Use of Social Media & Digital Communications Policy

National Alliance of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (NACP)
Effective: January 2025

1. Purpose

This policy outlines the expectations and responsibilities of NACP members regarding the use of social media, email, websites, and other forms of digital communication. Its aim is to protect clients, uphold the integrity of the profession, and ensure that all digital interactions reflect NACP’s ethical standards.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all NACP members — including student, certified, accredited, and associated professional members — and covers the use of:

  • Personal and professional social media accounts (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X)
  • Websites, blogs, forums, and podcasts
  • Messaging platforms (e.g., WhatsApp, Signal, Messenger)
  • Email and text/SMS
  • Public and private digital spaces where members may represent themselves professionally

3. Core Principles

All members are expected to:

  • Maintain professional boundaries in all digital interactions
  • Protect client confidentiality and anonymity at all times
  • Avoid making misleading, unethical, or exaggerated claims about their services or outcomes
  • Refrain from engaging in discriminatory, harmful, or inflammatory behaviour online
  • Clearly differentiate between personal and professional communications, especially when using public platforms

4. Professional Conduct Online

Members must:

  • Represent themselves truthfully, including qualifications, memberships, and services offered
  • Avoid publicly criticising colleagues, clients, or other professional bodies
  • Ensure any content shared (e.g., quotes, memes, articles) aligns with the values of respect, inclusion, and sensitivity
  • Use disclaimers where appropriate (e.g., “views are my own”) when posting in personal capacities
  • Avoid dual relationships or unprofessional engagement with clients through personal accounts

5. Client Confidentiality in Digital Spaces

  • Do not discuss specific client cases or details on social media or in public digital forums, even anonymously
  • Avoid sharing case material (written, audio, video) without explicit, documented client consent
  • Do not connect with current or former clients on personal social media accounts
  • Do not post images, screenshots, or transcripts from therapy sessions under any circumstances

6. Advertising and Self-Promotion

When promoting services online, members must:

  • Clearly identify themselves and their professional status (e.g., counsellor, coach, student, associate)
  • Ensure that all marketing complies with advertising standards and is honest, non-exploitative, and respectful
  • Unless completely anonymous, avoid testimonials or reviews from clients, as this may compromise ethical boundaries and confidentiality
  • Never claim to “cure” mental health conditions or offer guarantees of outcome

7. Messaging and Communication with Clients

  • Digital communication with clients (e.g., email, messaging apps) should be kept professional, clear, and purpose-driven
  • Maintain boundaries around contact outside of sessions (e.g., response times, holidays, emergencies)
  • Use secure platforms where possible for scheduling and session management
  • Retain records of important communications in line with NACP’s Data Protection Policy

8. Breaches and Complaints

Any misuse of digital platforms that compromises ethical standards, client safety, or public trust in the profession may be subject to investigation under the NACP Complaints and Disciplinary Policy.

Breaches may include, but are not limited to:

  • Posting harmful or discriminatory content
  • Inappropriate client interactions
  • Misrepresentation of professional status
  • Sharing confidential information

Sanctions may range from informal guidance to membership suspension or removal, depending on the severity of the breach.

9. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to developments in technology, regulation, or professional standards. Members are encouraged to seek clarification if they are unsure how this policy applies in specific scenarios.

📩 Contact

For queries about this policy or to report a concern, contact us at:
📧 info@nacp.co.uk
🔗 www.nacp.co.uk