The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy Beware of Scams Targeting Therapists
Beware of Scams Targeting Therapists
Curt and Katie discuss common scams that specifically target therapists. We look at how to identify scams or sketchy business practices that can be very confusing as well as dangerous to clinicians. We also talk about how to protect yourself as well as solid business practices that you can implement to stave off some of these scammers.
Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!
In this podcast episode we talk about scams that target therapists
We have heard about a lot of scams in our careers. We figured it was time to do another “survival guide” episode on how to protect ourselves as therapists.
What are the most common scams targeting therapists?
- Information used from popular therapist directories
- Claiming to be a law enforcement professional, missed court date, or the IRS
- Image copyright infringement
- Businesses that target you to charge them for things that are free or with another company
- Clients or people seeking therapy for family members and then overpay and ask for a refund
- Text messages or emails with unsolicited links that can leave malware on your computer
- Phishing schemes
- Testing stolen credit cards or stolen identities
How can modern therapists protect ourselves from these scams?
- Get into wise mind (avoid responding to false urgency)
- Go through official channels (contact actual officials)
- Contact an attorney if unsure
- Understand how legal notices are properly delivered
- Caution with financial systems and not allowing people to pay upfront
- Requiring person seeking services to contact therapist
- Cyber security trainings
- Communicating appropriately and consistently
- Holding to systems and boundaries
- Make sure to share these scams with professional organizations, the official entity, or your licensing board
Resources for Modern Therapists mentioned in this Podcast Episode:
We’ve pulled together resources mentioned in this episode and put together some handy-dandy links. Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, so if you purchase after clicking below, we may get a little bit of cash in our pockets. We thank you in advance!
Abundance Practice Building Article on Copyright Infringement
From Joe Borders: Currently Active Scams Targeting Therapists
From APA: Protect your practice from scams targeting psychologists
From APA: More reports surface of telephone scammers targeting psychologists
From Counseling Today: Technology Tutor: Scams aimed at counselors
From Psych Today: The Phone Scam That Targets Psychologists
From CPH & Associates: Scam Targeting Therapists: What You Need to Know