Your privacy is essential to the trust and success of the therapeutic relationship. Everything shared in session is held in strict confidence. The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without your written permission.

In certain rare circumstances, however, mental health professionals are legally and ethically required to release limited information to protect the safety of clients or others. These exceptions exist to safeguard lives and comply with state and federal law.

Legal Exceptions to Confidentiality

1. Suspected Abuse or Neglect
If there is reason to suspect that a child, dependent adult, or elder has been abused or neglected, I am legally required to report that information to the appropriate protective authorities immediately. This duty exists to ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals who may not be able to protect themselves.

2. Threats of Serious Harm to Others
If a client communicates a clear and credible threat of serious physical harm to another person or group, I must take reasonable steps to protect the potential victim. This may include notifying law enforcement and informing the intended person or persons at risk.

3. Threats of Harm to Self
If a client intends to harm themselves, I will take all possible steps to ensure their safety. This begins with working collaboratively to create a safety plan and involve supportive individuals if appropriate. If the client is unwilling or unable to cooperate, I am permitted by law to take further protective measures—such as contacting emergency services or arranging hospitalization—to preserve their life and well-being.

Additional Disclosures Requiring Consent

At times, clients may request or consent to limited information sharing, such as coordination with a physician, psychiatrist, attorney, or family member. In these situations, I will release information only with your written authorization specifying what can be shared and with whom. You may revoke that permission at any time in writing.

Electronic Communication & TeleHealth

Because my practice is conducted entirely through TeleHealth, all electronic communications (including video sessions, email, and the client portal) are conducted using HIPAA-compliant, encrypted platforms. Your information is protected by the same privacy laws and ethical standards that apply to in-person counseling.

No session recordings, transcripts, or identifying data are stored or shared without your explicit written consent.

HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices

In compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), all client records are maintained securely and confidentially. Electronic records are stored in a protected, encrypted database with restricted access.

You have the right to:

• Inspect and obtain a copy of your clinical record

• Request corrections to your record if you believe it contains errors

• Receive an accounting of disclosures made about your information

• Limit or revoke written authorizations for release of information

• File a complaint if you believe your privacy rights have been violated

A full copy of my HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices is available upon request and will be provided at the start of treatment.

Summary

Confidentiality is the cornerstone of ethical psychotherapy. You have the right to expect that what you share will remain private, except in those limited circumstances where disclosure is required by law to prevent harm.

My commitment is to safeguard your privacy while honoring my ethical and legal obligations to protect life and safety.

Summary

Confidentiality is the cornerstone of ethical psychotherapy. You have the right to expect that what you share will remain private, except in those limited circumstances where disclosure is required by law to prevent harm.

My commitment is to safeguard your privacy while honoring my ethical and legal obligations to protect life and safety.