The therapeutic relationship is one of strict confidence. I may not disclose any of the details of your relationship or treatment except where specifically required or allowed by law. Also, I can only release information about our work to others with your permission. The following are a few exceptions under California law in which I may be obliged to reveal some information about your treatment:
- If I have a reasonable suspicion of child abuse, elder abuse or adult dependent abuse, I am required by law to make a report to the appropriate authorities.
- If a patient or an immediate family member of the patient communicates to me that the patient has made a serious threat of physical violence against reasonably identifiable victims or their property, I am required to take protective actions. These actions may include notifying the potential victim, contacting the police, or seeking hospitalization for the patient.
- In most legal proceedings, you have the right to prevent me from providing any information about your treatment; however, in some proceedings, such as child custody or those in which your emotional condition is an important issue, a judge may order my testimony.
- If the patient threatens to harm himself/herself or is gravely disabled, I may be obligated to seek hospitalization or to contact family members or others who can help provide protection.