PRIVACY POLICY

Confidentiality: The law protects confidentiality; in a patient-clinician relationship, I can release information only with written consent. There are a few exceptions. In judicial proceedings, you have the right to prevent me from providing information about your treatment unless I am court-ordered to release information. There are some instances where I am legally required to take action to protect others from harm, even if it requires revealing information about a patient's treatment.

For example, if I believe that a child or elderly person is being abused, I must report this to a state agency.

If I believe a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, I am required to take protective action, which may include notifying the victim, police or seeking hospitalization.

If a patient threatens to harm themself I may be required to seek hospitalization for the patient or contact people who can help. These occasions have rarely arisen in my practice, and I will seek ways to discuss them fully before taking action. I may occasionally find it helpful to consult about a case with other professionals. I always conceal identities, and the consultant is ethically bound to maintain confidentiality. Unless you object, I will not mention these consultations unless it is important to our work together.

While this is a summary of exceptions to confidentiality, it should prove helpful in informing you of potential problems and encourage you to talk about any concerns.