Confidentiality & Privacy Policy
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. Should we decide to work together, you will receive a written copy of my disclosure agreement which will address the issue of confidentiality more in depth.
Generally speaking, the information provided by and to a client during therapy sessions is legally confidential if the therapist is a certified school psychologist, a licensed clinical social worker, a licensed marriage and family therapist, a licensed professional counselor, a licensed psychologist, or an unlicensed psychotherapist practicing under the supervision of a licensed psychotherapist. If the information is legally confidential, the therapist cannot be forced to disclose the information without the client's consent.
There are exceptions to the general rule of legal confidentiality. These exceptions are listed in the Colorado statutes (C.R.S. 12-43-218 in particular). I will identify these exceptions should the situation arise during treatment or in our professional relationship. In general, these exceptions include the following:
Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. Should we decide to work together, you will receive a written copy of my disclosure agreement which will address the issue of confidentiality more in depth.
Generally speaking, the information provided by and to a client during therapy sessions is legally confidential if the therapist is a certified school psychologist, a licensed clinical social worker, a licensed marriage and family therapist, a licensed professional counselor, a licensed psychologist, or an unlicensed psychotherapist practicing under the supervision of a licensed psychotherapist. If the information is legally confidential, the therapist cannot be forced to disclose the information without the client's consent.
There are exceptions to the general rule of legal confidentiality. These exceptions are listed in the Colorado statutes (C.R.S. 12-43-218 in particular). I will identify these exceptions should the situation arise during treatment or in our professional relationship. In general, these exceptions include the following:
- When one is considered to be a danger to self or another, such as imminent suicidal or homicidal intentions or grave disability. You should be aware that if you should communicate any information involving a threat to yourself or others, I may be required to take immediate action to protect you or others from harm, such as involuntary psychiatric evaluation or notification to any intended victim(s) and/or law enforcement.
- Disclosed, observed or suspected child or elderly (age 70 and older) exploitation, abuse (physical, sexual, emotional) and/or neglect, including alcohol and/or drug abuse or domestic violence occurring in an environment where children are present. By Colorado law, this therapist is mandated to report any of the preceding to the proper authorities and/or Colorado Department of Human Services.
- Medical emergencies
- In the investigation of a grievance or malpractice claim, or if I am ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction to disclose such information.