CONFIDENTIALITY

By law, information that is provided by a client is strictly confidential. This means that no information is shared with or released to others without explicit consent from the client.  The only exceptions to this are situations in which Ontario law requires or permits this information to be shared without consent.

These situations include instances where there is a reason to believe that a client poses an imminent and serious danger to the self or others, when a child’s welfare is at risk, if a client reports sexual abuse by a Registered Health Professional in Ontario, abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult, use of controlled substances during pregnancy, and if a Client’s clinical file is subpoenaed by a court of law. In these cases, registered psychotherapists are required to inform others who may be able to mitigate the danger/comply with the law. Such confidence breaking may involve contacting relevant authorities, others who can intervene (e.g., loved ones), or, if applicable, the person to whom a threat was directed. Only information that is relevant to ensuring the safety of the client or others will be shared.

At the beginning and throughout the therapeutic process clients will have a chance to review this and other important confidentiality information, as well ask any questions, before they disclose any personal information.

Minors

If you are a minor the boundaries and limits of confidentiality will be discussed in person at the beginning and throughout the therapeutic relationship. In working with adolescents, I take seriously the need for privacy and confidentiality and explore with the minor and parents/guardians how best to approach the relationship given the same.