Hickory Learning Group: Community and Course Rules

Where Curiosity Meets Clinical Excellence

To maintain a space that is safe for parents and professional for clinicians, all members are required to follow these Community Rules. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in post removal or account suspension.

1. Privacy First (The HIPAA Standard)

• No Real Names: Never use the real names of clients, students, or children in posts or live chats. Use "Client A" or "my child."

• No Screenshots: To protect the privacy of our members, taking screenshots or screen recordings of community discussions or "Live" workshops is strictly prohibited.

• What Happens Here Stays Here: Respect the vulnerability of parents and the professional questions of clinicians. Do not share community content externally.

2. Education, Not Medical Advice

• Consult Your Team: This is a learning community. Information shared here is for educational and workshop purposes. It is not a substitute for direct ABA therapy, medical diagnosis, or legal advice.

• No "Prescribing": Clinicians (BCBAs/RBTs) should not give specific clinical "prescriptions" for a child they have not personally assessed. Keep advice general and evidence-based.

3. Lead with Empathy & Professionalism

• The "Parent-Clinician" Bridge: This community is unique because it brings parents and professionals together. Treat every question with respect. No shaming, "mom-shaming," or condescending technical jargon.

• Constructive Feedback Only: If you disagree with a strategy or a perspective, critique the idea, not the person.

4. No Solicitation or "Poaching"

• No Selling: Do not use this community to sell your own products, courses, or consulting services.

• No Recruiting: BCBAs and Agencies are prohibited from using the forums to recruit RBTs for employment. HLG is a place for learning, not a job board.

• Resource Sharing: Sharing free, high-quality resources is encouraged! However, links to paid products require moderator approval.

5. Be Active & Engaging

• Search First: Before asking a question, use the search bar to see if a workshop or thread has already covered the topic.

• Asynchronous Etiquette: When responding to threads, try to provide "why" behind your answer to help others learn the rationale.

• Live Session Etiquette: During synchronous (Live) learning, keep your mic muted when not speaking and use the "Raise Hand" feature to ensure everyone has a voice.

6. Reporting & Moderation

• See Something, Say Something: If you see a post that violates HIPAA or is disrespectful, use the "Report" button or tag a Moderator immediately.

• Moderator Authority: HLG staff reserves the right to edit or delete posts that compromise the safety or professional integrity of the group.

Member Agreement

By clicking "I Agree," you acknowledge that you have read the Community Rules and the Privacy Policy. You understand that Hickory Learning Group is a collaborative learning environment and you agree to contribute to its growth with integrity and respect.