Clinical Social Work Practice and Technology: Personal, Practical, Regulatory, and Ethical Considerations for the Twenty-First Century

Abstract

The world that social work exists in is no longer defined by traditional physical settings and boundaries, such as schools, agencies, or even offices. With the advent of the Internet and digital communications, social work now exists in a far more complex reality, with clients and social workers engaging across multiple platforms, and sometimes even unintentionally and without one another’s awareness. The implications of this can be ethical, practical, regulatory, and personal. This article explores these areas of concern and suggests strategies professionals can use to navigate these complex issues related to technology and clinical practice.

KEYWORDS:

• technology
• social media
• teletherapy
• clinical practice

Notes

1. See Appendix B for sample language.

2. See Appendix C for example.

3. Adapted heavily, with gratitude, from policy of Dr. Keeley Kolmes. Retrieved from http://drkkolmes.com/for-clinicians/social-media-policy/

4. The Kolmac Clinic provides outpatient rehabilitation and treatment for adults with alcohol, and other drug abuse problems. It has multiple locations in Washington, D.C. and Maryland. It has given permission to the authors to use this policy as an exemplar.