Confidentiality
Is the information discussed in therapy kept private?
One of the most frequently asked questions about therapy is: "Will what I tell the therapist be kept private and confidential?" The answer is "yes." You have a right to expect privacy and confidentiality in therapy. Without your explicit consent, the therapist is prevented by law from discussing information you share during your sessions with anyone else. Knowing and trusting that anything you say will be safely contained in the therapeutic space is essential to meaningful therapy.
In addition to maintaining confidentiality, the therapist is responsible for establishing an environment that ensures your privacy in every way possible. Should your privacy feel compromised in any way, feel free to tell your therapist as clearly and immediately as possible so that necessary accommodations can be made.
Are there ever any exceptions to maintaining strict confidentiality?
Disclosure may be required under the following circumstances:
- When there is reasonable suspicion of child or elder abuse
- The client is likely to harm him or herself unless protective measures are taken
- The client is likely to harm a third party unless protective measures are taken
- The client is deemed to be "gravely disabled"
- Pursuant to a legal proceeding