Confidentiality

Counseling and Health services are confidential.  We do not share any information without a signed release, though there are a few exceptions that must be strictly followed.

Exceptions to Confidentiality

-Danger to self or others - If you or someone you talk about is a threat to self or others, a therapist is mandated to report to appropriate authorities and possibly warn a third party of a threat.

- Abuse of children, elderly, or anyone who may not be able to care for themselves- This can be if you are an adult disclosing abuse that happened in the past or if there is suspicion of abuse happening today.

- Defense of malpractice or professional complaint- If a therapist is being accused of malpractice or if a complaint is made about them or their work they have a right to defend themselves and this may include disclosing information. 

- Court Order - If you are involved in a court case and a judge orders information to be shared, a counselor may be compelled to disclose information. 

The above are the only cases where we would breech confidentiality.  If we feel that a release to speak with someone is appropriate we will ask you sign one.  You are not obligated to sign a release if you do not wish.  If you are 18 or older, we can not share information with your parents unless you sign a release.  We do not share information with faculty or staff unless a release is signed.  Confidentiality is an important part of the therapeutic process and we take it very seriously.  

It is also important to know that you may see your counselors on campus or even in the community. In order to keep your privacy protected, counselors will not approach you in any way if they see you.  If you wish to say hello to them they will respond but no information about appointments or work  you're doing in sessions will be talked about in public.