In general, the confidentiality of all communications between a patient and a psychologist is protected by law, and I can only release information about our work to others with written permission. However, there are several exceptions:

Minors

If you are under 18 years of age, please be aware that the law provides your parents with the right to examine your treatment records. If I feel there is high risk that you will seriously harm yourself or others, I will notify them of my concern. Before giving information, I will discuss the matter with you and will do the best that I can to resolve any objections that you might have about the information I am about to discuss.

Harm to Self and Others

I am legally required to take action to prevent others from harm, even though that requires revealing some information about a client’s treatment.

• If I suspect a child is being abused, I must file with the appropriate agency.
• If I believe that a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another, I am required by law to take protective action, which may include notifying the potential victim, notifying the police, or seeking the appropriate hospital treatment.
• If a client threatens to harm him or herself, I may be required to seek hospitalization for the client or contact family members or others who can provide protection.
• These situations rarely arise in my practice. Should they occur, I will make every effort to fully discuss it with you before taking action.