A disclaimer is a denial or renunciation of something. A disclaimer may be a statement of non-responsibility, such as the fact that the information in this website should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation or advice of the user’s physician, psychologist, clinical social worker, or any other health-care provider or therapist. This form disavows any endorsement or recommendation of information or products found on the site; presents a general disclaimer relating to the validity of hypertext links found on the website; and presents a general disclaimer of liability resulting from the postings of someone other than the owner of the website.
This form is a generic example that may be referred to when preparing such a form for your particular state. It is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.
Hawaii Disclaimer with regard to Website of Licensed Counselor of Social Work or Similar Therapist: When operating a website as a licensed counselor of social work or a similar therapist in Hawaii, it is crucial to include a disclaimer that conveys important information to the visitors. This disclaimer serves to clarify the purpose and limitations of the website's content and services while ensuring the protection of both the therapist and the visitor. 1. General Hawaii Disclaimer: The General Hawaii Disclaimer is a standard inclusion for websites and contains essential statements regarding the website's purpose and liability limitations. It may include phrases such as "The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice," or "Visitors are advised to seek professional assistance or advice before making any decisions based on the content provided on this website." 2. Not a Substitute for Professional Help: This type of disclaimer emphasizes that although the website may offer helpful information, it should not be considered a substitute for professional counseling or therapy. It explicitly states that the website's content is not intended to diagnose or treat any mental health conditions. It may include phrases like "This website does not offer therapy or counseling services" or "The information presented on this website should not replace professional therapy. Visitors are encouraged to consult with a licensed counselor or therapist for personalized assistance." 3. Confidentiality and Online Security: If the website collects visitor information or allows for interaction through contact forms or online chat, it is crucial to highlight the confidentiality and online security measures taken to protect visitor data. Statements like "This website takes appropriate measures to ensure the privacy and security of visitor information" or "All personal information shared through this website is confidential and will not be disclosed without visitor consent" should be included. 4. Licensing and Professional Credentials: A Hawaii-specific disclaimer may also include information regarding the counselor's licensing and credentials. This helps to establish trust and credibility. Statements such as "I am a licensed counselor of social work in the state of Hawaii, license number XYZ" or "This therapist holds a valid license issued by the Hawaii Board of Social Work" can be mentioned. 5. Limitation of Liability: To mitigate potential legal risks, a limitation of liability clause should be included in the disclaimer. This clause generally states that the therapist is not liable for any direct or indirect damages arising from the use or reliance on the website's content or services. It may include phrases like "By using this website, you agree that the therapist will not be held responsible for any consequences resulting from your actions or decisions based on the information provided." In conclusion, a Hawaii Disclaimer for the website of a licensed counselor of social work or a similar therapist should include general information about the website's purpose, assert that it is not a substitute for professional help, address confidentiality and security, emphasize licensing and credentials, and include a limitation of liability statement. It is essential to consult with a legal professional or the Hawaii Board of Social Work to ensure compliance with specific state regulations and requirements.
