Psychotherapist Self-Disclosure and Transparency in the Internet Age

All psychotherapists engage in self-disclosure with their clients. At times it may be deliberate or nondeliberate, verbal or nonverbal, and avoidable or unavoidable. Yet, modem-day Internet technologies have redefined the meaning and applications of self-disclosure and transparency in psychotherapy. Consumers of mental health services can easily access large amounts of information about their psychologists. Clients' online searches about their psychotherapists may range from normal curiosity to criminal stalking. Following an examination of these issues, three invited experts share their commentaries on the issues raised. A historical review of self-disclosure in the mental health professions and the opposition of many theorists and practitioners to its use are provided. Further, the roles of Internet social networking and online communities for psychotherapists and their clients and prospective clients are explored, along with the clinical meaning of the ever-increasing digital transparencies of psychologists, trainees, and clients. Advice is provided for how to view, understand, and consider web postings by psychotherapists, clients, and others. Implications for clinical practice and training are provided along with recommendations for how to effectively address issues of digital transparency.