Training as a therapist, or any type of healer, incorporates a large emphasis on ethical considerations. 

Ethics are pertinent to remaining in alignment and respectful when it comes to providing services that are truly beneficial. 

BUT THIS DOESN'T JUST END AT YOUR OFFICE DOOR.

When we join instagram as business owners, we hope to market our services as well as expand our reach to supporting our communities and the collective at large. 

But we aren’t just business owners, and our ethics must come with us.  

Information consumed on social media has an impact on our mental health! We began to notice this as a society over the past few years.  By showing up in this space, it’s important to be a voice for our communities in a healthy and supportive way.  Providing information on healing and treatment options, when done right, we have the chance to be the change.

Often in graduate school, we are taught to fear alternative connections.  When we move through our coursework as therapists-in-training, we are never taught how to properly and ethically utilize social media to grow as therapists.  Instead of running from the idea out of fear, lean in and remain curious. 

Higher education also informed us to minimize self-disclosures.  We were taught that being a blank-slate for our clients is pertinent to good therapy.  So by joining social media, we’re already “at risk” for our clients knowing too much.  But the key is in finding a balance and good boundaries. Sharing bits of your life can be beneficial in building strong rapport with your following and potential clientele.  But knowing your boundaries before going into it is key.  Sharing things such as the location of your home, or your favorite restaurant is definitely a no.  But posting a picture of your favorite smoothie can help show them a bit of your personality.  The key is balance! 

And there are ways to protect yourself.  Another important ethical rule to follow is publishing a disclaimer on your social media that remains accessible.  Keep it as it’s own story highlight, refer to it in all of your posts, and mention it every now and again.  Make sure to spend time on this disclaimer and have a lawyer or professional look it over.  This is ethical considerations 101!

There is so much more!  If you’re in need of ethical support when it comes to social media, look no further.  In my course, InstaGrowth For Therapists, I have an exclusive bonus module all about ethical considerations for therapists on social media. 

And always check your ethics codes, your licensing board, and your state regulations.  Ignoring this important factor won’t make it go away, be smart, be ethical!