The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without written permission.
Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse, for which I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself, I will make every effort to enlist cooperation in ensuring his/her safety. If he/she does not or cannot cooperate, I will take further measures, without the client's permission, that is provided to me by law, in order to ensure the client's safety.
- When working with children I honor the private nature of the relationship regardless of their status as minors. I am certainly open to discussing concerns and general issues with parents but make every attempt to protect the privacy and trust essential for a strong therapeutic relationship with the child.