Let’s be honest: putting yourself out there on social media isn’t always easy, especially when someone disagrees with what you’ve shared.
You might be talking about something that feels important, thoughtful, or even helpful… and then boom. A comment rolls in that makes your stomach drop.
Maybe it’s a fellow professional who questions your approach. Maybe it’s a stranger who seems to have misunderstood your words entirely. Or maybe it’s someone being intentionally unkind, hiding behind a screen.
Whichever version it is, the emotional sting can be real. And if you’re a therapist who prides yourself on compassion, thoughtfulness, and being a “good professional,” it can hit even harder. You want to be liked. You want to be respected. You want to feel safe.
So when someone pushes back, it can make you second-guess everything – your post, your voice, even your right to speak.
But here’s the thing: if you’re using social media to build a purposeful, aligned private practice, learning how to sit with (and move through) disagreement is part of the work.
Let’s talk about why it happens, why it holds us back, and what to do when it shows up.
First things first: You’re not for everyone. And that’s OK.
If you’ve done the work to clarify your dream client, you already know this: you’re not here to help every single person.
You’re here to help the people who feel like a great fit. The ones who light you up, who share your values, who are ready for the kind of work you do. Your content isn’t meant to resonate with everyone. In fact, if it did, it would probably be far too watered down to really help anyone.
So yes, being clear about what you believe, how you work, or who you help will turn some people off. And that’s a good thing. It means your message is getting clearer. It means you’re taking up your space.
Why social media disagreement feels personal (even when it isn’t)
Here’s what’s tricky: social media removes context.
People see a few lines, interpret it through their own lens, and respond without the full picture. Add in the fact that many people feel emboldened to say things online that they’d never say face-to-face… and you’ve got a recipe for misunderstanding.
Sometimes, people are genuinely curious or confused. Sometimes, they’re defensive because your content hit a nerve. And sometimes, they’re just not your people, and that’s OK.
But when you’re a therapist who values professionalism and integrity, it’s natural to feel shaky when someone challenges you publicly. It can trigger impostor feelings or a deep fear of “getting it wrong.”
That fear is powerful. And it’s one of the biggest reasons so many therapists hold back from posting the content that could genuinely attract their dream clients.
That fear is keeping you stuck.
When you stop yourself from sharing a post because you’re afraid of being misunderstood…
When you water down your message so it won’t “offend” anyone…
When you write a caption you love but never hit publish because you’re worried what another therapist might think…
You’re not protecting your reputation. You’re silencing your voice.
And often, you’re holding back from the exact content that would connect with the clients you most want to work with.
The truth is that the people you’re meant to help need you to be brave.
So, how do you release the fear?
Start by naming it. Recognise that it’s not just “being careful” – it’s fear. And fear is normal, especially when you care deeply about doing the right thing.
Then ask yourself:
- Is this post aligned with my values?
- Is this post supportive, respectful, and honest?
- Would this post help my ideal client feel seen, understood, or empowered?
If the answer is yes: hit publish.
Over time, your nervous system will learn that disagreement doesn’t equal danger. You’ll build the kind of confidence that comes from action, not just reflection.
What to do when people disagree (and how to protect your energy)
Not all negative responses are the same. Here’s how to think about the different types and how to respond (or not):
1. Spam or bots
Delete and move on. No energy needed.
2. Trolls or people who are intentionally inflammatory
Delete or block. You don’t owe trolls your time. Protect your space.
3. Misunderstandings or misinterpretations
- If the person seems open to dialogue, consider replying briefly to clarify your intent.
- If it feels like a complex topic, a calm DM can help build mutual understanding.
- If they’re misrepresenting you in a way that feels harmful, you can delete or limit the comment. You’re allowed to manage your space.
4. Genuine disagreement from peers or professionals
This one stings most, but it doesn’t always need to be a bad thing.
If the disagreement is respectful and thoughtful:
You can reply publicly with kindness and clarity. Model the type of conversation you want to see.
If it feels accusatory, passive-aggressive, or performative:
DM them if you want to de-escalate privately. But you’re not obligated to explain yourself to anyone.
If it’s crossing a boundary or affecting your wellbeing:
Mute, restrict, or block as needed. Respect doesn’t mean tolerating behaviour that feels unsafe.
Final thought: You are allowed to take up space.
Sharing your voice as a therapist (on social media, on your website, in your content) isn’t just about marketing. It’s an act of leadership.
You don’t need to be perfect. You don’t need universal approval. You just need to be aligned, honest, and clear about who you’re here to help.
And when disagreement happens (because it will), let it be a sign that you’re showing up fully. Not everyone will get it. But your dream clients will.
And they’re the ones who matter most!
Want to protect your boundaries on social media, without sounding cold or clinical?
Grab my Social Media Disclaimer Template for Therapists and create a clear, compassionate boundary that protects both you and your potential clients. It’s free, and it’ll save you hours of second-guessing.