Confidentiality is a cornerstone of effective therapy, fostering a trusting relationship between you and your therapist. Anything you share during your sessions is kept private and discussed only within the confines of the therapist’s office. Before starting therapy, you’ll receive a written copy of the confidentiality agreement or “Informed Consent,” which ensures that your personal information remains confidential and is not shared with others.
In most cases, your information will not be disclosed to anyone outside of the therapy sessions without your explicit, written consent. If you need to have information shared with another health professional involved in your care, your therapist will require your written permission to release any details.
Your information is managed in accordance with the Access to Information Act and Privacy Act, ensuring that no third parties have access without your informed and written consent. However, there are specific situations where confidentiality might need to be breached. This includes circumstances where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected child abuse, or if your records are subpoenaed by a court.
Overall, confidentiality in counseling is designed to protect your privacy and support a secure therapeutic environment.
