Privacy and Confidentiality

In general, the privacy of all communications between a patient and a psychologist is protected by law, and we can release information about your treatment to others only with your written permission. However, because a condition of your supervision may be undergoing treatment, we will need your written permission to verify with your PO that you are in treatment and to coordinate care.

Nevertheless, there are a few exceptions to confidentiality in which we might be required to report confidential information without your consent. In proceedings involving child custody or your emotional condition, a judge may order our testimony if he/she determines that the issues demand it.

There are some situations in which we are legally obligated to take action to protect others from harm, even if we have to reveal some information about a patient's treatment. For example, if we believe that a child, elderly person, or disabled person is being abused, we may be required to file a report with the appropriate state agency and with your PO.