Which practice is prohibited for psychologists regarding patient testimonials?

The use of testimonials from current patients is prohibited for psychologists due to ethical concerns surrounding the potential for coercion or undue influence in the therapeutic relationship. Current patients may feel pressured to provide a positive testimonial in order to maintain a favorable relationship with their psychologist or out of a sense of obligation. This can compromise the integrity of the therapeutic process and lead to ethical violations concerning exploitation and informed consent.

In contrast, collecting general feedback from former patients, obtaining written recommendations from clients, and gathering client stories about therapy experiences can be permissible under certain conditions, provided that they are approached carefully and ethically. These activities, especially when related to former clients, do not carry the same risks associated with current patients, thus they are generally allowed within the parameters of ethical practice as long as confidentiality and informed consent are maintained.