Privacy policy.

Confidentiality

In general, the law protects the privacy of all communication between a patient (or possible patient) and a psychologist.

Disclosures without your consent

In some situations, I am required by law or by ethical guidelines to disclose information, whether I have your permission or not.

  • If patients tell me they plan to cause serious harm or death to themselves or others. I believe they have the intent and ability to carry out this threat in the very near future.

    • To try to keep this from happening, I may be obligated to seek hospitalization for them or contact family members or others who can help provide protection. I may need to take protective actions for others like notifying a potential victim or contacting the police.

  • I am required by law to report to the appropriate state protective agency if I learn that it seems a child, elderly person, or disabled person is currently experiencing neglect or abuse (physical, sexual or emotional) or in the past.

  • I am ordered by a judge to disclose information.

  • I may consult other professionals about a case. During a consultation, I make every effort to avoid revealing the identity of my patient. The consultant is also legally bound to keep the information confidential.

HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices

  • This notice describes how medical information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can get access to this information. Please review it carefully.