Client engagement is essential for building trust, improving therapeutic outcomes, and ensuring long-term success in therapy. While the time spent in sessions is crucial, what happens between sessions can be just as impactful.

Fortunately, there are numerous free and paid tools designed to help therapists keep clients engaged, monitor progress, and provide additional support outside of the therapy room.

This section highlights some of the best free and paid client engagement tools, including apps, worksheets, and communication platforms that therapists can integrate into their practice.

Why Client Engagement Matters

Keeping clients engaged between sessions can:

• Enhance Retention – Clients who feel supported outside of sessions are more likely to continue therapy.
• Improve Outcomes – Homework assignments, journaling, and self-reflection exercises reinforce progress.
• Reduce No-Shows – Reminder systems and digital check-ins help keep clients accountable.
• Strengthen the Therapist-Client Relationship – A sense of connection beyond sessions increases trust and motivation.

Best Free Client Engagement Tools

If you’re looking for budget-friendly ways to improve client engagement, these free tools offer valuable support without additional costs.

1. Moodfit (Mental Health & Mood Tracking)

• Free app for clients to track their mood, set therapy-related goals, and practice mindfulness.
• Provides simple CBT-based exercises to help reinforce therapy work.
• Offers journaling and habit-tracking features.

2. Insight Timer (Meditation & Mindfulness)

• Free app with thousands of guided meditations and relaxation exercises.
• Can be used to help clients manage stress, anxiety, and emotional regulation.
• Includes specialized content for sleep, self-compassion, and trauma recovery.

3. Google Forms (Pre-Session Check-Ins & Feedback)

• Free and easy way to gather client feedback, monitor progress, or send pre-session reflection prompts.
• Helps therapists collect insights about client experiences between sessions.
• Can be customized for different therapeutic approaches.

4. CBT Thought Diary (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Support)

• A free journaling app that helps clients track their thoughts and challenge negative thinking patterns.
• Based on CBT principles, making it useful for therapists who integrate CBT into their practice.
• Helps clients recognize and reframe unhelpful cognitive distortions.

Top Paid Client Engagement Tools

For therapists seeking more advanced, therapy-specific solutions, these paid platforms offer deeper integration, automation, and customization options.

1. Quenza (Best for Interactive Client Homework)

• Designed for therapists to send digital exercises and track client progress.
• Features customizable worksheets, guided journaling, and behavioral tracking.
• Automates assignments so clients receive structured support between sessions.
• Monthly subscription starts at $49/month.

2. TherapyNotes (Client Portal & Engagement)

• While primarily an EHR system, TherapyNotes includes a secure client portal for messaging and document sharing.
• Allows therapists to provide clients with educational materials, assessments, and pre-session check-ins.
• Monthly pricing starts at $49/month.

3. Therachat (Client Homework & Journaling)

• Helps therapists assign homework exercises, journaling prompts, and mood tracking tasks.
• Clients can reflect on their progress and share updates in real time.
• Great for reinforcing therapy techniques outside of sessions.
• Pricing starts at $30/month.

4. BetterHelp for Providers (Ongoing Client Support)

• Allows therapists to communicate with clients via messaging between sessions.
• Clients can journal and receive written feedback, increasing engagement.
• Ideal for therapists offering text-based therapy as a supplement to sessions.
• Requires a membership or partnership with BetterHelp.

How to Choose the Right Client Engagement Tool

Different clients respond to different types of engagement. When choosing a tool, consider:

• Client Needs – Does the client benefit from mood tracking, structured homework, or mindfulness exercises?
• Your Therapy Approach – If you use CBT, a tool like CBT Thought Diary may be helpful. If you prefer digital assignments, Quenza is a better fit.
• Cost vs. Value – Free tools work well for general engagement, but paid platforms offer more robust features and integration.
• Ease of Use – Choose tools that are intuitive for both you and your clients to avoid frustration.
• Security & HIPAA Compliance – For client communications and assignments, ensure the platform meets privacy standards.

Final Thoughts

Using client engagement tools can help bridge the gap between therapy sessions, reinforcing key insights and encouraging long-term progress. Whether it’s a free mood tracker like Moodfit, a guided mindfulness app like Insight Timer, or a structured homework tool like Quenza, these resources make therapy more interactive and effective.

Therapists looking to integrate continuing education into their practice can also explore Agents of Change Continuing Education, which offers live CE events and over 150 approved courses. By combining ongoing professional development with client engagement tools, therapists can enhance both their expertise and the effectiveness of their practice.

With the rise of telehealth, HIPAA-compliant teletherapy platforms have become essential for therapists offering virtual sessions. Whether you run a fully remote practice or offer hybrid in-person and online services, choosing the right teletherapy platform ensures client confidentiality, secure communication, and a smooth user experience.

This section covers free and paid HIPAA-compliant teletherapy platforms, highlighting their features and helping you decide which is the best fit for your practice.

Why HIPAA Compliance Matters for Teletherapy

Therapists must ensure that all client communications—whether video calls, messaging, or document sharing—comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). A secure teletherapy platform should:

• Encrypt all data to protect client information.
• Ensure secure video calls without unauthorized access.
• Provide Business Associate Agreements (BAA) to confirm compliance.
• Offer a private, dedicated space for client interactions.
• Integrate with EHR or client management software for efficiency.

Best Free HIPAA-Compliant Teletherapy Platforms

For therapists who want to offer secure virtual sessions without added costs, these free platforms are great starting points.

1. Doxy.me (Best Free Option)

• 100% free version available with HIPAA-compliant video calls.
• No downloads required—clients simply click a link to join the session.
• Works on desktop and mobile devices.
• Paid versions offer HD video, screen sharing, and group therapy options.

2. Google Meet (Business Associate Agreement Required)

• Google Meet can be HIPAA-compliant if used with Google Workspace (paid plan) and a signed BAA.
• Reliable video quality and integrated scheduling through Google Calendar.
• Free for basic use, but HIPAA-compliance requires a Google Workspace subscription.

3. Zoom for Healthcare (Limited Free Features)

• Regular Zoom is not HIPAA-compliant, but the Zoom for Healthcare plan meets all security standards.
• Offers telehealth-specific security features like encrypted video and chat.
• Free plan available, but HIPAA compliance requires a paid subscription.

Best Paid HIPAA-Compliant Teletherapy Platforms

For therapists looking for enhanced features, reliability, and client management integrations, paid platforms offer a more comprehensive teletherapy experience.

1. SimplePractice Telehealth (Best for Integrated EHR + Telehealth)

• Secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth with built-in scheduling, billing, and documentation.
• Clients can join sessions with one click from a phone, tablet, or computer.
• Fully integrates with SimplePractice’s EHR system.
• Starts at $29/month for solo practitioners.

2. Thera-LINK (Designed Specifically for Therapists)

• Customizable waiting rooms and secure video calls with HIPAA compliance.
• Features include session recording, payment processing, and file sharing.
• Built for mental health professionals, with an easy-to-use interface.
• Pricing starts at $30/month.

3. VSee (Best for Group Therapy & Medical Collaboration)

• HIPAA-compliant video platform used by healthcare professionals.
• Supports group therapy sessions, document sharing, and client intake forms.
• Works well for therapists who collaborate with medical professionals.
• Pricing starts at $49/month.

How to Choose the Best HIPAA-Compliant Teletherapy Platform

When selecting a teletherapy platform, consider these key factors:

• HIPAA Compliance & BAA Availability – Always verify that the provider offers a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) to ensure compliance.
• Ease of Use – The platform should be simple for both therapists and clients, with minimal setup required.
• Integration with EHR Systems – If you use SimplePractice, TheraNest, or TherapyNotes, choose a telehealth solution that integrates seamlessly.
• Session Features – Look for options like group sessions, screen sharing, waiting rooms, and payment processing if needed.
• Budget & Pricing – Free options like Doxy.me are great for small practices, while paid solutions offer more features.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a HIPAA-compliant teletherapy platform is essential for running a secure and efficient online practice. Whether you need a free solution like Doxy.me, an EHR-integrated platform like SimplePractice Telehealth, or a full-featured system like Thera-LINK, there’s a tool to fit your needs.

Therapists looking to stay up-to-date with teletherapy best practices should also explore Agents of Change Continuing Education, which offers live CE events and over 150 approved courses to support professional growth.

Investing in the right telehealth platform can enhance client engagement, simplify workflow, and keep your practice running smoothly—while maintaining the highest security standards.

Running a therapy practice involves more than just client sessions—it’s also about attracting new clients, managing finances, and building an online presence. Whether you’re in private practice or part of a group, the right business and marketing tools can help you stay organized, grow your client base, and maintain a professional brand.

This section highlights essential free and paid business and marketing tools that can support therapists in streamlining operations and increasing visibility.

Why Business and Marketing Tools Matter for Therapists

Many therapists struggle with the business side of running a practice. Using the right tools can help:

• Attract More Clients – A strong online presence increases visibility and credibility.
• Streamline Administrative Tasks – Automated scheduling, invoicing, and client communication save time.
• Enhance Branding – Professional marketing tools ensure a polished and trustworthy image.
• Improve Client Experience – Easy-to-use booking systems and clear communication build trust.

Best Free Business & Marketing Tools for Therapists

For therapists looking to boost their practice without a big budget, these free tools offer valuable solutions for marketing and business management.

1. Google My Business (Local SEO & Client Discovery)

• Essential for therapists who want to appear in local search results.
• Allows you to list your practice, update business hours, and collect client reviews.
• Increases visibility for potential clients searching for therapy services in your area.

2. Canva (Graphic Design for Social Media & Branding)

• Free design tool for creating social media posts, flyers, and business cards.
• Includes customizable templates for therapy-related content.
• Easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface—no design experience required.

3. Calendly (Automated Appointment Scheduling)

• Simplifies client booking by allowing them to schedule sessions online.
• Integrates with Google Calendar, Zoom, and SimplePractice.
• Free version includes basic scheduling tools, while paid plans offer more automation.

4. Mailchimp (Email Marketing & Client Outreach)

• Free for small practices, with email automation and newsletter capabilities.
• Helps therapists stay connected with clients through email updates, mental health tips, and event promotions.
• Easy-to-use templates and contact management.

Best Paid Business & Marketing Tools for Therapists

For therapists looking to invest in long-term growth, these paid tools offer more advanced features and automation.

1. Psychology Today Therapist Directory (Best for Client Referrals)

• One of the most effective ways to attract new clients.
• Listings include a customizable profile, practice details, and direct contact options.
• Costs $29.95/month, but high ROI due to strong search rankings and client traffic.

2. Hootsuite (Social Media Management & Scheduling)

• Helps therapists schedule and automate social media posts across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Offers analytics to track engagement and improve content strategy.
• Starts at $49/month, with team collaboration features available in higher-tier plans.

3. SimplePractice (Practice Management + Marketing Features)

• In addition to EHR and telehealth, SimplePractice offers client portal branding and automated appointment reminders.
• Allows for customized intake forms and a professional online presence.
• Pricing starts at $29/month for solo practitioners.

4. TheraNest (Business & Billing Management)

• Comprehensive practice management software with integrated billing, scheduling, and reporting tools.
• Helps track business finances and automate invoicing.
• Pricing starts at $39/month, based on practice size.

How to Choose the Right Business & Marketing Tools

With so many business and marketing tools available, how do you choose the right ones for your practice? Consider:

• Your Goals – Are you focused on attracting new clients, managing appointments, or automating communication?
• Budget – Free tools like Google My Business and Canva are great for beginners, while paid platforms offer more customization.
• Ease of Use – Choose tools that simplify, not complicate, your workflow.
• Integration – If you use SimplePractice or TherapyNotes, pick tools that sync with your existing software.
• Scalability – If you plan to expand your practice, choose tools that can grow with you.

Final Thoughts

Running a successful therapy practice requires more than just clinical skills—it takes smart business and marketing strategies to attract clients and stay organized. Whether you choose free tools like Google My Business and Canva or invest in paid solutions like Psychology Today and SimplePractice, these tools can help you build a strong, professional presence.

For therapists looking to expand their expertise, Agents of Change Continuing Education offers over 150 ASWB and NBCC-approved courses and live CE events throughout the year. Combining professional development with the right business and marketing tools can set your practice up for long-term success!

Therapists and mental health professionals are always learning—whether through continuing education, hands-on experience, or engaging with industry thought leaders. A great way to stay informed, inspired, and connected to the field is by following therapy-based podcasts and blogs. These resources provide insights on clinical strategies, ethical considerations, private practice management, and self-care for therapists.

This section highlights top therapy-focused podcasts and blogs, including those from Agents of Change Continuing Education, which offers expert insights, training resources, and live CE events. Whether you prefer listening on the go or reading in-depth articles, these platforms will help you stay at the top of your field.

Best Therapy-Based Podcasts

Podcasts offer an easy way to learn while commuting, exercising, or taking a break. These shows cover everything from clinical techniques and trauma therapy to private practice growth and therapist self-care.

1. Agents of Change Podcast (Best for CE & Professional Development)

• Hosted by mental health experts and educators, this podcast provides insights into evidence-based therapy, ethics, and mental health trends.
• Discusses continuing education (CE) opportunities, helping Social Workers, Counselors, and Mental Health Professionals earn ASWB and NBCC-approved CE credits.
• Features interviews with leading clinicians and thought leaders in the field.

2. The Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide (Best for Private Practice)

• Covers practice-building strategies, financial management, and self-care for therapists.
• Offers actionable tips to help therapists create a sustainable and fulfilling private practice.

3. Therapy Chat (Best for Clinical Growth)

• Explores trauma, attachment, mindfulness, and somatic therapies with leading mental health experts.
• Perfect for therapists looking to deepen their understanding of trauma-informed care.

4. The Trauma Therapist Podcast (Best for Trauma-Focused Therapists)

• Features interviews with experts on PTSD, trauma recovery, and somatic healing.
• Covers best practices for working with trauma survivors.

5. Practice of the Practice (Best for Business & Growth)

• Provides marketing, branding, and business advice for therapists.
• Ideal for therapists looking to grow their private practice and improve financial success.

Best Therapy-Based Blogs

For therapists who prefer reading in-depth articles on therapy techniques, ethics, business strategies, and self-care, these blogs provide high-quality, research-backed insights.

1. Agents of Change Blog (Best for CE & Mental Health Trends)

• Offers expert insights on continuing education (CE), therapy ethics, clinical strategies, and therapist well-being.
• Provides updates on live CE events and workshops for mental health professionals.
• Covers industry trends and evidence-based therapy techniques.

2. Psychotherapy Networker (Best for Therapy Trends & Case Studies)

• Features interviews, case studies, and research on various therapy approaches.
• Covers new interventions, ethical dilemmas, and therapist-client dynamics.

3. GoodTherapy Blog (Best for Mental Health & Therapy Techniques)

• Provides articles on therapy ethics, self-care for therapists, and mental health research.
• Includes guest contributions from licensed professionals discussing different treatment approaches.

4. Mindful.org (Best for Mindfulness & Therapist Well-Being)

• Covers mindfulness-based therapy, self-care, and emotional resilience for therapists.
• Features guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and stress-reduction techniques.

How to Choose the Right Podcasts & Blogs for You

With so many therapy-based resources available, how do you decide which ones to follow? Consider:

• Your Specialty – If you focus on trauma therapy, try The Trauma Therapist Podcast. For private practice growth, check out Practice of the Practice.
• Preferred Format – Do you prefer listening to interviews or reading detailed articles? Some therapists enjoy both for variety.
• Professional Goals – Are you looking to expand clinical skills, improve your practice, or learn about new therapy trends?
• Frequency & Accessibility – Some podcasts release weekly episodes, while some blogs are updated monthly. Choose ones that fit your schedule.

Final Thoughts

Podcasts and blogs provide an easy, engaging way to stay connected with the latest in mental health research, therapy techniques, and private practice growth. Whether you prefer listening to expert interviews or reading detailed blog posts, these resources offer valuable insights to support your professional development.

For therapists looking to earn CE credits and stay ahead in their careers, Agents of Change Continuing Education offers over 150 ASWB and NBCC-approved courses and live CE events. Their blog and podcast provide additional insights to help mental health professionals continue learning and growing.

By incorporating therapy-based podcasts and blogs into your routine, you can stay inspired, informed, and equipped to provide the best possible care for your clients!