This document discusses the pros and cons of online communication between therapists and clients. It addresses issues around boundaries, privacy, and ethics related to using tools like email, social media, video conferencing, and online searches. Specifically, it explores how these new modes of interaction could be boundary crossings or violations, how to protect privacy and limit risks, and when certain technologies may be appropriate adjuncts to in-person therapy versus replacing face-to-face meetings. HIPAA compliance and financial considerations are also discussed.

1. Online Social Media and the Group Psychotherapist:What the Internet Means for All of Us AGPA Saturday March 5, 2011 Early Bird Open Sessions7:45 – 8:45 A.M. Session 223

2. To Friend or Not to Friend The Pros and Cons ofCommunication With Clients Online Shari Baron, MSN, CNS, CGP shariyb@aol.com

3. What are the positive and negative aspects of electronic communication with clients?

4. Boundary crossings vs. Boundary violations Deviation from traditional, strict, “only in the office,” forms of therapy Issues of self disclosure, length and place of sessions, physical touch, activities outside the office, gift exchange, social and other non-therapeutic contact and various forms of dual relationships

5. Boundary Crossings vs. Boundary Violations Harmful boundary violations Violation of professional practice Prospectively assess this crossing might retrospectively viewed by professional ethics committees

6. Utilizing Email Correspondence as an Adjunct to Face-to-Face Meetings Dis-inhibition when not F2F Use of transference and countertransference

8. Utilizing email correspondence as an adjunct to face-to-face meetings Writing down one’s thoughts is a powerful tool Redirect written communication back into the individual or group session

9. Email – positives and negatives Appointment planning Billing Serious discussions Writing about traumatic events Sharing of media, jokes, photographs, articles, etc.

11. Email – positives and negatives Can miss cues Not everyone can write fluently Cut and paste issues Delayed email response Choice of font style Change in tone or message frequency

12. FacebookandOther Social Networking Sites Major privacy and boundary crossing issues How private to keep one’s information

14. To Google or not to Google? Review the web site of a patient? Conduct an online search?

15. To Google or not to Google? Therapist personal information Blog Website Facebook LinkedIn

16. Risks of Online Interaction Boundary issues Time Privacy of clients Privacy of therapist What if Googled?

18. HIPPA Considerations

19. Skype / Video Conferencing with Clients Place, timing, distractions Primary therapy experience Mootu Useful adjunct to F2F sessions

20. Financial Issues PayPal Check mailing