Social Media Compliance for Health Practitioners

04 August 2026·2 min read

Quick answer: If you're a registered health practitioner (like a psychologist), your social media counts as advertising, so AHPRA's rules apply: no testimonials, no misleading or exaggerated claims, no guaranteeing outcomes, and protect client confidentiality. Self-regulated professions (like dietitians and nutritionists) follow their own professional code and Australian Consumer Law instead. Across the board: share educational, evidence-based content, avoid testimonials and unrealistic claims, get consent before sharing any client content, and protect confidentiality. Educational content is your safest — and most effective — play. 🤍

Your Instagram is marketing, which means the same rules that govern your advertising apply to it. Here's how to stay on the right side. 💖

The rules that apply to your socials

Social media is advertising — the same rules apply
No testimonials or client stories — about clinical care (for AHPRA-registered practitioners)
No misleading or exaggerated claims — keep it evidence-based
No guaranteed outcomes — avoid promising results
Protect confidentiality — consent before any client content

💡 When in doubt, educate. General, evidence-based, helpful content is both the safest option and the best trust-builder. You don't need client stories or big claims to be compelling — being genuinely useful does that.

Registered vs self-regulated

The rules differ by profession. AHPRA-registered practitioners (like psychologists) must follow the National Law and AHPRA's advertising guidelines — including the testimonial prohibition. Self-regulated professions (like dietitians and nutritionists) aren't under AHPRA, but must still follow their professional code and Australian Consumer Law, which bans misleading or deceptive conduct. Either way, testimonials and exaggerated claims are best avoided.

Please note: This is general information to help you market compliantly — it isn't legal advice. Advertising rules change, so always check the current guidance from AHPRA (and your own board or professional association) before you publish.

Frequently asked questions

Do AHPRA rules apply to social media?

Yes — for registered health practitioners, social media is advertising, so AHPRA's rules apply. That means no testimonials about care, no misleading or exaggerated claims, no guaranteed outcomes, and protecting client confidentiality.

Can health practitioners share client stories on Instagram?

For AHPRA-registered practitioners, no — client stories about clinical care count as testimonials, which are prohibited. Always get consent before sharing any client content, and when in doubt, share educational content instead.

What can health practitioners post safely?

Educational, evidence-based content, general tips, your qualifications and approach, and what clients can expect. It's both compliant and the most effective way to build trust — no testimonials or big claims needed.