Is it true that licensees can compensate media employees for publicity?

Licensees are not permitted to compensate media employees for publicity as it can create conflicts of interest and raise ethical concerns regarding the integrity of the counseling profession. Engaging in such practices could compromise the impartiality of the media's reporting and undermine the trust that the public places in licensed counselors.

The rules governing the ethical conduct of counselors typically emphasize transparency, integrity, and the need to avoid any actions that could be perceived as manipulative or self-serving. By avoiding compensation for publicity purposes, licensees maintain professionalism and uphold the ethical standards associated with their practice.

This approach is rooted in the belief that publicity should be unbiased and not influenced by monetary transactions. It ensures that any coverage of a counselor’s work must be based solely on its merit rather than financial incentives.