Beyond the Headshot: What Photos Therapists Should Include on Their Websites

You already know the basics—yes, you need a clean, professional headshot for your therapy website. Ideally, it’s full-body, well-lit, and you're facing the camera. But what else should you include if you're investing in a professional photographer?

At Theory About That, we’ve seen firsthand how the right images can transform a therapist's website from generic to compelling. Your photos aren’t just decoration—they’re part of your brand. They build trust, express your values, and give future clients a sense of who you are before they ever reach out.

If you're booking a photoshoot for your new therapy website build, here are some creative, strategic ideas to make the most of your time in front of the camera.

1. Candid Office Moments

Let your clients see the real environment they’ll be walking (or logging) into. Capture moments like:

• Sitting at your desk jotting notes or sipping tea
• Straightening pillows or adjusting a chair
• Looking over your shoulder while working on your laptop
• Standing near the doorway, as if greeting someone

These shots add warmth and grounding to your site, especially when paired with copy about your approach or values.

2. Photos That Hint at Your Specialty

Therapists who offer EMDR or other specialized modalities should showcase their tools. EMDR light bars, tappers, sand trays, art supplies—include them in a natural, in-use setting if possible.

These subtle cues help potential clients see the kind of work you do and make your niche services feel more tangible.

3. Therapist-in-Action Shots

It might feel awkward to stage a session, but there’s value in showing what therapy with you might look like—especially if you offer telehealth. Consider:

• A shot of you on a video call (have a friend sit in as the client)
• Smiling or nodding thoughtfully at your laptop
• Holding a notebook or typing during a virtual session
• Using visual aids or props you commonly reference

These shots reassure online clients that you’ve created a professional, welcoming virtual experience.

4. Invite a Friend to Join You

Including another person (with consent!) in your photos can bring warmth and realism. This works especially well for:

• Simulating client interactions
• Over-the-shoulder shots of you listening or explaining something
• Casual moments like walking through a park or chatting on a bench

You don’t need to pose as if you're doing therapy—just aim for natural, comfortable energy that reflects your presence.

5. Environment + Details

Your office matters. People want to know: Is it cozy? Minimalist? Full of plants? Let your space speak.

Capture:

• Office decor details: shelves, lighting, textures
• Wide shots that show your therapy space layout
• A photo of you walking into or out of your building (great for local SEO, too)

Bonus: If you work in multiple cities or states, show a mix of in-person and virtual visuals to reflect your flexibility.

6. Your Personality, Your Brand

Don’t be afraid to get creative. Some of our favorite therapist websites include:

• Playful shots of you with books, coffee, or art
• Natural outdoor shots (especially if nature-based therapy is your thing)
• Sitting barefoot on a couch or cushion (especially if you're going for a relaxed, non-traditional vibe)

Just because therapy is serious work doesn’t mean your site has to feel sterile.

Final Tips Before the Shoot

• Dress like you would for a client session. Avoid overly formal or overly casual outfits unless that’s part of your brand.
• Think about lighting. Natural light is your best friend. If you’re using your office, plan your shoot around the best daylight hours.
• Keep your audience in mind. Are your ideal clients artists? Executives? Teens? Choose poses, outfits, and props that reflect the kind of therapeutic relationship you offer.

Need Help Planning It All?

At Theory About That, we help therapists design websites that feel like you. If you’re planning a photoshoot and want guidance on how your brand voice can come through visually, we’re just an email away.

Want us to review your shots before you go live? Absolutely. We’re here to help you show up with confidence—on screen and off.

Example Therapist Website Photos

While we can’t take all the credit, here are some therapists we’ve worked with, who have done a great job (in our opinion) when it comes to their site visuals.

• Dr. Jen Joseph - Jen invited over some friends for her professional photoshoot and we were able to include a full mix of personal photos of her and staged sessions (in-person and online) on her site.
• Nueva Vida Therapy - While she may not have staged a full photoshoot, Leslie offered up something that helped our design team immensely. She included a photo of her EMDR light bar, featured at the top of this page.
• Creating Space Therapy - While my team did not provide the design or photos for this therapist (just SEO optimization), the photo that accompanies “The Online Therapy Process” on this page is too good to pass over. The rest of the site contains equally powerful photos of this therapist & her space that help potential clients feel connected, even before they join a session.
• Jackie Curry, LCSW - This Oregon-based adventure-seeking therapist included a great mix of photos from her own travels to feature on her site, reflecting the same adventurous spirit of the clients she’s looking to attract. 

Thinking About Your Own Website?

If you’re dreaming of a website that actually feels like you—not just another therapist template—we’d love to help.

At Theory About That, we specialize in designing therapist websites that are personal, strategic, and grounded in intention. From helping you prep for your photoshoot to building a site that turns visitors into clients, we know how to bring your work to life online.