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.