Confidentiality & Privacy Policy

Confidentiality & Privacy Policy:

At our organization, we highly value and prioritize the confidentiality and privacy of our clients. The relationship between a client and a counselor is protected by law, and we adhere to strict ethical guidelines to ensure the security of client information. Below, we outline our confidentiality policy and the exceptions under which information may be disclosed:

Confidentiality:

  1. Client-Counselor Privilege: All information shared between a client and a counselor is confidential and cannot be disclosed without the client’s explicit written permission.

Exceptions to Confidentiality:

  1. Suspected Child or Dependent Adult/Elder Abuse: If there is reason to suspect that a child, dependent adult, or elder is experiencing abuse or neglect, we are legally obligated to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately. This is done to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals.
  2. Threats of Serious Bodily Harm: If a client poses a credible threat of causing serious bodily harm to another person or persons, we have a duty to notify the police and inform the potential victim(s). This action is taken to prevent harm and protect individuals at risk.
  3. Client’s Self-Harm Intentions: If a client expresses intentions to harm themselves, we will make every effort to engage with the client and seek their cooperation in ensuring their safety. However, if the client does not cooperate or remains at risk, we may take further measures as permitted by law to ensure their safety. These measures are taken with the sole purpose of preventing self-harm and promoting the client’s well-being.

Our commitment to confidentiality and privacy is unwavering, but it is important to recognize that there are situations where our ethical and legal obligations may require us to breach confidentiality in the best interest of the client or others. Rest assured that such disclosures are made with great care and consideration, always with the safety and well-being of individuals as our top priority.