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TikTok is Not Therapy

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August 3, 2026, 1:00 - 3:00pm CT
Virtual via Zoom
Fee: $10 full members; $25 partial members and nonmembers
Continuing Education Hours: 2.0
Register

Course Description

This training examines the clinical, ethical, and practical implications of TikTok-informed mental health beliefs in therapy. Drawing on APA ethical standards, telepsychology guidelines, and current research on mental health misinformation, participants will explore how TikTok differs from evidence-based therapy, the risks associated with self-diagnosis and viral “therapy hacks,” and the impact of algorithm-driven content on client identity and help-seeking behavior. Participants will leave with concrete strategies for ethically and effectively supporting TikTok-informed clients while preserving the integrity of the therapeutic relationship and evidence-based practice.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

  • Differentiate between therapy, psychoeducation, and social media content, with an emphasis on TikTok’s platform dynamics.
  • Summarize current research on TikTok and mental health, including misinformation, self-diagnosis, and impacts on help-seeking.
  • Apply relevant APA ethical standards and telepsychology/social media guidelines to clinical dilemmas involving TikTok and other platforms.
  •  Assess and address client TikTok use in intake, case formulation, and ongoing treatment. 
  • Develop or refine a social media policy and personal practice stance on content creation and engagement with “therapist influencers.”

About the Trainer

William Hutter, PsyD, LMFT, NDCCDP

William Hutter, PsyD, LMFT, NDCCDP

Dr. Hutter is currently providing services in various roles. He is a visiting professor at Iona University in New York; the Gender Services Specialist at Sand Ridge Secure Treatment Center; an adjunct faculty member for Northwestern University; as well as owning his own private practice, where he provides consultation, supervision, and trainings. His clinical work focuses on LGBTQ+ youth and adults, sexual dysfunction, conflictual couples, persons belonging to the immigrant community, and suicide prevention. Dr. Hutter holds one master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, another in Clinical Psychology, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.