The Ethical and Clinical Implications of Utilizing Cybercommunication in Face-to-Face Therapy

Abstract

Information and communication technology has created a new way for individuals to communicate and has entered a number of professional practices, including clinical social work. This article explores the potential ethical and clinical implications when cybercommunication is used in conjunction with traditional face-to-face clinical social work practice. Specific challenges addressed include confidentiality, professional boundaries, effective and competent practice, and unanticipated contact. The authors discuss how information and communication technology is emerging as an inevitable component of the therapeutic exchange, influencing in-person social work practice and the ways that practitioners interact with their clients.

Keywords:

• information and communication technology
• face-to-face therapy
• e-mail
• cybercommunication
• technology
• social work practice