Are the issues discussed in therapy confidential?
All information that a patient discloses in psychotherapy, including the therapist’s written notes and records, is confidential except under special circumstances where disclosure is required by law. Some circumstances where the law requires disclosure include: • Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately. • If a client is threatening serious imminent bodily harm to another person or persons. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim. In addition, it may be necessary for the therapist to notify authorities in order to obtain an evaluation for emergency hospitalization for the client. • If a client intends to harm himself/herself or is gravely disabled. The therapist will make every effort to enlist the client’s cooperation in ensuring safety. Further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety. This can include notifying a
