Confidentiality

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all our communications, and I can only release information about our work to others with your permission. However, there are a number of exceptions. The laws governing confidentiality are quite complex and I am not an attorney. While I am happy to discuss these issues with you, you might also wish to seek formal legal consultation.

In most judicial proceedings, you have the right to prevent me from providing any information about your treatment. However, in some circumstances a judge may require my records or testimony if he or she determines that resolution of the issues demands it. Also, if I believe that a child, an elderly person, or a disabled person is being abused, I am required to file a report with the appropriate state agency. If I believe that a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another, I am obligated to take protective action, which may include notifying the potential victim, notifying the police, and/or seeking hospitalization for the patient. If a patient threatens to harm him or herself, I may be required to seek hospitalization for the patient, or to contact family members or others who can help provide protection. Likewise, if I believe a patient is unable to care for him or herself, I would need to take similar action. These situations rarely arise in my practice, and I would make every effort to discuss any such issue with you before taking action.

I sometimes consult with other professionals about cases. In these consultations, I make every effort to avoid revealing the identity of my patient. The consultant is, of course, also legally bound to keep the information confidential. I will also discuss cases with trusted colleagues when they provide coverage in my absence. Unless you object, I will not tell you about these informal consultations.