All members of recognized professional organizations, such as the American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association, subscribe to strict codes of ethics and standards of practice. This requires counselors, psychologists and other mental health professionals to protect the confidentiality of their communication with clients. Most state licensure laws also protect client confidentiality. As a client, you are guaranteed the protection of confidentiality within the boundaries of the client/counselor relationship. Any disclosure will be made with your full written, informed consent and will be limited to a specific period of time.
The only limitations to confidentiality occur when a counselor or psychologist believes that there is clear and imminent danger to you or to others, or when legal requirements demand that confidential information be disclosed, such as a court case. Whenever possible, you will be informed before confidential information is revealed.
