In this episode of The Private Practice Elevation Podcast, Daniel breaks down an important but often overlooked topic: why you should register your domain separately from your website builder.
First, he explains the difference between a domain and web hosting in easy-to-understand terms.
Think of your domain like the address of your practice online, while your web hosting is like the actual building where everything is stored.
Keeping your domain registration separate from your website builder (like Squarespace or Wix) is a smart move, giving you more control over your online presence.
Daniel shares why using a dedicated domain registrar, like GoDaddy or Namecheap, is better than bundling everything with your website platform.
The biggest reasons? You’ll have more flexibility to switch platforms when your practice grows or changes, and you’ll get better security and support along the way.
He also shares a real-life story about a client who ran into big problems when they needed to move their domain. Their website and email went offline for days because they had everything tied to their website builder. This could have been avoided with a simple change.
By the end of the episode, you’ll have a clear plan for how to set up your domain and website the right way, helping your private practice run smoothly from the start.
Key Takeaways:
- Register your domain separately from your website builder to stay in control.
- It’s easier to switch platforms, like moving from Squarespace to WordPress, when you use an independent domain registrar.
- Don’t use your business email to set up your domain accounts. It’s better to use a personal email so you can always access it.
- Companies like GoDaddy and Namecheap offer better security and support than bundling with website platforms.
- Real-life examples show the problems that can happen if you don’t separate your domain and website accounts.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- My Best Practice (EHR platform): privatepracticeelevation.com/mbpractice (with free 3 months offer)
- Private Practice Elevation Kickoff Call (Clarity Call for website or SEO help): privatepracticeelevation.com/kickoff
Coming in Early 2025!
Exciting news! In early 2025, we’re relaunching SEO Basecamp Live, our mastermind group designed to help you build a customized SEO strategy for your private practice. If you’re ready to grow your online presence, don’t miss out! Join the waiting list for more info—and an exclusive discount for early access.
This Episode Is Brought To You By
Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private practices. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians who come together for education, training, and events.
Learn more about building a thriving private practice with Alma at helloalma.com/elevation.
About Daniel Fava
Daniel Fava is the owner and founder of Private Practice Elevation, a website and SEO agency focused on helping private practice owners create websites that increase their online visibility and attract more clients. Private Practice Elevation offers web design services, SEO (search engine optimization), and WordPress support to help private practice owners grow their businesses through online marketing.
Daniel lives in Atlanta, GA with his wife Liz, and two energetic boys. When he’s not working he enjoys hiking by the river, watching hockey, and enjoying a dram of bourbon.
