Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Therapy Online Australia is designed for registered talk therapists who want to increase their visibility and connect with clients seeking therapy in Australia. Whether you're a psychologist, counsellor, or other registered mental health professional, joining the directory is straightforward.
This guide walks you through the two pathways available: creating a basic listing (open to all registered talk therapists) and applying to become a verified provider with enhanced features.
Table of Contents
- Two Pathways: Listing vs. Verified Provider
- Step 1: Create Your Therapist Listing
- Step 2: Build Your Profile
- Step 3: Go Live on the Directory
- Becoming a Verified Provider (Optional)
- Credential Verification Process
- Connect Your Practice Systems
- What Happens After Verification
- Frequently Asked Questions
- References
Two Pathways: Listing vs. Verified Provider
Basic Listing (Free)
- Open to all registered talk therapists in Australia
- Create your profile with bio, specialties, and contact information
- Appear in public directory searches
- Manage your own bookings and client communications
Verified Provider (Enhanced Features)
- Credential verification (AHPRA or relevant registration)
- Enhanced profile features and visibility
- Integration with practice management systems
- Priority placement in search results
- Access to booking and billing tools
Most therapists start with a basic listing to establish their presence, then apply for verified provider status when ready to access enhanced features.
Step 1: Create Your Therapist Listing
Any registered talk therapist can create a listing on Therapy Online Australia. The process is simple and takes just a few minutes:
- Your full name and professional title
- Professional email and contact preferences
- Areas you treat (e.g., anxiety, trauma, ADHD, perinatal, neurodivergence)
- Whether you offer telehealth, in-person, or both
- Your location and regions you serve
No credential verification is required at this stage—just basic information to help clients find and contact you directly.
Step 2: Build Your Profile
Your profile is how clients will find you and get a sense of whether you're the right fit for their needs. You can include:
- A short, client-friendly bio explaining your therapeutic approach
- Your key areas of experience (e.g., trauma, anxiety, autism, couples)
- Who you see (e.g., adults, teens, children, couples, families)
- Session formats (telehealth, phone, in-person, after-hours)
- Fees and funding options (e.g., Medicare, NDIS, private)
- Professional photo (optional but recommended)
You retain full autonomy over how you describe your practice—within ethical and professional guidelines.
Step 3: Go Live on the Directory
Once your profile is complete, it goes live immediately on the Therapy Online Australia directory. Clients can:
- Find you through directory searches based on location, specialty, or modality
- Read your profile to understand your approach and expertise
- Contact you directly via the contact information you've provided
- Visit your website or booking page if you've included those links
You remain in full control of your listing and can update it at any time.
Becoming a Verified Provider (Optional)
Once you have a basic listing, you can apply to become a verified provider. This pathway is designed for therapists who want:
- Enhanced credibility through verified credentials
- Better visibility with priority search placement
- Integration with practice management systems (e.g., Cliniko)
- Access to platform booking and payment tools
- Reduced admin through automated referral pathways
To apply for verified provider status, you'll need to complete the credential verification process.
Credential Verification Process
Verified providers must submit documentation to confirm their professional registration and qualifications:
- Evidence of current AHPRA registration (for psychologists) or equivalent professional registration
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver's licence or passport)
- Professional indemnity insurance details
- Optional: CV, additional training, endorsements, or specialist certifications
These details are used solely for verification purposes and are not shared publicly. Verification typically takes 1-3 business days.
Connect Your Practice Systems
Verified providers can integrate their existing practice management systems to streamline workflows:
- Link to your Cliniko or other practice management booking pages
- Sync your availability with your existing calendar
- Integrate telehealth platforms (e.g., Coviu, Zoom) into your booking flow
- Connect payment processing (e.g., Stripe) where supported
The goal is simple: clients discover you on the platform, and your existing systems handle bookings and payments—without doubling your workload.
What Happens After Verification
Once verified, your profile receives enhanced visibility and features:
- Verified badge displayed on your profile
- Priority placement in search results
- Client enquiries from people who have already read about your approach
- More self-selecting clients who understand your fees and formats
- Reduced time spent explaining the basics of your practice
You maintain full control and can adjust your availability, update your profile, or pause new enquiries at any time.
References and Further Reading
- AHPRA – Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
- Psychology Board of Australia – Registration Standards
- Australian Psychological Society – Professional Resources
Ready to Join?
If you're a psychologist or mental health professional interested in building a sustainable, low-admin online or hybrid practice, start your application today.
Start Your Provider Application