In general, the privacy of all communications between a client and a therapist is protected by law, and a therapist can only release information about therapy sessions to others with your written permission. But there are a few exceptions.
In most legal proceedings, you have the right to prevent your therapist from providing any information about your treatment. In some proceedings involving child custody and those in which your emotional condition is an important issue, a judge may order testimony if he/she determines that the issues demand it.
There are some situations in which a therapist is legally obligated to take action to protect others from harm, even if they have to reveal some information about a client’s treatment. For example, if they believe that a child, elderly person, or disabled person is being abused, they must file a report with the appropriate state agency.
If a therapist believes that a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another, they are required to take protective actions. These actions may include notifying the potential victim, contacting the police, or seeking hospitalization for the client. If the client threatens to harm himself/herself, a therapist is obligated to seek hospitalization for him/her or to contact family members or others who can help provide protection.
While these situations rarely occur, your therapist will make every effort to fully discuss it with you before taking any action.
Some of our clinicians are pre-licensed therapy trainees, and, as such, consult with a licensed clinical supervisor about all cases and may occasionally consult with other professionals as well. During consultations, your therapist will make every effort to avoid revealing your identity. Clinical supervisors and consultations are also legally bound to keep this information confidential.
While this written summary of exceptions to confidentiality should prove helpful in informing you about potential problems, it is important that you discuss any questions or concerns with your therapist.
