Social media can be beneficial to both counselors and clients, but only if it is used properly. In this post, I will discuss the benefits, and in next week’s post I will discuss the drawbacks.
Social media is everywhere. Whether you are planning to go into private practice or work at a mental health agency, the use of social media can be advantageous to both you and your clients. Social media is a convenient and fun way to disseminate valuable mental health information to the general public. And, if you are building a counseling practice, social media can be invaluable in building your “brand.”
Affordable and Accessible
As mental health counselors, one of our main tasks is to improve society by helping individuals and families to improve their lives. But not all people have access to mental health services. Although community agencies are often affordable, there is usually a cost for attendance and a long wait list. Then there’s the issue of transportation. Social media, on the other hand, is free and available anytime, anywhere to anyone with a computer or smart phone. And smart phone ownership is growing. According to one source, 49% of people currently own a smart phone with 57% projected for 2013 and 67% projected for 2017. Although social media use will never be a replacement for in-person counseling, it is a practical way to disseminate valuable information. In sum, social media use in counseling is a grass roots movement, which has positive implications for social justice.
Community Building
It also builds community. For example, by blogging to the public about general mental health topics, you have the opportunity to start a conversation. As future counselors, you will be experts in human issues and human behavior and have much relevant information and knowledge to share. There are problems that are common to all of humanity, and it can be a relief for people to see that that they are not alone. A conversation or even just a small post on social media can accomplish this. (Note, however, that it is never appropriate to counsel people or to address specific therapeutic issues through this medium, since it is public).
Networking
Lastly, by participating actively on social media you are seen as relevant, particularly by the younger generation, who were raised with cell phones in their hands. Younger clientele are going to have a difficult time relating to you if you can’t be bothered to enter their world. This means you need to go social! A wide presence on social media can also expose you to a variety of professionals, which can mean valuable connections for you. For example, if you are working in an agency that treats substance abuse, it might be really helpful to know a grief counselor or an anxiety counselor to whom you can refer clients.
Yours in the Joy of Knowledge,
Barbara LoFrisco
