Comments on protecting clients about whom we write (and speak)

Abstract

This comment lauds Barbara Sieck's article ("Obtaining clinical writing informed consent versus using client disguise and recommendations for practice", Psychotherapy, 49, pp. 3-11.) as a solid review not only for therapists but for all clinicians and researchers. Her review also is relevant for assorted spoken presentations and for presentation of psychological assessment excerpts/reports, film clips, and qualitative research data and findings. Procedures that promote adequate disguise are listed, with an emphasis on the importance of authentically engaging the person-to-be-presented in discussion of the intended audience/readers and of what is being illustrated. The latter step serves not only the integrity of the participant but also their sense of contributing and of being respected.