CONFIDENTIALITY
Group therapy is built on trust and respect. While the group facilitator will maintain confidentiality, participants are asked to honor the privacy of others by not disclosing personal information shared during the group outside of the sessions. However, please understand that this is not absolute and is limited to provide for by law. Certain limitations are as follows:
1. Child Abuse: Child abuse and/or neglect, which include but are not limited to domestic violence in the presence of a child, child-on-child sexual acting out/abuse, physical abuse, etc. If you reveal information about child abuse or child neglect, I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authority.
2. Elderly/Vulnerable Adult Abuse: If information is revealed about vulnerable adult or elder abuse or neglect, I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authority.
3. Self-Harm: Threats, plans, or attempts to harm oneself. I am permitted to take steps to protect the client’s safety, which may include disclosure of confidential information.
4. Harm to Others: Threats regarding harm to another person. If you threaten bodily harm or death to another person, I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authority.
5. Court Orders & Legal Issues
- Subpoenas: If I receive a subpoena for your records, I will contact you so you may take whatever steps you deem necessary to prevent the release of your confidential information. If a court of law issues a legitimate court order, I am required by law to provide the information specifically described in the order.
- Law Enforcement and Public Health: Information may be disclosed to public health authorities or law enforcement officials in specific circumstances outlined by law.
- Governmental Oversight Activities: Information may be disclosed to government agencies for activities such as audits, investigations, or eligibility determinations.
- Upon Your Death: Information may be disclosed to law enforcement or medical officials in the event of your death, under certain circumstances.
- Victim of a Crime: Limited information may be disclosed in response to a law enforcement official's request if you are suspected to be a victim of a crime.
- Court Ordered Therapy: If therapy is court-ordered, records or documentation of participation in services may be requested by the court.
-Written Request: Clients must sign a release of information form before any information may be sent to a third party.
-Fee Disputes: In the case of a credit card dispute, I reserve the right to provide necessary documentation to your bank or credit card company.