All communications made in session will be held in strict confidence unless you provide written permission to release information about your treatment. If you participate in couple or family therapy, I will not disclose confidential information about your treatment unless all person(s) who participated in the treatment with you provide their written authorization to release. I maintain a “no secrets” policy with couples or family therapy. Individual therapy may be an option if a secret needs to be kept for safety reasons.
There are exceptions to confidentiality. For example, therapists are required to report instances of suspected child or elder abuse. Therapists may be required or permitted to break confidentiality when they have determined that a client presents a serious danger of physical violence to another person or when a patient is dangerous to him or herself. Additionally, confidentiality may be broken if court ordered by a judge. If a circumstance arises that would lead me to break your confidentiality, I will attempt to involve and inform you as much as possible. Please let me know if you have questions about confidentiality.
Occasionally, I may consult with other professionals in order to provide the best treatment for you. Information about you may be shared in this context without using your name or other identifying information.
Communications between therapists and clients who are minors (under the age of 18) are confidential. However, parents and other guardians who provide authorization for their child’s treatment are encouraged to be involved in their treatment. Consequently, I may discuss the treatment progress of a minor client with the parent or caretaker, but not details that would decrease trust between the minor and me. Minor clients and their parents are urged to discuss any questions or concerns that they have on this topic.