In a world where spam posting on social media is becoming the norm, should we accept therapists stepping into the influencer role?
In a world where spam posting on social media is becoming the norm, should we accept therapists stepping into the influencer role?
4 min read
As we know, the influencer space is not new. We have been influenced by social media “influencers” since the 2010s, and it has only grown larger since the 2020s. Now, I want you to think about what first comes to mind when you think of the term “influencer”? Maybe the overarching theme they are meant to influence the public’s opinions in one way or another. This can be someone like Mikayla Nogueria putting us onto the best long-wear foundation, Emma Chamberlain introducing us to the latest style trends, or Nara Smith inspiring us to try one of her recipes.
When we think about fields like makeup, fashion, lifestyle, or cooking, we might wonder about the implications influencers in these areas face. Most likely, they might encounter a scandal or face cancellation, given their massive followings. But what about influencers whose field is healthcare? This leads us to an intriguing topic: what are the ethical implications of your therapist being an influencer?
In a world where spam posting on social media is becoming the norm, should we accept therapists stepping into the influencer role? On the one hand, there's the argument that modernizing the profession by engaging with social media could destigmatize mental health, making it more accessible and relatable. A therapist who shares their knowledge and insights online might reach people who otherwise wouldn’t seek out therapy, offering a kind of preliminary support or education.
However, the intersection of therapy and social media raises significant ethical concerns. The American Counseling Association (ACA) emphasizes maintaining boundaries in the therapeutic relationship, which can become blurred when therapists share aspects of their personal lives or opinions online. There's also the issue of confidentiality; even anonymized anecdotes from therapy sessions can feel too revealing or potentially breach client trust.
Another consideration is the potential for exploitation or commercialization. As therapists gain followers, they might face pressure to produce content that garners likes and shares, possibly at the expense of professional integrity. This could lead to situations where therapists prioritize building their brand over adhering to therapeutic ethics, such as maintaining objectivity or not promoting specific products for financial gain.
This brings us to a critical question: how do we balance the benefits of therapists engaging with the public online against the need to protect the integrity of the therapeutic relationship? Should therapists be influencers, or is there a line that should not be crossed? And if they are to participate in the online space, how can they do so responsibly?
As the world becomes increasingly digital, and social media continues to play a central role in our lives, these questions will become more pressing. For now, it seems that transparency, clear boundaries, and a commitment to ethical practice are key. Therapists venturing into the influencer space need to be mindful of their responsibilities, not only to their clients but to the broader public who may look to them for guidance.
So, as we scroll through our feeds, perhaps it's worth reflecting on not just what we consume, but who creates it and why. The line between personal sharing and professional responsibility may be fine, but it’s crucial for therapists to navigate it with care. Whether we like it or not, the therapist-influencer is likely here to stay, and how they navigate this new terrain will set important precedents for the future of the profession.
