A Free, Sample Communications Policy for Mental Health Clinicians
Sample Communications Policy
We always recommend clinicians have a Communications Policy that lays out how and when to contact the clinician, as well as providing other information necessary to keep communications smooth and supportive of therapy work. Here is an annotated sample version of a Communications Policy:
Using Communications Policies
Therapists often complain of clients misusing modern communication technology such as texting and email. The client may send overly sensitive information. They may expect instant responses. They may even text their therapist despite the therapist’s explicit statement that they don’t do texting.
To use a nerdy metaphor: communication is a multiplayer game. We notice that these situations often arise when the therapist has not created an intentional plan for how to use digital communications with their clients and discussed that plan with each client at intake.