How do therapists practice ethically in this digital age? There are many considerations in blending mental health and technology. With the use of smartphones, email, and social media, ethics and clinical guidelines can become blurred. This training will discuss the various aspects of technology that are becoming more present in the clinical world. The use of social media and technology devices will be discussed. Modern technological advances such as AI will be explored so that learners have context regarding the complexities of these technologies. Case examples will be used to make challenging topics and concepts easy to discuss and learn. Learners will gain more knowledge of compliance ethics and technology and move their practice forward.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Explain professional standards for ethical technology use.
- Name clinical considerations for appropriate personal and professional technology use.
- Identify recommended risk management strategies for technology use.
Syllabus:
Introduction to the Ethical Landscape of Technology
- Review learning objectives focused on ethical use of technology and social media
- Explore real-world scenarios that illustrate ethical dilemmas in clinical tech use
- Recognize the growing role of digital tools in mental health care delivery
Objective #1: Historical and Current Use of Technology in Mental Health
- Trace the evolution of telehealth from the 1950s to present
- Examine the current spectrum of technology including email, texting, AI, and VR
- Understand how technology increases accessibility and service flexibility
Objective #2: Ethical Considerations in Digital Clinical Practice
- Address confidentiality, informed consent, and competence
- Explore boundary issues, practice jurisdiction, and telehealth protocols
- Discuss ethical dilemmas in client communication preferences and crisis response
Objective #3: Regulatory Developments and Professional Standards
- Highlight updates in professional codes of ethics across NASW, APA, and ACA
- Review the responsibilities of clinicians to remain informed and compliant
- Understand informed consent in telehealth and social media contexts
Objective #4: Social Media and Web Presence
- Discuss common ethical violations on social media including client disclosures
- Emphasize control of web visibility and maintaining professional boundaries
- Review case examples involving inappropriate posts and privacy breaches
Objective #5: Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Practice
- Define AI and its current applications in therapy, note-writing, and support tools
- Examine ethical case studies involving AI chatbots and automated documentation
- Reflect on public response, legal concerns, and authenticity of AI communication
Objective #6: Practical Guidelines for Ethical Technology Use
- Address licensing considerations when providing telehealth across state lines
- Use digital security measures and privacy settings appropriately
- Ask key agency-level questions about client interaction online
Objective #7: Client and Treatment Considerations
- Assess appropriateness of technology use based on client presentation and risk level
- Identify limitations for high-risk clients such as those with suicidality or psychosis
- Review ethical challenges with prospective and current clients using digital tools
Summary and Resources
- Emphasize risk management, safety, and human connection in digital care
- Provide resources including telehealth laws, ethical toolkits, and AI guidelines
- Encourage self-assessment and continued learning through ethical reflection
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Ethics asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Ethics continuing education training.
Instructor: Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW
Recording Date: 6/15/2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Ethics continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
System Requirements: Firefox, Chrome, Brave, Safari, Edge on any modern operating system (Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS). A desktop browser is recommended. We do not provide support resources for issues encountered using a mobile device.
Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com