Social Media & Electronic Communications Policy
This section outlines my approach to the use of social media and electronic communication. If you have any questions about any aspect of this policy, please feel free to ask.
As technology continues to change, this policy may be updated from time to time. The most current version will always be available on my website.
Friending
I do not accept friend or contact requests from current or former clients on social networking sites. Doing so could compromise your confidentiality (for example, if others were to see that we are connected) and would also blur the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship.
Following
I generally recommend that clients do not follow me on social media. If I notice that you are following one of my accounts, I may suggest that we discuss this in session.
I do not follow clients on social media, as this can create confusion about the nature of the therapeutic relationship. You are, of course, free to follow any business or professional accounts I hold; however, I do not respond to comments or direct messages via social media, for reasons of confidentiality and security.
Interacting online
Please do not use public or semi-public methods of communication (such as tagging, mentions, or comments) to contact me, as this may compromise your confidentiality.
You may use text or WhatsApp to contact me about practical or logistical matters (such as appointment times). Wherever possible, these methods should not be used for therapeutic content, as they cannot be guaranteed to be secure.
Use of search engines
I do not routinely search for information about my clients online. In very rare circumstances — for example, if there were serious concerns about your safety following a missed session — I might use a search engine to try to locate information that could support your wellbeing. If I did so, I would discuss this with you at the next appropriate opportunity.
Business review sites
You may find my name listed on online business review sites. I have not chosen to be listed on these platforms, as businesses do not usually have control over this.
Clients are free to post whatever they choose. Due to confidentiality, I am unable to comment on or respond to any reviews. It is also worth noting that reviews (positive or negative) may not necessarily reflect the views or experiences of actual clients.
Testimonials
Some professional bodies, including the National Society of Talking Therapies (NSTT) and UKCP, consider the use of testimonials to be unethical. For this reason, I do not publish testimonials, nor will I ever ask you to provide one.
Location-based services
If you use location-based services on your phone or social media accounts, please be aware that others may be able to infer that you are attending therapy if you are shown as "checking in" at my practice location.
Email is best used for practical or administrative communication only (for example, confirming or changing an appointment). Email is not fully secure and is therefore not suitable for sharing sensitive or therapeutic information.
Phone and text messages
Texting may be used for communication about appointment times or other practical matters. This is generally preferable to phone calls, as I may not be able to answer the phone while with another client.
Please contact me by phone or text between the hours of 9am and 5pm and I aim to get back to you within 24 hours.
