Get Reviews for Your Therapy Practice (Without Being Weird About it)
Here's the thing about getting reviews for your practice: you can't just ask for them directly.
The APA Ethics Code prohibits psychologists from soliciting testimonials from current therapy clients, and the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics has similar restrictions due to the high risk of undue influence. This crosses some pretty clear ethical lines and puts your clients in an awkward position. But reviews are absolutely crucial for your practice—they're social proof that helps potential clients feel confident about reaching out, and they give your Google Business Profile the boost it needs when people are searching for help.
The magic number seems to be getting past 10 reviews. Once you hit that threshold, you'll notice more people finding you and actually booking that first appointment.
So how do you get there without being weird about it?
The Anonymous Survey Method (This Actually Works)
One of my clients, has had incredible success with this approach. She sends anonymous surveys to her clients—and here's the key part—she has no idea who sends back what responses. This keeps everything above board ethically while still giving clients a way to share their experience if they choose to.
The anonymous approach addresses the main ethical concerns: it removes the power imbalance because clients know their responses can't be traced back to them, eliminates any pressure to provide positive feedback, and maintains confidentiality. Research shows that anonymous surveys encourage more honest feedback since respondents feel free to express opinions without fear of judgment or repercussions.
The survey focuses on gathering feedback about their therapy experience, but includes a note that if they'd like to leave a public review, there's a link to her Google Business Profile (with a clear disclaimer that public reviews will include their name).
Check out some of the responses she's gotten:
"Your ability to listen deeply and reflect back what I'm saying helps me feel seen and understood. I also appreciate how you gently challenge me to look at patterns or beliefs I might not be aware of, which helps me grow."
"If someone asked me about my experience, I would share that you are an incredibly compassionate and insightful therapist. You listen without judgment, create a safe and supportive space, and truly help me feel heard and understood."
These aren't just nice words—they're genuine reflections of the therapeutic relationship and actual growth happening.
Other Ways to Build Reviews Ethically
Professional referrals are totally fair game. Reviews from other clinicians you've worked with or collaborated with add credibility and help establish your reputation in the professional community. There's no ethical restriction on asking non-clients to review your work.
Former clients (with caution). Some professional organizations allow asking former clients for testimonials, particularly those who have completed treatment and can make fully informed decisions about sharing their experience. Check your specific licensing board's guidelines.
Make it easy when the moment's right. Rather than directly asking, you can provide information about where clients can leave reviews (like including a link to your Google Business Profile on your website). This makes it accessible without creating pressure.
Multiple platforms matter. Don't put all your energy into Google. Yelp, TrustPilot, and LinkedIn recommendations all count as social proof for your website and practice.
Survey Template You Can Use
Want to try the anonymous survey approach? Here's what's been working. I'd recommend using either Google Forms (free and easy) or SurveyMonkey (more features and professional look).
Making it truly anonymous:
Google Forms: In settings, turn OFF "Collect email addresses" and "Response receipts"
SurveyMonkey: Choose "Anonymous" when creating your survey (not "Track respondents")
Therapy Experience Survey Your responses are completely anonymous—I won't know who submitted what feedback.
What aspects of our work together did you find most helpful or meaningful? [Open response]
If someone asked you about your experience working with me, what would you share? [Open response]
What goals or challenges do you feel more confident managing now? [Open response]
Is there anything about your therapy experience you'd like me to know? [Open response]
Optional: If you'd like to leave a public review to help others find support, you can visit my Google Business Profile [link]. Please note that public reviews will include your name and be visible to others. This is completely optional and separate from this anonymous feedback.
To get your Google Business Profile link: Go to Google Maps, search for your business, click on your business listing, click "Share," then "Copy Link."
Don't have a Google Business Profile set up yet, or need help optimizing the one you have? I can help you create one from scratch or make sure your existing profile is working hard for your practice. Get in touch and let's get your online presence dialed in.
What About Responding to Reviews?
Here's the key thing: you can't confirm you've seen someone for therapy, but you can respond professionally without acknowledging the therapeutic relationship.
For positive reviews, keep it simple: "Thank you for the kind review" works perfectly. You're not confirming anything specific about treatment.
For negative reviews, your goal is to respond professionally, de-escalate, and take it offline. Something like: "I'm sorry you had this experience. Please contact my office and we can discuss your concerns further." This shows you care about client satisfaction without getting into details or being defensive.
The main rule is never acknowledge specific treatment details or confirm the therapeutic relationship—but you can absolutely respond in a way that shows professionalism and care.
Reviews aren't just about marketing—they're about helping people who are struggling find the support they need. When someone's googling "therapist near me" at 2 AM, those authentic reviews might be what gives them the courage to reach out.
Keep it ethical, keep it authentic, and remember that the best reviews come from doing great work. Everything else is just making it easier for people to share what they're already feeling.
Let me know what you think of this approach—I'd love to hear what's worked (or what hasn't) for your practice.
