The law protects the relationship between a client and
therapist, and information cannot be disclosed without written permission. However,
confidentiality is not absolute, and there are circumstances in which information
can or must be released. Exceptions include:
·
Suspected abuse
of a child, an elderly person, or an adult with developmental disabilities or
mental illness, for which I am required by law to report to the appropriate
authorities immediately. I always recommend that, in such cases, the
client reports the abuse from my office. If clients have not and are not
willing to report, and I suspect that abuse is occurring, I am bound by
law to report.
·
If a client
intends to harm himself or herself, I will make every effort to enlist his or
her cooperation in ensuring safety. If clients are unable or unwilling to
cooperate, I may seek assistance without written permission.
·
If a client is
threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s), and intention to follow
through on the threat is evident, I must notify the police and inform the
intended victim.
·
If I have received
a court order, issued by a judge, stating that I must release confidential
information.
