The confidentiality of therapy and all related health information is protected by both Federal and State laws. All organizations involved in exchanging health information - including therapists - are bound by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) which defines how and with whom personal health information may be shared. Personal health information is confidential and may only be released if the client signs a written authorization form giving permission for a named individual or entity to receive it. Aside from this written authorization, information may only be released if there is a risk of harm to the client or another individual, including children and vulnerable adults. The only other exceptions to confidentiality include legal proceedings where disclosure of records is court-ordered and/or where either client or therapist is the subject of a civil or criminal case to which the records may pertain. For more information on what constitutes Personal Health Information, how it can be used and with whom it can be shared, see the Notice of Privacy Practices.

 

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, by 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/s, I am required by law to  notify the police and inform the intended victim.

 

- If a client intends to harm him or herself, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, I am required by law to take  further measures without their permission in order to ensure their safety.