Apart from certain specific situations described below, you have the absolute right to the confidentiality of your therapy. I cannot and will not disclose anything you have shared with me, or event that you are in therapy with me without your prior written permission. I will always act to protect your privacy even if you do release me in writing to share information about you. You may direct me to share information with whomever you choose, and you can change your mind and revoke that permission at any time. If you elect to communicate with me via email or text at any point during our work together, please be aware that this form of communication is not completely confidential. I will take all precautions to ensure our communications are as protected as can be from my end. This will include limiting the scope of what topics are discussed using these modes of communication. You are also protected under the provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Please remember that you may reopen the conversation at any time during our work together. The following are legal exceptions to your right to confidentiality. I will inform you of any instances I will have to put these into effect.

1. If I have good reason to believe that you will harm another person, I must attempt to inform that person and warn them of your intentions. I must also contact law enforcement and ask them to protect your intended victim.

2. If I have good reason to believe that you are abusing or neglecting a child or vulnerable adult, or if you give me information about someone else who is doing this, I must inform Child Protective Services and/or Adult Protective Services, respectively.

3. If I believe you are in imminent danger of harming yourself, I may legally break confidentiality and call the police or the county crisis team. I am not obligated to do this, and would explore all other options with you before I take this step. If at that point you are unwilling or unable to take steps to guarantee your safety, I will call the appropriate agency to ensure your safety. I will also follow the telehealth plan we have in place for any instances in which you may be in crisis while in a telehealth session.

4. Release of information to an insurance company or EAP plan in accordance with HIPAA to substantiate the need/authorization of payment for services.