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Ethical and Legal Implications on the Use of Technology in Counselling

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Abstract

This article systematically reviews the ethical and legal challenges as well as benefits of online counselling. We address issues such as accessibility, anonymity, technology, asynchronous communication, online security, informed consent, and the challenges of licensure, liability, and regulation within the profession of online counselling. Current gaps in the empirical literature and legislation about online counselling and considerations for future research, practice and policy implications are also highlighted. The literature suggests that online counselling plays an important role in providing an alternative service delivery model that overcomes some of the barriers to traditional face-to-face counselling services. However, the authors conclude that there remains a lack of empirical evidence and many unanswered questions about the effectiveness of online mental health interventions and the appropriateness of online counselling for diverse populations.

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Notes

  1. The social worker should contact their individual regulatory organization or association to make sure they are complying with the regulations of the state or province in which they are practising and providing online counselling.

  2. The second author was a member of this Task Force and represented the Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators as the former President.

  3. It is important to note that licensing and registration with a regulatory body or provincial association have different meanings and provisions for practice in the United States and Canada. However, it is beyond the scope and purpose of this article to differentiate these differences. The reader should consult with their own regulatory/licensing organization where they provide service to clients online, in particular.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Western University, London, ON, Canada

    Bryanne Harris

  2. King’s University College, Western University, London, ON, Canada

    Rachel Birnbaum

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  1. Bryanne Harris
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  2. Rachel Birnbaum
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Correspondence to Bryanne Harris.

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Harris, B., Birnbaum, R. Ethical and Legal Implications on the Use of Technology in Counselling. Clin Soc Work J 43, 133–141 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-014-0515-0

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