The law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client unless there are questions regarding the safety of the patient or others, as explained below:
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, the therapist is required to notify the police.
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself, the therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
• If a therapist suspects child abuse, or abuse of a dependant adult or elderly person, the therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
