Q: Is it legal to advertise clinical mental health credits for creativity coaching?

A: You’re being wise to think this through before you begin advertising—especially when your background involves mental health education. In Tennessee, it's legal to say you've completed academic coursework in a clinical mental health program **as long as** you don’t mislead people into thinking you're a licensed mental health professional. Transparency is key, and you’re already planning to clearly state that you're not a licensed counselor or therapist, which is the right approach.

The concern arises if the way you present your education leads people to believe you’re offering therapy or counseling services. Phrases like “trained in mental health” or listing credits without context can be misunderstood. So, it’s best to word your background carefully—something like, “I have completed graduate-level coursework in clinical mental health counseling, but I am not licensed and do not provide therapy”—keeps things accurate and honest.

Also, avoid using any protected titles like “counselor,” “psychotherapist,” or “mental health professional” unless you’re licensed under Tennessee law. As long as you stay within those boundaries and focus your coaching on creativity, goal setting, and personal development—not clinical diagnosis or treatment—you should be on solid ground. You’re showing real integrity by wanting to keep things ethical and clear, and that will serve you well in building trust with clients.