Confidentiality

Students at the elementary school level are beginning to understand the importance of privacy and keeping secrets.  Confidentiality is one of the cornerstones of a counseling relationship and allows students to feel free to express honest concerns, have someone truly listen to them, and provide an atmosphere to brainstorm solutions.

Clearly, you, as parents, are the experts on your children and I hope will become invaluable allies in the counseling process.  I encourage children to discuss with parents what happens in individual or group counseling sessions as well as lessons learned through guidance.  Parent permission is required before beginning regular individual or group counseling sessions.  It is important for you to know that here are some limits to maintaining confidentiality which include:

      1.  If you, as the parent or legal guardian, give written permission;

      2.  If the student is involved in a medical emergency

      3.  If an appropriate court order is received

      4.  If the student reveals information, which indicates an intent to harm him or herselfor someone else; and  

      5.  If the student reveals information that indicates the existence of abuse of a child or vulnerable adult

         For further clarification on this issue, please feel free to contact me.