​Protecting your privacy is a central part of the therapeutic process.

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Information shared in therapy is treated as confidential and is generally protected by law, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which establishes standards for the privacy and security of health information.

A more detailed explanation of your privacy rights and how your information may be used or disclosed is provided in the Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP), which is included with your intake materials.

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In some situations, you may be asked to complete a written authorization (Release of Information) if you would like me to communicate with other healthcare providers, professionals, or individuals involved in your care.

 

There are, however, important limits to confidentiality. These include situations in which I am required by law or professional ethics to disclose information:

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• If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or dependent adult

• If there is concern about risk of harm to yourself or another person, or if you are unable to safely care for yourself

• If you communicate a clear intent to harm another individual, in which case appropriate steps must be taken to warn the individual and notify legal authorities

• If I am required by court order to release information as part of a legal proceeding

• In rare circumstances, such as public health emergencies or natural disasters, where access to records may be necessary to ensure safety

• When otherwise required by law

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If you have questions about confidentiality or how your information is protected, I am happy to discuss this with you at any time.

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