Should a Therapist "Friend" a Client on Social Networks?

When I talk to therapists about marketing via social media this is one of the biggest concerns that arise. It is a good concern! Dr. Zur does a great job explaining how to manage this issue. Additionally, my answer is that dual relationships is a problem in all contexts. Social media is just one more area that caution and boundaries is needed.

clipped from thirstyfishinfo.amplify.com How to respond when clients send “Friend Request” to their psychotherapists or counselors on Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, Twitter or other social networking sites Most therapists with Facebook or MySpace profiles cringe at the idea and dread the moment when a client posts a Friend Request. They wonder whether it is ethical to accept such a request, and they are concerned with the clinical and relational ramification of ignoring it. Questions for therapists to consider before responding to clients’ Friend Requests What is on the Facebook profile? Did the therapist use privacy controls to control access? What can a client view on the therapist’s profile? What is the Context of Therapy? Who is the client? Why did the client post the request? What is the meaning of the request? Where is therapy taking place? What does being a friend with this client mean for the therapist? What is the potential effect on other and potential clients? Read more at www.zurinstitute.com