Therapist Headshots Portland

“What is the impact of headshots for therapists?”

Whether you are a graduate student who has just begun to see clients, or an established counsellor moving to a new mental health clinic I’m sure that you’ve realized that the first thing a prospective client sees in your headshot. Your expression and demeanor communicate who you are, what kind of approach you take and make the first impression of “are they the right fit for me?” Potential clients want to know if they would feel comfortable talking to you and a great headshot can help communicate this.

“Where are people seeing my profile?”

Many people in Portland find their therapists through great search tools like Portland Therapy Center or Psychology Today where you are browsing dozens of mental health profiles to find the right fit. Though people are considering your experience and specialities, they are instinctually deciding if they consider you to be a warm, open and non judgmental person that they would feel comfortable opening up to. Much like with casting directors and actors or agencies and models, the role of your headshot is to provide an authentic image of who clients may choose to engage with.

“Why a professional headshot makes the difference”

Poor mental health is a confusing state to navigate through and it’s vital to communicate that you take your work seriously and can show up in a competent way for your clients. When I’m photographing I’m looking to communicate four mains things for therapists; warmth, authenticity, openness and professionalism. By professionalism I don’t mean that you are stoic and formal, I mean that you are qualified for someone to put their trust in your ability to help them navigate their struggles. When you work with me I’ll coach you on wardrobe, expression and pose. We’ll talk before the shoot and make sure that we’re on the same page for your vision of how you would like to be presented.

“Where should I get my headshot taken?”

I love photographing both in the studio and outdoors - The studio provides a really clean look so we can focus on what matters most, you! It’s a really strong professional look and we can add in some small details to make it unique to you. My preference is to make outdoor headshots because it offers a chance to add some life and energy into the photos. Not unsurprisingly they look more natural. What is right for you really depends on your own personality and what you want to express. If you’re unsure of how to choose a location, you can look through one of my location guides. I always have suggestions so feel free to ask.