Facebook/Linked-In Pages.
I use these as a way of promoting counselling ideas and to make to make people aware of workshops that I may be taking part in, or that might be of interest to other people. Despite my online presence, I would prefer that our relationship remain as much as possible between us in the counselling room therefore I will not knowingly engage with clients over social media.
Whether you follow me or not is of course to your discretion, though I would suggest for reasons of confidentiality and preserving our therapeutic relationship that it’s not advisable to. My Linked-In account is for my professional work. It would not be appropriate to be Facebook “friends” with former or current clients. I acknowledge that there can be some overlap across social networks and that this sometimes comes to light on Facebook. If this were the case, it would be something we would need to discuss in session.
Google:
I have found it is best to avoid encountering information about you that does not come directly from you, so in general practice I do not Google my clients. I am aware, however, that clients will often Google prospective therapists as part of their process in choosing one. If you did so with me and this produced any questions, I would be happy to address them with you. I feel it is best to find out from each other what we need to know face-to-face.
In general practice I do not Google my clients before I meet them, nor do I use the internet to elicit information unless it is with the specific informed consent of a client. It is of course your right to Google me. However, if in your search some questions are raised, I would request that you raise them with me directly at the first opportunity.
Video(webcam):
Any such sessions will be discussed in advance and further information concerning security will be given at this stage. I make every effort to choose video conferencing software that is recognised to be adequately encrypted –so this may involve you downloading certain software or logging into a web-based application.
Social Networking sites:
Despite my online presence, I would prefer that our relationship remain as much as possible between us in the counselling room or for clients engaging in online counselling within our agreed online boundaries.
Due to the nature of these sites, it may occasionally happen that there is some overlap across social networks. Should this arise, it is something we should discuss in a counselling session.
I will continue to update my digital policy as I learn more and welcome your feedback.
With thanks to Aarron Balick for help with developing this policy. (https://www.aaronbalick.com)