Self-disclosure is something many therapists are taught to avoid in the therapy room - so no wonder it feels confusing when it comes to social media. Should you share personal details? Is it unprofessional to post a photo of yourself? What if other therapists judge you?
In this episode of Good Enough Counsellors, I unpack the fear of self-disclosure on social media and how to approach it safely. I share some of my own experiences - from being terrified teaching peers for the first time, to hitting “publish” on a podcast that felt very personal - and how honesty often builds more connection than hiding ever did.
We’ll cover:
- Why therapists fear self-disclosure (and why it feels “wrong”)
- The difference between professional, personal, and private disclosure
- A simple checklist to help you decide what’s safe to share
- How small glimpses of your real life make you more relatable to clients
- Post ideas for November where you can test safe self-disclosure
Clients don’t need us to be perfect - they need us to be human. And with a thoughtful approach, you can use self-disclosure on social media to build trust and show people you’re someone they can talk to.
If you’d like support in working out what to post and how to share safely, you’ll find plenty of encouragement and practical help inside Therapy Growth Group
🎧 Listen now to find out how to be real, stay boundaried, and grow your private practice without oversharing.
Setting up in private practice? Download my free checklist HERE
Need ideas for how to get clients? Download my free handout 21 Ways for Counsellors to Attract New Clients HERE
You can also find me here:
The Good Enough Counsellors Facebook Group
Josephine Hughes on Facebook
Josephine Hughes on YouTube
My website: josephinehughes.com
The information contained in Good Enough Counsellors is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this podcast are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this podcast.
Josephine Hughes disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this podcast.
