Which type of statements are counselors prohibited from making in advertisements?

Counselors are prohibited from making false, misleading, or deceptive statements in advertisements because such statements can cause significant harm both to clients and to the integrity of the profession. The rationale behind this regulation is grounded in the need to maintain trust in the counseling profession, ensuring that clients can make informed decisions based on accurate information. Advertising must reflect truthfulness and transparency, providing clients with a clear understanding of what they can expect from the services offered.

Statements that are true and informative, accurate professional qualifications, and even those promoting good client relationships can all be included in advertisements, provided they do not misrepresent the counselor’s qualifications or the nature of the services offered. These elements are critical for building a reputable practice while fostering ethical guidelines within the counseling profession.