Legal and Ethical Aspects of Advertising in Mental Health

License Number

Required on all professional advertising materials.

DBA Disclosure

Must disclose license name and number when using DBA.

False Advertising

Prohibited if misleading or deceptive as per law.

Misrepresentation of Fact

Includes false statements or claims in advertising.

Material Facts

Essential information that must be disclosed to avoid deception.

Unjustified Expectations

Claims creating false hopes of favorable outcomes are prohibited.

Fee Disclosure

Must specify all variables related to service fees.

Professional Superiority Claims

Must be substantiated with objective scientific evidence.

Scientific Claims

Must be supported by reliable, peer-reviewed studies.

Misleading Testimonials

Endorsements that could deceive are not allowed.

Competence Representation

Professionals should accurately represent their skills and qualifications.

Correcting Information

Obligation to rectify false or misleading information about oneself.

Vulnerable Clients

Avoid soliciting testimonials from clients susceptible to influence.

Specialization Claims

Only claim expertise if meeting professional standards.

Misleading Names

Avoid names that confuse public about professional identity.

Partnership Misrepresentation

Cannot falsely claim association with a firm or partners.

Business and Professions Code

Legal framework governing advertising practices in California.

Ethical Standards

Guidelines for professional conduct in mental health advertising.

Advertising Regulations

Rules governing truthful representation in mental health services.

Peer-Reviewed Studies

Research published in reputable journals, ensuring reliability.

Ordinarily Prudent Person

Standard for determining reasonable expectations of the public.