What are the guidelines for advertising as an LPCC?

• A. Advertising must be engaging and flashy
• B. Advertising should be truthful and reflect qualifications
• C. Advertising can include exaggerated claims
• D. Advertising may use testimonials from past clients

Answer: (B)

The correct choice emphasizes that advertising must be truthful and accurately reflect the qualifications of the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). This aligns with ethical guidelines that seek to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the profession. Providing honest and clear information about qualifications enables potential clients to make informed decisions about the services they seek. Misleading or exaggerated information can lead to client mistrust and can jeopardize the professional reputation of the counselor.

In the context of professional standards, emphasizing qualifications without exaggeration helps maintain a level of professionalism that reflects the ethical obligation clinicians have to their clients. This commitment to transparency is crucial in building a credible therapeutic relationship.

The other options introduce elements that are inconsistent with ethical advertising practices. Engaging and flashy advertisements (hinted at in the first choice) can distract from the essential credentials and competencies necessary for client trust. Exaggerated claims (as suggested in the third choice) can mislead or misinform potential clients, violating ethical standards. Lastly, the use of testimonials (mentioned in the fourth choice) is often restricted in the counseling profession due to confidentiality concerns and the need to maintain a professional image, ensuring that the focus remains on the counselor’s qualifications rather than individual client experiences.