Social Media PolicyRegenerative Psychology & Rural Mind Matters

Purpose

This Social Media Policy outlines the responsible use of social media by Regenerative Psychology and Rural Mind Matters (“the Practice”) in alignment with ethical and professional obligations. It ensures that social media engagement is used for educational and informational purposes while maintaining client confidentiality, professional boundaries, and public trust.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff, contractors, and representatives of the Practice using social media in a professional capacity or discussing the Practice on personal accounts.

1. Use of Social Media

Social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, podcasts, blogs) may be used by the Practice for:

  • Sharing mental health and wellness information.
  • Educating the public on psychological principles.
  • Promoting services, workshops, and events.
  • Providing updates about the Practice.
  • Encouraging community engagement on mental health topics.

Social media is not therapy. The content shared is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or a therapeutic relationship. Individuals seeking personal psychological support should contact the Practice directly for services.

2. Privacy and Confidentiality

  • The Practice will never disclose client identities, case details, or confidential information on social media.
  • Testimonials from clients will not be shared due to ethical considerations.
  • Client inquiries via social media will not be answered in a therapeutic capacity. Individuals will be directed to official communication channels (e.g., phone or email).
  • Employees and contractors must not discuss client matters on personal or professional accounts, even in de-identified ways.

3. Ethical and Professional Conduct

  • Staff must maintain professional integrity and refrain from posting content that could compromise professional standing, client trust, or ethical obligations.
  • Social media engagement should align with the ethical codes of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
  • Personal opinions expressed on social media must be clearly distinguished from official Practice communications.
  • Staff must avoid engaging in online arguments or disputes on behalf of the Practice.

4. Boundaries with Clients

  • The Practice does not accept friend or follow requests from current or former clients on personal social media accounts.
  • Direct messaging is not an appropriate channel for therapy-related discussions. Clients who attempt to initiate conversations about their mental health via social media will be redirected to appropriate support channels.
  • Clients are discouraged from discussing their treatment or experience with the Practice in public comments or reviews to protect their privacy.

5. Managing Risks and Misuse

  • All social media content will be reviewed to ensure accuracy and appropriateness before posting.
  • Misinformation, harmful comments, or breaches of policy will be addressed promptly.
  • If a post inadvertently causes harm or misinterpretation, the Practice will acknowledge the issue and take corrective action.
  • Any social media crisis, including negative publicity, will be managed by designated staff in accordance with professional and ethical guidelines.

6. Intellectual Property and Content Usage

  • Content created by the Practice (e.g., graphics, articles, videos) remains the intellectual property of the Practice and may not be shared or used commercially without permission.
  • When sharing external content, proper attribution will be given, and copyright considerations will be observed.

7. Compliance and Review

This policy is subject to periodic review to ensure compliance with evolving ethical guidelines and professional standards. Any breaches of this policy may result in corrective action, including restricted social media access or disciplinary measures.

For inquiries about this policy, please contact:
Regenerative Psychology
Email: Hello@regenerativepsychology.com.au
Website: www.regenerativepsychology.com.au