Confidentiality & Privacy Policy
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychologist and staff. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or neglect or dependant adult or elder abuse or neglect requires the clincian to report information to designated authorities.
- If a client threatens serious bodily harm to another individual, the therapist may choose to notify law enforcement.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself, the therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure safety; however, additional measures may need to be taken.
- In an emergency at the office the therapist will work to maintain confidentiality, but may need to break confidentiality to assist the client.
- In some cases, privacy may not be protected if a court of law subpoena's records.
- Clients can sign an authorization to release information and their information can be shared.
At your appointment, you will be asked to consent to treatment and/or assessment with an informed consent form that specifies the above and more.
Additionally, you will be asked to read and consent to the Notice of Privacy Policies for the practice and a Credit Card Authorization Form. Please consider reviewing the Notice of Privacy Policies prior to your appointment. You can print and sign these if you do not have questions and bring them with you to your visit. The current Notice of Privacy Policies can be found on this website under the Helpful Forms Tab.