When Can My Therapist Break Confidentiality
When engaging in counseling, it is important to understand the limits of the therapist-client confidentiality agreement. Knowing when and under what circumstances a therapist may legally break confidentiality is essential. This blog post will explore when a therapist can break confidentiality. By having a safe place to talk, many individuals can more effectively express their feelings and gain insight into their own experiences. However, it is also important to understand the boundaries of the therapist-client confidentiality agreement. There are certain circumstances in which a therapist can legally break confidentiality, and it is important to be aware of these situations.
When the Client Discloses Intent to Harm Themselves or Others
When a client discloses an intent to harm themselves or another person, a therapist must take action to ensure the safety of all parties involved. Depending on the severity of the situation, the therapist may need to break confidentiality and contact the proper authorities. In these situations, the therapist is allowed to disclose only the information necessary to protect the safety of the client and other persons. Additionally, the therapist should inform the client of their intent to contact authorities as soon as possible.
In my practice at Inner Heart Therapy, abortion, being transgender, or having a drag show is NOT considered a reason to break confidentiality. You will not be reported to any state agency.
When the Client is a Minor or Vulnerable Adult, and the Therapist has Reasonable Suspicion of Abuse or Neglect
Therapists are responsible for reporting any reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect when the client is a minor or vulnerable adult. This is mandated by professional codes of ethics, as well as by many state laws. If a therapist believes that a minor is in imminent danger, they must contact the appropriate authorities immediately. However, even if the therapist does not believe the situation is urgent, they must still contact the relevant authorities to ensure the person's safety. It is important to note that this is done with the best interests of the minor or vulnerable adult in mind and not to harm them in any way.
When the Court Orders the Therapist to Testify
In certain circumstances, the court may order a therapist to testify. This could happen if the court is conducting a criminal or civil trial or if the court is trying to determine whether someone is competent to stand trial. In these cases, the therapist must comply with the court's order, regardless of their confidentiality agreement with their client. However, the therapist must try to protect the client's privacy to the best of their ability and inform their client that they are obligated to testify. I do not go to court for my clients.
In conclusion, therapists take their ethical responsibility of confidentiality very seriously. Your therapist will not break confidentiality without your permission, except in cases where there is a risk of imminent danger or harm to yourself or others. In rare situations, the law may also require therapists to break confidentiality. When in doubt, it is important to ask your therapist any questions you have about confidentiality and the limits of their responsibility.
