Protecting Clients Through Better Notes: An Interview with Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey

Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy talk with Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey about how therapists can document ethically and protectively in a politically charged climate. They explore how to handle sensitive topics like gender identity, reproductive rights, and immigration status while keeping documentation accurate, ethical, and safe for clients.

About Our Guest Dr. Maelisa McCaffrey is a licensed psychologist, nail design enthusiast, and author of the book, Stress-Free Documentation for Mental Health Therapists. Through her business QA Prep, she empowers therapists with training and consultation on clinical documentation. Maelisa focuses on the “why” behind the usual recommendations and encourages clinicians to think outside the box, while also keeping their ethics intact.

Key Takeaways for Therapists

• Documentation can carry legal and ethical risks in today’s climate.

• Use clear but sensitive language when writing notes.

• Informed consent and collaboration with clients are essential.

• Focus on clinical themes rather than politically charged terms.

• Review your own forms and practices for unnecessary information.

More Info and Full Show Notes

Visit mtsgpodcast.com for the full show notes, transcripts, and resources from this episode.

Join the Modern Therapist Community Linktree

Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann
Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano