What constitutes appropriate use of social media and public communications by an LCPAA?

• A. Post clients' identifiable information to demonstrate outcomes.
• B. Discuss internal staffing issues publicly.
• C. Protect client privacy, avoid disclosure of identifiable information, and maintain professional conduct.
• D. Comment on case details to friends.

Answer: (C)

Protecting confidentiality and maintaining professional boundaries in public communications is essential for an LCPAA. The best approach is to protect client privacy, avoid disclosing any identifiable information, and maintain professional conduct in all social media posts or public statements. This means never sharing clients’ names, ages, locations, case specifics, or outcomes that could identify someone. Posts should be non-identifying and general, focusing on program information, resources, or education, and only with appropriate consent and in line with agency policies and legal requirements. Keeping a respectful, neutral, and professional tone helps preserve trust, protect families, and uphold the integrity of the agency.

Sharing identifiable information about clients is inappropriate and could violate privacy laws and agency rules. Publicly discussing internal staffing issues can reveal sensitive operational details and undermine the agency’s functioning. Commenting on case details to friends crosses professional boundaries and risks breaching confidentiality. By contrast, keeping communications non-identifying, general, and compliant with policy protects everyone involved and demonstrates responsible, ethical public conduct.