Titles vs Credentials

Purposeful “describes actions, behaviors, or decisions that are intentional, deliberate, & directed toward achieving a specific aim.” So, boom! I've reflected on the viral posts regarding an individual allegedly misrepresenting herself as a licensed mental health professional. My hope is to provide truth without condemning.

My initial concern pertains to the connection between one’s personal and professional values and how those values may have discouraged transparency. Ethics helps us to define standards of conduct deemed acceptable and/or unacceptable. Education and licensure help professionals to respond with learned therapeutic approaches vs their personal opinions and biases. We must value mental health in the same capacity that we value physical health. Integrity and honesty are about communicating in a way that isn't misleading or deceiving.

A drug dealer administers drugs as well as a pharmacist. How you define drugs will depend on the intent of the distributor. There are various factors that distinguish the roles; however, the consideration that captivates my attention is SAFETY. In my experience, the pharmacist ensures you are aware of safety precautions surrounding the prescribed medication as he/she has agreed to do no harm. The drug dealer is aware, but his/her focus is not on your safety, but rather a means to make a living or a hustle. People have the right to make informed decisions about their life and intentionally withholding information that may prevent them from doing so, is misleading and deceitful.

I believe this is a clear example of intent vs impact. The LIFE COACH may not have intended to do harm (drug dealer), but practicing outside of his/her professional scope increases chances of causing harm.

My hope is that we are not so consumed by good titles that we forget to be good people. Remember we can be “good at,” but not “called to.”  Choose who and what works for you! Everyone has different needs. No one person can meet all needs; it is okay if a coach or a licensed mental health professional works for you. I've known people who benefited from coaches and I've known people who benefited from therapy. I highly encourage not allowing a high following and/or popular influence to determine the best fit for you. Numbers don’t always equate to value or effectiveness as a professional.

However, when we have been given the privilege to care for vulnerable individuals, we must operate at the highest level of integrity. You can get a bag without it being at the expense of those you serve.

Remember: “Rationalizing (making excuses) decisions made in poor faith disrupts safety,” which many individuals need when seeking a mental health professional.

Feel free to share with a friend or anyone who may benefit.

Take time, talk soon!