This is a very important aspect of the therapeutic relationship. Everything that is discussed with your therapist in the therapy session is kept in the strictest confidence.
As a member of BACP, your therapist is required to have regular supervision which will require them to discuss their client work with their supervisor. However, they will not disclose your name or anything that would allow you to be identified. Any information that a supervisor receives is also treated as confidential and subject to the same ethical criteria as counselling. If you are being treated by your doctor for emotional difficulties, it is important that you inform him or her about your therapist, and vice versa. Your therapist will not confer with your doctor without your knowledge and permission. If there is convincing evidence that you intend to harm yourself or others, your therapist will need to break confidentiality by informing your doctor, or in serious cases the police, emergency services, or other appropriate third party. Wherever possible, and if it is considered appropriate, you will be informed of this. Your therapist may keep brief notes after a session, which will be securely stored.
In exceptional circumstances your therapist may also be required by law to break confidentiality with you. They will discuss this with you first wherever possible but if you do not give consent, they may still have to disclose information. This relates to situations where you may be at risk of harm, causing harm to others, the safeguarding of children, young people and adults at risk, acts of terrorism and unreported road traffic accidents where we are under legal obligations.
Your therapist may keep brief notes after a session, which will be securely stored.