I am amazed at the never ending resources Google has to offer… it seems like every day I am learning about some new gadget or tool they have. 

So far my favorite, and most useful, tool is the Local Business Center.  The best part is that it is FREE and, chances are, it will put you toward the TOP of the Google page.  All you have to do is sign up, enter your business info, and add a few pictures.  Google loves pictures and video, so if you have a few shots or your office or a fitting video, add it to your business profile it and it will only improve your chances of being at the top of the list.  And you can even have your colleagues write some rocking reviews about how you are a great therapist. 

Then wait a couple days and do a search for ”counseling” or “mental health” in your city and see what comes up.  Right now, when you search for  ”mental health renton wa” my consulting and counseling businesses come up as #1 and #2 at the top of the Google page which is so exciting!   And when you search for “counseling renton wa” my counseling site comes us as #2 – not too bad!  

Really, the whole search engine ranking process is a bit of a mystery, and not just to me, I was told that from someone who’s career is in Search Engine Optimization.  We really don’t know for sure how Google decides who gets at the top, but I feel like the Local Business Search (as well as Biznik) has really paid off for me.  It was definitely worth the 10 minutes I spent setting up my business profile. 

So don’t just take my word for it – sign up today and see what happens. It’s free!