Keeping your story sacred.
Confidentiality
What you share with me in session, and whether you are a client of mine, is confidential information that I will not disclose to others. You may share your own information as you see fit, and you are not limited in telling people that you receive counseling from me, if you wish to share that.
If we happen to encounter each other in every day life (for example, see each other at a park or a concert, or if our children attend the same school), you may choose to act as though we have never met before, or acknowledge me. If others around us ask how we know each other (should you choose to recognize me), I will leave it up to you to answer. Even if we have mutual acquaintances, things you share with me in session will remain confidential.
Coordinating services with other providers or speaking with others (like a friend or a family member) requires that you sign a Release of Information Form that gives me permission to share. You may withdraw your permission for me to share information with other providers or loved ones at any time for any reason. You do not have to sign a form to withdraw consent, you can let me know in any way you like.
There are a five notable limits to confidentiality. These limits are set by law and regulation to create safety for yourself and others. You will not be able to withdraw consent for me to share information in these cases.
1. Suspected Child Abuse. I must report suspicion of a child being harmed or neglected so a social worker can investigate the situation and offer available resources to help.
2. Imminent Danger to Yourself or Others. I will do my best to preserve your life, and will make a report if it appears that your life or the life of another person is in danger.
3. Court Subpoena. If a judge subpoenas your records, or you offer your records as evidence in court, I will have to share your information in court.
4. Clinical Supervision and Audits. As an Associate Professional Counselor working towards my license as LPC, I receive regular support and guidance from my clinical supervisor. In order to benefit from this guidance, I have to share case relevant information with my supervisor. Since I am not billing insurance for services, no records will have to be disclosed to insurance companies.
5. Defending Myself. If you bring a claim against me, I will have to share information about our sessions to support my own defense.