Confidentiality & Privacy Policy

The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without written permission.

Exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse, for which I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately (RCW 26.44).
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s, I must notify the police and inform the intended victim (RCW 71.05.120).
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, I will take further measures without their permission that are provided to me by law in order to ensure their safety (RCW 71.05).
• If you tell me that you are suffering from an infectious disease, such as HIV, I must report your identity to the local health care officer (WAC 246-101-105).
• As a result of new state regulations adopted by the Washington State Department of Health, I am required to report myself or another health care provider in the event of a final determination of unprofessional conduct, a determination of risk to patient safety due to a mental or physical condition or if I have actual knowledge of unprofessional conduct by another licensed provider.  I will also have to report a patient who is a health care provider who may pose a clear and present danger to his/her patients or clients.  If you have any questions or concerns about this requirement, please discuss them with me (Chapter 71.05.630 RCW).