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African American counselor in Oakland

Confidentiality

Legally, the relationship between client and therapist is private and information cannot be disclosed without the client's written permission. There are exceptions, however: 

 

1) Mandated reporting: This includes any situation concerning suspected child abuse,  dependent adult abuse, or elder abuse. As a mandated reporter,  I am required by law to disclose information to the appropriate authorities.

 

2) Harm to others:  If a client threatens serious harm to others, I am legally required to notify both the police and intended victim(s).

 

3) Self-harm: If a client makes a serious threat of self- harm. I will first attempt to work with the client as a means to keep him or her safe, but if that is unsuccessful, I will need to involve law enforcement to ensure safety.

 

 4)  On rare occasions, client records can be subject to court subpoena for legal purposes. By law, I am required to comply with such requests.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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