Does what we talk about remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and counselor. Successful counseling requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the counselor’s office.  Sometimes, however, you may want your counselor to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team or employer (you’re your Physician, Naturopath, Attorney), but by law your counselor cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission. However, state law and professional ethics require social workers (counselors) to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:

• Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
• If the counselor has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.