Purpose

This Social Media Policy outlines how Cindy Strydom uses social media and explains the professional boundaries that help protect your privacy and confidentiality.

Professional Boundaries

To maintain a safe and ethical therapeutic relationship, I do not accept friend requests, follow requests, or connection requests from current or former clients on personal or professional social media platforms (including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and similar platforms). This includes requests from known loved ones, friends, or associates of current or former clients.

Declining or not responding to these requests is not intended to be unfriendly. Rather, it is to protect your confidentiality and maintain appropriate professional boundaries.

Confidentiality

If you choose to follow my professional social media accounts or interact with my public content, please be aware that this may make your interest in my practice visible to others.

For your privacy, I will not acknowledge current or former clients on social media or identify anyone as a client.

Messaging Through Social Media

Please do not use social media platforms to contact me regarding appointments, therapy, emergencies, or personal mental health concerns.

Social media messaging is not monitored consistently, is not a secure form of communication, and should not be relied upon for clinical communication.

For appointment-related matters, please use the secure methods provided through my practice or contact me via email or text.

Comments and Reviews

You are welcome to leave public reviews if you choose. However, because protecting client confidentiality is a professional and ethical responsibility, I will not respond to online reviews or confirm whether someone is or has been a client of my practice.

Educational Content

Any information shared on my website or social media accounts is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not psychological or counselling advice and should not replace assessment or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.

Viewing, commenting on, or sharing my content does not establish a therapeutic relationship.

Emergencies

Social media should never be used to request urgent assistance. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or require immediate support, please contact 911, attend your nearest emergency department, or contact your local crisis service.

Changes to This Policy

This Social Media Policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in technology, professional standards, or practice procedures. The most current version will always be available on this website.