I just completed posting another dozen or so new therapists listings to the Myofascial Release and Bodyworker Practitioner Directory. (sidebar: If you have not signed up for this free directory, what are you waiting for?) As I enter information for therapists and practices literally from around the world I am struck with the wide variety of training these therapists possess. I was trained in myofascial release in a sheltered world of thought. I had heard of other trainings but was told that all of these were inferior. It wasn’t until I broke from that trainer that I realized there were dozens of excellent and effective seminar lines out there teaching myofascial release to the world. Whether direct or indirect methods, with or without emotional work, myofascial release IS effective.

A few tips for therapists, when it comes to promoting your practice:

- Market your strengths, not the words “myofascial release” or your mentor’s name. I made this mistake the first few years of my private practice. I was out to convert every doctor in my city to the wonders of MFR, all the while attaching my teacher’s name to it as well. I quickly realized the general population does not care what it was that I did, or who I trained with. They cared about what I could do for them. My practice changed from the “Myofascial Pain Relief Center” to just the “Pain Relief Center”, and business grew. Know your strengths and make that your marketing tool. The name “Tulip Petal Therapy” may have great meaning to you, but it will be completely lost on someone looking for help.

- Today, a website should be considered mandatory. Place a professional photo of yourself on that website. There are many good sources for website design, but as I check out various sites across the country I see a few glaring flaws. Fix those spelling and grammatical errors. If your website design program does not show these errors, cut and paste your text to Word, or other similar word processor, and check for those mistakes. Have a friend proof read things. These simple to correct mistakes can turn off a potential client very quickly.

- While postcards, and similar mailings can be effective, consider switching to an online newsletter program, such as Constant Contact. By collecting email addresses from clients, you can reach out at any time. It also gives them an opportunity to share your newsletter with a friend, expanding your reach.

Simple tips, such as these, can make a difference.

For now,

Walt Fritz, PT