Confidentiality & Privacy Policy
The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and private information cannot be disclosed without express written or verbal (usually written) permission and consent.
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. These exceptions include:
• In the event of suspected child, dependent adult, or elder abuse the therapist is required to report the information to the appropriate authorities immediately. As of January 2015 this includes the use of child pornography.
• If a patient intends to inflict harm on or against themselves (eg. serious suicidal intention). Their therapist will make every effort to enlist their patient’s cooperation in insuring their safety. If their patient does not cooperate, their therapist will may be required to take further measures without their permission that are provided to their therapist by law in order to ensure their safety.
• If a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another person (homicidal intentions or threats). The therapist is required to notify the police or the person being threatened.
• Per the United States “Patriot Act”; if the United States government believes that a patient may be a potential threat to the United States of America, authorities of the government may lawfully take a copy of the patient’s records.
• If you are using insurance your insurance company has the right to review your records.
Please note: Our therapists make every effort to work with their patients to ensure their patients and others persons safety, and to work to reduce any and all harmful behaviors in a confidential manner. However, we will comply with all applicable safety laws.
Please review The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness privacy policies in the initial patient registration for the specific limits to confidentiality and privacy.
