How To Get Your Google Business Profile Verified
Getting verified on Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the fastest ways to improve your visibility and build trust with potential clients. Verification tells Google that you are a real business. Once that check mark is in place, your practice can appear in local search results, Google Maps, and those highly valuable “near me” searches.
For dietitians, therapists, coaches, and wellness providers, a verified Google Business Profile is often the first step toward ranking locally. It supports your SEO efforts, improves discoverability, and helps clients confirm you are credible and legitimate before they reach out.
This guide walks you through how to get your Google Business Profile verified, what to expect during the process, and what to do if you run into roadblocks.
Why Google Business Profile Verification Matters
Verification does more than unlock features. It signals to both clients and Google that your practice is authentic and trustworthy.
A verified profile gives you access to:
Local search visibility
Google Maps placement
Reviews and review replies
Appointment links
Business hours, services, photos, and updates
Analytics on how people find and contact you
This is one of the highest return on investment steps you can take in local SEO, especially if you are a service based wellness provider.
Step 1: Create or Claim Your Google Business Profile
You will start at google.com/business.
If your business already appears on Google Maps, you can claim it by searching for your business name and selecting “Claim this business.” If your practice is not listed yet, choose “Add your business” and follow the prompts.
Tips for health and wellness providers:
Use your full business name
Select the correct primary category. For example, “Nutritionist,” “Dietitian,” “Mental Health Clinic,” “Therapist,” or “Counselor”
Add your service area if you offer telehealth
Make sure your business address matches your website and all other online listings
Consistency is essential for SEO.
Step 2: Enter Your Business Information
Google will request:
Address or service area
Phone number
Website URL
Services
Business hours
Do this carefully, because Google uses it to confirm legitimacy. Even small inconsistencies across the internet can trigger verification issues.
If you are a telehealth only provider, you can hide your home address and choose a service area instead.
Step 3: Prepare for the Verification Method
Google chooses your verification method. You do not get to pick, but you can influence which one you receive by setting up your profile correctly.
Verification can happen through:
Video recording
Live video call
Mailed postcard
Email
Phone call
Most health providers now receive video verification, because Google sees more risk in wellness categories.
Step 4: Complete the Verification (What Google Wants to See)
If you are asked to do a video recording or live video call, Google wants proof that your business exists at the location listed. They are checking for real world markers.
For a private practice, prepare the following:
Exterior signage if you have it
Your office door or suite number
Any business cards or printed materials
Your workspace setup
A view of your computer screen with your scheduling software or website
Your equipment if relevant
If you work from home and hide your address, you can show proof that you run a legitimate service based business. Show:
Your telehealth setup
Professional materials
Your NPI number on a printed document
Your business registration paperwork
If you receive postcard verification, Google will mail a code to your address. Do not edit any profile information until the postcard arrives or you will reset the process.
Step 5: Submit and Wait for Approval
Verifications can take a few minutes or a few days. Postcards may take up to two weeks.
Once you are approved, your Google Business Profile becomes visible in search results and on Google Maps.
If Google cannot verify your business on the first attempt, they will ask for more information. This is common for healthcare providers.
What To Do if Verification Fails
If your verification is rejected, try:
Uploading additional documents, such as a business license, utility bill, lease, or insurance form
Recording a clearer verification video
Ensuring your business name and address match your website exactly
Removing any secondary business names or aliases
If all else fails, you can contact Google Business Profile Support through the “Get help” link in your dashboard.
Best Practices for a Smooth Verification
Keep your business name consistent across your website, Google, social media, and directories
Use a real business phone number that connects to you
Add your correct primary category
Preview your online presence before verifying. Consistency increases trust
Do not add keywords into your business name. This violates Google policy and often triggers verification problems
After You Are Verified: What To Do Next
Verification is only the beginning. Once you are approved, make your profile work for you.
Update:
Business hours
Appointment link
Top services
Photos
Logo
A keyword optimized business description
Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews. Post updates once or twice a month. Add relevant services like “Eating disorder nutrition counseling,” “PCOS nutrition,” or “Therapy for anxiety.”
Your Google Business Profile becomes a living part of your SEO strategy.
Want Support Getting Verified or Optimizing Your SEO?
If you want hands on help with your Google Business Profile or local SEO, we can support you with setup, optimization, and strategy. We help dietitians, therapists, and wellness providers build online visibility in a way that feels aligned with your values and your brand.
View our digital marketing services to learn more about SEO support, brand development, and website design for weight inclusive providers. Reach out to learn more.
