Social Media and Electronic Information
Policy
This outlines the policy of my practice with regard to the use of social media and electronic information. If you, as a client, have questions about any aspect please do ask. As the world of technology is constantly changing this document is likely to be updated regularly.
Friending
I do not accept friend or contact requests from former or current clients on any social networking site as this can not only compromise your confidentiality (eg if another of my friends saw that you were a friend they may wonder how we know each other) but would also blur the boundary of the therapeutic relationship.
Following
I do not suggest following me on any social media, and I will not follow you. Again this may blur the boundary of the therapeutic relationship.
Interacting
Please do not use public ways of contact (e.g. @replies or tagging) again because of the potential for this to compromise your confidentiality. You may use WhatsApp or text to discuss appointment times or other logistics but not therapeutic issues. The latter cannot be kept completely secure.
Use of search engines
I do not routinely Google my clients but may very occasionally in a time of crisis. For example, if you had failed to attend a session and I was concerned for your safety I may try to find out about you this way. If I did so, I would tell you about it the next time we met.
Business review sites
You may find my name on business review sites but I have not asked to be on these. Businesses do not get a choice. Clients are free to post whatever they choose and due to confidentiality I cannot comment on anything that is posted. Indeed, anyone (including a competitor) can post anything so it is advisable to be aware that reviews (good or bad) may not be representative of the views of real clients.
It is considered unethical by some of my professional bodies (the National Society for Hypnosis, Psychotherapy & Mindfulness) to publish testimonials and so you will not find any testimonials coming from me although it is always nice to receive private messages from clients who have completed their therapy.
Location-based services
If you use location-based services on your phone you should be aware that others may surmise that you are a therapy client if you are seen as “checking in” at my address.
Email may be used for logistical contact. If you wish to use Email Therapy then we can discuss how to make this as secure as possible for you for your confidentiality.
Phone
Phone or text may be used for contact about appointment times. Whether phoning or texting, please only do so between the hours of 9am and 9pm.