost of that composure is starting to show."

Works because: names the hidden experience, makes them feel seen

Question opener

"What would it feel like to stop carrying this alone?"

Works because: invites reflection, implies you are someone who can help

Direct opener

"I help high-achievers who are great at their jobs but struggling in their relationships."

Works because: immediately tells the right person this is for them

Notice what these all have in common: they start with the client, not the therapist. Your name, credentials, and training come later. The first impression should be "this person understands me," not "this person has a lot of degrees."

Template 1: Anxiety specialist

Anxiety therapist bio template

Your mind does not come with an off switch. The racing thoughts, the what-ifs, the constant planning for disasters that never happen. You have tried deep breathing. You have read the articles. And still, anxiety runs the show.

I help people who look calm on the outside but feel overwhelmed on the inside. Together, we figure out what is driving the anxiety and build practical ways to respond to it differently. Not by ignoring it or pushing through it, but by changing your relationship with it.

My approach draws primarily from cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance-based strategies. Sessions are collaborative, not lecture-based. You will leave with something concrete you can use that week.

When I am not in the office, I am usually hiking with my dog or reading something that has nothing to do with psychology.

[Your name], [credentials]. [X] years of experience specializing in anxiety, perfectionism, and overthinking.

Ready to feel less at the mercy of your own mind? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation.

Word count: ~175. Customize the bracketed sections and adjust the personal note to reflect your actual interests.

Template 2: Trauma therapist

Trauma therapist bio template

What happened to you is not your fault. And healing from it does not require you to relive every detail.

I work with people carrying the weight of difficult experiences: childhood adversity, abusive relationships, overwhelming events that changed how you see yourself and the world. You might not even call it trauma. You just know something is not right.

My approach is gentle and paced to what you can handle. We work at your speed, not mine. I use EMDR and somatic experiencing alongside talk therapy because trauma lives in the body as much as the mind. You will never be pushed to share more than you are ready to.

I believe in this work because I have seen what happens when people get the right support. It changes everything.

[Your name], [credentials]. Specialized training in EMDR, somatic experiencing, and complex trauma.

Taking the first step is the hardest part. Call me at [number] or schedule a free consultation.

Word count: ~180. Note: the opening validates without retraumatizing. The pacing emphasis addresses the primary fear of trauma therapy.

Template 3: Couples therapist

Couples therapist bio template

You used to be able to talk about anything. Now you walk on eggshells, have the same argument on repeat, or just... coexist. The connection that brought you together feels buried under years of small hurts and big misunderstandings.

I help couples find their way back to each other. Not the fairy-tale version, but a real, honest relationship where both people feel heard and valued. Even when it is hard. Especially when it is hard.

My approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method. I do not take sides. I do not give homework you will not do. Instead, I help you understand the cycle you are stuck in and learn how to break it together.

I got into this work because I believe relationships are worth fighting for, and I have seen couples come back from places they thought were beyond repair.

[Your name], [credentials]. [X] years working with couples navigating conflict, infidelity recovery, and life transitions.

Both partners do not need to be equally ready. One of you just needs to make the call.

Word count: ~195. The closing line addresses the most common barrier: "my partner won't go to therapy."

Template 4: Child and adolescent therapist

Child therapist bio template

Your child used to be happy and confident. Lately, something has shifted. Maybe they are more anxious, more withdrawn, or acting out in ways that do not make sense. You have tried everything you can think of, and you are looking for help.

I work with children ages 6-17 and the families who love them. Through play therapy, art, and age-appropriate talk therapy, I help kids express what they cannot put into words yet. I also work closely with parents because therapy works best when the whole family is on the same page.

Kids are not small adults. They communicate through behavior, play, and creativity. My office is designed to feel safe and fun, not clinical. Most kids actually look forward to their sessions.

[Your name], [credentials]. Specialized in play therapy, childhood anxiety, ADHD, and family transitions (divorce, moves, new siblings).

Concerned about your child? Let us talk. Schedule a free parent consultation to discuss what you are seeing.

Word count: ~175. Note: addresses the parent (the decision maker) while building confidence that their child will be comfortable.

Template 5: General practice therapist

General practice bio template

Something brought you here. Maybe it is a specific problem that needs solving, or maybe it is a general sense that things could be better. Either way, reaching out takes courage, and you deserve to work with someone who takes that seriously.

I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My approach is warm, direct, and tailored to what you need. Some clients want structured tools and homework. Others need a space to process and be heard. We figure out what works for you.

I draw from cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based approaches. But honestly, the research is clear: the most important factor in therapy is the relationship between therapist and client. That is what I prioritize.

Outside the office, I am a [hobby] enthusiast and firm believer that rest is productive.

[Your name], [credentials].

Ready to take the first step? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation or call [number].

Word count: ~170. For generalists, the key is conveying range without seeming unfocused. This template balances breadth with warmth.

5 more specialty templates

Adapt these shorter templates for your specific niche. Each follows the same 5-part formula.

Perinatal and postpartum

"You thought this was supposed to be the happiest time of your life. No one prepared you for this."

Approach section: Normalize the gap between expectation and reality. Mention specific concerns: mood changes, intrusive thoughts, bonding difficulties, birth trauma.

Pro tip: Address partner inclusion. Many perinatal clients bring their partner to some sessions.

LGBTQ+ affirming

"You should not have to educate your therapist on who you are before you can work on why you came."

Approach section: Lead with affirming language, not just an ally badge. Mention specific experiences: coming out, gender identity exploration, minority stress, family dynamics.

Pro tip: List your pronouns. Specify populations you work with (trans, nonbinary, polyamorous). Be specific about your competence.

Grief and loss

"Grief does not follow a timeline. Neither does therapy for it."

Approach section: Acknowledge that grief is not only about death: divorce, miscarriage, job loss, estrangement, pet loss. Avoid the word "closure."

Pro tip: Mention that you work with grief that is recent and grief that is decades old. Many people think "it has been too long" to seek help.

Addiction and recovery

"You are not weak. You found a way to cope with something unbearable, and now that coping method is creating its own problems."

Approach section: Non-shaming, strengths-based language. Frame addiction as a coping mechanism, not a moral failing. Mention harm reduction if applicable.

Pro tip: Address confidentiality directly. Many recovery clients fear professional consequences. Reassure them about privacy boundaries.

#10

High-achiever and burnout

"On paper, everything is fine. The career, the accomplishments, the accolades. But somewhere along the way, you stopped feeling any of it."

Approach section: Acknowledge imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and the loneliness of success. Avoid pathologizing ambition. Frame therapy as optimization, not weakness.

Pro tip: Use language that resonates with high-achievers: "strategic," "invest in yourself," "performance." Mention flexible scheduling for busy professionals.

10 Therapist Bio Templates by Specialty

All 10 templates from this guide in a copy-paste document. Includes word count targets for Psychology Today and website versions.

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Common therapist bio mistakes

Quick Answer

The five most common mistakes: leading with credentials instead of who you help, using clinical jargon that clients do not understand, listing too many specialties which dilutes credibility, including no personal element, and forgetting a clear call-to-action. Your bio should read like a warm conversation, not a clinical report.

Before

"I am a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience utilizing evidence-based modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS to treat a wide range of presenting concerns."

After

"I help people who have been trying to hold it all together finally put some of it down. After 15 years in practice, what I know for sure is that the right support changes everything."

The first version is a resume. The second is a conversation.

Before

"Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Grief, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Anger Management, Life Transitions, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Codependency, Work Stress"

After

"I specialize in anxiety and the perfectionism that often comes with it. If you are the person who has it all together on the outside but is exhausted on the inside, we should talk."

A long list says you specialize in nothing. A specific focus attracts the right clients.

Before

"I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, empathic, collaborative, warm, supportive, client-centered therapeutic environment."

After

"My office is a place where you can say the things you have not been able to say anywhere else."

Stacking adjectives feels generic. A specific description creates a feeling.

Optimizing your Psychology Today profile

Quick Answer

Psychology Today truncates your bio after about 150 words. Front-load your opening with who you help and what you specialize in. Use the first two sentences to hook the reader because that is all most people see. Select no more than 5 specialties to appear focused. Upload a professional headshot with warm lighting and a genuine expression.

Psychology Today is still the largest therapist directory. Here is how to make your profile stand out.

PT profile optimization checklist

First 2 sentences: name the problem your ideal client has (this shows in the preview)
Specialties: select no more than 5 (focus beats breadth)
Photo: professional headshot, warm lighting, genuine smile
Personal statement: matches your website bio in tone and focus
Issues: select the ones you actually specialize in, not everything you could treat
Modalities: list the ones you primarily use, not every training you have
Accepted insurance: keep current. Wrong insurance info wastes everyone's time
Availability: update when your caseload changes. Do not show availability you do not have

Your Psychology Today profile and your website bio should tell the same story at different lengths. Think of PT as the trailer and your website as the full film.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a therapist bio be?

150-300 words for directories (Psychology Today truncates early). 300-500 words for your website. Front-load the important content.

First person or third person?

First person for websites and directories. "I work with..." is warmer than "Dr. Smith specializes in..." Use third person only for institutional settings.

What should I include?

In order: who you help, your approach in plain language, what working with you feels like, a personal note, credentials, and how to get started.

How do I attract the right clients?

Start with your ideal client's pain point, not your credentials. Describe what therapy with you looks like. Use words your actual clients use.

What are common mistakes?

Leading with credentials, clinical jargon, too many specialties (5+ dilutes credibility), no personal element, and no clear call-to-action.

Should I mention my own therapy experience?

Brief, boundaried self-disclosure builds trust. "I believe in the process because I have been on both sides" is enough. Avoid detailed personal stories.

How often should I update my bio?

Every 6 months. Update when you add specialties, complete training, or when it no longer reflects how you practice.

Same bio for website and Psychology Today?

Same core message, different length. PT truncates at ~150 words so front-load. Website version can be 300-500 words with more detail.

What tone should I use?

Warm but professional. How you would introduce yourself at a networking event, not a conference. Approachable, competent, genuine.

Should I include my fees?

Not in the bio itself. Include fees on a dedicated page. In your bio, mention sliding scale or insurance acceptance only if it differentiates you.

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Therapist bio examples: 10 templates by specialty

The therapist bio formula

The 5-part bio formula

Opening lines that hook readers

Template 1: Anxiety specialist

Template 2: Trauma therapist

Template 3: Couples therapist

Template 4: Child and adolescent therapist

Template 5: General practice therapist

5 more specialty templates

Perinatal and postpartum

LGBTQ+ affirming

Grief and loss

Addiction and recovery

High-achiever and burnout

10 Therapist Bio Templates by Specialty

Common therapist bio mistakes

Optimizing your Psychology Today profile

PT profile optimization checklist

Frequently asked questions

How long should a therapist bio be?

First person or third person?

What should I include?

How do I attract the right clients?

What are common mistakes?

Should I mention my own therapy experience?

How often should I update my bio?

Same bio for website and Psychology Today?

What tone should I use?

Should I include my fees?

Related guides

Therapist Branding

Therapist Website Examples

How to Get More Therapy Clients

Marketing for Therapists

Your brand is more than a bio